Dear Head Nut,
Five years ago, as a new “Nut” I joined Bermuda Dunes Country Club. A benefit of membership is a reduced rate to play in the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic.
Technically you have to have a low of the year index of 18 or better. I say technically because it has become obvious that the right amount of cash can get you a playing spot. (That’s a whole other story.) Although my index was 18.1, I was allowed to sign on as an alternate. As the first alternate in the “C” field I just had to wait until someone didn’t show to play.
Well after three days of patiently waiting…no luck. I figure if the guys showed the first three days I may be out of luck. So I inform the starter that I can’t hang out all day Saturday hoping that someone doesn’t show, but I would be available on short notice to play.
A big part of the reason for not hanging out at the club was that I organize a customer appreciation party at my home. As I live on the 15th fairway at Bermuda Dunes it allows my clients access to viewing the “Hope” in a party atmosphere. I was expecting 125 guests. My wonderful wife, Mary, is always very helpful in hosting this event even through she knows very few of my clients.
Well Saturday morning, having just finished the last of the party preparations, I’m showering and in comes my wife with phone in hand. “It’s the pro shop and you are not playing in this #@!@#$ tournament and sticking me with your guests!” she says.
Well, of course, as a good “Nut”, I have to play. I am informed I’m on the tee in 25 minutes. Not a problem, I am out of there and leave my not very happy wife with the task of entertaining 125 strangers.
I am the “C” player in Woody Austin’s foursome. As we get talking I tell Woody the story of leaving my wife to entertain while I am here with him. On the 15th tee, I look down at my home and see a wave of 100+ people cheering for me.
Woody looks over and comments that I have a bigger gallery than him.
After teeing off, we walk briskly down the middle of the fairway (I hit my best drive of the day.) Woody makes a sharp left and proceeds toward the swarm of people at my home. He asks for my wife. Upon dragging her through the throng, he gives her a big hug and thanks her for allowing me to play with him that day.
Truly a class act. Made her day and a few points for me.
Sorry for the long set up, but it’s a day I won’t soon forget.
Joe Deisenroth
#2953
Dear #2953,
That is one of the most heart-warming Golf Nut stories I’ve read in a very long time. Long suffering wife gets hug from Woody Austin because she couldn’t keep you around the house to entertain 125 of YOUR business clients. LOL!
The Head Nut
#0001