Mo’Golf inspired me last week when he gave thanks for his favorite golf memories of 2011. I’ve always believed it’s important to look back for a short time before we begin moving forward. I’m hopeful Scrambler, Rico and everyone else on the site will jump in with their thoughts.
Top Five Golf Memories 2011
~ The Bethpage Binge – Mo’Golf talked about how he was grateful for the entire trip – which I agree with ten times over. However, I have a distinct moment that stands out during the trip. At one point on day two of the trip when we were playing both Bethpage Yellow and Bethpage Red, I looked at Moh and said “I have no idea what time it is right now.” I hadn’t checked a cell phone or a clock all day. I’d just played golf with good friends. I don’t think there’s been a moment since that day that I haven’t been absolutely tuned in to time and schedule since….here’s to more moments like that in 2012.
~ The 2011 Porter Cup – I have never seen any live golf event as electric as Patrick Rodgers magical charge on the back nine of the Niagara Falls Country Club during the 2011 Porter Cup. Rodgers started with a bogey and then tossed two eagles and a gritty birdie on the long Par 3 16th hole together to charge back. It was one of those days when you walk away and think – I just saw something that doesn’t happen every day. If you want a full recap – I spoke about it much more eloquently in August.
~ The 2011 Masters – The day kicked off with 18 holes at Ironwood with Scrambler and Mo Golf. Then, I spent the rest of the day watching one of the more enthralling Sundays at Augusta with my father and a couple other good friends. It’s the kind of day you could script and not quite get as perfect.
~ A spring series of lessons with John Lindner – it felt great to actually learn how the golf swing works and why. It made me a more consistent player all year long. I’ll be heading back for more soon.
~ Early August at Elkdale Country Club – I drove down to Elkdale Country Club super early one Sunday in August to play 18 holes with my old friend John and his wife. It was a routine round until I addressed my ball in the 11th fairway. For some reason, I had five minutes of playing golf like a pro in me. I hit a shot from 155 yards out on the 11th fairway to three inches of the cup for a tap-in birdie. Then, I walked to the 160 yard Par 3 12th and hit a shot that actually drew (I swear Scrambler) and left me with about a one-foot putt for my second birdie. I’d never made back-to-back birdies ever before.
