PGA Fourball at Craigielaw

For the last official event of the season, we were back at Craigielaw Golf Club on the east coast.
I can’t remember playing here when the wind didn’t blow, and it was worse than usual with strong winds forecasted for most of the day.
I was playing with my usual partner for the 4 Ball events, and we were paired with two players we knew well. They all know my work with LGMS, so I didn’t need to explain.

It’s difficult enough to have meaningful conversations on the course, but with how blustery the conditions were, it was made virtually impossible. We chatted briefly in between holes but it was very stop-start, and everyone was just trying to concentrate on getting it round without too much damage.
I did get the chance to mention that I’d never been to Golf It in Glasgow, where both the other players worked, and would like to come down for a visit over the winter. I was trying to lay the foundation for a catch-up over the off-season and was pleased for them to invite me over whenever I was available. It’s always positive to have an open invite and not have to book a time in the future that may never transpire. 

We all played quite solidly despite the conditions, but it really was a hard slog. There was no let-up in how strong the winds were, and one of the hardest aspects was putting.
Craigielaw is very exposed with plateau greens, which means no shelter whatsoever on the short stuff. Slightly easier on the back 9, being downwind, but not much, as this made it just as difficult to get close to the pins.

On one of the more sheltered holes, I did comment that I am really not a fan of Halloween at this time of year due to the nonsense that goes with it, which everyone buys into. I was dragged along to an event at the SEC with the family, which was really poor and could have rivalled the infamous Glasgow Wonka Experience.
We are filling our kids’ heads with rubbish and fantasy, all designed to make money at various times of year. It’s not an accident that the truth gets lost in all these things, and everyone is desensitized and distracted. I didn’t get too much of a reaction, but the fact that Halloween has become such an event these days is concerning.
It was starting to get cold towards the end of the round, and we were all looking forward to finishing despite still being in contention. Golf is definitely more enjoyable in short sleeves, and the gusts make it a bit of a lottery, even when playing decently. As we finished, I confirmed I was definitely going to visit everyone in the group before Christmas, and they were happy to keep in touch.

Just as I put the clubs in the car, the wind died down. Too funny.

“Even if you think your time is wasted, do not be disheartened. God works in all situations, and fruition comes at the appointed time. Keep at it!”  – Anon 

We keep going through the winter,

Vincent Brown, PGA Professional
and Logos Golf Ministries Scotland Ambassador to the Tartan Tour.

To get in touch with Vincent, email him here