It recently was reported in this newspaper that the city of Kent is pondering selling the par 3 golf course at Riverbend. This is a bad mistake on many levels.
First, many young people learn the game from the par 3 courses first, like I did, and then graduate to bigger golf courses after learning courtesy, sportsmanship and honesty. Secondly, newcomers to the game will find much more enjoyment from learning the game on a shorter course before graduating to a larger one and buying $500 worth of clubs and gear.
And finally, many seniors play the par 3, keeping them active and getting enjoyment from a game designed by the devil himself.
I started playing golf at 15, but I started hitting golf balls at 12. I played the local nine-hole course five miles from town. But before that, I hit balls in whatever open field I could find – our junior high field first, then on the baseball diamond, where more than once I was chased off by the varsity baseball coach who gave me tips on replacing divots and a grip change.
But my first experience on a real course was on a sand green monstrosity in Woodburn, Ore. Nine holes. A one-dollar bill for nine holes. A box with a sign on it that said, “Honor System”, which meant to me that if I had a buck, I’d put it in the box. Otherwise, I’d pay two bucks next time through.
We learned courtesy, how to act like a gentleman and how to write down a six, even if you didn’t want to.
And even if you are a newcomer to the game, this is where I recommend you begin. I’ve seen guys who couldn’t hit water if they fell out of a boat play golf in front of me, and with painful results. Newcomers can’t possibly enjoy the game on a course longer than 6,000 yards, yet I see them every summer, no shirt, too many beers and keeping other golfers behind them backed up.
This is where you should learn the game first, then if you have some ability, take a few lessons before playing the bigger courses.
Finally, our seniors need a place to play. Yes, I know you can’t move as fast as before, but you still enjoy the game. I’ll be there soon enough. I figure I’ve got about 15 years left of playing from the big boy tees, and then finally it will be me out there on the par 3 course, shaking my fist and cursing this frustrating game.
I just hope it is still there when my time comes.
Todd Nuttman is a regular contributor to the Kent Reporter.
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