By Staff Writer Daniel Locke
Many individuals, including me, enjoy playing golf as a hobby. People frequently forget that golf is meant to be enjoyable. Nothing better than having fun outside with those you care about, unless you choose to play by yourself, which is definitely not a bad thing.
However, golfers frequently lose sight of the true purpose of the round. Their mood might dramatically change with a one poor shot, depressing everyone around them. Even the best golfers in the world, including Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler, have terrible strokes. Why does the typical golfer believe that these guys are impervious to their faults if they do occur on the course?
Avoid tossing your clubs. Keep your temper in check. Don’t spoil the fun for people around you.
Like a lot of people, I began playing golf because my dad and I could do it together. At one point or another, I participated in almost every sport imaginable, but golf allowed us to connect in a way that the others did not. The fact that my grandfather enjoys playing golf gives the three of us something to discuss and do together.
My interest in the sport only grew once I began to watch the last round of the PGA Tournament every weekend. While my dad continued to support Phil Mickelson, even in the latter stages of his career, I rapidly warmed up to Jordan Speith and Dustin Johnson.
I became even more passionate about golf when I joined the team in high school. While attempting to focus in math class, I had something to look forward to when I had a reason to go to the driving range or play a fast nine holes after school.
I have frequently described this region of the state as a golf hidden gem. Calera’s Timberline, my personal favorite, Pelham’s Ballantrae, and even Oak Mountain State Park, a top-notch municipal course that won’t break the bank or the scorecard for novices or seasoned veterans, are all within a short drive of my Helena home.
Bent Brook and Frankhouse, another reasonably priced choice, are available in nearby Bessemer. Ross Bridge and Oxmoor Valley on the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail are two of the greatest in the state, and both are located in Hoover. Highland Park, which overlooks Downtown Birmingham, offers average golfers a chance at lower scores because to its shorter-than-average tee-box-to-green distance.
The region offers private alternatives such the Riverchase Country Club and Greystone and Inverness, both of which are close to Highway 280.
Additionally, there is a Golf Galaxy off Highway 280 that has a large assortment of clothing, clubs, shoes, and other items you might need to hit the links.
Do you want to play but are unsure how? You’re in luck because PGA-certified teachers are available on several of the local courses to fix your swing or teach you how to make one from scratch.
Now that summer has arrived, it’s the ideal time to get together with your friends and visit the driving range or the course. Savor one of the many possibilities that golfers in this region of the state have at their disposal.
