Golf

There are certain similarities between successful club pros. My husband, Gene, and I have a son-in-law who is a PGA pro; we have friends who are club pros, and they all have traits in common.

Sure, they’re good golfers. Yes, most of them learned the game as a kid and dreamed of someday becoming a real live PGA golf professional. A few dreamed of playing on the tour, but many thought the ultimate job would be as a head pro at a golf course.

There are dozens of golf activities for people of all ages in Brunswick County.

Clubs with memberships run tournaments, guest days, member-member events, club championships and mixed events. The Elks, the VFW and various special interest and/or friendship groups sponsor leagues. The Carolinas Golf Association has an active tournament schedule. Most churches and charitable organizations have fundraising events each year.

One of the best opportunities to play golf in Brunswick County is sponsored by the Brunswick County Parks and Recreation Department.

On Jan. 14, the Brierwood Men’s Golf Association had its first Thursday tournament of 2010 because of the cold weather. The game of the day was two best balls of the foursome, with the team of George Edwards, Dave Harper and a draw finishing at 15 under par. The team of Paul Salerno, Bernie Gruzlewski, Chuck Hornfeck and Rich Hornfeck finished at 14 under.

Several years ago, I watched a petite young lady pound balls on a practice tee. Her swing was classic, the balls flew long and straight.

The kid was cute, long brown hair pulled back in a ponytail, a wide infectious smile. I had a feeling I’d see her again.

Last week, I did.

Lauren Hunt is still petite with that same winning smile, but she’s all grown up now. Done with high school and junior golf, she has graduated from the University of North Carolina, where she played on the women’s golf team.