OCTOBER spells GOLF
Outstanding way to spend a day off with a leisurely game of golf.
The word “leisurely” means unhurried, relaxed or slowly. Our culture says to do more, and proper golf says to do less. The Scottish, who invented golf, named one of their golf clubs “The Play Club.” An American man brought them home in 1890 and, within a year, they were being sold as “The Driver.” I invite you to come and experience golf the way it was originally designed to be played: as a recreational sport. The word “recreational” means to “re- create.” When you play golf correctly, your body and your mental state will be refreshed and rebuilt. The Play Club can be found on display at The Harbour Town Golf Clubhouse with other golf artifacts.
Chicks are playing more golf.
Women’s golf is growing because female golfers enjoy the challenge of the game. Also, the fashions are energetic, athletic and youthful. When you walk into the award-winning Robert Trent Jones Golf Pro Shop, you will understand why many non-golfers find their clothes there. The Golf Academy also offers Ladies Only Golf Classes.
Together.
Groups of men and women experience camaraderie by annually meeting on Hilton Head Island. Relationships that started years ago in high school, college, work, family and social circles are maintained and enhanced. A typical day with friends involves a walk on the beach, breakfast, a round of golf and a barbecue around the pool.
Oh so sweet, due to mild temperatures and gentle breezes from the north.
Daily high temperatures decrease by eight degrees from 80° F to 72° F. October temperatures on Hilton Head Island rarely fall below 63° or exceed 86°. The grass is at its peak of health, and it loves to slow down like it is going to bed. The October showers keep the air clean and the fairways firm, without overdoing it.
Bring friends and enjoy the challenge.
Divide the burden and double the pleasure. The appropriate effort level in golf reminds me of the many people I see walking for exercise. Also, when played correctly like this, there is a lot of socializing. Golf is fun.
Everyone can play golf.
No one has an advantage in this game. All ages, body types and personalities can prosper in golf. I played with John Daly many times in 1988 and 1989. He was lean and flexible, not thinking of what he was doing, and he won the PGA Championship like this. Now 30 years later and 125 pounds heavier, he can still enjoy professional success in golf. Bob Murphy says the older he gets, the better he plays, because he has learned that less is more. As Mr. Murphy aged, he won more tournaments. Tiger Woods at age 42 is having renewed success, has kept fit and worked through injuries. He’s the opposite of John Daly. Hilton Head Island has many 90- year-olds enjoying golf today. I offer a class for three- to seven-year olds called Lil’ Swingers.
Remember, golf is a game for a lifetime.
A former PGA Tour pro and member of the local golf Hall of Fame, Doug Weaver is the Director of Instruction at the Palmetto Dunes Golf Academy. He conducts “Where Does the Power Come From?,” a free clinic and demonstration, every Monday at 4 p.m. 843-785-1138, 800-827-3006 or www.palmettodunes.com.
