About Golf Versus Windsurfing

What could possibly complement and, dare I say, eventually replace a windsurfing lifestyle? The first thought is a loud, resounding “Nothing!” Nothing could ever really stand up to the freedom, adrenaline, and sheer glory of windsurfing. But then again, there are hobbies that require a similar level of obsession, marital eye-rolling, and a mind-boggling inventory of “stuff” that could almost justify a second mortgage.

Cue golf.

Ah, golf—the noble sport that looks suspiciously serene but somehow empties your wallet faster than you can say “four!” or “FORE”. Golfers come equipped with electric carts, push carts, bags for clubs, bags for irons, bags for walking (because heaven forbid you use the wrong bag), and clubs for every imaginable situation. And let’s not forget the “acceptable” clothing—plaid that could make your eyes water and hats that your children promise they won’t recognize you in. Sound familiar, windsurfing crowd? I see our boards, sails, wetsuits, harnesses, booms, extensions, and foils—oh yes, the never-ending gear.

So, why turn to golf? Well, there comes a time when the ol’ knees kinda creak a bit, the arms tire, and a 45 minute recovery nap is required after launching off a wave. While windsurfing can still have you soaring into your late 70s and early 80s, golf graciously extends the expiration date. You’ll find sprightly golfers whacking their, Titalists into their 90s, and still critiquing their putting technique with the precision of a surgeon.

My debut year was 2023 at Eagle Valley Golf Course in Niagara Falls. I entered the scene with a prepaid punch card, a couple of lessons, and a determination that said, “How hard could it be?” (Spoiler: harder than convincing a windsurfer to swap his favourite board mid-season.)

My first set of clubs & gear were an eclectic museum exhibit: older but well-loved Ping irons, a later model Big Bertha Jack Nicklaus driver, two vintage Wilson woods, and a classic Northwestern Tom Weiskopf putter in a small, proud green bag strapped on a simple push cart using an old belt, and with no parking brake. Let’s just say, my scores ranged from “bless his heart” 120s to the occasional “well, at least we’re outside in the fresh air” 140s. But by mid September 2023, I cracked the elusive sub-100 mark with help from instructor John Piccolo—a moment so sweet, I almost framed the scorecard.

Fast forward to spring 2024: lessons on a simulator with instructor Spencer Gates kicked off in May & June, a Monday to Friday golf membership, and I caught the gear upgrade fever at a nearby golf outlet. Some newer irons & drivers, a spiffy cart, putter, 56 degree wedge, and a brand-new bag followed me home. (Plus a slightly used super lite-weight self-carry walking bag—it’s for an emergency only game, take a few choice clubs, gone for only about an hour and a half - a quick, tight, backup, standby session, …honest, not making this up, I swear.)

Progress report time: As of today, Friday, November 15th, 2025 my last three scores this week have ranged from a pretty good 102, a gratifying 81, and today - my dream—79. A first sub-80! Yes, 79 strokes for 18 holes—my personal best ever. My scores are still somewhat inconsistent, but slowly improving. And yes, my scorecard for this last week in November is hung reverently over my workbench. Plus there’s a visible copy on my cart for comparative motivation this coming year.

I played 18 holes over 67 days since mid-April, logging more steps than I care to count and embracing the ups and downs (on foot and on the scorecard).

Highlight of the year? On August 24th, 2024, I golfed my age—84—with my two grandsons, lots of love, on Eagle Valley Golf Course just across from our home here on St. Paul Ave.

It’s safe to say I won’t stop windsurfing anytime soon; plus my foiling adventures are still on the up. But hey, it’s nice to know that as the winds of time keep blowing, there’s another kind of “drive” I can work toward and accomplish to some worthwhile personal measure.

And with any luck, both golf and windsurfing will keep my spirit soaring and my frame only a bit stiff for the first few steps entering the next morning heading toward the coffee…

aside: Bobby Jones said it best, “Golf is played on a 5 inch course. Five inches is the distance between your ears. Yes, golf is very much a mental game. Play it one hole at a time. Every new tee shot, fairway drive, chip shot, or putt is or can be a new beginning. Be prepared to climb back up on the tee or in your head when you fall of that “Portuguese cliff” trying to get back on course, as son-in-law Sean puts it.

Needs a left side cardboard ball keeper & rear ball containment. Check next entry…

Thank you Sandie!