I have read and probably written articles about how important it is take time away from the office. I presume farmers are used to the U.S. populace packing up the van and taking a couple of weeks of R & R just as the workload around the farm is picking up the pace. Of course the whole idea of summer vacation for school students undoubtedly had something to do with pa needing a little help getting the crops out and the hay in and the weeds cultivated. You created this monster.
So I am taking a few days off this week and looking forward to them. However, it will not be a relaxing time floating on a lake with a fishing pole. Sounds kind of good though doesn’t it? No I am headed for the golf course. Carolina Trace Country Club in Sanford, N.C. to be precise.
No I won’t be playing. I will be caddying for my youngest daughter Allie as she tries to qualify for the U.S. Women’s Open. She has already made it through the first stage of qualifying and now faces 36 straight holes of medal (total score) play. Carolina Trace is one of eight sites where the sectional qualifiers will be held. There will be about 40 golfers at Carolina Trace. I suppose two will qualify for the Open and the next one or two high finishers might be alternates.
And did I tell you it is 36 holes? And did I tell you I was caddying. The temperature is expected to be 94 for the 18-hole practice round on Wednesday and 92 for the double dip on Thursday. Please note this is not dry heat. This is central N.C. humid heat. Thunderstorms are expected both days. That’s no problem for the golfer. The caddy can easily pack an umbrella and a couple of extra towels. Rain suit. Extra socks.
I officially pick up the bag at 10:40 a.m. and march until around 8:40 p.m. presuming play is fast and there is no lunch time between rounds. Most likely we will finish in the dark.
Oh yeah, the terrain is described as having “dramatic changes in elevation.” The architect Robert Trent Jones is known for putting the tees a minimum of a half mile away from the greens. Walking between holes may be the longest part. We’re talking about 10-12 miles of hiking folks. So I am hoping there are a few golf cart courtesy drivers to portage me around. And seriously considering one of those push carts.
Of course the chatter between father and daughter will be jovial. If I can get by with ten glares and a dozen scowls, I will be doing well. Really Allie is a very mature 19-year-old college sophomore to be. We have had some drama-filled moments in the past: Numerous penalty strokes. Some buried lies. Three straight out of bounds drives! A few “Why would you try that’s?” Several “I’ve got this shot – no problema.” One, “OK you tell me where you would try to hit it!”
But I am proud and excited to be taking this special time with her. I will let you know how things went when we get back on Friday. Otherwise don’t bother calling. I’m on vacation.