First Medal

The first medal of the year takes place at The Vale of Leven Golf Club this Saturday and I am looking forward to it. I'm in the 11 o'clock draw means a lie in and a relaxed morning before leaving for the course at about 10.30am. No real pre golf routine for me, just turn up, say a few hello's to those around the clubhouse and pop into the pro-shop to sign in and pay my competition fees, then into the changing rooms to get my clubs.

Before I leave the changing room, I will check I have my competition golf balls and plenty of tees in my bag and put my pitch fork repairer and ball marker in my pocket, I will also complete my scorecard with my details including my correct handicap and competition details and finally pop into the boys room to try and release a few nerves.

It's then time to go outside and wait for my tee time, this is when I will finally tie my shoe laces and have a couple of practice swings before moving onto the tee and meeting my playing partners for the day. Another couple of practice swings, a handshake or two and good wishes and then its time to hit my first shot.

The first shot is the most difficult with the added pressure of a few other players being around the tee whilst waiting for their tee time. Its a case of blocking everything out, pushing your tee into the ground, putting your ball onto the tee and then lining the ball up, take a few steps back and relax. Then walk up to the ball, adjust your stance, look at your target and hope you get that little white sphere past the ladies tee.