Ben, Richie and Mike. Cold, wet and raw to start. Got a little nicer as the round progressed. Actually saw some sun.
Played pretty well, but was frustrated by a couple three putts and non-conversion of all 4 of my bunker shots, each of which put me close to the hole and in realistic position to get up and down. Just couldn't get the short putts to drop. Overall though, I think the most frustrating aspect is that I was hitting the ball as good as ever last night on the range and even in warm up before the round, but for whatever reason, it wasn't as good on the course. I did hit it a bit better than I have been, but not as well as I thought I might after last night. I really thought my game was beginning to come back last night after the range session. Evidently, not yet.
I did have some real good drives and two great shots, both of which ended up less than optimum. On the par 3 9th, hit 7 iron off the tee to 147 yard pin. Hit the pin on the fly about 6 inches off the ground. Ball ricocheted out to fringe. Luckily was able to make par. On 12th, hit 24* hybrid from 180 yards. Hit pin and rolled out to fringe. Again, made par. On 11th, got on in regulation, then made 20 foot putt for birdie.
What could have been a decent round started to fall apart on 17th when I topped a 19* hybrid on my 2nd shot, after a great drive. I was able to get it close on the approach, but couldn't save par. Going into 18, had no doubles on the card. Another good drive on 18. Then with the thought of the last topped hybrid in my head, I thinned my 2nd shot, then still steaming, thinned my 52* approach right over the green. Ended with a double and a sour taste in my mouth.
Tomorrow is another day.
