Our recent trip to Croatia was a winner according to those who joined us on this awesome adventure. Planning the trip was difficult as there is so much to see and do. Croatia has 2500 miles of coastline and close to 1200 islands and you can’t do it all. When you add the many ancient architectural wonders, the UNESCO sites and gorgeous nature parks, lakes and rivers it is hard to cover everything. We did our best and we believe we made it to many of the best places to visit in this beautiful, diverse country.
We arrived in Zagreb, the capital which has marked the intersection of Eastern and central Europe for a thousand years. We were centrally located and able to explore the charming cobblestone streets and squares. Zagrebians have devised a brilliant scheme for confusing tourists, and I have to say we really did experience it. I was so thankful not to be driving (thank you John), I would have pulled my hair out trying to find the Hotel Dubrovnik. I can still see those two old boys we asked directions from in the park shaking their heads with their hands in the air as we drove by them numerous times. Finally finding our hotel and a place to park we dumped our stuff and head out to find a well deserved beer. There were so many outdoor restaurants/patios to pick from a very lively and inviting scene. We got introduced to “Big” local Croatian beers and shared 2 excellent pizza’s, this was just the start of Big Croatian Beers!!! The rest of the group escaped this adventure as Katarina Line arranged hotel transport when requested.
Our welcome dinner introduced us to some authentic Croatian dishes, the meal was excellent. After a very excited group and a couple of broken wine glasses I was wondering if Tanja (our guide for the trip) was wondering what she might have gotten herself into.
The 2020 earthquakes destruction is still evident, we were unable to visit inside many historic buildings, museums, churches still undergoing repair and restoration work. We however did enjoy this lively city. It boasts a very interesting modern art scene where Graffiti is considered art. Some visited the Museum of Broken Relationships, a quirky exhibit telling tales of fractured relationships and a Museum of Hangovers where you start with a beer and toss the empty into a huge pile of dead soldiers. Most people try to forget their drunken mishaps, but in Zagreb, these stories are immortalized within a museum’s walls. I wonder if any of our group that visited had a hangover? The special moment for me was the kind words and a blessing given to me/group from a server in the hotel restaurant where we had breakfast each morning. She was so appreciative of us and wished us safe travels. That angel was very good to all of us every step of the way.

On our way to the Kempinski hotel, our next stop, we stopped in Opatija, a seaside resort known for its historic buildings reminiscent of the Austrian Riviera. Here we met with owner of the Katarina Line and the people we worked with. We had a wonderful surprise as we were treated to champagne on the rooftop of the newly built KE&GHT 5* Hotel which is the brainchild of Katarina Hauptfeld, a beautiful hotel which celebrates the cultural heritage of the region and its natural beauty.

The Adriatic golf course on the Istria peninsula is our one and only golf stop on this tour. It is adjacent to the Kempinski Hotel a 5* facility with lots of amenities and beautiful rooms, some of us looking over the ocean and some over the many olive tree fields. We had 2 days of golf which brings us all together,  not everyone golfed, but the camaraderie that comes with it was missed.
We also got a glimpse of the culture and different landscapes. It was amazing to enter the treasury of Roman remains as we explored the Amphitheater in Pula. Then on to Rovinj a charmingly picturesque town with narrow, cobbled streets, striking many visitors as being very Italianate in nature. It is so delightfully pretty and lively with its numerous cafes and restaurants, galleries and an active fishing port. A highlight for me was making it up to Rovinj’s landmark Baroque church where you find relics of St Euphemia the protector.
From the Istria peninsula we traveled to Plitvice National Park, one of the top natural attractions in Croatia. The breathtaking expanse of forested hills, turquoise lakes and hundreds of waterfalls was exquisitely scenic. The color of the water in the lakes and pools beneath the countless waterfalls was an unbelievable green-blue. Around every corner another beautiful sight. The trek back to the bus was challenging but we all made it.
Next stop Zadar an intriguing, historic old town of Roman ruins, medieval churches, quaint cafes and museums set on a small peninsula. We loved the sound and light spectacle of the Sea Organ and Sun Salutation, it has to be seen and heard to be believed. The locals don’t like it too much!! We had a lovely dinner at pretty restaurant over looking the water where we watched fisherman bring in the catches of the day. Mussels, Squid and Truffle dishes were enjoyed and of course local Croatian Wine and Beer. When we arrived back from to the hotel the lounge looked very busy but I did not see any of the Golfaround group which was a first. Taking a second look I found 5 of the ladies around the corner playing Bingo of all things. As it turned out Bingo was a lot of fun, an excellent host, great music and a room full of interesting people. A couple of us won only to give the prize away as we were leaving in the morning for out next destination.
The last stop of our land portion was Split, which is the port we departed from on our island hopping journey. Split has some of the best Roman ruins this side of Italy. A maze of narrow alleys is home to boutiques and galleries, wonderfully atmospheric cafés, and Roman artifacts around every corner. The city’s primary attraction is the Diocletian’s Palace and the scenic seafront promenade are easy to explore by foot. We enjoyed Old Town visiting an awesome Christmas store and finishing in the square where many charming restaurants and cozy wine bars look so inviting and we indulge once again.

We arrive at our Yacht, I don’t think it is like Below Deck the TV series but we will find out stay tuned….

The last month of the Golfaround season was quite busy with some fun filled events. The Play & Stay the weekend of August 17 & 18 was great and we enjoyed favorable weather even though Jeanette smelt rain!! Of course, rain itself has no scent. However, did you know moments before a rain event, an “earthy” smell known as petrichor does permeate the air. People call it musky, fresh – generally pleasant, Jeanette must be a farmer at heart.

We all gathered at Field and Forge Brewing company for our meet and greet. It was great as they gave us our own space on the upper level so we could chat and socialize without any disturbance. We stayed at the Days Inn, which used to be a Best Western and our rooms were spacious and comfortable. The Innisfail golf course was very busy with a birthday celebration, a high school reunion and another tournament. We remember the days when it was a hidden gem but it is no longer hidden. We had an enjoyable round of golf and following the round we enjoyed a meal in the clubhouse. The following day we traveled to Trochu to play 9 holes prior to returning home. You can spot the giant golf tee for the golf club from miles away. This is a great little course in great shape. The T- boxes are elevated and the views are fantastic. It is very hilly and there are many challenging shots as the course is all centred around a valley, stream and a lot of uphill shots. It was great fun. On the way home we suddenly realised that we had not paid for the tee times, never have golfed and dashed before, I guess there is a first time for everything.

Our Mexican Fiesta was a blast and so many of the participants got into the theme and made it great fun. We had costumes from Dia de lost Muertos, Day of the Dead, and  many senoritas and senoras. The photp booth manned by Shaunna and Mary was a great hit as was the macarena and the piñarta. Wendy was elected by her team to attack the piñarta and she did a fine job of releasing the candy. Wingfield did a great job of the decorations, the organization and the taco bar. The course was in great shape and we all had a fabulous time.

A hole in one and a big smile from one of our dirty dozen Merina DeCosta – her 1st at Wintergreen on Hole #12 a Par 3. When asking her about it she said she thought Karen was more excited than her. It is a surreal thing, you watch and you watch and it goes in that little hole. Some call it skill, some call it luck, I call it the highlight of a golfing journey. Hole in One, baby! This calls for a round of applause… and maybe a round of drinks too.

Mickleson National, August 21 – Dianne Andrews scored a Hole in One on the 17th Par 3 ” Had a great season even though I wasn’t able to golf as many courses on the day league as I would have liked, enjoyed what I did get to play and of course enjoy the company of like minded ladies as it pertains to golf.

D’Arcy Ranch July 10 – Adela Shapka had an Eagle on the 3rd Par 4, followed by a Birdie on the 4th Par 3.

Well done ladies !!!

Every August we remember Alison, one of the Dirty Dozen who we lost 18 years ago.  A great friend, dedicated worker, supportive neighbor and a damn good golfer. This year 28 of us played at Cottonwood Golf and Country Club and each 4-some had a golf ball with her name on it to play with. Some left her on the golf course, some played the entire round without getting lost  and  Bernie shares her story  “I was given the privilege of sending a memorial ball into the trees or water at Cottonwood golf course.  I am terrified of water and the thought of hitting the ball to rest under water was unnerving. So I chose a forested location. I never met Alison but I’m thinking she had a great sense of humor!!  Using my favorite club (4 hybrid) I flubbed the hit FOUR times. She was either messing with me or she actually loved water and would’ve preferred to be there. RIP Alison, wherever you are, there were a lot of ladies reminiscing of your abilities on and off the golf course, your loving disposition, and how much they missed you. ❤️

It was an exciting, inspirational and challenging week at the Earl Grey Golf Club for the 515 marshals (38 of them were Golfaround members) as well as for the other 700 plus volunteers who gave their time and dedication to ensure the players could play their best game and the public could enjoy a wonderful experience.

It was a very exciting finish watching Lauren Coughlin win the 2024 CPKC Women’s Open on Sunday, claiming her first LPGA Tour title. The American golfer birdied two of her final four holes for a final round of 1-under, 71 to finish the four-day tournament at 13 under. Lauren was a late bloomer and almost quit pro golf not long after she started, however her comments should be an ethos for us all “I think my story in general just shows that I’m always trying, always willing to try to do things,” said Coughlin. “I am willing to stay in it. I don’t give up. I think I showed that perfectly today.”

Brooke Henderson did not win this year but in terms of effort it was mission accomplished, she shot a 4 under, 68, her low round of the week on Sunday and was low Canadian. The crowd was always with her, and she was certainly the main draw of the 73,000 spectators.

Golfaround had a 554-yard Par 5, hole #14 for the tournament, usually it is #18. The hole was a challenge to manage as it had 1 crossing, and three other holes in close proximity to the tee off area which made traffic control a bit of a trial. To add a bit more challenge the tee was moved on Saturday which affected the landing areas.  In addition, managing the crossing was fun as communicating was hindered by trees and it was close to the entrance so very busy. The weather was typically Calgary and reminiscent of our past experience but this time all at the same time. The first couple of days were in the 30’s and then we froze in the teens and finished up with pleasant temperatures; take it off, put it on, what can I say.  All in all, the Golfaround gals came through and did an amazing job as always, you done us proud. We were given lots of accolades and they were well deserved, we thank each and everyone of you.

We had some things happen to write home about, a couple of eagles, many birdies and also an errant ball that hit the prize car, that caused a bit of a delay!!

The Earl Grey did a fabulous job of organizing the event, we have done two before and felt our particular marshal committee did a bang up job. We really appreciated the support for the volunteers and I was especially grateful for the buggy rides at the end of the day.

Finally  a bit of CPKC history, thanks in part to Shaunna Marshall’s sister. The railroads have roots in the 19th century and in April 2023 they got together to form the first truly North American rail network connecting Canada, the US and Mexico. There was an old passenger menu, you could get coffee for 25c. Steak dinner for $1. Diplomat pudding was included in one of the evening meal courses (the whole of which cost $1) a bit different from todays prices for sure.

Be sure to check out the Golfaround ‘s Facebook page for pictures.

On the evening of July 2nd, I was enjoying a lovely (and quite excellent, if I do say so myself) round at Springbank Links with a fantastic group of ladies. We began to experience some light drizzle on the third hole which turned into some steady rain as we played on. However, we decided that we wanted to finish our round and play out the 9th hole. As many of you remember, the front nine at Springbank Links is very hilly, and therefore I was grateful to have my power cart to save my legs from the challenging walk.

Driving up to the final tee box I had my foot full throttle on the gas pedal to not only make the incline, but also power through the slick, wet pavement. Once we reached the top of the hill, I realized that I needed to move the cart back so it wouldn’t be in the way of the tee box. Upon reversing, the cart went into an immediate skid which caused me and my cart mate to hit the brakes. The cart continued swerving down the hill, hit the incline beside us and flipped.

The incident happened very quickly, but I knew right away that something was not right when my left arm resembled a wet noodle. I am so grateful for my teammates, Diana, Karen and Millie who were quick to call the club house, call 9-1-1 and never left my side until I was off in the ambulance. A big thank you to Kevin and the crew at Springbank Links who executed a seamless protocol to ensure I was comfortable and safe before EMS arrived.

My injuries resulted in a broken shoulder which required surgery later that week. I now have an arm full of wire, plates and screws I had a lovely surprise hospital visit from Kristy and Dianne who gifted me ‘Birdie Bear’ and offered their love and support.

As sad as I am that my golf season came to an abrupt halt, I’m so thankful that I only walked away with a broken shoulder. I have a long road of recovery ahead of me, but I determined to be back golfing with many of you next Spring. In the ten years I’ve been a part of the Golfaround Community I’ve forged many great friendships and the love, support and encouragement I’ve received over the past few weeks is a demonstration of just what a great organization Golfaround is.

Xoxo

Kristy Moore

A hole in one and a big smile from one of our dirty dozen, Merina DeCosta, who finally got one. She holed it on  the number 12 green at Wintergreen with the Day ladies. Her playing partner Karen Flamand was more excited than me says Merina. You hit your ball,  you watch it and you watch it and by god it goes in. Some call it skill, some call it luck, I call it the highlight of a golf journey. Hole in One, baby!  This calls for a round of applause… and maybe a round of drinks too. I know there are more MOB’s out there, next year we will do a better job of getting and acknowledging  them.

Lūʻau on the Links was the theme for this years Mystery Bus Trip and what a great trip it was. We had a luxury 54 seat bus from Alberta Coach and Karen, our driver extraordinaire from last year, we were so happy to have her back. As the group arrived we saw many grass skirts, leis, hats and bikinis, (tee shirts) as Arlene said we couldn’t risk the real thing the mosquitos would eat us alive, I think we would scare everyone to death. We hit the road at 7:30am to destination unknown, the guesses were in and the twoonies collected. Soon after our departure a light snack and a mimosa was enjoyed by all. During our trip Karen fooled the group and she loved hearing the oohhs and aahhs as she tricked them. We finally got to our destination, Pine Hills Golf Club in Rocky Mountain House. This golf course has the beauty and excitement of a true golf experience on the “Gateway to the Great Canadian Rockies” in Central Alberta. The Pine Hills Golf Club combines the challenge of a championship golf course with the serenity of a classic retreat. Nestled amid 397 acres, Pine Hills offers dramatic views and a casual, unhurried atmosphere that you just can’t find at other golf courses. For Golfaround this was visit number three as we did a previous Mystery bus trip here and were joined by the group from Edmonton’s Golfaound. When planning this we had a hard time keeping the destination secret, but it all worked out. The other visit was a Play & Stay weekend which was another success. Our weather this time was perfect not to hot and no wind, we did get a small sun shower but it came and went quickly. On arrival it was a hive of activity as everyone hurried to decorate their carts, and what a fantastic effort was made. The Kālua Pig was so very innovative complete with flames, coals and servers with matching shirts, so very well done. Then there was Shaking it up with Blue Bay these gals were decked out in beautiful blue grass skirts adorned with yellow accents, blue leis and wrist bands and anklets. I thought the Hawaiian music was coming from the club house but no it was coming from their cart so they could gyrate and sip their blue Hawaiian drink. I believe we all enjoyed playing this scenic golf course and our format made it playable for everyone. Following the round, we were treated to a great buffet of spice crusted roast beef complete with all the trimmings and the dessert choices were fabulous. We want to express our thanks to Nancy R, Cynthis B Susan B , Pine Hills & Linda M for donating prizes, it really added to our event. On the way home we got to kind of watch/ hear the commentary for the final Stanley Cup game. Go Oilers go was the chant but unfortunately it was not meant to be. Shaunna was very innovative in setting up her phone to make the play visible for us.

The staff at Pine Hills were so very helpful and really appreciated us visiting. They couldn’t do enough to ensure we had a wonderful time. Thanks so very much. Thanks also to everyone who participated in the theme, you went above and beyond, so much innovation and so much fun.

Check out the album on Facebook

 

Our Swing Improvement Program has had many names over the years, Swing Improvement, Swing in Motion, Golf in Motion to name a few. I am very biased about this program because it was what helped build the foundation necessary for a consistent golf swing. A number of the dirty dozen did these lessons every Spring when we first learned to golf. It helped us develop smooth consistent golf swings as well as understand what we were doing when things went wrong. Merina was the best at analyzing and breaking it down for us. For me it was the building up and repeating the drills which created muscle memory’s that built my swing, I need to feel the movement vs visualize it.

We resurrected the program a couple of years ago, and this year it was very popular so we ran  it during the day and evening and with all the talk about it this season it is sure to be popular next year.  It runs south at Carnmoney Golf and Country Club, Tiffany Gordon’s home course. This is how Tiff feels about this program.

Over the course of the years, I have found that our Golf Conditioning and Indoor Winter Programs prove to be very successful due to the fact that we remove the ball and work on conditioning the golf swing. Students start to work on more swing drills, muscle memory, and more importantly start to get an understanding of what happens during the golf swing versus trying to ‘hit’ the ball. We hear more about how they start to understand the how and why of the golf swing and therefore their confidence goes up as well. After the first week we always ask if anyone got out to practice and those that did…notice a difference right away. The winter program also allows us to answer many questions that maybe don’t come up during a regular lesson. Swing condition has proven itself to be very successful and with the stretching and swing drill components, makes for a great session and we find that they all feed off each other to encourage them to be better. These swing drills are used in our every day teaching but repetition of these drills definitely are game changing!

I found that rehearsing the motions without a ball removes my negative feedback helping me practice good technique. For some when you hit the ball you immediately focus on the good, the bad and the ugly. Did I  hit it well or poorly? High or low? Left or right? Feedback, generally speaking, is an important part of practicing and playing. It allows golfers to spot what they’re doing right and wrong the moment after they do it. Removing the golf ball from the equation and all the feedback that goes along with it let’s you to focus more intentionally on your technique.