Golf

I played golf three times in the 30 years we lived in Rochester, NY, but that changed
when we moved to North Carolina.  Two other men and I started playing soon after we
arrived in Mooresville. Over the next couple of years, the group grew to 10 golfers.  
We played nine holes, twice a week. When we moved to Cary, I missed the golf group
more that boating and swimming in Lake Norman.

Our new community in Cary, did not have a golf course but had a golf group of over 50 men
playing 18 holes twice a week on different public courses. I immediately
joined them and played at least once a week. I even played in all of their tournaments.
But, I didn’t really enjoy it.  The guys were too serious, didn’t joke around like the
Mooresville group, and I didn’t play up to my expectations. I didn’t play with them the
second year and dropped my membership with the golf group last year.

I continued playing golf, but with my neighbors, ages 85 and 86.  We occasionally
played 18 holes but usually played nine holes on a par-3 course.  We weren’t that good,
but it didn’t matter. We were out and playing golf. I enjoyed golf last year almost
as much as when I played at Lake Norman.

After my accident in January, I couldn’t swing a club when we returned in March.  
In late April, I went to the par-3 course with my neighbors and just brought a putter.
 I was thrilled to be on the course. By June, I brought a putter and a wedge to chip
from off of the greens.  Finally in July, I took some full swings from the tees, first
playing seven holes and then finally 9 holes.

Then things fell apart.  Last week, I took a soft practice swing on the first hole
and my left elbow went out.  I couldn’t even complete a backswing. I rode along
with my neighbors and putted when we reached the greens.  After three holes I
tried swinging again, but the pain was worse.

I’m discouraged but will take a few weeks off and try again.  I’ve played 16 holes of
golf this year. That is not enough.

Seasoned Man

stevelem117@gmail.com