Old Dude On The Bench

[Patch]

I am pretty sure, while at the driving range, we have all seen the older gentleman sitting on the bench. The guy with no clubs, just sitting there watching others hit balls. Some of us might try to guess what's going through his head. Maybe what kind of golfer he was in his prime. Maybe wishing we knew what he knows, or has forgotten about this game. Others' might not even pay him any attention. 

I was at the range earlier today. I did what I came to do. Afterwards, instead of heading to the 19th, or to my truck to leave, I took a seat on one of those benches. Not so much to watch other golfers, but to just kick back, and enjoy the warmer weather, and the day in general. 

A guy who had finished his bucket came up, introduced himself, and ask if he could sit down. He appeared to be a youngster, in his forties.  We chatted for a while about nothing in particular. 

Finally when he got up to leave, he asked a question about the game of golf. He asked if golf ever became boring. I told him no, not if one was true golfer who understood there was more to golf than just hitting balls, and writing down a number. We shook hands, and he said "thanks for the conversation sir".

Immediately after hearing that word "sir", it dawned on me that I was becoming that old dude on the bench. That's when I smiled, and went over to the 19th for a $3 domestic beverage. 

[dennyjones]

9 hours ago, Patch said:

thanks for the conversation sir

The first time I heard that, I was taken back too.     Great story..

[bkuehn1952]

9 hours ago, Patch said:

... it dawned on me that I was becoming that old dude...

Becoming the old dude isn't always a bad thing.  A day ago I dodged a traffic ticket because I reminded the officer of his father when I explained what and why I did what I did.

[dave s]

Awesome, Patch.  Thanks for sharing.

At one of my local practice facilities, we have the 'old guy on the bench.'  Here to find out he's been teaching the area for more than 50 years.  Has quite a resume of youngsters who have gone on to play collegiate golf and maybe a professional or two.

I sat next to him on his bench one time while he was reviewing a HS aged girl hit balls.  Every once in awhile he'd say 'good swing,' or 'ball position,' or something to the girl.  Took notice of those hands.  Meat hooks, more like it.  I though of Arnie after getting a good look at them.  Big, fat fingers on very wide hands.  Leathery texture.

Every practice facility needs to have an older guy on the bench.

[dennyjones]

The driving range I went to today was an indoor dome.   Most of the patrons were seniors.   I felt like a junior compared to them.   Almost all of them brought portable chairs to sit in.   Who needs a bench...

[tlazzol]

The first time I was called "sir" I laughed to myself because it was true.  When a young waitress called me "hon" I realized I was harmless!