Golf is Great for Relaxing...if It Wasn't so Frustrating

Ah, spring and summer. A time for warm weather, rejuvenation and new life. A time to finally get over the winter blahs and cabin fever and get outside for a little fun. This is no truer for anyone than the golfer.

During this time of the year, hackers and scratch golfers alike dust off the clubs in preparation for another season on the links. It's a time of year that often brings new equipment, techniques and, most importantly, hopes.

Most golfers begin the year hoping they've improved, gotten rid of that hook or slice or finally learned how to putt. That this is the year they'll finally shave some strokes off their score.

Sadly, those hopes can be dashed in one short round. But, as most golfers know, all it takes is one good shot to keep you coming back. Four-putts, lost balls and shanked drives are all forgotten by a dead-on approach shot or a perfect chip.

That is the mystique of golf. A game that at the same time is relaxing yet stressful, enjoyable but frustrating and exhilarating and infuriating.

As for me, I usually drive the ball 300 to 350 yards, hit about 85 to 90 percent of greens in regulation and hardly ever do more than one-putt.

Then I turn off the PlayStation 2 and get back to reality. A harsh, downright disgusting reality. Don't get me wrong; I truly enjoy the game. There's not much that can beat a beautiful day on the course, cruising around with some friends and a few cold beverages.

Unfortunately for me, the enjoyment usually stops there. Almost every time I try to hit that stupid ball where I want it to go, something goes wrong. I hook, I slice, I shank. I don't keep my head down (and note to those who golf with me - I know, so keep the comments to yourself).

There's even been times when I've hit the ball only to have it dig into the ground in front of me and travel a mere five yards - backwards.

It gets so annoying, I often wonder: Why do I play this game? Is this my idea of fun?

Then I make that long putt or hit a great shot and I'm in love again.
In reality, I am getting better and I'll keep improving the more I play (God willing). Actually, I'm pretty excited about playing right now.

Check back with me on the fourth or fifth hole, though, and I'll probably be singing a different tune.