Golf around Lake Winnipesaukee

"My handicap?  Woods and irons." ~ Chris Codiroli

According to some stories, "golf" originated as an acronym. It stands for "gentleman only, ladies forbidden." Actually, its an old wives tale.

The word actually originated from Dutch and old Scots. The Dutch word is "kolf" which meant "club." When the word was passed down to the Scots it became "golve," "gowl" or "gouf." By the 1500s, the word "golf" came about.

This sport is no longer considered a slow-paced, low activity game. It has become a game that many people choose to maintain physical activity.

Players need strength, flexibility, stamina and coordination to improve their game. Since this is a sport that is played outdoors over a large area, people do a lot of walking.

Over the years, many different forms of the game have developed:

• Speed Golf - This is where you run from shot to shot.



• Aerobic Golf - This is where you finish the course in the shortest time with the lowest score.



• Adaptive Golf - These are special courses or changes in the game to fit the needs of those with disabilities.



• Driving Range - A place to practice repetitive strokes.



• Miniature Golf - A small putting green with fun obstacles for both children and adults.



• Pitch and Putt - A shorter version of the standard game.

This game is ideal for people of all ages. It requires a course, clubs, green fees, balls and other items. There are inexpensive courses to get started on. Also, either borrowing or purchasing used clubs is a less expensive way to find out if you like playing the game. It is recommended to take a few lessons to ensure you're doing things right.

To be successful at this sport and reach your full potential, the following should be part of your fitness program:

• Strength training - helps with how far you will hit the ball (club head speed)



• Flexibility - helps with a fluid swing



• Cardiovascular training - helps keep up your energy level

Type of Gear Needed:

• Clothing - you need comfortable, lightweight clothing and special shoes. A special glove is optional.



• Bag - to hold clubs, balls and other equipment.



• Balls - you need several in case you lose some.
• Clubs - there are 14 clubs - woods are used mostly for long-range tee shots; irons are used for close, more accurate shots.



• Cart - these can be rented. They are optional.



• Miscellaneous - tees to set the ball on to begin the shot, water because it gets hot, a jacket if it's cooler and a towel for sweat.

Glossary of Terms:

Bogey - a score of one stroke over par

Birdie - a score of 1 stroke under par

Caddie - person who carries the clubs and gives pointers

Course - entire area that the game is played: fairways, putting greens, sand traps and other hazards. Consists of 9 or 18 holes.

Double bogey - a score of 2 over par

Double eagle - a score of 3 less than par

Eagle - a score of 2 less than par

Fairway - the main part of a course between the tee and the green

Hole in one - when the player hits the ball into the hole in one stroke

Par - the number of strokes an expert would be expected to use at a particular hole without mistakes. It's based on the number of strokes to reach the green plus 2 putts

Putt - an easy tap to the ball to move it into the hole

Putting green - an area of small, mowed grass around the hole

Rough - an area of long grass, bushes, trees, sand or other natural obstacles

Stroke - forward motion of a club meant to hit a ball.

I'm sure you'll enjoy getting out your clubs and enjoy this sport in and around the Lake Winnipesaukee area. If you're a beginner, I hope this information has helped you. For the veteran player, I'm sure the different courses in this region will keep you busy and you'll enjoy all your vacation getaways to the lakes region.

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