Jasper Journal

I love my adopted hometown of Colorado Springs for reasons that include the people, the setting, the  climate, the feel etc. Colorado Springs hosted the Men’s Senior Open several years ago, is the home of the US Olympic Committee,  NORAD and the US Air Force Academy,  Garden of the Gods, and don’t forget Pikes Peak .

 So it makes me happy when others can witness the beauty that I see everyday. That’s why I encourage you to tune in to ESPN2 today,  or NBC this weekend , and watch the US Women’s Open Golf Championship being played this week at the Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs. The event has been going on since Monday, however the first round began today.

I was there, and was thrilled to see some of the best  golfers in the world.  The crowds were large but the organization was superb. Get this: no charge for parking, free shuttles, ridiculously reasonable prices, and civility everywhere. Take that baseball, football, basketball and hockey!  The golfers are talented, poised, friendly and approachable. I could not believe how close you can get to them on their tee shots or on the green. This is one sport that I really think is worthwhile to see in person.

 This tournament was years in the planning, and it showed in the flawless execution. Actually, flawless except for mother nature who forced cancellation of today’s matches just as the afternoon session was starting. Oh well, just that much more for tomorrow. Now I write this not just as a  kudo to Colorado  Springs for hosting it so well, but as a note of encouragement to my golfing readers out there. These women are incredible! While physically many are small in stature and physique, they can hit a golf ball a mile. Even their bad shots are infinitely better than any good shot I ever made! Maybe we can do this after all?

They give me hope. They help perpetuate the dream that maybe someday I too can hit decent drives or approach shots… or even mediocre shots by their standards. Golf is the perpetual challenge that perhaps you can do better than the day before. And after all, isn’t that a great philosophy for life?

So as this holiday shortened week draws to a close, I wish you all a happy weekend. Enjoy yourselves and check out the Open… you will not be disappointed.