Dec. 1, 2021
Tiger Woods recent news conference broadcast on the PGA YouTube channel, was wide ranging, touching on a variety of topics, such as life after his car accident, getting back to golf, etc. But what caught the attention of many historic and hickory golf enthusiasts is his reference to old-time woods and feathery golf balls. Click here to watch the conference, but fast-forward to around the 24-minute mark to catch the feathery reference.
Of course it was an off-hand remark, but it certainly caught the attention of the hickory golf world, confirming, as it does, that the modern game of hickory golf, and its roots, are in the minds of champions at the highest levels of today’s sport.
Now, here come the “if only’s”…
If only we could get Tiger, Phil, Rory and others to Foxburg, or the National Hickory Championship (but only at Oakhurst!) for a feathery match, or even gutties. The Honorable Company of Illinois Hickory Golfers and its Spring Gathering annually features a feather ball component, using featheries made by Denny and Cathy Olson. Handmade featheries! The NHC has its feathery component, too.
C’mon, we must say, and that with a stern look, to Tiger and others, surely you owe it to yourselves, you who are today’s highest champions, to test golf at its most basic with wood shaft, and mild English steel or replica play club. You may find out what so many of us have cottoned onto from the outset, – that this form of golf is just pure fun.
So, when you’re ready to take a break from the stress of competing for the Claret Jug, U.S. Open or FedEx title, give us a call. We’ll find a spot for you in the field, even help you find the right equipment.
You’ll have to get your own period-appropriate dress, though.
Feathery players at the 2021 NHC included, front, l to r: Billy Wardwell, Pete Georgiady, John Crow Miller, and Ross Snellings. Back row, l to r: Bill Fields, Dave Gamet, Jim Sherrill, Bob White, Dave Shultz, Don Springman, and Russ Revert.