It's now that time of year when there is a heavy "morning dew" on the greens. If you or a new player to the game have any confusion understanding the theory of how a putt breaks, I recommend you hit some putts on a green covered with dew.

As can be seen in the two images below, the lines created by the running ball clearly define how the slope of the green dictates and controls the "break of a putt".  The key principle is.... as the forward momentum of the ball diminishes, the greater the laws of gravity apply. To confirm that, one can clearly see the majority of the break comes shortly before the ball comes to a stop.  In my mind, the better you understand the complexities and science of the game, the easier it is for a player to make the necessary adjustments.

In two days time, on November 11^th, Remembrance Day will be held recognizing those who served in the two Great Wars and other military conflicts our Nation has participated in over the past century.  It has always proved to be an emotionally filled day with significant and noted celebrations from coast to coast.

Interestingly enough, my first experience combining golf with a Remembrance Day event was at Point Grey Golf Club in the early 70's.  Each year Point Grey held a Memorial Golf Tournament honouring this important day.  I recall everyone teed off in a multiple start format around 8:00 am.   (Hot RUM for all!)  At 11:00 am I was given the task of firing the shotgun from outside the golf shop, signalling the 2 minute silence.  It was quite a sight, and not one I have forgotten; looking down the 1st, 2^nd, 10^th 11^th, & 12^th fairways seeing all the motionless golfers standing in tribute, it was quite a sight, and one I was proud to experience.   

                          Est .1868    Gorge Vale G.C. Hole #12...Memorial..."God's Acre"   

Interestingly, golf played a big role in raising needed funds for the War effort.  Tournaments, exhibitions and special events were held regularly.  The posters below are of two tournaments which were held at Shaughnessy Heights Golf Club during the Second War.  The first program is of the 1942 Vancouver Lions Gate Open, with proceeds going to the Royal Canadian Air Force Benevolent Fund.  

The second program is that of the 1941 Western Canada Open, supporting the Queen's Canadian Fund for Air Raid Victims.

The last item, a medallion and chain were a keepsake from the 1941 Empire Day Golf Tournament, in support of the Maple Leaf Fund.  This charitable organization was founded in 1941. Its mission was to provide funds and supplies for "the relief of the suffering civilians in Europe" during World War II.   

    

"A flier" is a shot that travels farther than intended, often causing the golfer to overshoot the target by a good amount. Overshooting the target may be all carry, or may be caused by a lack of backspin on the ball, which results in the ball bounding forward and past the target once it hits the ground. Fliers are most common out of the rough and can be caused when grass is trapped between the ball and the clubface at the moment of impact. When a golf ball is sitting down in the rough, the lie is sometimes called a "flier lie."

"Dormie" is a match play term. In match play, a match is said to reach "dormie" when one of the golfers achieves a lead that matches the number of holes remaining (i.e., three holes up with three holes to play).

A "double eagle", or otherwise called an "albatross" is a score of 3-under par on any individual golf hole. To make a double eagle, the golfer must:

• Score a 1 (hole in one) on a par-4 hole
• Score a 2 on a par-5 hole

Mid Island Golf... Nanaimo Style...  

Perhaps one of the most challenging courses on Vancouver Island is the Nanaimo Golf Club.  Established in 1920, the old 9 course lasted until 1962, when the current club was opened for play.  The renowned B.C. golf architect A.V. Macan designed the new course. Located in central Nanaimo, the course sports a fine layout and always in great condition.  Nanaimo is renowned as a major sports town, and it should come as no surprise the Golf Club has hosted numerous BCGA provincial championships. 

A recent find, the Nanaimo sterling spoons above date from 1934-1946. Just recently the club has broken ground and is now building a new clubhouse.   With great views of the Strait's of Georgia, I highly recommend giving it a go on your next golf getaway up island.  If you are tight for time, they have an excellent driving range open to the public.  The postcard above is that of the Nanaimo clubhouse in 1927; I am sure a serious departure in design from the spectacular one being built today.

Click here to visit the Nanaimo Golf Club website

Manoir Richelieu Golf Links

The Golf Links at Manoir Richelieu were opened in 1925.  Situated in the Point-au- Pic region of Quebec; the course was officially opened by U.S. President William H. Taft.  A great golf enthusiast himself, Taft spent many summers in the region.  Designed by the British golf course architect, Herbert Strong, the course measures 6326 yards, Par 71.
The Fairmont resort at Manoir Richelieu is rated as one of the top golf destinations spots in North America. 

The 1^st hole is so spectacular I had to share these current images with you...   

                                                        Looking up the 1st hole from the St. Lawrence River 

                                                             The 1st tee looking out to the St. Lawrence River

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   circa 1937 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    circa 1935

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