What is written without effort is in general read without pleasure. Samuel Johnson once wrote that, and I hope for your sake that he??s wrong. In saying so I mean only that writing this daily blog is an effortless task, a ritual I look forward to every day (or, at least, on the days I am lucky enough to beat Michael and thereby earn the privilege). If Sam is right, please let me know ?? and I will endeavour to expend more effort.
Today was another magic day ?? although it was not without event. We had the pleasure of playing Centennial, one of two courses at Taupo Golf Club (central North Island, for you non-Kiwis, by the big lake). Centennial is long, and well laid out. Strategically placed trees and bunkers rule out the possibility of hitting driver on every tee with wild abandon. Crafty 2 irons are required instead ?? although once you??re on the fairway, the greens are pretty generous (and true).
While on the topic of the greens, I can??t move on without passing comment on Michael??s putting experiences today. And when I say ??experiences? I really mean woes. Because Michael ?? God bless him ?? had 45 putts. Anyone who plays golf will know how bad that is ?? particularly for someone that plays off a 6.2 handicap. For anyone who doesn??t, take my word for it: it??s very bad. I promise not to dwell. But those 45 putts are just too good blog fodder to pass up (especially since they included five 3-putts and two 4-putts). Ironically today was one of Michael??s better ball striking days, but it??s hard to make a score when you putt like a one armed orangutan.
Back to Centennial. As I said, a very nice course; and, if you??ve come to Taupo to play Kinloch and/or Wairakei (the two really serious courses in these parts) I suggest you make the effort to visit Centennial too. On Monday we??re playing Tauhara ?? the little brother course at Taupo GC ?? and hopefully the sun shines again. Playing under blue skies really does make all the difference, doesn??t it?
After golf we picked up some supplies, including a couple of well ??earned? beers. I should say that Michael and I have made a puregolf2010 rule that is relevant here: we can only buy ourselves a beer for every birdie made between us. Since the rule was made on about Day 3, 8 birdies have been made (yes, that??s all), and 3 beers bought ?? so we have 5 up our sleeves. That??s not much comfort this evening though, because Michael left the two (big) beers we bought earlier at the supermarket (30 minutes back into town). That was the second ??event? of the day; again, not a very welcome one (although this time, from both our perspectives).
Bad putting and misplaced beer aside, Day 9 has been superb. Our friend Jules is very kindly putting us up in her bach, in absentio (she??s already back at work, lawyering in Wellington, poor girl). The weather was magic; and we had a refreshing dip in the lake after golf. Breathtaking views. This really is a stunning part of the country, particularly as the sun is setting.
Tomorrow morning we play at Kinloch ?? the Jack Nicklaus designed monster, with a reputation that precedes itself. I imagine we??ll lose a few balls. Regardless, it??s a challenge we??re both very much looking forward to, and I hope to be writing to you tomorrow evening (very likely if Michael??s putter behaves like it did today). If not, hopefully I'll be enjoying one of the Coopers Sparkling Ales that Mike left at the supermarket (when he realised his error, Mike got straight on the blower to Pak 'n Save - and I can confirm the ales are sitting safely in the fridge awaiting collection tomorrow).
Peace, JP
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Goldie, I'm thinking playing cricket in the Netherlands may have been the better option for you...
Posted by Cantabgirl, 09/01/2010 10:32am (3 years ago)
Chisholm Park
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