Last week Callaway Golf released Callaway Lives Home Courses, series 2 in its…I suppose you could call it experimental Golf Lives collection of short films. While last season’s episodes centered around rapper Scarface and former NFL running back Arian Foster and their passions for the game, this time around Callaway chose to focus its attention on three special golf courses, and in doing so widened its focus from the individual to the unique communities formed at each club.
I was particularly drawn to the episode shot at Edgefield Golf Course in Portland, OR. It’s a course where nobody seems to care what you wear, and having a good time is actively encouraged. The pro shop is the bar, or perhaps the bar is the pro shop. Either way, it’s awesome.
What struck a chord for me was when John Sherman, drummer for the heavy metal band Red Fang talks about perceptions of golf including that it’s for “rich white dudes in shitty pants.” That’s exactly – and I mean EXACTLY – what I thought about golf until my boss at the law firm I worked for (I was an IT guy) in Boston convinced me to hit the range and ultimately fuck-off from work early with the team on a Thursday afternoon to play at a local beater course. In many respects, my journey to MyGolfSpy began at Putterham Meadows in Chestnut Hill, MA.
Once crisply struck 9-iron with a Mizuno MX iron and I was hooked, and I’ve got a closet full of shitty pants to prove it.
The point is, we all have our golf stories, and I suspect you’ll find a bit of yours in at least one of these short films.
These aren’t commercials; these are real stories about real golfers. While there is some subtle branding within each piece, you won’t get beat over the head with a Rogue, and that allows the trio of films serve as an awesome reminder that while golf brings us together, we each experience the game differently. We should encourage everyone to challenge stereotypes, and develop our own cultures and communities around the game.
It’s an idea worth taking a few minutes to celebrate and appreciate.
LANGSTON
Washington, D.C.
Opened in June 1939, Langston is steeped in a rich history. Known for its triumphant role in the desegregation of public golf, the course has been integral to the growth of the game’s popularity amongst African Americans. With its celebratory feel, Langston shows us golf is not only a uniter of people, but of generations.
EDGEFIELD
Portland, Oregon
The air is fresh, the beers are cold and the vibes are electric at Edgefield. You’d be hard pressed to find a more laid back, approachable and enjoyable environment for a round. Overlooking stunning panoramic views of Northeast Portland, two par-3 pub courses (12 holes and 20 holes) wind through vineyards, thickets of blackberry bushes and a vintage distillery bar. All are welcome at Edgefield, especially those who have never swung a club.
WILD HORSE
Gothenburg, Nebraska
In 1997, the locals and farmers living in the tight-knit town of Gothenburg decided to build a golf course. A bank loan, a couple of tractors, and a whole lotta sweat equity later, their prairie land masterpiece is now considered one of the best in the country. Wild Horse is the soul of the community, providing unforgettable memories for all who play it.
Stephen
5 years ago
Had my first hole in one at Putterham!!