In Praise of Practice Rounds
Being here at Whistling Straits this week reminded me of this: When you watch the pros play golf on TV, you see them extremely focused, unsmiling for the most part, almost mechanical in demeanor and movement. In the words of Jack Nicklaus, the players are “…in the midst of 50,000 people, alone with their game.”
That’s why I enjoy going to practice rounds – that’s where I get to see the players as human beings, not just golf machines. In practice rounds the players can loosen up to an extent that’s impossible when millions of dollars in prize money are on the line. They smile, sign autographs, and joke with each other and with fans.
Practice rounds allow amateurs like me to observe the world’s best players hone their craft, too. Often the pros put three, four, or even five balls in play on certain holes so they can test clubs, ball flight or swing techniques. It’s amazing to watch these guys, even when they’re just taking it easy.
The televised tournaments may generate more drama, but practice rounds definitely generate more fun. If you want to really enjoy a tournament, take in some practice rounds. And by the way, if you do, bring a couple Stonehouse mini-prints with you – they’re perfect for autographs.