My brother Doug and I grew up in West Philadelphia among storytellers - close at…
PTFW’s Connections Over Competition Golf League
Is it really possible to learn how to play golf after 50? Ask the members of Prime Time for Women’s Connection Over Competition Golf League and they will unabashedly tell you, “Golf really is a sport for all ages! There’s absolutely no better time than now to begin your golf journey!” Regardless of your age, golf is a great way to spend time outdoors, socialize with friends and get some all-important exercise. You can challenge your mind and body as you learn the intricacies of the game, plus, its low-impact nature makes it the perfect choice of sport for women in their prime.
Connections Over Competition Golf League Is Different!
Although it’s tempting to get straight out on the course and play a round, the traditional recommendation is to take lessons and practice, practice and practice before playing a round. It’s not bad advice but hey, we are women in our prime, so we do it our way. Newbies are welcome! Our patient members, along with our modified rules and scramble format, make golf accessible and fun even for the uninitiated.
Still, at some point it might be a good idea to hit the practice green to learn about grass grain, slope and ball speed. And if you have some free time, consider heading to the driving range to hit a bucket of balls. Be sure to check your setup and move through your swing with attention and awareness. Remember, golf is a lifelong sport, so be patient with yourself and enjoy the process.
Take Lessons from a Golf Pro
Lessons are a sound investment in your long-term game and can help you hone a correct technique right from the start. Prime Time for Women arranges group golf lessons several times each season because we recognize that it is easier to learn to do something right than to try to unlearn bad habits. It’s like anything that you’ve never done before – learning it properly from the start is far better and wiser than trying to muddle your way through and hoping you’ll hit upon the correct technique.
For three years, Darren Smith, Golf Pro at Whitetail Golf Resort and PGA Member, has taught golf lessons to PTFW members. He’s the reason for our success! Sure, there’s plenty you can learn from books and online tutorials, but as PTFW members have learned, “nothing matches the value of having an experienced eye assess your unique abilities, skills, strengths and weaknesses, and help you improve them.” Believe me…learn the basics first – you’ll enjoy the game more and will have less chance of injuring yourself.
Choosing Golf Clubs
If you’re just starting out, you might want to borrow someone’s old clubs, or pick up at a set at second-hand shop. There’s nothing wrong with that! Once you get a little bit better at the game, and decide you’re in for the long haul, you may want to invest in clubs that fit your height, size, age and unique game. I had a proud moment when Darren said, “I think it’s time for you to get some better clubs.” Yay for me…I don’t know if my game will improve but I sure do hope it does!
Golf Clothing & Shoes
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. Some of the ladies in the PTFW golf league purchase really cute golf outfits! In fact, at the end of our first season, along with awards for the “Most Improved” and “Lowest Round”, we bestowed the highly coveted “Best Dressed Award” to a new golfer who said she joined mostly to have an excuse to buy some cute outfits! The funny thing is she didn’t continue to golf!
I only have two recommendations regarding what to wear on the golf course. My first bit of advice is to invest in sturdy, comfortable waterproof golf shoes. There’s nothing worse in my opinion that walking around with wet feet, especially if the weather is on the cool side. The second is to dress in comfortable and non-restrictive layers that will allow you to swing freely and easily. Dressing in layers allows you to stay warm in cool weather and cool when the temperatures start to rise.
Start By Playing 9 Holes
PTFW’s Connections Over Competition League plays at the City of Hagerstown’s municipal golf course, The Greens at Hamilton Run—a scenic 9-hole course that’s ideal for beginners. Playing nine holes instead of the traditional 18 offers new golfers the chance to build confidence without the risk of fatigue or muscle overuse. There’s always time to take on a full 18 holes—do it when you’re ready!
Feedback from PTFW Members:
PTFW programs emphasize positive social connection, which according to research, improves physical and emotional health, decreases the risk of dementia and increases longevity. On top of that…everything is just more fun! But you don’t have to take my word for it. Check out what some of our members have said about Prime Time for Women’s Connection Over Competition Golf League.
Sheri Chisolm: I’ve been a part of other golf leagues, but not being from the area I felt out of place. PTFW Golf League has made me feel valued and seen and included. It’s a great group to get to meet other ladies and play golf regardless of skill level!
Julie Lough: I’m learning the game in a fun atmosphere and connecting with some awesome ladies!
Jule Martin: It’s just amazing to be a part of the group and to golf with so many wonderful women. We have so much fun and I always look forward to Monday when we can golf together.