The Lakeland Golf classic for YOUTH in CHRIST (Polk County)

Friday the 13th was not unlucky for me as I had been invited to play in the Lakeland golf classic at The Prestigious Club at Bridgewater Course in Lakeland, in support of the Youth for Christ Movement. As you are aware I always try to support causes close to my heart and the Youth for Christ Mission Statement as follows is one I can give me wholehearted support.

" YFC reaches young people everywhere, working together with the local church and other like minded partners to raise up life long followers of Jesus who lead by their godliness in lifestyle, devotion to the word of God and prayer, passion for sharing the love of Christ and commitment to social involvement. " I can only say that if the youngsters I met today are typical of the members then the association are doing everything right and they should be suitably proud.

From the moment, I walked in the clubhouse, I was enveloped with a overwhelming feeling of joy and happiness and camaraderie that only occurs when an event is as well organised as this and the competitors so intent on fully supporting the relevant cause. I joined a team with 3 lovely gentlemen and fellow golfers the two Phils and Kermit and what a splendid day we had, shooting a competitive 71 but more importantly I hope established the beginning of a fond friendship. This is an event I hope to support regularly, and i was suitably proud and delighted with my golf designer lamp which i duly won.
Bridgewater is a typical parkland Florida Course with a links feel very similar to Southern Dunes. The Greens were excellent, my only complaint the lack of yardage markers around the course which certainly affected my short game. It is a relatively new course and facilities reflect this but the hospitality of the staff, compact nature of course, solid design and especially the Greens make this a very good value course. Today it complemented the competition, the people I met and played with. Further enjoyment, I felt truly blessed at the end of the day.

No Gators this time, but still enuff water to cause me trouble.

My team, Phil, Kermit and Phil........... 3 Great Guys

Colourful pants hey, aka John daly.... my outfit typified my joyous mood on this special day.

I wish all concerned the very best in the future, thanks to my team mates, all the very best guys and gals. A pack of my books are on the way and I hope these raise more funds for this worthy cause.

and so on to next week and THE CYDER ( Ryder Cup ) between Europe and the USA at Celebration Golf club sponsored by Shannons Irish Bar, when the Social Golfer represents Europe.........