When I say links, I mean golf course, though in this instance I use the term in loosely because the golf course I was on certainly wasn’t a true links course.
Yes, I am a “lefty”, but not to be confused with Phil Mickelson.
A links is the oldest style of golf course, first developed in Scotland. The word “links” comes via the Scots Language from the Old English word hlinc: “rising ground, ridge” and refers to an area of coastal sand dunes. And it was in Scotland that the game of golf was actually invented. The course at St. Andrews in Scotland is considered to be the earliest dedicated golf course and is still in use and hosts many PGA tournaments and the British Open. But there are also many links courses in Britain and Ireland.
I was, however, on the local municipal golf course here in Asheville, NC, far away from a coast, and the only sand I found was in the traps I was often in. Still, with the Scot/Irish blood flowing through my veins, I felt right at home out there chasing that ball around.
I’d never played golf until I was in my mid-20’s but I immediately fell in love with the game. For several years, I played regularly, slowly improving my game to a somewhat acceptable level, emphasis on the somewhat. But then life stepped in, as it often does, and I drifted away from the habit of playing. And it was only last year that I once again gave it a try after taking quite a few years off. But I only got to play a couple of times before winter set in, and then didn’t get another chance to play until I went on vacation this past summer. And that was a banner occasion because my vacation was in the Philippines, and my father-in-law took me to play at the Dole Plantation Country Club. Unfortunately, I have no photos of that but it was a beautiful course and I played rather well that day.
The friends Lynndee made while following me around.
Due to being so busy and unacceptable weather conditions, yesterday was the first chance I’ve had to play since I got back from vacation. But it was a beautiful day so me and Lynndee loaded up and went. Lynndee doesn’t play; she just wanders along with me, listening to me cuss and moan about my bad shots while enjoying the scenery and making friends with all the duck and squirrel critters that hang out on the course.
Approach shot to the 9th; on in two, then a two-putt for par!
I just played 9 holes and though my game was rather rusty, I ended by just bogeying the 8th hole and paring the 9th, the perfect ending to a not-so-perfect round of golf.
Nothing beats a day on the green. If you ask my husband. LOL He could golf for the rest of his life.
I love this post!! My husband and I are avid golfers yet I knew nothing about “links” and the history! Thank you for that! Sadly I have not been able to get out on a course this entire past month! I know my golf bag and clubs miss me!
Thank you, Joely. You’re welcome for the history. I’m glad you enjoyed my tale.
Golf looks like so much fun. I’ve never played, but it always intrigued me. I plan to play one day. I learned so much from this post, thanks for sharing 🙂
Fun! My good friend’s husband is an avid golfer and she began taking lessons about a year ago. I really need to schedule a day on the green with her so she can teach me a few pointers.
I have actually never played a true round of golf. That is quite a few geese on the course! Looks like you had a nice time regardless of being rusty or encountering critters.
Golf is such a great game. Fresh air, exercise, and fun! It looks like you had a great day for a game of golf.
Is is bad that I live on a golf course and have never golfed?? LOL!! I need to try it some time!!
It’s good to know that you had an amazing day! I think it’s awesome that you got to play after such a long time. There’s nothing like playing a round of sport that you truly enjoy and love.
This looks like a lot of fun. I have always wanted to learn how to play golf.
I love golfing! I wasn’t able to go all summer because of a knee injury, but I’m hoping to get to the indoor driving range this winter so I can be ready to go again next summer!
I have never played real golf, just mini golf, or computer golf games. This is one sport that I would love to try playing some day – golf grounds always look majestic for me!
I have never tried golfing before. It looks very interesting and fun but hubby said it stresses him out lol.