Right then, where do I begin? The Scottish Senior Open 2024, eh? Felt like something I just had to do this year. Been playing golf for donkey’s years, and you get to a point where you want to test yourself a bit, see if the old magic is still there, you know?
Getting Myself Sorted
So, the first step was actually committing. Filling out the entry form, paying the fee – that made it real. Then came the practice. Now, I’m not talking hours on the range like the young lads. More like getting out on my home course a bit more often, trying to iron out the kinks that have crept in over the winter. Focused a lot on the short game, always kills you if that’s not sharp.
Next up was the travel planning. Flying up to Scotland, booking a little bed and breakfast not too far from the course. Didn’t want anything fancy, just a place to lay my head and get a decent breakfast. Packed the essentials:
- My trusty clubs, obviously. Gave them a good clean.
- Waterproofs. Essential for Scotland, even in summer! Learned that the hard way years ago.
- Enough golf balls – because let’s be honest, a few were bound to go swimming or disappear into the gorse.
- Comfy shoes. Walking these courses is no joke.
The journey itself was pretty smooth. Got the hire car, found the B&B. The air felt different up there, fresh. Always gets me excited for a game.
Hitting the Course
Arrived at the course the day before for registration and a practice round. It’s always good to see the layout, figure out where the trouble is, get a feel for the greens. The course was looking fantastic, a proper links test. Met a few familiar faces, had a bit of banter. That’s part of the fun, catching up with guys you only see at these events.
Then came the tournament days. Nerves were definitely there on the first tee. Doesn’t matter how long you’ve played, that first shot in a competition always gets the heart pumping a bit faster. My game? Well, it was a mixed bag, wasn’t it? Had some cracking shots, moments where I felt like I was 30 again. Then there were the other shots… the ones you try to forget immediately! You know the type.
The weather played its part too. Had a bit of everything – sunshine, wind, even a proper soaking one afternoon. That’s links golf for you. You just have to grin and bear it, pull on the waterproofs and try to keep your score from ballooning.
Played with some decent fellas. Good company makes the round fly by, even when you’re hacking it around a bit. We shared stories, complained about missed putts, celebrated the good shots. It’s that camaraderie that makes these senior events special, I reckon.
Wrapping Up
So, did I lift the trophy? Hah, not even close! But that wasn’t really the point for me this time. It was about getting out there, competing, enjoying the challenge of a great course, and soaking up the atmosphere.
Felt good to be part of it. You see guys older than me still striping it, still grinding out there. It’s quite inspiring, really. Makes you want to keep going yourself.
Packed up the car, said my goodbyes, and headed home feeling tired but satisfied. It was a proper experience. Definitely reminded me why I love this silly game. Already thinking about maybe giving it another go next year. We’ll see.
