09/02/2026
Aloha members,
FROM THE PRESIDENTS RECLINER
Golf, a conflict of the mind
Have you ever noticed that when a golfer tells you and others how they shot the best game of their lives, it is always when they played alone?
I don’t know how many times I’ve heard, “Man, you should’ve played with me last Friday. I had the game of my life. I made some amazing shots and wound up with a 71. The best game of my life! If only I were younger, I’d go on tour.”
Then it is usually followed up with, “Too bad I was playing by myself.”
It is usually accepted by the listener that perhaps some embellishment is taking place and a few bad shots have been left out of the story. That, and the fact that the storyteller only played one hole.
Every once in a while, I like to play a round of golf alone, especially when I want to have a good game. The only problem is, I have had good games while playing alone, and in the back of my mind—and perhaps the front also—I just know that there will be individuals who will nod their heads at my story but wonder which hole I shot the 71 on.
While I was in Montana, I had a great game. I only had time to play nine holes early in the day due to prior engagements and shot a 36. Even par!
On both par-3 holes—which just so happen to be #3 and #8—I birdied both. I was totally beside myself, which left little room for my backswing. Each of my first shots on those par 3s landed within a foot of the hole. It was glorious!
You know the feeling: everything is right, your swing has no hiccups, you are keeping your head down, following through, and your ball flight is true.
Most of my golf buddies there were amazed, yet skeptical. You guessed it—I played alone.
You probably wonder where I am going with this, and quite frankly, I really don’t know. I just started writing what comes to mind, and with me, that can be a dangerous thing.
I guess what I am trying—poorly—to say is that whether you play alone or in large groups, keep on playing. Come out to the club and help support the course.
I’ll see you there.
P.S. I always try to keep positive, but negative things get in the way.
Hit ’em straight,
Chris
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