Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 11/22/2024 at 9:02am
Awesome fairway stat! The Putting average is good, despite the two 3-putts. All in all, a pretty good round, given the conditions. Anytime you can understand you physical errors is a "plus," as is enjoying yourself, so it had to be a good day. Personally, I enjoy playing in the wind because I feel it gives me an edge. Most people hate the wind, so their game suffers, where I "accept" the conditions and adjust more freely that most. Regardless, I'm ecstatic that you enjoyed yourself, you gained some valuable insight and that you are obviously plotting a return performance. Congratulations on your round and I look forward to hearing of your revenge! Stay strong!!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 11/19/2024 at 5:04pm
As of right now, I'm pain free, but I'm going to hold off until tomorrow to se what the night brings. I've been pain free after range sessions, and I don't think this will be any different, but I want to hold off until the morrow to be sure. I'll keep you posted.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 11/19/2024 at 3:42pm
First round since my neck surgery, which is why it is listed as a "practice" round. I went out with zero expectations, other than hoping to complete the round, and did far better than I thought I would. I was extremely happy with all aspects of my game, same the putting. I had forgotten just how fast the greens become this time of year, but they didn't waste any time reminding me. I very nearly aced #15, the ball stopping 6" directly behind the ball! It was thrilling. I will be able to build on this round when I play again (most likely Sunday) as there were a LOT of positives to be had. I'm absolutely "over the moon" with this result, as I doubt it could have been any better!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 11/14/2024 at 8:04am
Sit back, take a deep breath and realize that this round really must be an anomaly. This isn't one of your "normal" rounds, so it is one of the "others." The self-analysis you do will reveal the root cause and you will attack it once the real reason is arrived at. Self-delusion is not in your makeup, so I'm confident you'll make any and all corrections as you see fit. Hang in there Amigo, as the "season" has ended and the period of correction is upon us. I'm always here as your "sounding-board," if needed.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 11/07/2024 at 2:43pm
The mental game is toughest of all games, where you're damned if you do and damned if you don't, but then, they say, it is the fun part of the game! I don't know if I can subscribe to that theory. I try my best to avoid the traps (not the ones of sand) and I've had a small degree of success, but it is still a challenge for me. Maybe this is where your "dragon" resides. You have to keep fighting or you'll never have the success you strive for. I wish I could help you with this, but I can't. This is a battle only you can fight. Hang in there, Amigo, because better days are ahead!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 10/31/2024 at 2:30pm
Much improved over your "walk-in-the-park" round. You seemingly hit the ball much straighter and that has to help your score. What is this "TS" club that you have listed? I've never heard of it. I don't know what you've done, but your attitude is very much improved. I always find it amazing just how much a positive attitude seems to free up a round. I can't play a round without one, but then if you saw my game you'd understand! :) Good round Amigo. Keep it going for the rest of the year!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 10/20/2024 at 10:43am
Good round. You are using a lot of different stats that what I normally see, so there is a lot of information to digest. We all use whatever tools we feel we need to reach our goal. I'm happy that you are reaping the rewards of the process that you are using. I noticed that your distance on the 2nd hole was quite a shot! Congrats. Fairways hit, GIR and putting are my major areas of concern, distance not so much. Keep up the good work, Amigo, and keep those goals in sight!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 10/11/2024 at 10:24am
I'm rereading Dr Bob Rotella's "Golf Is Not A Game of Perfect, and in the first 90 pages I'm read examples of exactly what we suffer from--expecting perfect without TRUST. The purpose of practice is to establish the TRUST in our golf swings and the different shots that we feel we need, but when we play without trust we find ourselves over-compensating for the trust that we have lost. We spend so much time and effort during the round to re-establish that trust only to find the round is over and our score reflects the effects of that wasted effort. In my honest opinion, and I've said this before, we must attend to our mental game far more than the physical game, by whatever means necessary. At our state, nearly all our problems are mental, and that dictates where our efforts must be applied. Trust is fleeting, so constant attention must be applied. This is not an indictment but only my honest opinion. What say you?
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 10/03/2024 at 4:51pm
This is not the "news" I was hoping to hear. From my perspective, there sounds as though there were a lot of expectations with this round. Expectations create tension and stress, both physical and mental, and they both restrict the free-flowing movement of the body, thus creating a less-than-stellar round and a sour attitude. Since you are working on your trouble areas, are you getting the results in practice, and if so, what are you doing differently when you play? If it is a mental issue you're working on, then why confound the situation with expectations? Free yourself up when you play, otherwise you are compounding the problem when you "play." You work on the range, but there is a very good reason that you "play" a round. Differentiate between the two and just have FUN when you play. If you can't have fun when you play, there lies the rub!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 09/29/2024 at 9:46am
This looks to be a pretty sporty round, all things considered. One question though...walking or riding? I believe that due to your most recent "enforced layoff" you need to call a "time out." You need to allow yourself an opportunity to recapture your stroke, your short game and your mental game after the layoff. I wish it's nature would be to stay forever, but we both know that is only wishful thinking. Sometimes we have a tendency to rush back into the fight (I know I'm guilty of that) but in doing so we do ourselves such a great injustice, not only physically but mentally as well. In a recent post you acknowledged that you needed to develop a game plan, do that for each course you play and try to stick to it. Proper preparation enhances performance! Stay the course!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 09/24/2024 at 8:57am
IMHO, the short game has, and always will be, the key to scoring. We aren't always going to make the perfect shot, proper contact, etc, but the short game provides us an opportunity to salvage the hole (score-wise), and the round. Everybody enjoys hitting full shots and thinks that that will make them shoot lowers scores, and undoubtedly it helps, but the key to good scoring lays at the feet of the short game--the shots from 60 yards in, the less-than-full shots, chipping, pitching, sand play and the putting. Maybe everybody would be better off by putting in at least as much time practicing the short game as they do the long game. Raymond Floyd maintains that he NEVER tries a shot on the course that he hasn't PRACTICED, of which we are all guilty. That is a real blow to our mental acuity, especially when you stop to think of the ramifications that it has on our mental attitude. All that having been said, I like what I see here, given the two week layoff (which I sincerely hope was not medical).
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 08/15/2024 at 4:52pm
I hope you're as happy to be back out there as I would be! After a long layoff it is a "crap shoot" as to what will happen, and you're pretty defenseless to correct it. Take your time getting back at it, it is very necessary (as hard as it sounds). Do whatever it takes to get you energy back, make your swings slow and smooth until you're strong enough to get a bit more aggressive with them, and use your mental game to overcome the lack of physical strength until it returns. Don't push yourself until you are ready. I absolutely "over-the-moon" that you're back out there, Amigo, so be smart and be patient. Good on ya, Mate!!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 07/15/2024 at 3:37pm
I've reviewed your round, but I fail to see anything to be ashamed of. From what I have seen on SC and the internet, that is a serious golf course. Actually, it is a pretty good score for not having your SX behaving. Judging distances on an unfamiliar course can get pretty tricky, especially since both one of us rely so heavily on the SkyCaddie. I'm ecstatic that you were able to get out on a course of this caliber with your good friend. You just can't beat great memories! Hang tough Amigo, the next 4 weeks will go by soon enough, although maybe not as quickly as you would like.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 07/12/2024 at 11:22am
I've been waiting for this round to surface. No matter what the length of the course is you still have to hit the shots, which you did. As far as I know, this course isn't in your normal rotation but maybe it should be. There is absolutely no reason why you have to "beat yourself up" week-in-and-week-out and not enjoy yourself. An "away game" is always good and allows you to evaluate the state of your game more objectively. I enjoyed the putting stats, even though there were a couple of "strangers," but they are going to show up periodically anyway. Your GIR ration is much improved, and, of course, your mental game was pretty good also. Try to remember what you did to get yourself in that state and try to replicate it as best you can. Great round Amigo, and I sincerely hope there are many more coming for you!!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 07/02/2024 at 9:27am
I love your comments, honest and insightful. Personally, I try to hit each club with the same swing, minimizing the confusion I would have to face. That's just me though. I read where they were redoing this course and was waiting for your appraisal, but that is for another day. Aren't you playing Thursday as you had planned? Anyway, every round offers us pleasure, and it sounds as though you took advantage of that. Good on ya!! I sincerely hope that your upcoming medical trials are not serious ones and that your tolerance to them is high. I hope you'll post updates. Good luck Amigo and I'll be thinking of you!!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 06/29/2024 at 6:47am
A "balky driver" when you hit 86% of the fairways? Damn, your standards are high! Every round we play is an experience, some good and some bad, but each round expects us to accept the not-so-good shots and really enjoy the good ones. Expecting perfection is asking too much of ourselves and, after all, we are human, which implies that we will makes errors. Be kind to yourself, be your own Best Friend, and watch your successes win. You've got the physical skills to do this, so do some honest work on your mental game and see the results you "expect." You don't have to like the errors, but it is "play" time, not work time. At least you got to play and enjoyed yourself.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 06/13/2024 at 9:40am
It looks as though this round posted itself twice, so you've doubled your fun! While the score may not be what you would like, you were able to play well enough to lower your handicap, you hit more greens in reg than you normally do, and you only missed 4 fairways! I'd call that a successful day! The power of positive thinking cannot be exaggerated. I know many people who can no longer play this wonderful game, so I try to take advantage of every opportunity. A wise ol' Sgt once told me, "Boy, all this water ain't here to drown you, it's here to see how well you can tread water!" Wise words from 1978.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 06/06/2024 at 4:32pm
Before you get too down on yourself about your putting, realize that you are what you think. If you want to be "great" then you have to think that you're great. Get your teaching "microscope" out and take a look at your putting action. Is everything as it should be, or have you allowed yourself to "alter" one of the components? It is my opinion that most poor putting is caused by overactive hands. The hands should, IMHO, be completely passive in its path away from and through the stroke. If you aren't able to do that properly, then you are most likely standing too far from the ball and can't make a proper back and through stroke. Use a mirror, putt with you eyes on your target, anything you have to do to free yourself up. No one can putt when they are suffering from paralysis and unreasonable self-induced pressure. I'll send you a chart I found that may help you bring your "expectations" into proper focus. I'll send it by email. Look for it.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 06/05/2024 at 3:05pm
I like the idea of taking the extra breath before executing the shot. I do have a question though, I hope you don't mind. What is it you are doing with your driver that you are not doing with your irons? It should be the same swing, no? I found that I am "anticipating" the result, thus pulling out of the shot and leaving it right. I have mitigated this by smoothing my tempo, which allows me to stay in the shot longer and I avoid the right side--more often than not. Rhythm and tempo are keys to me, and I would wager that if you looked in that area you might find a key for yourself. It's worth a look, right? Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Grit your teeth and fight!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 05/31/2024 at 3:26pm
I believe that all courses asked for the best you've got if you take the time to play, and I'm sure you ask a lot of yourself also. Too often we sell ourselves short when it comes to playing well at certain courses, and, in essence, concede defeat before we ever stick the tee in the ground. I refuse to accept poor play on my part and therefore am my harshest critic. The course on the other hand is like a cheap whore, it just lays there and says "show me what you've got." It will never swing your club for you, tell you cheap lies or move all the hazards for you. It is a stern task-master and expects your very best that day. If one was to concede defeat before they ever tee it up, why go? It's all mailed in, over with, finito. You have never played that way, that I know of, and I've played a lot of golf with you. Bend that course over a log and make it squeal like a pig!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 05/25/2024 at 7:27am
When I have a "working round" I only have one or two "parts" I work (concentrate) on, i.e. initial path of takeaway or first move of downswing. If I try to do too much I get mentally lost. Generally speaking, I'm not to far off the begin with, so these "corrections" are more of how I feel when I make that move. My ball flight is generally straight since straight doesn't usually get you into too much trouble and if it does move then I've mishit it. I've always believe that the flight of the ball is the best teacher, as long as you know what your "norm" is. I believe that the takeaway and the first move are critical to a good swing, so I try to put a lot of emphasis in that area. You can't go too far wrong if those two areas are properly performed, and feel is important in that. Feel is tough to work on, but I don't know any other way to work on it. Range work is fine, but I need to be tested under fire where it means something to me. I get a bit too casual on the range.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 05/24/2024 at 6:40am
Well, this round was a breath of fresh air! The 5 GIR's really "jazzed" me, I must say. When we hit the greens it sure makes it easier to score and takes a lot of pressure off the short game. Imagine what it would be like to never have to use the short game. Putting is always problematic for me, but if I can try not to care whether I make them of not I seem to do a lot better. My problem lies in the short putts, 6' and in, where you feel as though you should make them. Steer them I can't, so it is best to just hit it and wait. Either it does or it doesn't, simple as that. Your stats are really improving. I don't know what you are working on, but whatever it is seems to be working. Progress is never as fast as we might like it to be, but it is progress just the same, and that it the goal. Keep your head up and keep fighting. Anyone can quit, but a champion battles on. Great round, Amigo. I'm proud of you.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 05/16/2024 at 6:52am
Golf is always tough, regardless of the time of day. Is it any wonder that the pros get to the course at least two hours in advance? I like to get there at least an hour prior to my start time, just to get my brain thinking about what I've got to do and to get a bit of practice in on the putting green before I start. I am not a proponent of playing real early because my brain, or what is left of it, requires time to wake up also. It looks to me as though you handled it much better than I would have though, so kudos. Respectable numbers on your fairways and putting. As I remember, Willow has a tough start to it and it can definitely set the tone for the round. All in all, you had a good round. Build on it and enjoy your successes, Amigo. Love you, Bro!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 05/08/2024 at 1:59pm
A good short game is, and always will be, key to posting a good round. I struggled with it also until I learned that Jim Furyk calls it "putting with loft." I put that concept to work and it immediately paid dividends! Think about it some and you might see the logic in it. I shudder thinking that you're losing 10-11 shots a round due to the short game, so I hope you'll give it a try. Even if you only save 5-6 shots you're back in the 80's! As far as your putting goes, putt every putt to make it--no 3' circle! Most putts are missed by being too tentative, but if you're putting to make every putt then you most likely be a bit more aggressive and the ball will have a better chance of going in. Just sayin'... Keep at it Amigo, as the signs of progress are there!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 05/07/2024 at 2:19pm
Started at 72°, overcast skies and the breeze was at 8 mph. Today was the first day the course has been open since our last rain, so conditions were wet and muddy. Standing water in the fairways was the rule, not the exception. I must admit that I went into the round with some "expectations," and was a bit miffed that I couldn't/wouldn't perform as expected. My putting was the sore spot today, missing 5 putts inside 6', and those are shots you can never get back. I missed a couple of chips and my distance control on my pitches was a bit off, but more than anything my mental game lacked discipline. I'll fix that before tomorrow's round. I get excited to play anytime, but especially after a forced layoff, regardless of duration. Tomorrow is another round and I'll fix my head before I tee it up again! I'm pumped at the prospects!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 05/06/2024 at 6:49pm
You're right, life happens and each day is another opportunity to be better than the day before. I've never enjoyed playing in the rain--I've done it but never enjoyed it. Golf is hard enough as it is, but playing in the rain takes it to a completely different level. I've always found that pre-round expectations are the cause (most often) for less-than-stellar results. If I think of the effort I intend to put forth, then, more often than not, I have a fruitful day. It's not an easy thing to concentrate on max effort, but it is easy to let expectations get in the way. Discipline is required to get the results you are looking for. This round is ancient history, so leave it in the past and fight on!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 04/30/2024 at 3:23pm
Hang in there Amigo! Patience is a virtue and will be rewarded, honest. This is the time of year where all the courses seem to be transitioning to their Summer conditions, so part of the problem belongs on that side of the ledger. To enjoy your time with your friend and still post a score like this shows that your mental side is improving. You WILL reap the benefits of a stronger mental game and improved attitude, but you do need to be patient and resist trying to force the issue. I'm betting on you, Amigo!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 04/24/2024 at 3:10pm
Congratulations!! This is a very nice "up-tick" from previous rounds, so whatever it is you're working on keep at it. Confidence can be a fleeting commodity, so capitalize on it while you have it. Let it become the "hallmark" of your game and foster other improvements. The only one getting in the way of bettering your game is you. Erase all those negative thoughts and play the game you want, and can. I think I've told you before, but I believe that once you attain the physical skills to play this game then everything else is mental. Perfect practice makes perfect. You used your brain to learn to play the drums, so use your brain to perfect you game! It sounds as though your mental game was sharp today, so make it that way EVERY day. You got this Amigo, and this round is the proof you needed! Congratulations, again!!!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 04/24/2024 at 2:24pm
(Cont) When I started down with the left hand I regained all the power that was being wasted going over-the-top, my direction corrected and I once again had my shoulders going properly. My tempo and rhythm self-corrected and I was once again in control of the swing. Now that I got the swing sorted out some, I have to find a way to control my mindset and avoid the outside stress, but that will be easier than sorting out my swing. Sometimes it is a blessing to be self-taught, in that you are able to correct your swing faults quicker than having to schedule a lesson, but your progress is slower that way because you don't have that extra set of eyes evaluating you. At any rate, it appears as though I got myself sorted and that was the goal for today. I apologize for being so long-winded but I wanted you to understand my recovery.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 04/24/2024 at 2:13pm
Well, my working round is posted and I must thank you for your comments on my previous round. The comment about the "hero complex" really hit home. Most of the guys I play with are in our age group, but they aren't as dedicated or passionate, thus their skills reflect that. Oftentimes I am viewed as the "A" player and "expected" to bail the team out. I feel the pressure (damn it!) and periodically over-extend my capabilities. This may be one of the reasons I'm somewhat inconsistent. Today I caught myself starting the downswing with my right hand trying to force the issue. That leads me to alter my swing plane (over-the-top) and swing around my body, as opposed to swinging underneath, resulting in that weak fade that I've been trying to get rid of. Now is just a matter of coordinating the upper and lower body. (Cont)
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 04/22/2024 at 5:45pm
I must admit to being a bit surprised by the notice that you played today, but am super happy that you did. We all must get out of our comfort zone once in a while just to see how we handle it, and evidently you did quite well. It's really a discomforting feeling, initially, to join a group of strangers but, generally speaking, it usually proves to be quite rewarding. There are always a few people that are better left to their own devices, but they are few and far between. If I were a betting man, I would bet that you felt "free" and really enjoyed yourself, which speaks to your mental approach. I'm not suggesting anything other than I'm happy that you finally did it and that you enjoyed it enough to do it again. Refreshing outlook and promising results. That dragon can wear many disguises! I'm happy for you Amigo!!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 04/16/2024 at 6:20pm
No, I've played this track before, maybe four or five times (GC Am Tour twice and as a guest 2-3 times), but I've NEVER seen it in this kind of shape. Before it was always kind of a "wannabe" Country Club, but now it's a REAL Country Club! I'm hard pressed to think of a time when I have seen so much grass on a course, regardless of its status, pro courses included. It was a real pleasure, let me tell you. It's now a course that idiots like me dream of.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 04/16/2024 at 7:59am
Amigo, we've all "been there and done that." As long as we continue to pick up a club to play this crazy game there are going to be days like this. This is surely a round for the circular file. In my opinion, "fear" is caused by our own expectations and doubt. I realized this when I first started fighting the "yips," and just decided that there were only two things that could happen, either miss or make. A miss wasn't going to kill me, and a make was the desired outcome, so I focused more on the make and feared less on the miss. It freed me up. Some of the guys putt better than I do, but I still managed to out-score them (luckily). Get rid of all those expectations, experience what is and enjoy yourself! There is no room for fear in golf, Amigo. Prove to yourself that you are better than that--you're the only one that you have to please! Fight on!!!!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 04/12/2024 at 7:56am
So much of golf is played alone, whether you are in a group or by yourself, and that, Amigo, is the essence of the game. The game is one that is far more mental than physical, so our mental state is the determining factor of our efforts. We all spend a lot of time on the physical aspects of the game, but neglect the mental. We must mentally prepare for what we may face before we ever get to the course, be willing to accept the fact that conditions may be less than perfect and steel ourselves against any "surprises" that may occur. The course is never going to be perfect unless it is Augusta National, so we must prepare accordingly. Golf is a test, not so much physically as it is mentally, and how we respond to it determines the results, as evidenced by our "freeness" once we accept that the round is lost. Lick your wounds and spend some time evaluating your mental approach to see if you are properly prepare BEFORE you ever get to the course. That will pay dividends, I'm sure. Stay the fight!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 04/05/2024 at 3:19pm
There will be days like this,. as we both know. Golf sometimes jumps up and gob-slaps you to wake you up, which this obviously did for you, but you have an entire week to think about the lesson and hope that you can remember what you need to remember. Gob-slaps are not nice...I know! Anyway, I'm sure you'll remember the lesson and the way it made you feel. Maybe a little range time is in order so that these practice sessions don't get reflected in your stats? Just sayin', but I do the same thing so I can't say much. I'm sure you'll do what you think is the correct course of action so these lessons become less painful. Hang in there, Amigo!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 04/02/2024 at 4:49pm
I can avoid the "fool." The choice is always mine, but should he try to force the issue I'm not beyond "laying him out where he once stood." I'm pretty mellow, but the older I get the closer to the surface my "flash point" seems to be!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 03/28/2024 at 7:19am
I wish that there was a way that I could help you more, to help you find the cause of all this angst and to provide you with an immediate "cure," but I can't. I want so badly for you to regain your form and to be able to enjoy this game as you once did. I'm a true believer that one must be mentally "free," optimistic, positive, confident, and have a selective memory. There is no room for negativity in golf. Once a person attains the necessary physical skills to play this great game, then improvement only comes from the mental side of the game. Distractions cause chaos, and they MUST be eliminated, or at least, their attention requirement from you minimized. Free yourself up from all the excess baggage while you are playing and focus on your game. I learned a lot of this from you, so I know you can do this--if you WANT to. That, IMHO, is the key. Fight on!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 03/08/2024 at 2:06pm
Even though top-dressed greens are a necessity at least twice a year, they sure make putting for more iffy than it usually is. Winter golf is still with us, but at least it warns us as to what still needs some attention before the season starts. We both still have our "boog-a-boos" from last season it seems, and the new season is fast approaching so we're getting down to crunch time. Either we fix them now or suffer yet another season with them. I'm impressed with the way you managed to regain your composure after the rough start in this round. That is probably your biggest improvement area thus far, and most likely will create huge benefits for you in the new season. Your physical skills are still there, so now the mental side. Fight on, Amigo, and your goals will be realized...sooner rather than later!!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 02/29/2024 at 7:11am
The key to playing in "weather," as I see it, is being able to accept the "rubs," and control your mind. We just set the ball in motion as best we can on that particular shot and the weather does the rest--be it good or otherwise. Apparently you did quite well in this area and for that you will be rewarded in future situations such as this. The mind controls so much of what we do in golf that it is considered our 15th club, but, like the other 14, we need to learn how to harness its ability for certain situations. Muy bien, Amigo! NOW you are ready to move forward toward the new season with confidence and a new club!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 02/22/2024 at 2:48pm
I won't be the one to "pour salt on the open wound," so commenting would be cruel. You are wise enough that you don't need my idiotic comments, so I'll let you deal with it. Take care of that back! I regret that I let them operate on mine (they put screws in my back and neck) and it has been 3 years getting to the point I'm at. Three wasted years! I don't have that kind of time to waste and I don't believe that anybody does! Let it heal before you do anything stupid and REALLY screw it up. If that happens your golfing career is over. Word to the wise. I'm thinking that my golf "season" is going to start for me around the 15th of March. Hang in there Amigo, and we'll fight this damn game together!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 02/08/2024 at 6:46am
Just like the mechanics of the golf swing, it takes a lot of time to perfect and make them second-nature, the mental side is just as hard, maybe more so. I have learned to force myself to find something good in everything because I'm happier that way. I abhor being miserable because I desire better than that, so I found a way to make me happy. It works for me. Maybe it isn't the way for everybody, but for me it is. You need to find your way or this game, and yourself, will eat you alive if you don't. I truly hope that this doesn't upset you because I wouldn't want to do that on a bet, but you did open the door for me and, as a Friend, I walked in. Think about it, Amigo, and find your own way. Love ya, Bro!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 02/08/2024 at 6:36am
Tough round for you, but I believe it to be an anomaly. I am an optimist be nature, I suppose, so staying positive is easier. There is always something positive in everything, even though it may be harder to find. Pessimism is, in my opinion, an easy "out." The adage, "Reach for the stars, not the low hanging fruit," is a good example. Yes, we all get frustrated at OUR inability to perform to the standards (expectations) that we have set for ourselves. You're a good player, Joe, and your expectations are high (nothing wrong with that) but you can be your own worst enemy. There are so many outside influences that affect our daily lives and expectations that we cannot expect to perform perfectly each day. We have to choose our battles and the battles within ourselves is one of the hardest to fight. I force myself to find the positive--good tempo, grip, swing path or strategy--each and every shot and TRY to do better the next time on the areas that weren't quite so good. It is one shot at a time, Bro!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 02/02/2024 at 7:02am
Well, I dare say that the "enforced layoff" and the work you've been doing is paying off! The GIR stat is especially impressive in view of the recent past and has probably cost you more strokes that we can imagine. It is an area that I, also, need to improve on. Putting is always iffy, especially on a new course, which is what Riverside is right now since the re-build, but care green reading and not "memory reading" will cure that. Impressive stats for this time of year and are the harbinger of a very good year for you. Keep doing what you're doing as it is working. I wish only the best for you this golf year, Amigo!!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 01/26/2024 at 6:50am
I've seen the posts on Facebook about the changes that Riverside has undergone and I'm sure they are warranted and happy to see that they are actively involved in their courses. It would be insensitive of me to make any comments about this round in view of your prolonged layoff, conditions and time of year (Winter), so suffice it to say that I'm glad to hear that you were able to get out, shake some of the rust off and enjoyed yourself. We've not been able to get out at all the last week and have suffered through 7" of rainfall (Just that week alone). Many courses in the area have been severely damaged by the storm and won't be able to open for at least another 3-5 days to clean up the mess. They will be sloppy tracks until they get a chance to dry out, but that may not be until Spring. I'm happy for you Amigo, and hope your new attitude prevails and propels to to your goals! Hit 'em well!!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 01/11/2024 at 3:26pm
It sure looks like there is a whole lot of improvement in this round! In fact, improvement in all areas, maybe not as much as you might (?) like, but improvement just the same. I, personally, am happy to see the GIR stat increase, as that is needed to improve in many of the areas. The one area that really stands out, for me, is one that is really not measurable but absolutely essential, and that is your mental attitude. Improve the way you think and you improve your score. 'Nough said. This is a round to be proud of, as it is the first step towards goal attainment. Keep fighting, Amigo. and the goal will become even closer and much more attainable. Great round! Congratulations...now go out and do it again, and again, and again! You've got this!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 01/03/2024 at 4:10pm
I'm glad to see that you got your year's first round in. Playing alone can be a double-edged sword at times, but I much prefer it at times. Some play too slow, while others are like the coyote chasing the roadrunner. Since most of the learning happens while we are on the course (in my opinion), playing alone allows for some experimentation without interfering with another player. It also allows for in-depth concentration without any outside influence. Just you, nature and the love of the game. It don't get much better than that. Despite a few struggles, I'd bet my bottom dollar that you enjoyed yourself more today than you have in quite awhile, and that is as it should be. Hang the score, you got more out of todays round than a good range session. Play on Amigo and chase your dream!!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 12/29/2023 at 5:34pm
I'm happy to see that you are getting out and participating in this wonderful (?) Winter golf. It's been quite chilly in these parts, as I'm sure it is in yours as well. Never lose sight of the fact that this is the season of frustration for golfers--chilly temps, far too many layers of clothing and a thinly disguised attitude. Keep fighting and we'll come out the other end in far better shape than if we hadn't.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 12/26/2023 at 4:57pm
It seems as though you're keeping a good attitude about it. From you description it sounds as though you are wearing bifocals. When I was wearing glasses I found that the ball "disappeared" when I had the bifocals on, so I invested in a pair of single-vision glasses and that solved that problem. Now I see better without the glasses, so they don't even go into my bag. Stubborn I guess. Anyway, some problems in your round are due to the fact that you've been unable to get out regularly and will correct themselves when a more regular schedule is used. Winter golf is truly a pain in the ass! Let's keep our fingers crossed for a mild Winter so we can hit the ground running in 2024! Stay the course, Amigo!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 12/06/2023 at 4:02pm
It is refreshing to hear you say that you able to play and enjoy this game, because that is really what golf is all about. It is the "expectations" that we saddle ourselves with that cause us the most angst. In the final analysis, enjoying ourselves and the people we are with outweighs any "work" that we feel we need to do. I believe that the longer we play this game we come to the realization that ego and expectations may have robbed us of some special moments and relationships along the way. Clarity is a slow process, at times, and provides us with answers to questions we have always had but were too busy to pay attention. "Wor5k" robs us of time, and we have precious little of that, so enjoy yourself and if you can improve along the way, then more the better. Happiness is something I truly wish for you! Love ya Bro!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 11/23/2023 at 7:11am
Isn't it funny how the second ball is usually "amazing?" I feel as though when it is played that there is a lack of expectation, "urgency" and more concentration on the execution of the shot rather that the result. I could be wrong, but that is my experience. All that being said would imply, to me, that your mental game is a bit "off." You know how to physically hit the shots, but maybe you are mentally preparing yourself to execute them. Whatever is the cause, I'm sure you'll get it worked out and be back to your proper level. To quote Dr Bob Rotella, "Golf is not a game of perfect!" (The book by that title is REALLY an eye-opener and great read--IMHO). Enjoy your Thanksgiving and continue being you, Amigo. You're great the way you are! Love ya!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 11/17/2023 at 2:57pm
Well, I looked at the results of your lasting "outing," both physically and mentally, and a happy picture it did not paint. It almost sounds as though you don't want to confront the problem areas, but, I could be wrong, and hope that I am. This is the time of the year when all the courses are preparing for next year, as are we, so conditions are going to be iffy at least until Spring, and that is a long time to stay "out of sorts (it could almost become a habit)." We know that conditions are going to be less than perfect, so why let it upset us? I hope you'll re-evaluate and attack the obvious problems.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 11/09/2023 at 6:43am
You've proven to yourself, and others, that you have the physical skills and mental capacity to play this wonderful game. At this point in our lives we may not be able to hit the ball as far as we once did and we may not be as physically strong as we once were, but there is nothing wrong with our mind. That is where our real strength is. We may allow ourselves to get a bit lazy when we are prepping for a shot and that is why we miss the shots. The mind is a wonderful thing, in and of itself, so we MUST allow it to do what has to be done without interference. We are able to throw a ball to another person without thinking about how hard to throw it because the mind does that for us. Let your mind control your golf and just go along and enjoy it. It is a marvelous tool, when used correctly.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 11/09/2023 at 6:30am
I've heard it said that we don't own golf, but rather it owns us. I believe that to be true. Just when you think you've got it, it jumps up and gob-smacks you so hard you don't remember where you live. Been there and done that. The only thing we are really in control of is us--it is up to us to mentally prepare for a shot, to set up for the shot properly, and then apply sound mechanics to "turn" into the ball. That is all we can do. Nature will take it's course at that point and all we can do is marvel at the capricious dictums that we've created. Oh what a wonderful game we play! Much like an artist, we must have a clear plan on what we wish to accomplish and once that plan is made, we must relax and let the plan create our masterpiece. Relax and let your plan work. Your brain is totally capable without our conscious effort to meddle with the plan. Get set and let it happen, and happen it will if we let it. Take care to not care too much. Do what you are capable of and enjoy! Love ya' Bro!!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 11/02/2023 at 6:39am
This round really isn't as bad as you might think it is. You haven't played since the 18th of last month, 2 weeks, and a lot happens during a "lay-off"--feel dissipates in all areas, confidence lags, expectations reappear, etc., etc., etc. To keep this round "respectable" was a bit harder than you might admit to, but I've been there and done that. Personally, I absolutely hate "layoffs" for all those various reasons. We work very hard to achieve a certain level in this game, and layoffs, of any length, are nothing short of disastrous and totally undermine all our efforts that we've worked so hard for. Yes, there were some rough "patches" along the way, but I feel as though you handled them quite well. Remember, we forget the bad and cherish the good. Pat yourself on the back for this round and let's get back to work!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 10/25/2023 at 2:44pm
Am I reading this right--a 317 yd drive on #9?! Congrats!! That will sure boost your driving stats! There are enough "good" things happening in this round that you shouldn't have any problem boosting your confidence. Jim Furyk always says that pitching/chipping is nothing more than "putting with loft," which I subscribe to, so that is an easy fix. I like the looks of this round and shows marked improvement from both your pre and post illness rounds. I'd say that you are trending in the proper direction and that you will continue to improve is you can manage to stay on your current course. Good on ya mate!!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 10/12/2023 at 4:46pm
Round be hanged! The main issue here, as I see it, is that you are back on your feet and trying to re-establish some sense of normalcy. Golf will settle back into your rhythm once you get back to your normal routine, as will your swing tempo. When I'm struggling with my tempo, I like to picture the swing of Nellie Korda or Amy Yang, as they have the best tempo I've seen in many a year. Expectations are our worst enemy, as we've discussed many a time, so take the necessary "baby-steps," get your health back where it should be, but more importantly, try to be patient. I know it is hard, but it has to be done. IMHO, forcing an issue only leads to frustration, anger, and loss of technique. I realize that patience isn't your strong point, but you have to make it one (this from my mouth!) Stay the course!!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 09/29/2023 at 9:46am
I have no words for this round. I hope you enjoyed the weather, the company, the scenery and just being able to get out after your recent bout with illness. Look for the silver lining!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 09/10/2023 at 5:02pm
Example: #6, and Par 4, 349 yds from the white, but only 265 from the green. I am capable of driving the green from the shorter tees, but that creates the "risk" of hitting the drive into the gunch on the right, the water runoff ditch also on the right, or hooking it into the tree line of the left (no escape there unless you waste a shot by punching out). The 7th hole is a straight away par 5, with yardage ranging from 473 (white) to 390 (green). A slight miss right of left will funnel back into the fairway, but only the longest hitters can get to the uphill green in two, if they can avoid the oak tree on the right and avoid the unseen bunker on their shot uphill. In my opinion, the shorter tees create a situation where it teases you to make the riskier shot due to the shorter yardage. It is hard for me to resist the temptation. These are just two examples, but there are many more available.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 09/07/2023 at 10:15am
What a great round, especially on your old nemesis! Work always pays off, eventually, but proper work shows immediate results. I am very impressed with your GIR stat, as it more-often-than-not leads to better scores, as does your fairway percentage. A super round Amigo! This is one to be proud of, especially in light of your recent struggles. Keep moving forward, and, unlike me, remember next time what you were doing this time! :) You have every right to be proud of this round, and I'm proud for you!! Stay the course.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 09/01/2023 at 3:58pm
I refuse to "flog a dead horse," as the saying goes, because you, and only you, lived through this round. You're here to talk about it, so it couldn't have been too bad, but I am not going to "rub salt into an open wound." You know what you did, how you did it, and your mental state at the time. So, let's agree to dispose of this into the proverbial "round file," and press on. We know that there are going to be times that we don't have our best stuff, and "piling on" is going to do one bit of good. Let's just forget this one and keep on moving toward our next great round! "Nough said.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 08/24/2023 at 2:33pm
Question: If you are behind a slow group, what do you do until it is time to hit your shot? Personally, I take a few extra moments to study the SkyCaddie for undesirable areas should I miss my target, recheck my game plan for the hole, check my swing tempo, and I try to forget that it is so s-l-o-w. I force myself not to think about the group ahead. I'm just trying to shoot the best score "I" can that day, and I'll be damned if I'll let them affect MY day. There is plenty of time afterwards to cuss them and moan and ground about it, but I WANT that low score! What are your mental exercises?
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 08/24/2023 at 2:21pm
Disheartening to say the least, especially after your layoff, but, as you say, "it is what it is." Everything I've ever heard about this course seems to point to the fact that it is difficult and quirky, so playing it after you layoff may have been a bit of a mistake, or at least the expectations were. Club selection is critical, wherever you play, so ensure that you are working off the average distance of a particular club rather than the "full" yardage (it's hard to be short that way). Your putting was good. It appears, to me, as though this was a "mental" error-filled round rather than a physical fault. You once told me that this course had your number, and maybe it does, but that is only because you allow it to. Check your expectations at this point and attack from a position of strength! You can do this! I KNOW you can! Never forget the "6 P's"--"proper planning prevents..."
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 08/18/2023 at 5:01pm
Well, your old nemesis reared its ugly head and said "Not this time, Amigo!" As we both know, painfully, expectations are the greatest killer in the world of golf! I won't "flog a dead horse," but we both do it and we know better. I was hoping that you would use your convalescence to ease back into the game before you tried the expectation-game, but I guess it wasn't to be. Well, now that the genie is out of the bottle I suppose the only logical tactic is to minimize those expectations to a reasonable level. Find a "happy medium" that you can live with and progress from there. I'm happy that you are playing again, and that is the main thing. Enjoy your rounds (expectation-free, I hope) and use some of that stubbornness to to your advantage. I love you, Bro!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 08/10/2023 at 5:32pm
What happened to your group? Sometimes it is a good thing to be out of your "comfort zone." It puts you into a situation where success becomes a choice. You either do or don't do, as Yoda so aptly put it. It exposes your ability to concentrate, think through a problem and react, rather that fall into a laisez-faire type attitude. Long-ball hitters can be intimidating, but, just like the rest of us, they still have to get the ball into the hole. I feel as though you handled yourself rather well, so take a minute to pat yourself on the back and be proud of your accomplishment. This is only your second round back, so don't put too much pressure on yourself just yet. Get comfortable with your return. Enjoy and play the game you love, free of any expectations and just P-L-A-Y!! Good on ya Mate!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 08/04/2023 at 7:47am
I posted a comment on this round yesterday, but evidently it didn't make it to the round. Anyway, this score really doesn't mean a thing to me, but the fact that you are back to playing, pain free I hope, means everything. I don't know just how much you missed it, but I missed hearing about all your "scratching and clawing" trying to better your result. Yes, the short game is most affected by a layoff since it is the loss of touch and feel, but easily recovered with a little attention and forethought. There had to be a slight loss in the full swing, I would think, but you handled that by the pre-round work you obviously did. I'm just glad that you are back out playing the game you love! Maybe it's better to play without expectations. :) Welcome home!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 07/08/2023 at 7:12am
I've never been a fan of starting on a Par 3 either, as it is just too exacting for the first shot of the day and can set an uncomfortable tome for the day. It appears as though it tried to do that to you, but you managed to pull your round back after the rough start and salvaged the round nicely. You putted well, given your 1st putt distance, and that is a nice improvement. All in all, I'd say that this is a pretty nice round, especially since your surgery was the next day and that had to weigh on your mind as well. Now you have 3 weeks or so to ponder your strengths and weaknesses, and come up with a plan of attack once you return to the game. The main thing, as I see it, is that you are able to return and enjoy the game as you play it. I would suggest a reading list for you, but I'm not that forward, and besides, my opinions are base solely on my game and may not be applicable to yours. Have a great recovery and come back stronger!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 06/07/2023 at 4:11pm
Good round, especially with the take-aways you got! Results are basically the end product of our pre-shot routine and our mental preparation. To spend so much time reflecting on "results" is counter-productive, IMHO, as opposed to the other way around. It appears as though you would agree with me, based on your take-aways. Am I right? Sharpen the beginning and reap the benefits at the end! I love it when a plan comes together. Congratulations on your "breakthrough" round and here's hoping that many, many more will follow. You got this, Amigo, you got this! Stay the course!!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 06/01/2023 at 9:36pm
I want to offer my honest apology if my comment sounded as though I was suggesting that you find another group. What I was trying to say is that the tee time might be a little early and that you might need to do some negotiating on that. I play with some very nice guys that I enjoy greatly, and they range from 76-94. I wouldn't consider changing groups if I were in your shoes, but I sure would be having my say about the tee time. The time should be agreeable to everybody, not just one or two. Again, if my comments weren't clear then I hope you'll accept my apology.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 06/01/2023 at 6:49am
After reading your comments I have to sympathize with you. I never play with a very early tee time. It takes me 35 minutes to drive to the course, and I arrange it to arrive at the course at least 1 hr before my tee time. That way I have time to get prepared to play at my own pace and get a feel for how the greens are going to play that day. I don't rush through anything, but to try to play at 0630 hrs, no way. I don't know how, or if, this affects your game, but it wouldn't work for me. I know that you like the guys you play with, but.... It is my opinion that if you feel "rushed" at any point before your tee time you are going to "rush" all day. Preparation is a vital key to golf, and we all prepare differently, but we are "dead in the water" if we have to alter our personal preparation. You might have to fight through this issue if it continues, but if it does continue be prepared for erratic results such as this. My opinion only!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 05/25/2023 at 7:26am
Mental errors are the most disappointing error you can make because you know you haven't applied yourself completely. You have rushed through your pre-shot routine or neglected it. You have done all the consideration that maybe you should have. Bad bounces, poor conditions or maybe the weather caused the ball not to conform to your plan, but NEVER let your preparation be the cause, either mental or physical. If a shot doesn't come off just right, then you have about 3 or 4 steps to be angry about it. Your pre-shot routine starts immediately after those 3 or 4 steps, which allows you plenty of time to plan the next shot and hopefully overcome the error. Be optimistic, be kind to yourself and be kind to your playing partners. They shouldn't suffer for your error. I love you, Bro!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 05/25/2023 at 7:16am
I have come to believe that in my game most of my problems come from a negative attitude about something or the knowledge that I have not properly prepared. When I start missing short it is because I'm trying to play "safe" instead of being committed. "Never up, never in," rings in my ears and I hate it. What's the difference between missing short or missing long? Absolutely nothing! They are both misses, but at least one gives you the opportunity to excel. We play this game to shoot the lowest score we are able to that day but we can't if we don't give the ball the opportunity to go in the hole. "Fear" is the overriding factor of short shots when "confidence" and "commitment" are needed. Be positive, confident and committed. Improvement comes from failure, not fear, and work. Be committed to hitting the best shot you know how, but if it doesn't come off right then you've identified an area that needs attention. Address these areas AFTER the round, not during it. Play to be great! Be confident!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 05/18/2023 at 5:20pm
Your pain was felt by your comments, and I'm truly sorry that you had to endure this, especially after you were so looking forward to playing there after last week's round. There will be days like this, but that doesn't ease the pain. Mother Nature will always have her way but there isn't anything that we can do about it. Personally, if there is a club I want to visit (especially a "pricy" one) I generally wait until the weather is a bit more predictable. At any rate, I'm truly sorry that it was so miserable for you. Use the proverbial "circular file," wipe your memory of the experience from your mind and attack your next round with a vengeance! Stay the course!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 05/15/2023 at 3:02pm
Well, this was a last minute decision to play this course as ours was closed due to the rains yesterday afternoon (we got over an inch in about 2 hrs). I started at 75° with only a whisper of a breeze, but that didn't last long. There were only 4 other cars in the parking lot when I got there, so I pretty much had the course to myself. That provided the perfect conditions to put in some work without having to worry about pace of play. I caught a few embeded lies, but, for the most part it was playable, and there wasn't any "run" to be had. I enjoyed myself, the solitude and the weather. It was very nearly as perfect as it could get given the previous days weather. Gosh, I love this game!!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 05/11/2023 at 1:54pm
Trying to post a respectable score during the period of "transitional golf" is an iffy affair and frustrating at best. Course conditions are never optimal, so posting a good score is a real chore which we are not yet geared for. Patience is a commodity that I've never been blessed with and I feel comfortable in saying that I believe you fall into that same category as I'm in. Strong suit or not, patience is something that we must have in abundance during the winter/transitional golf "season(s)." All we can ever do is the best we are able to manage that day and then stand by our score. We need to take pride in what we were able to produce that day, whether it be a good round or otherwise. Another round is just around the corner and we'll "circle our wagons" and start again. Hang in there Amigo, as I will, and if we have to gang up on this dragon that's what we will do! I'm with you!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 05/07/2023 at 4:09pm
Started at 71° with a 9 mph breeze. Well, I wish I could come up with some fantastic excuse for today's performance, but the truth of the matter is that just isn't my style. It was a tough day on the course after I got to my drives. The driver I hit fairly well, but the other shots... I have to take full responsibility for each shot. Sad, but true. Tomorrow is another round, and thus, a chance for redemption. I'll let you know when I post tomorrow's round, if the weather co-operates. Rain is forecasted. I'm very disappointed in my performance but I had fun with the group I was with, so all was not lost. I believe that there is good in all things--it may be tougher to find but it's there--so I'm stoked about the pursuit! Good vibes will come my way!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 05/04/2023 at 7:05pm
Who were you fighting? All I see are challenges to be faced and overcome. Maybe instead of looking at a score we should be looking at how we faced the challenge and take pride in overcoming it. I'm as guilty of this as you are, but maybe we might consider that the next time. We'll never play the PGA Tour on Sunday, but how would we feel about doing the absolute best were can do on that given day? Did we focus properly? Did we hit the proper shot (regardless of results)? Were we too "results oriented?" Were we "process oriented?" Did we leave our expectations at home? These are all things that we CAN do to give ourselves a better chance at enjoying our outing. There should be no distractions, just challenges. I'm guilty! Are you? As I keep telling myself, you gotta play the course you're on, not the one you want. This mental game is TOUGH!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 04/27/2023 at 7:37am
Well, I did some research to confirm my suspicions and I may have found one reason for this score...you played a longer course. I only went back to the beginning of this year, but you always played the gold tees. Your last two rounds on this course you played from the white tees, which could explain some of your struggles. Unless you are frequently altering the tees you use, you put a lot of undo stress on yourself, both physically and mentally. You must have had a reason for doing that and are smart enough to realize the affects it can cause. All that being said, I really don't feel that I can say much about the round as you were "floundering around in a sea of your own making." We tend to put a lot of unrealistic expectations on ourselves at time, some of which we were able to overcome at one time in our lives, but is it fair to expect that now? "Nough said." Love you Brother!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 04/20/2023 at 4:04pm
Actually, this is a fairly decent score despite the 4 doubles. As promised, the "transitional season" is coming to a close--as evidenced by your driving stat. We both need to tackle the GIR stat, but it made me happy to see that your is much more on the upswing than mine is. I really struggle with that. The very best stat , in my opinion, is your putting stat. Where once you struggled with the 3-putts, you now are at a stage where they are no longer present, which reflects the work you've put in as well as a much improved mental state. No more "flipping out" because of a 3-putts! Good on ya!! I'm very impressed with your progress, mi Amigo! Stay the course!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 04/06/2023 at 7:50am
I saw your round yesterday but the narrative wasn't attached, so I wanted to wait until you got it done. vagaries of the "transitional season" and unstable weather are always a test, and they can change one hole to another. This being said, it requires us to be flexible, as well as steadfast in our resolve to excel. I know that I go on about the "mental" side of the game, but I firmly believe that the game is not played physically as much as it is mentally. Since the mind controls the body the physical game is merely a reflection of our mental state. Once we are able to control ourselves mentally then that success will be reflected in our physical activity. Perfection will never be attained in this world, so to put the unnecessary pressure on ourselves to reach that is totally unreasonable. Prepare yourself mentally the best you can and learn to enjoy the results. That's not to say that we can't improve, but we only get out what we put in, much like life itself. Be kind(er) to yourself.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 03/30/2023 at 5:33pm
On the club distances for the round, put your cursor on the driver stat (which shows an average of 243 yds). It show you hit the driver 12 times, the longest drive being 491 yds and the shortest being 144 yds. The Club Distances For The Round for the driver shows and average of 243 yds, so how did they come to that conclusion?
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 03/30/2023 at 5:25pm
The flaw in my putting stroke was (past tense) a slightly closing club face during impact (trying to hook the putt), causing a slightly missed putt to the left. I was trying to figure out how I continually missed putts to the left when I was SURE I was aligned properly. It took me awhile but I got it figured out and corrected.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 03/29/2023 at 4:38pm
I reviewed your round, understood why you referred to it as your "misery," but was absolutely shocked to see that you hit a driver 491 yds! If I did that I would be expecting to received my "astronaut badge," yet you made no mention of it. Shame on you! Bryson has nothing on you mi Amigo. Damn, I'm jealous. Maybe that was the cause of your uneasy feeling today. At any rate, you always seem to have a tough day playing at that course, more so than any other as I remember. Whatever the reason is, I'm sure that you would really call this a "practice round," if truth be told. I always find it hard to play when my mind is tied up with too much technical stuff, so the "flow" doesn't flow. This is just another transitional round for you, so its nothing to worry about--but the mental lapses are! Stay the course!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 03/23/2023 at 6:48am
This "transitional season" golf has, and always will be, iffy at best. Rain, wind and the general wet conditions don't make for a comfortable round, as anything might/could happen. It sounds as though the maintenance crew was just as upset about being out the as you were trying to navigate the results of their attitude. March and April are always tough months trying to play a decent round in, so all we can do is our best that day, tend to our mental approach and execute our game plan. Nature can be a real bitch (it oftentimes is) so we have to accept it for what it is, try to circumvent its affects and enjoy the challenge. Defeat is not an option, so it requires us to "dig deep" and face the challenges head on. A promising season is on the horizon, so buck-up and fight on! Stay the course.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 03/16/2023 at 5:05pm
Once things start to go bad it is very hard to recover. Your partner arriving late is a good example of this. Starting and stopping is one of the hardest situations for me tolerate (not the person arriving late, but the fact that the round has already started and then there is a "pause" until we get underway again). I try to find all kinds of things to detach myself from those situations so that I can maintain my focus amid the disruption. I'm not a sensitive little woozy, but my mental preparations are important to me and I try to maintain them at all costs. Unfortunately, it appears to have sucked your focus from you. We all make mistakes when we play that affect our scores, but to allow the mental aspect to be attacked is our greatest mistake. Physical mistakes can be justified, but mental ones cannot. "Armorize" your mental approach and I believe your physical mistakes will all but disappear. This is really not a bad round once everything is considered. Endeavor to persevere!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 03/13/2023 at 5:07pm
I believe you are on to something! I don't believe that we knowingly call the actors to appear, but rather our mental approach that day calls them. When we are "right," the evil numbers are banished to the hinterland, at least until a chink in the armor reveals itself, at which time that surge forward like a stampede ruining that good mental approach. The only thing good about the "evils" in this game is when they are held at bay and slapped silly by the strong mental approach. I believe that everyone is capable of putting a good round together, but a strong mental approach and a realistic game plan is required. No hero shots, no unnecessary gambling and a sensible shot selection is all that is needed. Hitting shots that you WANT to hit instead of hitting shots that you KNOW you can hit ruins more rounds than you can imagine. This fetish for distance is the ruination of golf. Accuracy is 100 times more important that distance, yet distance is all that is talked about.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 03/12/2023 at 6:59pm
Started at 59°, a brisk 11 mph breeze and cloudy skies. Had an absolute dream start, but #8 got me (it is a green where you are not able to control your ball), as it usually does. The inward nine began okay but soon turned into a nightmare! The triple on #13 was a complete mental error! After decent drive I was face with a shot of 123 yds, but I assumed it was into the wind. I hit my shot accordingly but immediately realized my error and found my ball approx 30 yds behind the green. One error is never enough though and the next shot was short of the green and just in front of some pampas grass. Needless to say, I was lucky to have only received a triple! After that it was just a limp home, as all the wind was out of my sails. Despite all the drama, I still managed to post a decent score as well as stoke the fire for a rematch. Gosh, this is a great game. I came away with a lot of positives, so I'm a happy camper tonight--with a few bruises. The rematch will happen tomorrow.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 03/09/2023 at 5:08pm
I saw this round yesterday but refrained from commenting until I could read your comments. It is kind of scary to see it because it looked as though two different players combined their scores as a joke. After reading your comments I realize that it was two different players, but it wasn't a joke! As you know, we have both "been there and done that" in the past. Transitioning out of "winter golf" is a iffy situation at best and anything is possible. One part of us is elated to finally leave the nastiness behind, while the other is fighting panic trying to play up to our accustomed standard. We both know where this round should be placed (the round file), but before you do gleen what you can from the inward nine and create some positive thoughts (written) for review before the next round. Something good took place, so capture it, cherish it and learn from it. You got this, mi Amigo--even if you don't believe it. I KNOW you will excel.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 03/02/2023 at 7:03am
This round is only reflective of the time of year when conditions are not their best, where playing time is restricted and we are wearing far too many clothes to combat the elements. That chip-in on #14 was pretty sporty and probably provided you with a great deal of joy. I know what you went through once you realized that you forgot your putter--been there and done that--so the putting stats are jaundiced, although better than what you probably expected. Although this round probably wasn't what you expected, or wanted, it did provide you valuable feedback on areas that need some attention. It seems to me that making good ball-first contact was difficult, but that most likely was due to conditions. This round is over, done with and largely forgotten (except for the lessons), so go to work on the areas you have identified and set to work. Results are never immediate, so be patient and keep you mind right. Another round awaits.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 02/23/2023 at 5:20pm
I agree with your comments, but as we've been saying, "it's Winter golf." Yes, we are about to come out of it, but we haven't quite yet, so don't be too hard on yourself. In regards to your putting woes allow me to tell you what I've started doing pre-round on the putting green: I've taken to practice putting looking only at the hole during my stroke. I take my stance, look from the ball to the hole and stroke the ball while I'm looking at the hole. It has provided me with a sharper focus on the hole, a smoother stroke, and improved my feel for the distance, even on longer putts. As I said, I do this on the practice green prior to starting my round and haven't tried it during the round...yet. It has, I feel, made a big difference in my putting. This round wasn't one of your better ones, but it appears as though you might have been distracted by something as you weren't your normal self. Clear your head before your round and fight on!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 02/17/2023 at 9:26am
What a nice round, especially on that course. Whatever "work" you've been doing I would continue as it appears to be bearing fruit! The truly surprising stat is your GIRs! It isn't that you are not able to hit the greens, just that you haven't been, and I believe that this is the highest total I've seen from you. You've always been consistent hitting the fairways, but IMHO, the thing that has kept you back from scoring is that you weren't hitting more greens. And this after a 3 week layoff? OUTSTANDING!! The other stats are basically a reflection of your extended layoff, at least that it how I'm looking at it. I am happy that you are back at it (I understand about the weather issue) but I can't explain just how happy I am about that GIR stat. At this rate, that damned dragon is making sure his will is up to date! :) Keep working and the results will follow, just like that beautiful GIR stat!! Congratulations!!!!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 01/20/2023 at 7:36am
CONGRATULATIONS!!!! An eagles always does wonder to a scorecard as well as the mental attitude. I love it when they land! Now, for the rest of the story. Your game actually looks pretty solid, despite to doubles (they appear to be mental errors rather than physical to me). It is a nice, solid round, especially for winter golf. Damn, that eagle looks good on your card! Keep doing whatever it is that you are doing as the results seem to be trending in the proper direction. Stay the course! Congrats mi Amigo!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 01/12/2023 at 4:55pm
Winter golf is a time to experiment, work on areas that need to be tidied a bit and a time to work on keeping the muscles "golf ready." Anything can happen in the winter for the reasons I just listed, but I'm happy to hear you say that you are beginning to see the results of your off-se4ason work. That is a real positive and shows that you aren't allowing your attitude to be influenced by a couple of questionable shots. Winter is the time to rebuild your weak areas, your mental approach, your flexibility (mental & physical), and to test out new game plans. Don't put too much emphasis on the results this time of year but keep your progress moving forward. You got this, Joe! Improvise. Adapt. Overcome. Keep working toward Spring!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 01/04/2023 at 4:10pm
I know that you probably won't like this round too much, but I don't believe that it isn't horrible. Your GIR stat is improving and your fairway stat is good. In my humble opinion, had you avoided the two 3-putts and converted even a third of your scrambling opportunities you would have been in the low 80's! Yeah I know, coulda, woulda, shoulda, but...you're really not that far off, especially for winter golf. Don't beat yourself up over this round. Find the positive areas as you see them and identify the areas you need to work on, but above all else, never lose sight of the fact that it is winter golf and that's a season unlike any other, yet it is a great time to work on areas that may have been neglected during the real season. Heads up and stay the course!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 12/29/2022 at 10:00am
For my enjoyment? I think not. Why should I enjoy the round when you didn't. That would be very selfish, thoughtless and not at all friendly. I don't enjoy other peoples misery, which this round obviously was for you. The last I heard you were thinking about taking the winter off to work on your game, but that obviously wasn't to be. Sometimes temptation is too great to ignore, as I well know. Winter golf is such a cruel time or year. It saps all the energy from you, makes fun of all the work you have put in during the year and just sits back and laughs at your misery. There are ways to combat that--don't play during "its" time, quit altogether or play your ass off to show it who is really the boss. I'm trying the last stated option as I'm not a "quitter." Anyway, I sympathize with you about this round but entertainment it isn't. Stay the course mi Amigo and you will reap the rewards.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 12/14/2022 at 7:55am
The tenor of your comment indicates the truthfulness of your words. I'm am truly happy that you are enjoying the time you are spending in golf. I hope your success continues. You deserve all the success you achieve and the happiness you obtain. Carry on My Friend!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 11/17/2022 at 7:31pm
This looks very much like my round today. They probably are some comments I could make but that would be unfair to you given the conditions. Let's just call it a "round file round" and be dome with it!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 11/04/2022 at 4:09pm
Horrible start but a nice ending, and that always brings you back. I think that this course has you "number" Amigo. It seems to always "eat your lunch." That being said, you hit upon a true gem (You gotta dance with who brung ya) in your poste round evaluation. Trying new "feels" is best left to practice, not on the course, at least until you've got them down. Nothin new is ever going to work "right out of the box," so do your practice and then execute on the course. That way all the angst is gone, you can relax and enjoy yourself. You and I are a lot alike in that we have a tendency to rush progress, so much so that we get frustrated when it doesn't work. What bozo's we are. We both know better but we can't get out of our own way. I'm guilty of that, I'll admit it--proudly I might add.:) I won't "flog a dead horse," but we both need to quit looking through our belly-button and do the right things. There's nothing wrong with your game that a little self control and a little practice can't cure.:)
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 10/21/2022 at 10:23am
My gosh, this looks awful familiar to me and you would think it was one of my rounds! When we have rounds like this it's hard to be too critical because we are both struggling with our games. Personally, I'm trying to learn to just take my medicine after a poor/unfortunate shot rather than try something that has a low degree of success and I run up a big number. Other than that the only thing I see is that your putting let you down some on the outward nine but did straighten it out coming in. We need to work on controlling our tempers a little more but that (our tempers) is merely a reflection of what we expect of ourselves. Expectations and egos have ruined more rounds than anything else I can think of think of. Mellow but stay focused. With your new net you will become more consistent in your swing which will equate into less strokes taken. Stay strong and let the "flow" happen. It can't be forced. We both need some luck, so let's work on it!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 10/07/2022 at 8:58am
Respectable round! I'm glad to see that you are starting to hit more greens as well as the increase in distance. I don't know anything about the Wilson golf ball other than they don't "seem" to fit my game. I switched from Srixon to Vice some time ago and haven't missed a beat, and I don't miss the high prices either. Anyway, I am glad that you are appreciating your game more and are willing to accept new ideas. Keep up the good work and good things will happen for you.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 09/28/2022 at 7:42pm
This is a bit of a two-sided coin--the bad news is that it was an ugly round but the good news is it's over. :) I've had days like this and my problem always came down to focus. If we aren't careful it's easy to fall into the trap of "I've got this," and then we realize just how lazy we were, but by then the round is over. It's hard to maintain motivation to excel when your mind is somewhere else. Too many distractions these days. I'm going to try to focus on one things during the round, golf, and leave all the other BS in the car. It'll be there when I get back. We pay to play but the distraction are just freeloaders and they create havoc and disruptions. This, my Friend, is just another round file round. Take the good from the round and lose the rest to the file.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 09/16/2022 at 7:42am
In my humble opinion, when you change the size of your grips it basically changes many this in your performance, most notably the way the hands work. Going for midsize to standard, as you have done, allows the hands to become my active in the swing, not necessarily a good thing until your hands refamiliarize themselves with the "change." This could be a possible explanation to the cause of your performance in this round. That being said, I don't think it would be fair to make any other comments on this round. There were some good things that happened but... Give it some thought and adjust as you feel prudent. Personally I've always felt that the oversize grips were primarily designed for the larger sized hands (I use oversize but am considering going to oversize as my hands are quite large). Hand size is an important factor to consider, much as glove size is. If you don't have equipment that suits you and your game it is impossible, or at least very difficult, to perform satisfactorily. My opinion.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 09/08/2022 at 3:54pm
Started at 76° with a slight breeze. Course was wet from the rain received yesterday (2"), so it was slow--in spots. I started the day with a few expectations, and for the most part they were achieved. I started out pretty well, even par thru 6, but then the wheels came off. I half expected that since I'm working on a few things, so I wasn't too upset. The one thing that I am totally jazzed about is that my putting is greatly improved. I did burn the course up with it, but I was able to keep the ball on line, shaved to edges and left some "in the jaws" and just short. My driver showed up today and stayed for awhile, than goodness, but my iron play was a bit spotty. Overall, a good day on the course and a better day in my head. I was able to tune-out the distractions and just play. Mentally a great day. Remember, "control your mind and control your game." Can't wait for Sunday!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 09/08/2022 at 6:59am
Very nice round, and at you nemesis as well! Congrats!! Course conditions are always challenging when maintenance is in progress and can cause one to lose their concentration. I was impressed with the number pf greens you hit as well as your fairways stat--good on ya. GIR's have always held you back from getting to the level that you wanted to be at, so that progress is great. You putting is also pretty memorable. All in all, it is a pretty good round, save for your "hero shot" attempt. I believe we've had that conversation before (regarding "hero shots") but evidently your propensity for those overwhelms your common sense. As you know, they lose their "hero shot" status if you honestly practice them, at which time it enables you to score. I know I'm preaching to the choir but there you are. Control your mind and you'll control your game (my new mantra). It was a nice game just the same. Keep moving forward!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 09/05/2022 at 4:22pm
Started at 78° with only a slight breeze. My driver went AWOL, again, and my irons were iffy. My short game was pretty sharp today, as it has been of late, and I managed 31 putts, despite 2 3-putts.
GIR ratio is pretty low but my prox to hole is adequate. I played with one of my usual groups but the fun wasn't there. We all shook hands at the end of the round with only a "thank you." Can't explain it or why, but it just wasn't fun. Lesson learned. I'll probably start playing by myself again since I don't disrespect myself, cuss myself for sure, but never disrespect myself. Tomorrow is another day. Really looking forward to it! Still staying positive about my game!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 09/02/2022 at 8:27am
I didn't see where you had entered a narrative, so I'll "fly by the seat of my pants." You seem to be hitting a lot of fairways but getting nothing out of it. That is troublesome. Your putting stats are pretty solid, despite the two 3-putts. It seems to me that you need to work on your approaches some. Either you are selecting the wrong club or mishitting them enough to continually come up short. That needs to be rethought some. The 4 doubles and the triples didn't help you any, but those will always "pop" up if we aren't careful. Actually, it isn't a bad round, save the above opinion, so I don't think you really need to beat yourself up over it but a solid analysis is advisable. You have a better view of where it went wrong and that is something you need to approach, i.e. lacking a bit of mental acuity, not making good contact, failure to properly assess the given conditions, etc. Whatever the cause may be get a game plan to avoid it next time out and be prepared to accept it should it not "happen."
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 08/29/2022 at 2:49pm
Are you sure this is your round? It looks eeriness of the round is it looks so similar to my latest round! We both know where the errors lies in our games, but sometimes we "over-think" and try to correct what we perceive to be a problem and forget that it was us that made the decision/function. The "key" to playing a new course, as I see it, is to play it conservatively and take what it gives you. Nothing fancy, just plan ol' golf. Let's get after it!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 08/25/2022 at 4:49pm
Well mi Amigo, this "funk" will last until we decide to "get our heads" out of wherever they are! I would imagine that the grass was long due to the rains and not being able to get the crews out in time to get all the mowing done. I guess that sounds like an excuse but it is entirely possible. We are having the same problem. All we can do is grin and bare it until they can catch up. This could also be the cause of the "funk" and "rub" situation. At any rate, it is one of the hazards that we face and must adapt to, and I believe your starting is also a contributing factor--man, you don't even have time to rub the sleep out of your eyes before they call you to the tee! The "golf season" is rapidly nearing it's end, so if we want to end the season on a good note, the we need to get going. If we don't then it is going to be a lo-o-ng winter!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 08/18/2022 at 7:54am
I've never played Cedar Crest, but from what I've heard it can be a real beast, and it seems that it usually bears it's teeth each time you play it. You seemingly have a rough day there each time you play it, so it must be rough. Ain't it funny that the little things in life give us the most problems? I'm sure that what you are going through is nothing more than a little "bump in the road," and I'm sure you will find and fix it. You've got a very good "golf mind" so what you are going through I'm sure you will find the answer in short order. Don't try to argue this point with me because I'm totally convinced it is true. Did you ever get to the range? "Triggers" may sound good in theory but really must be tested in practice and "under fire" and, as you know, to have any validity. We always seem to find our one "beast" that has our number, so let's conquer it and move on. Good luck Amigo, but let's not "tin cup" that which doesn't deserve an unwarranted amount of time and attention. The fight goes on!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 08/11/2022 at 4:27pm
There just isn't much to say about this round. We both are having our own difficulties, though different but yet the same. We are losing our focus on our own targets. Maybe we are putting too much emphasis on our stats and neglecting our trouble areas. Personally, putting is my weakest point right now, but on the putting green I'm magic. Go figure. We each have our own weak areas, but are we really addressing them? Do we take the time to go to the range and really apply ourselves, yet we expect to hit shots that maybe we haven't practiced lately. If could be that we are trying to hit shots that we used to back in the day, but aren't capable of right now. Whatever it is is is something that we REALLY need to focus on. We don't really need to guess what is happening but need to do some in depth soul searching, however bad it may be, and solve this riddle. Keep plugging along Amigo!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 08/04/2022 at 4:31pm
This round looks very similar to the one I had today! "Round file" rounds for sure. Willow Springs seems to have you number, Amigo. That can change though through critiquing your game plan and tweek it a bit. It is a lot like flying--if you don't have a proper flight plan you ain't gonna to get there. Dispose of this round and live to fight another day!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 07/29/2022 at 7:37am
Yep you're right, one for the round file. I thought they were bragging about their green speed on Facebook. Did they live up to the brag? I refuse to comment on a round like this as you are suffering enough. This one I'll let you critique this one yourself.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 07/21/2022 at 5:31pm
This looks awfully familiar to me. Did you copy a scorecard of mine recently? We wait all winter and look forward to "golf season," only to be laid flat with disappointment. I can commiserate with you Amigo, but it seems that we are both lacking the mental strength to correct our deficiencies--at least for now. Your skills are there so redouble your mental approach, edit your game plan and execute, execute, execute! Leave your expectations at home and attack the course when you get the opportunity and be conservative when the odds are against you. You can do this!!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 07/17/2022 at 2:44pm
Started a little early (for me) this morning. Played with the Sunday morning group. Had a lot of fun, plus I didn't play too badly. Very happy with my scrambling percentage. Still a little miffed with my putting and my iron play, but the iron play can be corrected pretty quickly--I hope. Starting at 0745hrs is a bit early for me, as I have to leave the house by 0615 hrs, at the latest, and drive to the course which is 40 minutes from home. Then getting my equipment ready and some time on the putting green and by that time it's tee time. Kind of a rush, but if I want to play in the Sunday game it is something that I have to do. Oh well, all is good and my mental game is!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 07/13/2022 at 7:23pm
What a sporty round you played today! I did some quick math (math is not my strong suit) and I came up with 29 putts on the day. Is that right? If so you had an outstanding day on the greens, and you were able to hit more greens which always improves your score immeasurably. Your 3 bogeys right out of the blocks really isn't the way you want to start, but obviously you were mentally sharp enough to not panic and saved this round. You should be proud of this round and use it as a stepping stone going forward. There is a lot of good golf ahead of you if you can remember to just get out of your own way. You've got that damned dragon trembling! Stay the course!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 07/11/2022 at 3:00pm
Started at 0900 trying to beat the heat. My usual playing partners are out of town, so took advantage of the opportunity to get some practice in. Don't get me wrong, I like working on the driving range, but I prefer to work on the course as it brings in the wide range of required shots. Anyway, I had a fairly good front nine, but that was before the heat and humidity unwelcomely arrived. The back wasn't really too bad given the fact that it contained a 3-putt and 3 penalty shots. It was a very nice round for me and a welcomed relief from other rounds that I have been putting up lately. Obviously I'm a happy camper!!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 07/10/2022 at 2:12pm
In my opinion, the weakest areas of your game is the yardage off the tee and the GIR stats. If you correct those the the "sky is the limit" for you. I know how tough a day it was for you because my scores are similar to yours. Hang in there and things will improve.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 06/30/2022 at 3:05pm
I don't think that I would be too worried about this round, due to existing conditions. Just put it into the round file, erase it from the memory bank and press on. In my opinion, and I've said this before, playing that early in the morning is not conducive to good golf. There isn't ample time to not only wake up, loosen up and get your mine right for round. I understand that the company might be enjoyable but maybe you could some of your persuasive power to address the topic with them. I believe that it would improve everyone's game. As I said, this round is a very good candidate for the round file. Keep fighting Amigo!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 06/25/2022 at 1:21pm
The sorry thing about this round is I can't find too much wrong with it and in fact there are alot of good things that stand out. First and foremost is the putting. When you can finish with 30 putts for the round is great and that is despite a 3 putt! The up and down stat is much improved, as is the GIR stat. The mental game appears to be intact and your attitude upon completion and evaluation is upbeat, so that also is an improvement. There just isn't too much more that I can comment on, other than keep the ship going in the same direction. You definitely are much improved in all areas over your results last year, so what is to criticize? Keep it going Amigo. It is much like the dance The Limbo, let's see how low you can go!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 06/16/2022 at 7:56pm
Damn it was hot today, humidity and all! Had a slight breeze which made things somewhat comfortable (?). After having struggled mightily the past three of four weeks, I finally returned to hitting the ball well again. I drove #6, a par 4, and was only 12' from the hole, but I just wasn't able to sink the putt and had to "settle" for a birdie. My putting was much improved though my stats don't reflect that. I made a lot of comeback putts for pars and bogeys that don't show up in the stats. My mental game was pretty sharp (everything is relative) and I just enjoyed the day and the company. I'm a very happy camper!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 06/16/2022 at 7:30pm
Well, Mi Amigo, it looks as though you have identified your weak area (it is pretty much the same for everyone)the expectations to be perfect. We can't all hit the perfect shot every time, so why put that expectation on yourself? You haven't failed by hitting a less-than-perfect shot, but rather proved to yourself that you are human. It takes a strong mind accept the bad shots and try to hit the next one the way you want to. That being said, I KNOW you have a strong mind but your too stubborn to accept it. Get out of your own way and free yourself up to excel. If you can do that then you'll reduce the bad shots and enjoy the company more. Hang in there Amigo.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 06/09/2022 at 9:00pm
We all have rounds like this, so don't beat yourself up. You did the best you could this day. It wasn't your best, but the best you could do today. You don't need me to tell you where the errors were--you know better than I. After a good round last week I'm sure the expectations were high and your confidence low, hence the poor round. The good thing about poor rounds, if there is any, is that it gets you to thinking about what you should be doing. Then there is that "remembering" thing that we all forget until the round is beyond salvaging. We both need to "get our heads out" and start playing like we know how to. Hang in there Amigo, there's light at the end of the tunnel!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 06/02/2022 at 7:44am
What a nice, beautiful round! So much better than the last couple of rounds that you posted, and I trust that it is greatly due to your mental approach. A clear mind produces greater focus, which we all could use. Keep up the good work and a clear mind and better results will follow. This round is definitely a "keeper," if only to be a reminder of what you are capable of. Happy hunting mi Amigo!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 05/27/2022 at 9:09am
Found this quite by accident. If I didn't know what day you played I wouldn't have ever seen it. Still not getting notified of your rounds. Anyway, I'm sorry that you had a tough day. The three doubles really did you in as, in my opinion, they suck all the momentum out of you and it is hard to regain. Other than your GIR's I don't really see a problem, other than the suspected loss of momentum. Keep fighting mi Amigo and the results will come!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 05/20/2022 at 7:10am
Well, mi Amigo, it's that time of year when course maintenance comes to the fore, but you can't expect timely efforts as they are municipal employees. Course care takes a backseat to a lot of other tasks which are less important than they "cash-cow." Oh well, it is what it is, right? Anyway, this is about to be expected without the required range work and I'm just as guilty of it also. You know what the cause is so it is much more difficult to focus when you know that you are unprepared. Lesson learned. We both need to enjoy what we have and hope for a return to "normal." Range time! Enjoy yourself at what you do and don't worry about the "rubs" because that it all part of the game. Keep up the fight!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 05/12/2022 at 5:02pm
Started at 76° with a gentle 5 mph breeze. A perfect day for golf, except my day wasn't so perfect. The outward nine was too bad, but all the damage was done on the inward nine. Would you believe a 12 on #14, which included 3 penalty shots!? Oh, and #12 I was lucky to get an 8!! Needless to say it was a tough day, both physically and mentally. I own every one of those shots but I wish I didn't. Need a lot of work between now and the next round. Severely disappointed.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 05/09/2022 at 5:55pm
Started at 84° with an 8mph breeze. I'm not one to make excuses so I won't, but...I haven't played in a week and a half (due to rain) and have spent time in the hospital as well. I expected a little "rust" but that didn't materialize. Made a couple of swing changes before the sky opened up and we got all the rain, but today they proved themselves to be valid. I hit more greens, fairways, and chip shots than usual, as well as making a few more putts. I did have 3 3-putts, yet still had 33 putts for the day. A good round physically and mentally. I'm a happy camper!!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 05/07/2022 at 7:53am
OH MY GOSH!! This isn't what I was expecting. You had been showing good improvement recently, but evidently this course has decided to take up permanent residence in your head! There isn't much I can say about the round that would improve my opening sentence. I can only tell you what I, myself, would do, and that is to spend more time on the range and tackle this course until I managed to evict this course from my head. I'm a stubborn cuss, as are you, but I just can't let a course do that to me. The mental game is a fragile thing that we work so hard to maintain, and to let an area of grass destroy that is totally against the grain for me. Having admitted that a course can beat me each time I go out is like telling yourself as a last swing thought not to hit it into the water because you know that is where it is going to go. Positive thoughts we must maintain at all times, even when the chips are down. Pick yourself up by the boot straps, identify your target (this course) and keep fighting!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 05/02/2022 at 1:39pm
Joe,
I tried to use shot trak the entire round but couldn't figure out how to use it until the 6th hole. I couldn't find anything that explained how to use, so it was trial and error. SkyCaddie is not very good proving explanations/instructions and their Customer Service (?) isn't any help. But I've pretty much figured it out, so I'll try to use it again. I wonder if you could use it during scrambles, as long as your round is marked as a scramble? I'm going to try it if I can get my mind to work properly. I'll let you know.
Amigo Bob
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 04/24/2022 at 2:58pm
Started at 65° with a 10mph breeze. The day was filled with opportunities and I did OK with them, but my putting is problematic--I missed 2 putts inside 5" and missed a few other makeable putts! My driver showed up today and performed well for the most part. I hit a few more greens than usual, so that delighted me. All in all is was a good day. The group I played with were very pleasant to play golf with, and that always helps. Good day and a real confidence builder.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 04/14/2022 at 5:24pm
Started the round at 64° degrees with minimal breeze. Had a fun day, both with my partners and my game. I've been struggling with all phases of my game, but today I got everything back on track--except my putting (still a work in progress). My driver hasn't divorced me but my irons are still MIA, but some signs of life are present after performing CPR. The course was awfully wet (cart paths only) so reduced yardages off the tee. I sure had a fun day, despite all of the "tests" that I endured. I am a "happy camper," and so should you be after the round you had today! Celebrate and be merry and face your dragon next week with the same mind-set you had today.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 04/14/2022 at 5:13pm
My, my, my, lookie here, a round worth being proud of! Amigo, I've been telling you forever that you the talent to post good scores and this round proves it. An 83 with 3 doubles is quite the feat and I'm really glad that you were able to maintain your mental game through most of the round. When you did lose it you were able to gather yourself, refocus and continue. Much improved. The season has begun, and so has mi Amigo Joe! Congrats on a very good round! Keep it going and slay your dragon!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 04/10/2022 at 4:11pm
Started at 61° with a 15 mph breeze with gusts to 20 mph. Tough day on many levels. Frustrated with my iron play as it hasn't improved one bit! My scrambling stat is so low that I don't have to duck my head to walk under anything. My driver hasn't divorced me, yet, but we are still on talking terms, at least for now. My putting is abysmal. Other than that everything is hunky-dory. As you can tell, my mental game isn't too sharp right now, but tomorrow is another day. After I beat myself up a little, I will pick myself up and do battle again tomorrow.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 04/08/2022 at 2:14pm
Started the round at 62° and a 20 mph, which rapidly increased to 25 mph with gusts to 40 mph. Quite an unusual occurrence here for this time of year. I actually played better than the score would indicate, given the weather conditions. The stats are skewed for the same reason. The winds were so strong that they cause the ball to oscillate and even blew putts offline. A lot of fun! NOT!! I very much enjoyed the company and the day, despite the conditions. Happy camper here!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 04/08/2022 at 12:47pm
Nice round given the circumstances. We had the same weather on Thursday, and you're right in that it is tough to make club selections. I'll bet that putting was a lot of "fun" also. Keep fighting Amigo, your dragon awaits!
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 03/15/2022 at 11:27am
Let me know if you can read this. I found the post comment button and am hoping that this will work. I've contacted support, but they weren't any help. If this doesn't work I'm at the end of my rope and will no longer persue this issue.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 03/10/2022 at 6:48pm
Started at 48° with a 5 mph breeze. Began the round ion good fashion, but the back nine was a real cluster f--k. No explanation for the difference between front and back, but then it is winter golf. I did manage to hit some really nice shots, but my putting left a lot to be desired. Still in a good frame of mind despite everything. Next round is Sunday.
Posted a Comment on Your Score: on 03/09/2022 at 5:31pm
Joe,
Sorry you had to endure this type of round, but those dawn starts will do it more often than not. It's still winter, so we know which pile to put it in. There will be more rounds for you to shine in.
Bob
