Back story, I am a 9 handicap golfer. Lowest round ever is an 80, (39 for 9 holes). I usually shoot mid-80s, depending on difficulty/knowledge of course, etc.
I went out today on a whim, had my brother and friend cancel on me. Almost canceled going, but another friend said he would go.
We hit the course, spent about 10 minutes on the practice green (driving range closed for the season, I'm in NJ) then hit the course.
Now on the other end of this is my buddy Adam. He is the nicest guy you have ever met, usually shoots low 100s, can get to low 90s.
He was asking for tips on how to play better, as he knows in 3 years my handicap went from 26 to 9, through diligent practice, a few lessons, and a general obsession with listening to experts/pros talking about the game.
As we were talking about things, I found myself starting to play some of the best golf I had played. Honestly curious if discussing the swing thoughts and processes ended up impacting the play.
Regardless, on this par 36 9 hole course, I got to the last hole at even par. Ended up on the fringe and was going between chipping and putting. I had chipped well, but I also knew how well I was playing and I think intrusively effected my swing, ended up duffing the chip. 2 putted for a bogey and shot a 37.
As excited as I was, my buddy Adam was even more excited. He signed a score card for me and pumped me up big time. Always nice having a friend like that.
Most excitingly for me was seeing improvement. I basically spent the entire year shooting similar scores, never really feeling like I was making much progress.
Cannot wait to continue this golf journey! If you're still reading, thanks for hanging out tonight.