It’s time to play golf

Golfers and golf courses will both take a while to reach their prime

It’s that time of year again. The time when we finally pull out our gear that has been hiding in the garage all winter. The time for gloves to be put on, shoes to be polished, and khaki pants to be paired with an infinite variety of polo shirts. Yes, it’s the start of a new golf season.

Now, the idea of a new year and new opportunities may be cause for wanting to get out and going on the course as soon as possible, but getting back into the swing of things can certainly have its ups and downs. Paul Whittingham, CPGA professional at Cranbrook Golf Club, gives us some advice on coming back to the game after the off season.

Check your gear

“If you’re starting from not having played for a long time and have outdated equipment, it’s really important to get your gear up to speed,” Whittingham said. “It makes the game a lot easier, especially with all the new technology and advances that have come about in the past few years. It’s really amazing what has happened with equipment.”

The Cranbrook Golf Club Pro Shop has a wide variety of new and improved products for the 2013 season. Just recently stocked with the latest drivers and irons from TaylorMade, Callaway, and many other big-name companies, it’s the place you are certain to find whatever you need to amp up your game for the new year.

Slow and steady

While there are those ambitious golfers who will keep their game going during the winter, the rest of us are probably going to be working out the kinks and creaks of our golf joints. Whittingham gives some tips on how to make a smooth transition.

“For those returning from the break in winter, just remember to take it easy,” he said. “It’s really important to not have too high of expectations right at the start.”

Whittingham noted that players should also remember that even the course needs to get back in shape. As the season progresses, both players and greens are sure to be more consistent, making for better rounds.

If you are looking to make changes to you game or technique, it’s really important to do so right  off the bat—or rather, the club—before old habits settle back in.

“Hit the range, look to make swing changes first thing in the season,” said Whittingham. “Lessons are also a good way to start off the season, so that you can make any needed fixes to your game early on.”

Cranbrook Golf Club opened on April 5 and is geared up for an exciting, event-filled 2013 golf season. Check out their website at golfcranbrook.com for more information.