From the bunkers …

At most golf courses across America, Tuesday is Ladies’ Day — why Tuesday? — who knows, but it’s a fact that ladies enjoy their day at some courses. If men show up to play on Tuesday morning, they are met with a very cold shoulder. Houlton is a bit more relaxed and men are allowed to play, but remember, ladies have the priority on Tuesday.
According to the records, the first Ladies’ Club Champion at Houlton was Joan Butler, and she won it several times. Other multiple winners were Martha Fasulo, Eleanor McLaughlin, Linda Holmes, Gerry Dunn and current champion Lou Anne Dwyer, who may not hit the ball as far as her husband Bill, but I’ll bet she can chip and putt much better.
Speaking of chipping and putting, ladies are better than most men — why – I don’t know but around the greens women seem to have a better touch — maybe they practice more and think better. On the practice area, men have a tendency to try to hit the ball a mile, while women are smart enough to realize you score with the short game.
David Grant, who by the way, provides the pro tip at the end of many of the columns, is pushing for a Mixed Couples League to meet weekly. It seems like an excellent idea.
Pam Mailman is the leader of the women’s club and urges all members or those who wish to join to contact the pro shop.
Golf can provide many great moments to be remembered. During a two-team tourney last year, Barb Moakler and husband Tom were teamed together. Barb hit her tee shot on number three within inches of the cup, winning the closest to the pin easily. I’m sure that will stay with her for a lifetime.
I had the pleasure of a short visit with Lib Putnam several weeks ago and was saddened to hear of her passing. She and sister Maria Louise were ardent golfers and Lib remembered going with her dad to watch the Houlton Golf Course being built in the mid-20s.
We will be reporting on Ladies’ Day standings and interesting achievements during the summer.
So ladies, have a great time whether playing with other members of your club or joining your male partner. Maybe you will hit that memorable shot or at least you will have the undivided attention of the man in your life.
The swing starting back: When the clubhead reaches hip high, there are three important positions to check. First, the shaft should be parallel to the target line, the butt end of the grip pointing just left of the target. Second, there should only be a slight hinge in the left wrist, and third, the toe of the clubhead should be turned upward, as the forearms naturally start to rotate.
There will be a Memorial Day Tournament on Saturday, May 29. This is a four-person scramble, with a shotgun start at 10 a.m. Breakfast will be served from 8-9:30 a.m., followed by a brief remembrance service at the garden. Get your foursome together and come remember a friend.
A season welcoming social will be held that evening from 5-9 for all to attend. Prime rib or stuffed haddock by chef Joe Bergan will be on the menu. Call the clubhouse at 532- 2662 to reserve a spot.
Men’s Twilight League will start June 7. Let’s hope for a long and enjoyable season.