Firstly, congratulations to Rory McIlroy on dislodging Ian Poulter from the world's number 1 spot.
Rory won the Honda Classic in The States to become the third Brit in 12 months to take the top spot. He's such a prodigious talent and I only hope that the 22 year old's massive success isn't spoiled by over exuberance (a la Tiger). I'm sure that those around him will keep his feet where they belong - on terra firma.
From my own perspective, I'm going through that frustrating stage where all I have been able to do is hit balls at the range as I physically haven't been able to get on the course. I am at least trying to make the practice as worthwhile as possible and not just "Ball Bash" as this defeats the object of the practice.
I've been to the range every day except today (I'm stuck in a bloody hotel room with work again), but I'm also acutely aware that I need rest days to keep me fresh and avoid any staleness. I'm just praying for the clocks to go forward in less than a month so I can get a few holes in after work during the lighter evenings.
On Saturday, my wife had a craft demonstration day at Carterton in Oxfordshire. I dropped her off at 9.30 and headed for Bicester Outlet Village for a bit of a shop. The weather was horrendous in the morning, but as it brightened up around lunch time, I headed for a course I'd sounded out on the internet the previous day.
Kirtlington Golf Club is a relatively new course - approximately 15 years of age - and is still going through puberty. However, the staff and members are extremely friendly and made me feel welcome on my arrival. They have a small 8 bay covered range ( the mats are pretty basic and could do with updating) but it served its purpose and I cleared 100 balls hitting them extremely well.
After I'd finished on the range, I returned to the shop for a chat. Rachel has another Carterton demo in July and I wondered if there was any chance that I could play a round on my next visit. The lady in the shop was very pleasant and informed me that there would be no problem in playing 18 holes. Prices are a little high at £32 for a weekend round but I haven't played the course yet so I'll reserve judgement until July.
More to follow in due course.
I'm currently reading a book called "Preferred Lies" by the Scottish author, Andrew Greig. It's quite a moving and emotive book based around Greig playing 20 or so of the more obscure courses around his native Scotland. The book has got me thinking that I would like to try something similar at some juncture of my journey. I would recommend the book if you are looking for a golfing read.
On a more positive note, I've got a tee time booked for early on Friday morning and I'm due to play with an old cricketing friend who I haven't seen for over 20 years so it should bring back a few good memories.
Oh well, that's passed half an hour in my boring Luton Premier Inn. I guess I'll watch the news and turn in.
Night all.
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