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The Father-Son Trip of A Lifetime – Golf, Bonding & a Trip That Will Never Be Forgotten…

Published

2 years ago

July 25, 2023

omar

This article was written by the CEO of ClickitGolf – Jeff is an avid golfer, golf enthusiast, and one hell of a business partner.

BACKGROUND:

In this article, we walk you through the type of golf trip that enforces that coveted father /son relationship, moreover, the kind of trip that can significantly change lives and relationships forever. I assume we have your attention… Great, Mission #1 accomplished ✅ – Keep reading to see how it all went down!

In all honesty, and after some reflection, I am doing this as much for me as I am for you, my readers, so THANK YOU! I will truly re-live this trip and the memories we made every time I read this piece. Also, unselfishly, I hope it inspires… Inspires you to do something similar with someone special in your life sooner than later. It doesn’t have to be golf – it can be hiking, camping, tennis, pickleball – shoot – pick your narrative really! Whatever your heart desires, make it happen – it will undoubtedly bring you closer to someone you share a similar passion with. So… In the words of Phil Knight… “Just Do It”.

It seems these days we blink and another year goes by. You know what they say…each day wasted, is one that we can never get back. With that, I decided that this was our Summer. It was weird how it happened. We looked at each other after dinner one night, and as if we both had an out-of-body experience mind melt, we just knew It was on! Furthermore, my ClickiGolf partner had been pushing me to do it and thought our readers might enjoy experiencing it right along with us. So we did, we kept a journal and took pictures. This article is the direct outcome of making a dream a reality. Ready – Let’s go!

INTRODUCTION:

Recently, I embarked on one of those trips of a lifetime with my 18-year-old son Andrew. Both being avid golfers, we journeyed to Ireland to play five of the most famous golf courses in the world. Now, he may have the old man’s number now, but just a few short years ago, I could give him 5 a side and feel comfortable. Dylan said it best… The times they are a-changin’ – and boy – was he right then and oddly enough those words seem to resonate even more so now…

We all have that “bucket list” we want to check off during our life. I am so lucky to have just checked off one of the boxes. You know, the one you dream of, but deep down aren’t sure will ever really happen. Well, this one, I have been dreaming of for decades – and I’ll be damned, even as I write this, on the plane back from Ireland, I am questioning if it was real or all some sort of elaborate visceral lucid dream… OUCH – the flight attendant passed me with her cart filled with tonic water and bags of peanuts. I have an aisle seat, my right elbow was just bumped by said snack cart, and the tingling in my “funny bone” is letting me know – HOLY SH*T – this trip WAS REAL! I digress…

Itinerary: a 12-hour transatlantic flight to a far-off land. Just a dad and his only son embarking on an adventure of a lifetime. Our goal: Taking off for the iconic golf heaven named Ireland. This will be the kind of golf trip that will kick start one person’s life & college career while simultaneously bookending a significant chapter for the other. A proud father and now, a new empty nester… Thank you for taking this journey with me. Here goes…

HOW IT CAME TO BE:

A little background – I’m an 8 handicap and my son is a 1 handicap and played high school golf in Florida; Andrew did receive some offers to play college golf at various d2 and d3 schools, but has chosen to study hard and hopefully meet some cute college co-eds! (I hope in that order).

We had planned this trip over 18 months ago because getting onto these courses is extremely difficult (especially following Covid-19) when many golfers were forced to cancel travel and rebook the following year.

I am very fortunate to be happily married for 30 years and have 3 great children. My wife also loves golf and my oldest daughter, now 26 was a competitive golfer in high school and now plays for fun when she finds the time. Initially, we would have opted for a “family trip” to Ireland however my middle child, Lexi (age 23) has no clue how to hit a golf ball. I still love her but why couldn’t she learn golf instead of tennis when she was a kid? Thus, the rationale for the father/son trip!

As I learned, there are 2 regions of Ireland for golf – (1) the North and (2) the South. Although not horribly far by car (around 6 hours), most golfers will pick one region of Ireland and then plan a follow up a follow-up trip to return.

We chose the Southern Region and booked these 5 courses:

Andrew did want to travel to the North to play 2 very famous courses (1) Royal County Downs and (2) Port Rush – both courses considered top 10 in the world. However, it wasn’t in the cards for this trip so it gives us the best excuse to hopefully go back in the future.

THE COURSES AND OUR RANKINGS:

Old Head ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐– called the Pebble Beach of Ireland. And it certainly was. We were blown away by the views. Our caddie at Old Head (and candidly at every course) was beyond incredible.

Tralee ⭐⭐⭐⭐ – I hadn’t really heard of this course in depth prior to the trip. What a course. Maybe the most beautiful back 9 on Earth. Built into the water on every hole.

Waterville ⭐⭐⭐⭐– One of the oldest courses in Ireland and the home of the Irish Open a few years back. Just a month earlier, Adam Scott and Shane Lowry played there. As we’re checking in with the starter, a very friendly Irish gentleman about 80 years old says “Andrew – you look like a good golfer?” Andrew quickly says “You look pretty good yourself” as you just get a different energy and can somehow tell that this guy was “a player.” We started talking and we introduced ourselves (I’ve trained Andrew you always take your hat off, offer a firm handshake, and look the person directly in the eye). “Nice to meet you says Lee Higgins”. I thought to myself, I remember that name somehow…but how…who was this Lee Higgins character – ? click to find out – crazy story! After a lengthy conversation, we learn that Lee Higgin’s, now 81 years, home course is Waterville Golf Links, won 6 times on tour and was runner-up 5 other times. And, for a really cool trivia fact – Higgins set the world long-drive record in 1984 hitting a ball 634 yards on the runway at Baldonnel Military Airport in Dublin.

Hogs Head ⭐⭐⭐⭐– Candidly, I had never heard of this course prior to making our trip but my golf travel agent had highly recommended it and was so excited that she got us on. A billionaire from the USA who attended the University of Michigan (the alma mater of my oldest daughter) built this course. It was truly incredible and because of the “Michigan connection”, I spent more money than I should have on all the blue and maize logoed items in their pro shop! Hoags Head is located just a few minutes from Waterville Golf Club.

BallyBunion Golf Club ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐– Ranked one of the top courses in the world and I can see why. Tom Watson considers this his favorite course in the entire world. My son being a 1 handicap, wanted to play the tips vs. my typical yardage which is my distance on my home course. The Caddie says to Andrew – play your dad’s tees! You will have a lot more fun. And he was absolutely right! With the windy conditions and tricky terrain, this was the way to go! The caddies are always right. It’s crazy – Like ALWAYS! – They have knowledge that is passed down from generation to generation. Without them, we both agreed we would have shot 5+ strokes worse on every round.

THE WEATHER:

My Rainsuit – all I heard prior to leaving was “be prepared” for the rain. I have become quite spoiled as I live on a golf course and with just the site of a few drops of rain, “I’m done” and happy to go back to my house and have a catch with my dog. However in Ireland, with the cost of the greens fees, we’re playing 18 holes even if it’s a monsoon. I purchased a VJUS rainsuit – it cost more than my wedding celebration but I was prepared for the elements. Plus I brought a really cool umbrella that wouldn’t turn upside down even in winds up to 1,000 mph. I also had 2 rain gloves and brought 2 pairs of golf shoes in case mine were soaked from the prior day. Guess what? It never rained in 7 straight days. Not one drop. Zero. The caddies said “lads – you got so lucky.” My rain suit is now hanging and unworn in the back of my closet.

THE CADDIES:

They were the best on so many levels. (1) I think I would have lost a million balls without their eyes; (2) You must trust them implicitly which I learned very quickly. One caddie had a bottle of bourbon in his pocket and on every hole took a quick sip. My son quickly stopped drinking his water and now is a connoisseur of bourbon To recall a funny caddie story: – I carry a 4 iron which I hit about 190 yards – but I’ve recently started using my 4 hybrid which I hit more often. My drive on the 14th hole at Tralee was in the middle of the fairway leaving me the perfect 4 iron. The Caddie now knowing my game perfectly after prior 13 holes pulls out the 4 iron. I said “I don’t hit the 4 iron”; his immediate response without taking a breath was “Why the Fu** am I then carrying your 4 iron?” I felt slightly embarrassed and of course, hit the 4-iron onto the green. We got a good laugh, drank a bit more, and started walking down the fairway. He said, “I’ll pull out which club you should hit from now on – no need for you to look at which club it is – just hit it – Trust me, Lad”. He was right. What an amazing and cool guy, he was making our round even better and so much fun!

DRIVING:

Driving in Ireland – This was my first trip to Ireland. I loved the people; I loved the scenery. I loved the golf. I hated one thing -the driving!! Because we were just a 2-some, we opted to save some money and rent a car (vs. a typical group of 8 or 12 golfers) who will rent a van for the week with a driver. In short, I have never been so scared in my life driving on these roads. Driving on the “other” side of the street was ok and relatively easy to learn (except for all the roundabouts). However, on these tiny backroads where most of the courses are located, they say 2 cars can fit, (like in the USA,) but I can assure you…ONLY ONE CAR fits even somewhat comfortably. Each time a van, bus, or truck passed me, I had to veer to the shoulder to stop from being hit. BONUS: I did get a flat tire in the middle of nowhere. Thankfully Andrew could figure out google maps and contacted an AAA-type company that eventually got us a new tire and back on the roads. My 2 cents – get a driver! It will save you the stress of driving in a foreign land and save you some grey hair while trying not to die abroad. If you do drive – give yourself a good 30 min buffer as to when you leave for the tee time. Trust me, you WILL need it.

REFLECTION:

As I reflect on our trip, it was without question, the trip of a lifetime I had hoped it would be…….. Having my only son, Andrew, alone for a week of golf, laughs, dinners, drinking, and just strengthening our “father/son friendship was one of the most special experiences of my life. It gave me a stark reminder not to blink – they grow fast…way too fast these days. So if you are close to having one of yours go off to school or just looking to re-kindle that relationship with a child, loved one, or just some of the old crew of golf buddies. There is no time like the present. It’s a gift – hence the term “the Present ?” As cheesy as it sounds when I proof this, I chose to keep it. It’s real. Cherish every moment…

CHEERS

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Weather and the Game: The Undeniable Influence of Elements on Championship Outcomes

Learn how weather affects different championship outcomes.

Published

4 days ago

November 26, 2025

Robert Greenfield

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Introduction

As a sports enthusiast, you might have noticed that weather plays a significant role in sporting events, particularly in championships. From the power of a baseball pitch to the course of a golf ball, from the strength of a football kick to the stride of a marathon runner – the elements can influence each of these and more. In this article, we delve into the fascinating intersection of meteorology and sports, examining how weather conditions can make or break a championship game.

The Impact of Weather on Different Sports

Whether it’s football, baseball, golf, tennis, or marathon, each sport faces unique challenges when it comes to weather. Let’s delve into the specifics:

Football and Weather Elements

Football is a sport that’s played in almost all weather conditions except for severe ones like lightning storms. However, weather elements have a significant impact on the game.

1. Rain: A wet field makes the ball slippery, impacting players’ ability to handle, pass, or kick the ball accurately. Rain can also make the field muddy, affecting the players’ ability to move swiftly.
2. Wind: Strong wind can alter the trajectory of the ball, affecting passes and kicks.
3. Cold: Extremely cold temperatures can affect players’ physical performance and endurance, while also making the ball harder and more challenging to catch.

Baseball and Weather Elements

Baseball is another sport where weather conditions can significantly influence the outcome.

1. Wind: The direction and speed of the wind can affect the trajectory and distance a baseball travels.
2. Humidity: High humidity can make the ball denser, potentially reducing its bounce and speed.
3. Temperature: Low temperatures can make the ball harder, affecting its bounce and the players’ ability to grip and hit it effectively.

Golf, Tennis, and Marathons

Weather conditions play an equally crucial role in golf, tennis, and marathons.

1. Wind: In golf, the wind can alter the ball’s direction and distance. In tennis, wind can affect ball control, altering serves and volleys.
2. Temperature: Extreme heat can affect a marathon runner’s performance significantly, leading to dehydration and exhaustion.
3. Rain: In golf, a wet course can slow down the ball, while in tennis, a wet court can make the ball bounce irregularly.

Case Studies: Weather Influencing Championship Outcomes

This section presents some examples of games where weather conditions significantly influenced the outcome.

The “Ice Bowl” (1967): The NFL Championship game between the Green Bay Packers and the Dallas Cowboys, often referred to as the “Ice Bowl,” witnessed one of the coldest conditions in NFL history, affecting players’ performance and the final outcome.
The “Windy City” World Series (1945): The World Series game between the Chicago Cubs and Detroit Tigers was so affected by the wind that it changed the trajectory of the baseball multiple times, influencing the game’s final score.
Wimbledon Championships (2019): The final match between Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer was played with the Centre Court’s roof closed due to rain, limiting the natural elements’ effects and perhaps altering the match’s dynamics.

Conclusion

The impact of weather on sports is an exciting field of study, revealing how the natural elements influence games and championships. From altering the trajectory of a ball to affecting a player’s physical performance, weather can indeed be a game-changer. As fans and enthusiasts, understanding these influences can add another layer of excitement and anticipation to our favorite sports.

So the next time you attend or watch a game, remember to check the weather forecast. It might just give you a sneak peek into the game’s possible outcome!

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The Unofficial Rules of Golf: A Gentleman’s Guide to Not Being Judge Smails

The official rulebook is thicker than a dictionary and twice as boring. Let’s talk about the rules that really matter on the course: how to have fun, respect the game, and not be a stick-in-the-mud. Hint: It involves less plaid and more cosmic harmony.

Published

1 week ago

November 21, 2025

Ty Webb

You’ve seen him. I’ve seen him. The guy who quotes the USGA rulebook like it’s scripture. He’ll happily tell you your ball moved a quarter of an inch when you addressed it, costing you a penalty stroke. He’s got a plumb bob for a three-foot putt and the personality of a rake. He is, in spirit, Judge Smails. And let’s be honest, nobody wants to be Judge Smails.

The real game of golf, the one that keeps us coming back, isn’t played by those rules. It’s played by a higher law. An unwritten code of conduct that’s all about flow, friendship, and the pursuit of that one perfect shot. It’s a gentleman’s agreement with the universe.

So, let’s talk about the rules that actually matter.

1. The Cosmic Readjustment (aka The Mulligan). Your first tee shot is a mess. It goes sideways into the woods where the gophers play. The Smails of the world would tell you to take a penalty and hack it out. I say the universe is just getting warmed up. The “breakfast ball” isn’t cheating; it’s a course correction. It’s an agreement among friends that a round of golf shouldn’t be ruined before it even begins. Take another. The Dalai Lama would want you to.

2. The Art of Flow (aka Pace of Play). This isn’t about rushing. Rushing is a fool’s game. This is about flow. It’s about being ready to hit when it’s your turn. It’s about watching your friend’s shot so you can help them find it. It’s about moving with a purpose, not like you’re searching for your car keys in a dark parking lot. Don’t be the anchor that drags the whole group down. See the line, hit the ball, walk on. Nanananana.

3. The Circle of Friendship (aka Gimmes). Is the putt inside the leather? Good enough. Pick it up. Life is too short to watch your buddies sweat over an 18-inch putt for a double bogey. A gimme isn’t just a time-saver; it’s a gesture of goodwill. It says, “I trust you, you trust me, and neither of us needs the anxiety of missing this tiny putt.” It’s good for the karma, and even better for the pace of play.

4. The Final Verdict (aka The 19th Hole). The most important rule is this: no matter what happened out there, you shake hands on the 18th green and settle things over a cold drink at the 19th. The guy who shot an 82 and the guy who shot a 102 are equals in the clubhouse. The stories get better, the putts get longer, and the bad shots fade away. This is where the real game is won.

So, forget about the fine print. Focus on the feeling. Be a good playing partner, enjoy the walk, and don’t be a Smails. You’ll find your score starts to take care of itself.

Did this speak to your soul? Pass it along to your foursome to make sure everyone is on the same page. For more deep thoughts from the fairway, be sure to follow us on social media. It’s the right thing to do.

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When Golf Gadgets Fail: Navigating Common Tech Mishaps on the Golf Course

A Look at What Happens When Modern Golf Gadgets Go Wrong

Published

2 weeks ago

November 19, 2025

Robert Greenfield

Imagine this: you’re on the golf course, teeing off on a beautiful, sunny day. With the help of your trusty golf gadget, you’re confident you’ll hit a birdie or even an eagle. But just when you’re about to swing, your gadget malfunctions. Suddenly, your perfect game is thrown into chaos. Welcome to the world of technology fails, where even the most advanced golf devices can sometimes let you down. In this article, we’ll explore some common tech fails and provide some tips on how to handle them.

When Golf Gadgets Let You Down

Modern golf devices, from smart clubs to digital scorecards to GPS-enabled watches, have revolutionized the game. They provide golfers with real-time data, helping them refine their swing, choose the right club, and navigate the course. But what happens when these devices fail?

Unreliable Data

One of the most common golf gadget fails is inaccurate or unreliable data. GPS devices might show the wrong distance to the pin, swing analyzers might give incorrect feedback, and digital scorecards might miscalculate your score. This can be frustrating, especially when you’re relying on these devices to improve your game.

Battery Drain

Another common issue is battery drain. Many golf gadgets require a significant amount of power, and if they’re not properly charged, they can die in the middle of a game. This leaves you without the data you need to make informed decisions on the course.

Technical Glitches and Malfunctions

Sometimes, golf devices just stop working. They might freeze, crash, or refuse to turn on. These technical glitches can be caused by software bugs, hardware issues, or even user error.

Preventing Golf Gadget Fails

While it’s impossible to prevent all golf gadget fails, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk.

Regular Updates

Keeping your devices updated can help prevent software-related issues. Regular updates often include bug fixes and improvements that can enhance the performance of your device.

Proper Charging

To avoid battery-related problems, make sure to fully charge your devices before hitting the course. Some devices also have power-saving modes that can help extend battery life.

Backup Plan

It’s always a good idea to have a backup plan in case your devices fail. This might mean carrying a traditional scorecard or having a basic understanding of how to calculate distances without a GPS.

When Gadgets Go Wrong: The Bottom Line

Golf gadgets are a fantastic tool for any golfer looking to improve their game. However, like all technology, they can sometimes fail. By understanding the common issues and how to prevent them, you can ensure you’re prepared for any tech-related hiccups on the course. After all, golf is about more than just the gadgets—it’s about the experience, the skill, and the love of the game.