Day 2 was a whole lot unlike Day 1 but the results were not much better. In fact, in pencil, things were marginally worse yet the conditions were far more difficult with a stiff (two clubs at times) breeze, brisk temperatures, and a very hard rain for the last 8 or so holes. So things actually became a lot more relaxed and a little more fun as the elements essentially took precedence over all else. I got out of my own way, you could say. Or the quest for warmth, surpassed my need to think.
And we chipped in. And it was from a horrible lie in the greenside rough. Maybe I was just getting used to the 12 feet explosion shots. Or perhaps, the course simply took a little pity on us — if only for a moment. And we also were bestowed the honour on the tee! – which was sort of funny because I needed to be reminded I was up — seems I was getting a little too comfortable in the back of the bus.
Anyway, I have a wealth of knowledge now when it comes to tour golf and I can honestly say that by the back nine on day 2, we were quite comfortable (rain aside) out there and beginning to play with some level of ease, confidence, and belonging. As with day 1 any errant shot really cost us as there was just no real escape route once you missed a fairway or green. Put two balls in the same creek from the same yardage on two separate days with two separate clubs and hit each shot clean — go figure, that’s golf and that’s fine. And as for my triple 7 on number 9, well … put my tee shot in the fairway, caught the approach shot a little heavy, ball decided to stay out of the water in the creek and on the down-slope in some really deep and overly ornery grass. So I have to try it right? I mean there are bleachers around the green and even people in those bleachers, so I have to try it right? And I did, even though I had no idea how to even hit that shot. It did not get out. Now I take the stroke and get ready to hit a delicate pitch onto an elevated and pesky green. No problem. Two putts and I’m, well, 7. And I’d try the shot again if given the chance.
I’ll leave things at that and save a few notes for the magazine. And I am going to do my best to try and continue working at my game. After all, I was given a gift and am now a much better player for the experience. If I haven’t already said it — thank you Seaforth for a few shorts days I will not soon forget.
Which way to Q-School?
* special thanks to the Canadian Tour’s John Bercovitch for the pictures
