May 2021 Ohio Golf Journal

Walker Cup is What’s GREAT About Golf FRED ALTVATER You are a Golfaholic if: You are the only golfer on the driving range during a rain storm. I’ve never been to heaven and thinking back on my life I probably won’t get the chance to go. I guess winning the Masters is as close as I’m going to get.......... Flowers have bloomed, trees are filling in and the grass is a verdant green at every golf course in the state. May is one of the best months all year to play golf in Ohio. Of course, I say that about every month. With COVID worries easing, more and more golfers are hitting the links and buying up every piece of golf equipment they can find. Driving ranges are crowded, you better call a week, or more in advance to get a tee time and golf outings are filling up rapidly. What a great time to be in the golf business and be a golfer. The sport has become a go to for anyone wanting to get some exercise outdoors. John Feinstein wrote a book called, A Good Walk Spoiled, but that was about professionals missing cuts and losing their tour privileges, not amateurs walking, talking and enjoying each other’s company. The amateur game of golf is always a good walk, especially when accompanied by family members, or good friends. Do something good for your kids, or grandkids. Pry them away from their technology for a couple of hours and get them on a golf course, or even a practice putting green. You might just be surprised what a few minutes away from those smart phones might lead to. The Walker Cup contested in early may reminds us about playing the game for fun, not money. The teams were primarily comprised of college kids, who soon will turn professional, but for now compete for the ‘Love of the Game’ and to continue to improve. The Walker Cup also reminds us that Golf is truly an international sport. Many of the Great Britain & Ireland Walker Cup team members attend American Universities and will undoubtedly compete on the European and PGA Tours sooner than later. The USGA and The R&A are to be commended for keeping the Walker Cup an important amateur event. Also, kudos to Seminole Golf Club for opening their doors to the outside world and hosting this great event. I hope you enjoyed the Walker Cup as much as I did. I can’t wait to see it again in two years. Until then, I hope I see you on the Back 9 soon. ~ Fuzzy Zoeller Ohio Golf Journal