The golf season is now coming to an end and what a year it has been. We welcomed the springtime flowers and cool breezes, suffered through the hot summer sun, and we are now beginning to enjoy the crisp fall air and beautiful foliage. This is easily my favorite time of the year. Here at the resort we get to look at some of the most amazing natural beauty. Whether you are gazing at the lake, staring up at Bald Mountain, or enjoying the soothing sound of the trout stream, we truly have it all. If you have never been to the resort you are surely missing out on a quiet little gem here in the mountains. The two courses here at the resort are in full, fall bloom and it is hard pressed to find a more enjoyable round of golf anywhere around. If you are able to make it out to the golf course and enjoy this amazing time of the year, let me give you a few tips to help you along your way when the weather starts to cool down. 

Tip #1 – Be realistic! Understand that the ball isn’t going to go as far or spin as much in the cold. You also have to be prepared for the fact that you can’t go out there with the same strategy as a normal day. Be prepared for a tough day and stay mentally tough.

Tip #2 – Keep your hands warm! This is the single most important tip for cold weather golf! Your hands are your only link to the club, and you need feel to play good golf. If your hands are frozen, you lose your entire feel and your game will suffer, especially around the greens. Get yourself a nice pair of mittens and/or some hand warmers for your pockets. Wear the mitts whenever you aren’t hitting a shot, and take them off prior to hitting.

Tip #3 – Cover your head and ears! Some say that between 7 to 55 percent of your body heat can be lost through your head. Whatever the science is behind it, it’s smart to cover your head and ears with a wool hat or ear warmers. You’ll be more comfortable. Get yourself a nice ski tuque like mine, and at the very least it will be a great conversation piece!

Tip #4 – Play a softer ball. Golf balls don’t have compression ratings any more since wound balls went away, but some balls are softer and in cold weather. You’ll want a ball that is easier to compress. A hard rock ball like a Top Flite XL will feel like a steel ball bearing on a cold day, so opt for a softer option.

Tip #5 – Use more club! Check the ego at the pro shop bruiser, the ball doesn’t go as far in the cold. You might have to take one for the team and hit 2 more clubs on every approach shot, but at least you’ll be sure to get to the hole. Because the ball doesn’t go as far, also consider playing one tee up from your normal length. There’s nothing that will ruin a day faster than having to hit three wood into every par three and four.

I hope to see you all soon at the golf course and enjoy this time of year now. Soon it will freezing temperatures and you will be wearing out that carpet in your house putting back and forth!

Keep it in the fairway!
Adam Bowles, PGA