Drivers, wedges and putters, oh my!

August 2025--I may be in the minority, but I don’t golf.

Don't have anything against the sport, but when you try and then try again and again, and don’t succeed, you give up. And that’s what I did.

I remember golfing with one of my sons when he was in middle school, his friend, and his friend’s mom. I shot 112. You might think that's not such a bad score for a novice, but in reality, it was. Right then and there I decided to stop swinging and just follow the other three as we walked the remaining 13 holes. That’s right. I only completed five holes.

I was averaging 22 shots per hole at that point and thought it would be better to quit while I was ahead. Ahead of what? I’m not sure. But knew at that point it was time to drop the driver. And while I was at it, the woods, the putter, and the iron—right back into the bag.

It was a fun day out there despite the high score, and I thought I might try again. But I never really did. And now I see there’s an entire month devoted to golf. Yup, August is National Golf Month.  It’s supposed to encourage people who seldom participate to take up the game. I get a little itch when I’m watching the Masters, but a quick scratch and that itch is gone.  I do have a lot of friends who golf, and they love it.

I did participate once in a golf tournament with friends. One of the best golfers at the event was “assigned” to me. Why? Because, coupled with his low scores, was a high amount of patience. And he sure did exhibit a lot of patience with me. We didn’t do so well—but it was an enjoyable day.

So, now that August has rolled around, I wonder if the creators of this special month are successful in bringing together enthusiasts and newcomers alike to appreciate the history, the camaraderie, and the skills that are ingrained in this timeless game.

They must be successful because I learned that more than 47 million people in the United States played golf in 2024. Specifically, 28 million played on a golf course and another 19 million participated in off-course activities like driving ranges or simulators.

That means a little more than one in seven Americans engaged in golf in some way. Hmm…I wonder if that number takes into consideration miniature golf. If it does, I just increased the participation rate.

I have always lived with a golfer—my dad and now my husband—so you would think I would have been a little more inspired. But that hasn't been the case. I do think it’s a great way to get some exercise, have fun with friends and enjoy the outdoors. And, I’ll gladly jump in the cart to ride along because I have FOMO. Mostly of missing the fun of being with friends. But as for taking a few swings, I’ll pass because I'm sure the others would like to finish the round before dark.

To all the golfers out there, may the course be with you--especially during National Golf Month.

Remember to always take it one day--and one swing--at a time.

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