Blown Away - Golfing in the wind and other opportunities

Brimming with confidence and anticipation, I strolled to the tee box.

In one gloved hand, I held my club, in the other the ball and tee. There was no doubt in my mind that the dimpled fuchsia orb atop the tee was about to be dispatched for a soaring and momentous distance.

Laser-beam focused, feet firmly planted, hands well- positioned on the club handle, I began to lift and shift and BOOM! A 30 mile-an-hour gust of wind hit me from behind and I stumbled over the tee, knocking the ball to the ground.

Conditions were not ideal, but Mark and I played on nonetheless. It was wonderful to be outdoors, swinging a club, watching the perfect arc and soar of a good drive, and soaking in the warmth of the sun. Extreme wind wasn’t going to interfere with the joy of that scenario!

It’s wonderful to experience the feeling of freedom that accompanies knowing the season of ice, sleet, snow and below-freezing daily temperatures has been replaced with the gentle warmth and dependable promise of early spring.

It’s always good news to be released from near hibernation to the great outdoors.

Want more good news?

I just learned from my friend Patty that Wendy Ward will teach a few classes in Ritzville beginning Thursday afternoon, April 19.

Wendy spent 22 years on the LPGA tours and teaching. Her resume includes four LPGA tours and five U.S. Solheim Cup appearances: three as a player and two as an assistant captain.

Her teaching is important to all of us, but particularly to early players who want to improve their technique. The charge is $25 per lesson, payable in advance. At this time, she plans to offer two lessons for sure, but possibly more, most likely on Thursdays.

The first and second lessons will focus on chipping and putting, respectively.

If you wish to take advantage of this great opportunity, call Patty at 660-0945 to reserve a spot and arrange for pre-payment.

The Monday Morning Ladies Golf group will begin gathering on April 30, subject to change due to weather, at 10 at the golf course for a friendly nine holes.

We represent all levels of skill, from high handicaps to low, and from much to little experience. We would like to include beginners or ladies who unsure of their skill level and that it might not measure up to others.

There is no “measure up” with us; we gather to enjoy the fun and fellowship. We were all beginners once, and each of us grew and improved with experience on the course, friendly assistance and lessons.

If you would like to join, call me at 509-385-8434. Or you can meet us on April 30 at 9:45 a.m. for a 10 a.m. tee-off at the golf course.

The course charge for all day play on Mondays is $10, but does not include cart rental.

We will be pleased to see you there.