It may be a phenomenon of aging, most things remind me of something from the past. This week it was golf that got me started, the title is a distant memory of Mister Peabody and Sherman, the worlds smartest dog and his boy. It was an educational show that utilized history for its many learning moments. I liked this show and made my daughters watch it. Amazing the obstacles children can overcome.
I have made it clear that I love golf-it doesn’t always love me. Frustrating, humbling, challenging, this sport is unique. It is you against the golf course. I was reminded of the benefits for children this week in a post from PGA professional and junior golf ambassador, Jerry Breaux. At RedHawk they had an event that drew 118 kids with over 100 parents and grandparents in attendance. In 2005 Idaho hosted its first and perhaps only USGA national event. The tournament was offered to Idaho in large part because of the lifetime work and commitment to Junior golf by Mr Breaux. It was no small task to raise enough money to get Banbury prepared to host the event. The best junior girl golfers in the country came to Boise. The winner was seventeen year old In-Kyung Kim she turned pro the next year and has won 7 LPGA events and most recently the Women’s British Open. IK defeated In-Bee Park who has gone on to win 28 times in her career -a list that includes 7 Majors. With the PGA being played this week, think of In-Bee winning three consecutive Women’s PGA championships. Consider getting your child or grandchild involved in golf. There are 50,000 new players in PGA junior league in 2017.
Why is golf unique? Check out The First Tee which has established nine core values that are integral to the game and to life. During introductions at the course this week, a First Tee volunteer removed his hat as he made eye contact and shook hands with the new acquaintances. If you professional golfers conclude their rounds at the PGA this week, that behavior is a part of sportsmanship, courtesy and respect for each other and the game. Three important First Tee principles. The sport is also based on honesty, integrity, confidence, responsibility, perseverance and judgment. You keep your own score and are expected to call penalties on yourself if you violate a rule. Thanks to The First Tee and role models like Mr. Breaux.
A good friend of mine reminded me as our best plans went a bit astray-“I thought we were almost perfect but I am reminded every day that perfection is unattainable.” As Salvador Dali says “have no fear of perfection- you’ll never reach it.” Golf is very much like life, dealing with the unexpected while chasing your goals.
Enjoy the week end. Mike