Golf, Sharing the Passion

"The most important shot in golf is the next one." - Ben Hogan

Sooner or later, we pass on what knowledge we have gained in our lifetime, onto the next generation. My grandson, nickname Manu, has taken an interest in golf. It makes me incredibly happy, my passion for golf I can share with another in my immediate family. My brother and I have shared this passion for over forty years. To have nephews and grandchildren get excited about golf brings joy to both of us. 

Early Days

Manu and I have been enjoying time at the driving range and on the golf course for the past two months. Sometimes at the range we are joined by other family members, on those occasions what wonderful times they are. Laughter and gentle ribbing go on amidst airshots, slices, duffs and the rare straight, long drive. So much fun.

Good Signs

On a visit to the Ellerslie driving range, Manu uttered, (I’m paraphrasing here), “I like golf because there are so many different things you have to learn.” I showed him how to grip the club, the address, other fundamentals. I didn’t want to information overload him, so I limited comments to words of encouragement and just have fun hitting the golf ball. Summer is an exciting time to take an interest in golf. Sunny days, blue skies, a gentle breeze, dry running fairways and shaved greens with good company create experiences worth repeating. When winter comes, golf can be a slog, but the joyful memories of summer and laughter draw newbies like my grandson back to the fairways. 

Driving Range

Manu reintroduced me to the Ellerslie golf facility. Decades had passed since I last visited there. The transformation was enlightening. It’s located within the Ellerslie Racecourse in Auckland, New Zealand. The land is owned by the Auckland Racing Club, which operates the racecourse and leases out space for various activities, including the Golf Warehouse & Driving Range. The range is fully automated, with golf launch monitors and auto-tee ball setup with ball count. On the weekday we were there it was busy; I recommend the facility to any visitors to our city.

I followed Manu into the range. I assumed he would order a bucket for himself. When it was my turn the cashier said, “oh everything is paid for”. In surprise I turned to Manu laughing, “Ho Manu, that’s my job, I pay for everything, not the other way round!” Chuckles from the cashier and others at the counter.

On the Right Path

Manu will make the decision for himself as to when he wants to get lessons from a coach. I will encourage him when that time arrives. Meantime I will keep our golf fun, introducing little games like closest to the pin or best out of five putts. When he hits the ball straighter, a long drive competition is one he should win easily, aargh.

A plan will help until Manu is ready for a professional coach.

1. Warm-Up (5 minutes) stretches and swings:

2. Short Game Practice (20 minutes) putting and chipping drills:

3. Swing Practice (20 minutes) Focus on grip, stance, and posture. Practice swings.

4. Fun Challenge (10 minutes) Set up target practice:

5. Cool Down and Review (5 minutes) Discuss what went well, question time:

We will assess this plan at the driving range, keeping the learning enjoyable to increase Manu’s knowledge and skills. In time his passion for golf will last a lifetime.

Happy golfing! 🏌️‍♂️🏌️‍♂️🏌️‍♂️