Playing through it to get to it – Lesson’s from Sandpiper

Strolan and Lucas before the 36 hole of the tournament.

Reflections on Breakfast Balls #4 – The Western Invintational @ Sandpiper GC

What a rollercoaster of emotions this tournament at Sandpiper was. This last weekend was something that provided more than just a test of skill—it was a profound journey of personal growth and perspective.

The signature Par 3 11th @ Sandpiper GC

For starters, this tournament taught me a lot about humility. I started off at the 10th hole with a decent drive, securing a bogey. All things considered, I felt pretty good. Then on the 11th hole, I managed a birdie and thought, “Wow, this is going to be a great tournament.” Little did I know, the course had different plans for me. As I reached the 16th hole and scored a brutal 13, my confidence began to wane.

Yet, it wasn’t all about the score. One of the most significant takeaways was how to manage both the highs and lows on the course. Mark and I always stress how crucial it is to embrace both the good and the bad experiences in golf, and this tournament was a shining example of that. I realized that negative thoughts can heavily impact performance. When I let the frustration consume me, I lost focus and ultimately control over my game. It was a harsh but necessary lesson in mental fortitude.

But perhaps the most meaningful aspect of this experience was sharing the journey with my son, Lucas. There’s something profoundly special about having your son by your side, guiding you, and offering support, even when things aren’t going well. Lucas, who was my caddy, provided not just technical advice but emotional support. He was there during my highs and, most importantly, my lowest moments.

I remember on that menacing par-5 13th hole. I was initially reluctant to take the shot Lucas suggested, a 165 yard 6 iron over a forced carry and a bunker protecting the elevated green. From where I stood the green looked as if it was floating out over the Pacific. He encouraged me and, with his guidance, I managed to pull off the shot. Leaving it 12 feet from the pin. We celebrated together, and it felt like a shared victory.

However, the next day, I struggled on the same hole, leading to another big number. My subsequent missteps at the 14th hole further dampened my spirits. If not for Lucas’s unwavering support, there were times I considered walking off the course out of pure embarrassment.

One of the biggest lessons from this round was learning to accept support, especially from family. Lucas’s encouragement and guidance were vital. His presence reminded me of the importance of staying grounded and maintaining perspective, even in challenging circumstances.

Taking in the view @ Sandpiper #12

Another valuable lesson was resilience. I faced the shanks, yips, and tops—all within the last nine holes. Mentally, I felt drained and defeated. But golf, much like life, demands resilience. It pushes you to pick yourself up after every setback, to reflect on your mistakes, and most importantly, to keep moving forward.

After the tournament, despite my initial disappointment, reflecting on the entire experience offered a new perspective. The scores might not have been in my favor, but the memories and lessons gained were invaluable. Sharing meaningful moments with Lucas, feeling uplifted by his presence, and acknowledging my own emotional and physical limits enhanced my appreciation for the game.

Ultimately, whether it’s golf or life, it’s about the journey, the learning, and the shared experiences. The laughs, the frustrations, the wins, and the losses—all form an intricate tapestry that makes it all worthwhile. I’m eager to embrace my next tournament with renewed wisdom and, of course, the support of my incredible son by my side.

Instagram: @holyduffer



Holy Duffer Podcast: Our Grand Re-Opening

Exploring the Intersection of Golf and Gaming, Technological Advancements, and Our Exciting New Journey


Introduction

Golf and gaming may seem like an unlikely pairing, but we at Holy Duffer Podcast are here to prove otherwise. As we relaunch our podcast on a broader scale, we’re excited to invite you on a journey filled with insightful discussions, practical tips, and a lot of fun. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a gaming enthusiast, our podcast is tailored to enrich your experience and knowledge. Here’s a sneak peek into what our latest episode covers and what you can expect moving forward.

Reaching a Wider Audience

Mark and Strolan, the dynamic duo behind the Holy Duffer Podcast, are thrilled to announce the grand reopening of the podcast on a much wider scale. No longer limited to CastBox, our episodes will now be available on Spotify and iTunes, reaching a broader audience and helping more enthusiasts improve their game. The soft launch phase allowed us to perfect our craft, and we’re now ready to share our insights with the world.

The Mission of Holy Duffer Podcast

Bringing Technology to the Forefront


The core mission of the Holy Duffer Podcast is to leverage technological advancements to help golfers improve their skills. As Mark mentioned, the inspiration for the podcast stemmed from the realization that while technology was revolutionizing the game, many players seemed unaware of the tools and techniques available. From swing analyzers to golf simulators, the technology at our disposal today can drastically change how we learn and play the game.

Challenging the USGA

Discussing the Ball Rollback


One of the hot topics we delve into is the controversial ball rollback proposed by the USGA. Both Mark and Strolan express their perspectives on how this could impact the game, particularly for amateur golfers. We aim to provide our listeners with a nuanced understanding of these regulatory changes and their implications. Golf should remain enjoyable and accessible, and we’re here to ensure that through our discussions, everyone stays informed.

Bridging the Generational Gap

Insights and Etiquette


In this episode, Strolan shares an amusing anecdote about playing with younger golfers who adhere to outdated etiquette rules. This serves as a springboard for broader discussions on how the sport’s traditions blend with modern practices. Whether you’re an older golfer baffled by new norms or a young player navigating the traditional landscape, our podcast bridges the generational gap, offering relatable insights for all.

The Importance of Reliable Resources

Directing You to the Right Guides


While Mark and Strolan provide valuable tips and discussions, they also emphasize the importance of consulting various resources. They introduce listeners to other reputable podcasts, websites, and professionals who offer practical advice and tips. This holistic approach ensures you have access to a wealth of knowledge, enabling you to refine your skills and understanding of golf.

Golf Isn’t Just for the Young

Inspiration from Senior Players


Age is just a number when it comes to golf. Take Richard Bland, who won the Senior PGA Championship at 52. His story is an inspiring testament to how one can improve and play their best game even later in life. Mark and Strolan aim to motivate golfers of all ages, reinforcing that with the right mindset and tools, you can always get better.

Looking Ahead

Weekly Episodes and Evergreen Content


Our podcast strives to offer evergreen content—topics that remain relevant regardless of when you listen. While we discuss current issues like the ball rollback, many of our episodes delve into timeless aspects of golf and gaming. With a mix of our greatest hits from past episodes and exciting new content, we promise to keep you entertained and informed every week.

Conclusion

The Holy Duffer Podcast is more than just a show; it’s a community dedicated to the love of golf and gaming. We’re excited to share this journey with you, filled with laughter, learning, and a lot of golfing anecdotes. Visit our website at holyduffer.com, and don’t forget to follow us on Instagram at the Holy Duffer Podcast. Reach out to us with your thoughts, questions, and feedback. Here’s to making golf less frustrating, more enjoyable, and most importantly, fun.

Stay tuned, and happy golfing!

– The Holy Duffer Team

Rethinking Golf: Navigating Proposed Changes to the Game

“The Ball” Part 2: Is Rolling it Back a Fair Play?

How the latest rule proposals could alter the landscape of golf as we know it.

Golf has long been a game of precision, strategy, and significant tradition, yet it stands at a crossroads with the introduction of proposed changes to “rollback” the golf ball. In Episode #8 Part 2 of Holy Duffer Podcast, hosts Strolan and Mark dive deep into these potential adjustments, exploring their implications for both amateur and professional play.


The Heart of the Matter: Golf Ball Specifications

The crux of the discussion in this episode pivots around the proposed modifications to the golf ball, specifically targeting distance reduction. Under the premeise of reducing distance to keep current courses “Suitable for Professional Play” the USGA and R&A are changing how balls are tested for speed and conformity. The intent is to level the playing field in professional golf, where the dramatic increase in tee shot distances over the years has raised concerns about the sufficiency of current course lengths.

Strolan shared his perspective on a new ball he’s experimented with — the Maxfli Tour — noting its enhanced distance and spin. He emphasized how such advancements could be hindered if the suggested ball spec regulations come to fruition. Mark agreed, highlighting the potential discrepancies these changes could create not only in professional tours but in the amateur game as well.

Player Experience and Course Design

Both hosts agreed that a critical aspect overlooked in the rule changes is the player’s interaction with the course itself. They discussed how legendary courses like Augusta National are designed with specific intentions by architects like Bob Jones and Alister McKenzie to challenge but also to reward skill and risk-taking. Using the example of the iconic par fives at Augusta, designed to provide scoring opportunities, not to frustrate players.

Strolan and Mark argued that adaptations to the course, rather than equipment, might serve as a more organic approach to managing professional game advancements without dampening the amateur experience. Discussions about adjustments at venues like TPC Sawgrass, where strategic difficulty influences play, were highlighted to illustrate this point.

Equipment Evolution and Impact on Play

Decisions regarding equipment, Strolan argues, should not merely focus on curbing professional players’ advantages but should consider the amateur’s enjoyment and growth in the sport. Mark added that while the top tier of players will adjust, it’s the average golfer who may feel the brunt of these changes the most.

The Future of Golf: What’s at Stake?

As the episode drew to a close, the hosts underscored the significance of maintaining a balance between preserving the game’s traditional challenges and embracing the evolution that comes with technological advancements. They stressed that changes should be made with a holistic view of the game’s future — one that includes all players from various skill levels.


In summary, Holy Duffer Podcast “The Ball” Part 2: Is Rolling it Back a Fair Play? tackled key concerns around proposed golf rule changes with severe implications. As Strolan and Mark concisely put it, the heart of golf lies within the joy and challenges it offers to all who play it, urging a careful consideration that respects everyone that plays Golf

Not just the best players in the world, the other 99% that love the game as it stands.

As always, we will see you one the green!

Breaking Down the Ball: How High-Quality Golf Balls Can Transform Your Game

The Subtle Yet Significant Impact of Premium Golf Balls


Introduction: Every Shot Counts

In the latest episode of the Holy Duffer Podcast, hosts Mark and Strolan dive deep into the world of golf balls, discussing the nuanced ways in which the quality of the ball you play can significantly affect your golf game. From discussing the physical makeup of modern golf balls to emphasizing why choosing the right type can be a game-changer, the pair provide a wealth of knowledge aimed at helping golfers of all skill levels up their game.

The Composition Marvel: Two-Piece vs. Three-Piece Balls

The main focus of the discussion hinged on the differences between two-piece and three-piece golf balls. Two-piece balls, typically aimed at beginners and high handicappers, consist of a solid core and a durable plastic cover. They are designed for distance and durability but fall short in providing the spin and control needed around the greens.

On the other hand, three-piece golf balls, constructed with a core, a mantle, and a soft urethane cover, offer a superior feel and enhanced spin control—qualities that can significantly lower scores. Mark and Strolan suggest that while three-piece balls are often more expensive, their performance benefits justify the cost, especially for serious golfers looking to improve their game.

Price vs. Performance: Finding the Sweet Spot

It’s no secret in golf circles that equipment can get incredibly expensive, but as Strolan points out, investing in high-quality golf balls is a more cost-effective way to enhance gameplay than one might think. By opting for direct-to-consumer brands like Maxfli, Snell and Vice, golfers can access high-performance balls at a substantially lower price point thanks to the elimination of middleman margins.

Mark shared personal anecdotes about the remarkable difference in control and spin he experienced when switching to Callaway Chrome Tour balls. Meanwhile, Strolan recommended trying out different brands to not only find what feels best but also observe the performance differences firsthand during play.

The Impact on Your Game: Why It Matters

Throughout the episode, it becomes unmistakably clear that the type of golf ball can influence every aspect of play—from tee shots to putts. The hosts emphasized that using a better ball doesn’t just aid in striking the ball farther, but aids significantly in short-game scenarios where precision is paramount. The discussion underlined how upgrading your golf balls could be a smart first step for golfers prioritizing improvement in their game.

The Future of Golf Balls: Looking Ahead

The episode wrapped up with a forward-looking discussion on regulations and advancements in golf ball technology. U.S. Golf Association (USGA) and Royal and Ancient Golf Club (RNA) regulations were briefly touched upon, with promises to explore how the “Rollback” might impact ball performance in the second part of The Ball episode.

Conclusion: Choosing Wisely

Choosing the correct golf ball, as Mark and Strolan highlight, isn’t just about the feel or the brand—it’s about understanding how its construction affects every shot. Throughout the podcast, they stressed the importance of not just playing with any ball, but making a thoughtful choice based on one’s playing style, the ball’s material makeup, and how these factors align with your game improvement goals.

Following this detailed breakdown, it’s clear that whether it’s a leisurely round with friends or a competitive tournament, the golf ball is a crucial piece of gear that deserves careful consideration.