Friday, December 30, 2011

Happy Holidays

My apologies for my absence from my blog for a while.  I came up short at Q-School First Stage in October as many of you know.  Some bad breaks and failure to get anything going led to a measly 78 in the first round.  Fortunately, my game was really beginning to come together, despite the poor score.  It began to show in the next round when I tied the course-record at Kinderlou Forest with a 7-under par 65 to get me to -1 total…and I only hit 9 greens!  I cruised the next day, in total control, hitting 15 greens, only to watch 9 putts catch lip or the edge and not go in.  Great play led to a 73.  The last round was quite windy and cold, and I got off to the start I needed, getting it to -3 thru 4.  I was -3 thru 10 and in great shape on the par-5 11th, with 3-iron in hand, and not much trouble to speak of.  A poor swing and a block right, which was really amplified by the wind, found fescue and led to a bogey.  One more loose swing on 13 off the tee led to a double bogey, and ultimately did me in.  Final round 73, and just a couple shots short.  But I had my game back, even if it was one day late.  College coach Tim Grogan caddied for me.

I've been working on strengthening this off-season to better prepare for the rigors of playing for 10-months straight.  I put the clubs down for a month and just started hitting balls again a week ago.  I'm recharged and ready to go.  How ready?  I just flew into Phoenix today and made 8 birdies en route to a 5-under par 67 at Seville GC.  I know it's going to be a good year, and I'm in a really good place.  I'm in town for the Tommy Bahamas Desert Marlin, which my dad and I have teamed up for the last 2 years.  I'll stay a couple days after to continue to get some practice in, and then head back to Pittsburgh thru mid-February before I head to a warmer location.

Again, I apologize for not updating this site the last 3 months.  It was difficult to continue to come on here and write about failures.  To miss at Q-School by so little and to be right there really stung and I just needed some time away.  But now I'm back with a clear head and a clear slate for a new year.  My game seems to have progressed to its strongest spot in the last 2 years and I know GREAT things are ahead.  My new years resolution this next year is to come on here daily and give updates.  So give me another chance and follow my exploits.

Appreciate the support and Happy New Year!