Spending More Time in the Sand Than David Hasselhoff

I’m like most fans. I watch the PGA and European tour and only think of the players I see as golfers. That is really the only way I see them. Sure, they get some quotes in the paper or golf magazines, and Tim Rosaforte on TGC tells us a little about what they were thinking, but basically, they are golfers to me.

Then you read a story like Paul Goydos.

Goydos has always been popular among writers as he is funny, willing to talk, and self-depracating. He is fairly popular among fans for a two time winner who is not a frequent contender. I had heard at one point that he had taken some time off the tour and continued to do so intermittently to take care of daughters. I thought it was curious (unless they are widowed, how many men do you know of who get custody of their kids?), but didn’t really think about it. He’s a golfer, after all.

Now, we find out that Goydos needs to take time off again. It is because his ex-wife, who he divorced in 2004 – hence, the custody issue – died. And one of the reasons for the breakup was noted in various news outlets in association with the current story to be her addiction to painkillers. He had taken a season off after the divorce to help his kids and is about to do so again.

Life really isn’t easy. Even when you’re a figure on the green grass of the professional golf tours.

Tags: PGA, PGA Tour, frustration by
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I hit some balls yesterday, then played a few holes. Amazing! And not in a good way.

I’m trying to learn a new swing and, after a couple of weeks, finally have felt like I got the hang of it. Hitting 6 irons with a nice little draw, right at or consistently just to the right of the flag. Pretty happy – on the range.

On the course – not so, amigo! Have you ever gotten a weird sensation that some activity you’ve done your whole life – chewing a hamburger or unlocking the door, for example – has become this brand new activity your mind cannot quite grasp? I felt that for 7 holes. I wondered what type of neurological disorder, such as a conscious stroke or temporary insanity, had taken over my mind and prevented me from hitting the ball in any valuable way. I not only didn’t have a clue, but I wasn’t within radar range of one! The only good thing was that no one was taping it so I won’t ever have to see those swings again. I’m shaking just thinking about it now!

Golf is stupid.

By the way, check out Jess’ contributions to naming the blog. I laughed out loud.

Tags: frustration, learning, practice by
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