Determination

In his book Down the Fairway, Bob Jones spoke of the difference between golf and tournament golf. Mr. Jones did not win a major championship tournament for seven years and then won a total of thirteen majors in the next eight years. By his own admission the secret to his success was to remain determined while recognizing the importance of patience. His change in mental attitude was attributed to the understanding that golf must be played one stroke at a time. He maintained that this concept was easily forgotten in tournament play but that it was disastrous if forgotten.

I believe that the recreational golfer would be wise to remember this virtue. Determination and patience can be manifested by virtually all of us. It is just human nature to forget how important these skills are to our golf score. Course management is structured around determination and the patience to overcome the urge to "get it all back" in one hole. Put otherwise, when we make a mistake on the course the tendency is to do something special to make up for it.

Jones determined that it was wiser to take the opposite track and just keep plugging along and "hitting the ball" as Harry Vardon suggested. Bob Jones admitted that he did not always possess the ability to remain patient. He had to cultivate this skill. Playing against "Old Man Par" was his goal. I think we would all benefit from such sage advice.

Until next time. Enjoy your golf,

Dr. Richard Gordin