My Late-in-Life Love Affair with Golf

In mid-2022, as we approached our late 50s, my wife and I decided to move to Phuket, Thailand, after over two decades in bustling Singapore. This wasn't just a change of scenery but the start of an exciting new chapter. Our move marked our second act, not as a retirement, but as an adventure filled with new experiences. Driven by a desire for exploration, we believed that stepping out of our comfort zones into new territories would enrich our lives.

About nine months after settling into our new life in Phuket, I took on my first real challenge: learning to play golf. With its renowned and picturesque golf courses, Phuket provided the perfect setting for this new adventure. This marked the beginning of an enlightening experience as I navigated the captivating world of golf later in life, a story of both struggle and joy in the pursuit of learning and getting better at this sport.

With enthusiasm, I acquired a set of golf clubs and enlisted the help of a coach. However, just a few lessons in, my initial excitement began to wane, giving way to a sense of self-doubt. Despite this, I persevered, pushing through the coaching sessions until I was ready for my first real test on the golf course in April 2023. That day, as I navigated through the challenging par-71 course with a total of 139 strokes, the demanding nature of learning a complex sport at this stage of life became starkly clear. It's possible the caddie kindly overlooked a few extra mishits, leaving me with some dignity in the process.

A year on, I recently scored 96 on a par-71 golf course, a stark improvement from my initial 139 strokes. My handicap now is a respectable 24, unimaginable just a year ago. Yet, this journey isn’t merely about the scores. The real rewards lie in the joy and dedication I’ve discovered in golf. Sharing my experiences aims to inspire others at a similar stage in life to embrace the challenge of golf, whether they're beginners or looking to improve. What have I learned from this journey?

Physical Challenges for Older Golfers:

• Flexibility: Decline in flexibility and muscle elasticity with age can impair golf swing mechanics. Regular stretching and practices like yoga and Pilates can enhance flexibility and reduce injury risks.
• Strength and Endurance: Strength decreases with age, impacting swing power. Strength training and low-impact cardio can help maintain muscle power and stamina.
• Balance: Balance is essential for effective golf swings but may deteriorate with age. Balance exercises can improve stability and golf performance.
  Game-Related Challenges for Older Golfers:

• Mental Approach: It’s important to manage expectations and set realistic goals to stay motivated.
• Skill Acquisition: Adapting golf techniques to accommodate aging, such as simplifying swings and using senior-friendly equipment, helps maintain performance.
• Equipment: Golf clubs designed for seniors with lighter, more flexible materials aid those with decreased swing speeds.

Starting golf at age 60 is an admirable pursuit that brings both pleasure and pain. While physical limitations and learning new skills pose obstacles, they can be overcome with the right strategies, equipment, and mindset.

The key is to approach the game with patience, persistence, and a willingness to adapt.

Golf is not only a fantastic way to stay active and challenge oneself physically and mentally, but it also offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with others who share a love for the game. With the right approach, learning golf at 60 can be a deeply fulfilling journey.