When the best pros in the world are swinging their sticks in Augusta, Ga., for the Masters, KP, Tater and I always have the itch to be playing golf in Syracuse.
Not this year. Not on any of our courses. Yes, the snow has melted, finally, after our 118 1/2 inches for the season. But with a lot of rain here since they teed it off Thursday down there at Augusta National to go along with the big melt, well, we’re left with muck.
KP had the week off from the big daily nonetheless, so he suggested a trip 25 miles across the New York State Thruway to the domed range at Turning Stone Resort and Casino in Verona.
KP and Tater side by side.
We each paid for a half hour of range time under their air-supported bubble. That $9 (seniors rate) buys you as many balls as you can hit in 30 minuters. KP and Tater were given adjacent slots with artificial turf and rubber tees, while I was three down to the right.
Tater’s all smiles.
There’s no doubt that Tater was pleased to be swinging the club, even indoors.
Button-down KP.
Shorts for MB. (Photo by KP)
KP and I were happy to be swinging for the first time since Veterans Day, sure, but not quite as radiant as Tater.
We all decided that loosening up was great, but not enough. We’d work on our mechanics, yes, in preparation for that first time outside on a real course.
KP at address.
KP at the top.
Tater at address.
Tater on the backswing.
Me at address. (Photo by KP)
Me on the backswing. (Photo by KP)
KP said he’s going to attack the ball with more speed and power this year. Tater said … well, I don’t remember what he said he’s going to work on. I said I’m going to work on my ball positioning. Now I see that those two appear way more balanced in their swing than I do, so I’m going to focus on less over-swinging.
After the range work, we had a putting contest on the surprisingly realistic and grainy artificial grass green. Then the pro, Marty Nowicki, brought a class of 10 or so to that little spot, and we lost our space. Tater was up by three strokes after six holes because he jarred three long putts that rammed into the flagstick and dropped in rather than bouncing out into the flock of putting students.
Good talk for KP and Tater, and the first round of the Masters on a big screen.
We were done with the dome, but not with golf. Across the road from Turning Stone, we turned into the Recovery Lounge, trying out the Sports Pub with the catchy name. It was filled with televisions on which we enjoyed watching ESPN’s coverage of the first round of the Masters as we talked of life and shared a large order of nachos and 15 chicken wings with medium Buffalo blue sauce.
One thing we agreed upon: This Thursday, if the long-range forecast of 68º F and sunny holds, we’ll try for outdoor round No. 1, using the free coupon for Kanon Valley we each picked up at the Golf Show at the end of February.
Have you played golf or done anything equivalent outdoors yet this spring, and if so, how was the grounds? When do you usually plan your first big outdoor event of the season, and what is it? Who do you want to win the Master tournament, and why?
Mark Bialczak 
You know the drill…. I’m not equipped to answer sports questions… But I’m happy you’re at least able to get to driving practice. 🙂
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We were warmed up for the start a week later, Rachel. And it didn’t matter much. Ha! Thanks, though. 😉
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You’ve made them into blog stars, you know. 🙂 The three of you in your element is quite a sight. I for one am happy to see the trio together holding sticks, even if you’re indoors. Won’t be long, Chum.
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They are blog stars, and hams enough to enjoy it, thankfully, Aud. 🙂 We three are quite in our element whenever and wherever. It won’t be long until that’s outside on the greens. 🙂
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Whenever you need a fourth, I’m game.
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You got it, George. You need the golf show pass to play Kanon Valley. It’s private. We’ll get you on a public couse here!
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I cannot tear my men away…live as I type…waiting to leave the house…
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I DVRd it while we went to see ‘Danny Collins’ for my movie review, Angie McFly. Put it on while I was writing the review to post Monday on syracusenewtimes.com. FF through commercials. Still watching. 🙂
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You’ll get no spoiler from me 😀
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😮
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fingers crossed for Thursday!
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Thank you, Rachel. I could use the outside play time. 🙂
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I just have to show how brilliant I am here brother. When you address the ball, do you say “hello” before you hit it? Such a sweet way to say you are about to hit something. Wonder if I can do that with some people I know? “Hey, I want to address you” “POW” right in the kisser. A bit of residual anger coming thru there. Certain Village Idiots, doncha know.
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Yes, I do say, ‘Hello, ball, goodbye, ball,” in my head, sis Angie.
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hahahahaha. When you start saying it out loud let me know. I’m sure there are people who can help you. Now, could you please tell me why it’s called addressing the ball? I know absolutely nothing about golf, except that having to carry a bag filled with sticks ruins a wonderful walk.
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I think it comes from the same place as when you “address a situation,” sis Angie. Approach the ball with a purpose. 🙂
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I loved seeing each of your swings at golf – great photos, Mark! Hey nice shorts too 🙂
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Even when it’s back in the 40s F, I’m sticking with the shorts, Christy. Once I changed for the season in D.C., I was too stubborn to go back. 😉 I’m glad you like our swings, too. 🙂
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I love the greens, the actions and movements of golf, the quiet pauses and will always flip to see what is going on during the Masters and also, due to close proximity: The Memorial Tournament, have been there with my second husband who had a “Pass” since he wrote for independent journals. Fun memories, hoping you have a wonderful beginning to your “Golfing Season,” Mark!!
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The Memorial is one of my favorites to watch on TV in addition to the four majors, Robin, because it is hosted by Jack Nicklaus, and the course is beautiful. You are lucky to have gone there to see it in person!
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Looks like fun!
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Better than not getting together with my buddies, Hollie!
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i love that you played in the dome to get your golf fix and love the name of the recovery lounge. golf on!
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Golf on, Beth! Yes, we love the name of the bar. It drew Tater in when he researched our outing online beforehand.
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You’ll be outdoors soon enough. Keep hiding them straight and true!
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Right now I’m sitting here blogging, it’s gray outside and our furnace is running. Oy, Austin.
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It is very windy here today…
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Thanks for this above-par post, Mark. And since I’m so confused about golf and how it’s scored, I don’t know if I just gave you the compliment I meant to.
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Your comment was extremely accurate to my golf game, Ann!
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I love the Masters. What a beautiful course. I love to watch golfers. Having been the recipient of numerous golf lessons (to no avail), I appreciate how difficult a sport golf is. Looks easy, but it’s damned hard.
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I remember some of your previous golf comments, Kate. I am happy that you took lessons, tried so hard, and I would still go out and play a round with you even though you state “to no avail.” 🙂
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