Ladies' League

Gwen’s Memorable Moment

Golfoutloud.com was lucky enough to sit down with female golfer
Gwen Gibson, who shared her most memorable women’s golf moment. 

“I’ll admit that I was dragged into playing golf kicking and screaming.  My husband invited me to play golf with him, and, at first, I listed laundry and cleaning as reasons I shouldn’t play.  After several years, my attitude about golf has changed and I frequently ask him about possible weekend golf outings.  We really enjoy our time together, and I’ve even begun to enjoy the challenge of trying to hit that little round ball. I also joined a local women’s golf association, which greatly improved my confidence on the course.” 

“One of my most memorable moments occurred when I was called to substitute in a tournament for a friend who was not able to play with my husband’s regular golf group.  The tournament was held at Pinehurst No. 8.  It was my first time at Pinehurst and also my first time playing in a golf tournament of this caliber.  I actually felt very relaxed because everyone in my golf group knew I wouldn’t be the ‘A-player.’  Part of the activities included a mid-round putting contest.  I was volunteered to go first, hoping that others might benefit from the read.  To my and my group’s surprise, my ball rolled an incredible 40’ and into the hole!  We enjoyed joking about my lucky putt throughout the remainder of the tournament, only to end the day by finding out I would be in a play-off putting contest.”
 
“A gentleman dressed in fine golf clothing was introduced as my competition in the play-off.  I quickly stepped up to my putt and hit it surprisingly close, but it did not land in the cup.  My playing partners watched nervously as my opponent carefully and methodically read every angle of his putt.  He stroked the golf ball and his putt did not even come close to mine!  My playing partners broke into exuberant celebration, which continues each time they recount my memorable women’s golf moment.”



Par 4 Q&A: How Pedorthics Can Benefit Women Golfers

Ellie Penner is a certified pedorthist and lady golfer.  Sole Dimensions, her office in Wake Forest, North Carolina, provides evaluations, custom orthotic products, shoes and insoles. She met with golfoutloud.com to participate in our Par 4 Q&A.

Q1 You have recently been bitten by the golf bug.  What attracts you to the game of golf?

A1  I would have to say it’s hitting the ball off the tee that keeps me coming back.

Q2  You are a  professional, certified pedorthist.  What is the role of a certified pedorthist?

A2  We create and adapt footwear, which includes shoes and orthotics, to prevent or alleviate pain and discomfort in the feet, knees, hips or lower back.

Q3  Can golfers benefit from visiting a pedorthist?

A3  Absolutely.  Biomechanics are very important to golf and a comprehensive evaluation can help golfers achieve proper support for their feet, preventing or reducing pain associated with poor support.  

Q4  If a lady golfer is interested in visiting a pedorthist, what should she do?

A4  She should talk to her doctor about her concerns; if the doctor thinks pedorthist services will be beneficial, then the doctor can write a prescription for orthotics or refer her for an evaluation.  A doctor’s referral is not necessary for non-custom arch supports, shoes or assessments.  Certified pedorthists can be found by visiting the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics, & Pedorthics.

                                    



Are Golf Goals for You?  

     
Most of us have participated in goal-setting and goal review meetings through our professional endeavors.  We have heard the importance of setting specific and measureable goals.  While our professional lives necessitate this focus, does our golf game?  Have you ever considered establishing golf goals?  Imagine that your goal is to be a better putter, for example.  Could you commit to achieving a specific putting average?  Would you be willing to take the time to track your putts for each and every hole?  Are you willing to practice and/or change your putting technique if needed? 

If you think setting golf goals is for you, then answer the questions below:
·    What do I hope to achieve?
·    What steps will I need to complete in order to meet this goal? (Be specific.) 
·    Am I willing to commit the time, effort and finances to accomplish each step toward this goal? 
·    Can I commit to working through the steps to succeed and reach my ultimate goal?
·    How will I measure my progress?
·    What, specifically, is success? 
·    When can I realistically expect to accomplish this goal?

Tell us about your golf goals by going to Share Your Story. 




Hackers and Hole-in-Ones – calling all scores! When you speak to women golfers you often hear “I play, but I am terrible” or “I’ve tried golf, but I am just not any good at it.” You may meet experienced lady golfers who are brave enough to state “I’ve improved a lot over the years.” My Best Score is dedicated to celebrating women golfers and the single-hole, round or course score that is an accomplishment for the individual. Above par, below par, broke 100 or “Didn’t have to use my shoulder wedge,” it doesn’t matter, we want to hear from you. Send us your best or most memorable score. Select contributions will be posted.

Mom and Son Share Quality Time Playing Golf

Well, my 13-year-old son finally got me out on the golf course to play 9 holes! It started out pretty good, my drives were straight and I was getting good distance on the ball...even my short game was respectable. Then we hit the 4th hole, and it went downhill from there. Needless to say, my son creamed me. Playing with my child, I had to remember to watch my language (I think I made my lip bleed). In my defense, I hadn't played or even gone to the range in years. If I had, maybe I would have had a fighting chance.

Being out there reminded me of how much I missed golfing, not to mention the opportunity it gave me to spend some time with my son. We agreed that we will be committed to playing more this year and, with that, I hope to eventually be able to share a story of me winning against my 13-year-old. Even if I don't, I will be happy to share our adventures on the course together with all of you. If you haven't lately, I suggest taking your son/daughter out to play!!      - Cindy, Wake Forest, N.C.