6/10-11/08-Day 2&3
Good Evening to all followers of the 50 in 50:
WOW WOW! What an amazing couple of days, 4 states. 4 golf courses, 3 of them Donald Ross courses, and so much inspiration we can't help but feel good about what we are doing.
Yesterday we started in York, Maine at The Ledges Golf Club which gave us some incredible views and great golf. The unique elevation changes combined with fairways and greens built on massive granite blocks made this course not only beautiful to see, but also made precise ball striking a requirement to put a good score on the card. We can't say enough about the hospitality that Matt Blasik and his staff showed us at this great venue.
Immediately following play we trucked south through the city of Boston, which of course can't find itself outside the professional sports championship picture right now, and they will tell you all about it! We are beginning the Donald Ross run at the George Wright Golf Club in Hyde Park. We were greeted by Head Professional, Scott Allen, who treated us to a great round of golf on one of the last tracks that Ross designed. We learned some great history and quickly forged a friendship with one of the PGA'S finest golf professionals. Many of the course's historical facts he shared with us will be discussed on a video update.
The beginning of day 3 found us at stop 2 & 3 of the Ross Run, Triggs Memorial Golf Club in Providence, Rhode Island. For those looking for a true classic golf design that will not only test you, but even baffle the best, this course is for you. Providence is lucky to have this gem that combines an overly understated golf shop with a world class golf course. While we played the final 3 holes we were followed by local Fox and CBS affiliates, then escorted out of the city by the police! And of course Craig made up for his poor performance from Day 1!
And now for the final Ross course, and one of the finest you will ever play. Shennecossett, built in 1898, is one of the finest Ross links style courses you will ever find. We were in heaven, we had 2 TV crews and a local newspaper following us, which of course put Bill in all his glory yukking it up! As we approached the signature par 3 4th hole, 208 yards up hill and of course against a stiff breeze, we encountered that Donald Ross, "you can't beat me" turtle back green; where Bill announced "loser buys drinks for the whole crew"!! Craig promptly cut a low 3 iron a few yards short of the green that rolled up and right about 15 feet from the pin. Bill smoked a 3 iron at the pin that immediately got everyone's attention until Ross laughed and allowed Bill's ball to roll long and left into the heavy heather rough! Craig tapped in a short par putt and Bill finished with a good 4 that he immediately turned into an opportunity to gather his new friends around the beverage cart for cool drinks and good laughs. This is destined to become a storied hole for both of us. Head Golf Professional, Todd Goodloe, sat down with our cameraman and producer Roger Herr and told him the history of this memorable course. Check back on our website to see the highlights.
When we look back over the first 3 days, not only have we seen some great courses, but we've also been moved by the inspirational stories from people who are following our challenge. Today while were playing Shennecossett, a gentlemen approached our bus and told the crew he had seen our website and was moved by our mission. He said he didn't have much to contribute, but handed them $3.00 he dug out of his pocket. When we finished playing and were handed the money, we were both speechless. Groton is mainly a blue collar area experiencing economic woes, so his donation is quite moving. What an outstanding gentleman and great representation of what we are trying to accomplish. Thanks Groton!
Now let us share a compelling story you must come back to our website to see on film. While we were playing at The Ledges, our crew (in the bus) visited the lighthouse in York for some stunning footage when they were approached by Paul Moore as he took a break from a day of fishing with his family. Our crew was stunned as Paul bluntly stated he was dying of prostate cancer. We asked if he would share his story, and he didn't hesitate in saying yes. Paul told us how he sought medical help after feeling a painful lump on his neck. The diagnosis was shocking, he had cancer that had spread throughout his body and it was too far along to treat. Making it more shocking to Paul and his family was the fact the cancer had been growing for 15 years and could have been treated and diagnosed with a simple blood test. This prompted Paul's nephew to have a screening, where he found out he was in the early stages of cancer. After receiving treatment, he is now cancer free! Hearing and sharing stories like Paul's and his nephew is the reason we are out here, early detection and screenings can save your life! Paul asked us to please share his story and help save another life. He is a true hero. His story will resonate with both of us for a long time and will give us the strength to continue this journey.
As you can see over the last 2 days we have experienced not only fantastic golf, but also inspirational stories that have helped us reflect on the importance of our message. We have also been reminded us of the importance of what we do and don't do, not only for ourselves, but for our loved ones as well.
We are creeping through Greenwich, CT. on our way to the Bronx for a 5:15 am tee time. Be sure to check back for updates and see our stories on www.the50in50.com and share this message with others!
Bill & Craig
