Seniors Golf Groups

Spring is here and in the South Okanagan the duffers have been out golfing since the beginning of March. A new phenomenon is taking hold in golf circles - the formation of informal groupings to take advantage of the power of numbers. This seems to be happening more particularly with valley seniors. Senior Golf Groups for men, women and mixed are springing (no pun intended) up all over the valley. This growth in groups is a boon for the golf courses that demonstrate a value for senior participation on their links. Some of the courses are now providing incentives to these groups in the form of cost reductions and in-kind gifts to foster better relations with their Seniors Golf Groups. Participation in a senior golf group affords one the possibility of never going to the course alone, always having someone with whom to play, and for the most part, the familiarity of knowing personally at least several of the participants each week. The Summerland Old-timers Golf Group is one such group. Coordinated by a senior duffer Bob Smyth, the Summerland Senior Golf Group continues to add numbers as new members show up on Wednesday of each week, ready to play. The one thing all of these seniors have in common is the desire to stay fit, have fun and improve their game. Therefore, if the weather is not conducive to being on the course they use the time to improve their swing. No one is too old to learn and didn’t our teachers tell us that practice makes perfect? Well, we all know golfers who need the practice. So, to add to your golfing enjoyment, use the Practice ranges. (I much preferred the Driving Ranges because one could go out and bash balls all day to relieve one’s anxieties and stress without hurting anyone else). Some courses and ranges have retained or invited Golf Professionals to conduct informal ‘Swing Clinics’. I happened upon just such an event at the Sage Mesa Golf Course one Saturday where a kindly, gentle man by the name of Brian Hart (a real professional) was coaching the large group of duffers on the finer art of the stance, the swing and the follow through. For the cost of a few minutes of my time and a few shekels (not to mention a ton of my pride) Brian took me from the inconsistent ball basher to a smooth, consistent stroke and well struck golf balls. Distance yes! but more importantly, accuracy. While you are in the mode of golf make a special effort to patronize the golf course and golf support outlets who have taken the opportunity to advertise in The Seniors’ Choice. It is those advertising dollars that help our publisher get this fine seniors’ newsmagazine into your hands free of charge. Keep your eye on the ball and remember: “To be Canadian means you are too blessed to be stressed” (Particularly if you are a golfer!). For more information contact the writer @ 494-0615, or Bob Smyth @ 494 -7019 Alex Yakunin @ 494 - 7866

 

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