The popularity of golf has increased tremendously over
the past forty five years, giving us champions like
Arnold Palmer, Greg Norman, and Tiger Woods, and
world-renowned courses like Pinehurst, Augusta
National and the Blue Monster at Doral.
Why has golf become so popular? It’s the opportunity
to be outside, to get a good whole body workout,
network with friends or business colleagues at a
leisurely pace, and to play a game that you can never
perfect.
Your scorecard, over time, shows your improvement,
which keeps you playing again and again.
Here is a very basic lesson in golf for the person who
has no clue about the game.
Golf is played on an eighteen-hole course; each hole
has its "par", which is the number of tee shots
(drives), fairway shots, chips (short hits as you
approach the green), and putts.
The par number is based on the length and difficulty
of the hole. Pars range from 3 to 6. If you get the
ball in the hole in five shots on a par five hole, you
"made par." If it took you six shots, it’s called a
bogie, if you made it in four, it’s a birdie.
There are usually "hazards" of some sort on all the
holes. Bodies of water, sand traps, and trees are
strategically placed to make the hole more
challenging. Beginner golfers should seek to find
courses to play that are easier to play, with fewer
hazards.
Each player keeps their own score, marking the number
of total number of shots for each hole. At the end,
each person adds their scores-the lowest number is the
winner.
It is important for beginner golfers to not take
themselves too seriously. It takes a long time to get
good at this game; even though the professionals make
it look so easy.
Take a lesson or two at the onset; it will help you
develop a proper swing and help you get off to a good
start.
Remember that it’s just a game. Have fun and look at
the big picture-you’re outside and you’re not at work!
