by Craig “Mac” McElveen

contributor

Golf is a magical game that captivates players of all skill levels and is known to drive even the most competitive people mad. Golf is a game of power, finesse, strategy and risk; full of rewards and humbling moments. Standing atop a tee box as a vision of a well-hit, towering 300-yard drive with a slight draw,dances in your head. Most players have a pre-shot routine to ensure perfection, and all shots seem perfect until the moment of impact.

We all feel like Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson and maybe even Arnold Palmer standing on the tee box but, in all reality, we swing like Charles Barkley. What you have to understand is that golf is a game of opposites; you stay down, the ball goes up; if you rise up, the ball goes down. The game can be unforgiving or rewarding at any point during your round. There is no better feeling than standing 150 yards out and sticking the ball 10 feet from the hole with a chance at birdie.

Although golf is a very respectful and honest game, it’s also a great way to have fun. There is no better way to settle a bet than to play a round of golf against one of your friends. The prize might be money or just the bragging rights that come along with a win. P.G. Wodehouse once said, “To find a man’s true character, play golf with him.” This is one of the truest sayings about the sport. Remember that the game will bring out the worst in you. The way you react to it defines you not only as a golfer, but as a person.