Wow, it sure has been a while since I posted anything to my blog... I need to do a better job with that! I have just returned from The Patriot, a great Pro-Am in Pinehurst played at National Golf Club. I finished 16th with scores of 73-71-76. My play the first 2 days was acceptable, but I made several strategic decisions the final day that did me in. I putted well, drove it OK and hit several good shots but was unable to finish in the money.

The format for the tournament was cool; we played with 2 amateurs the first 2 days, and then with pros the last day. My partners for the Pro-Am portion were 2 successful ladies, and we were in good shape after the first day (58) but faded a little on day 2 (64) to finish 4th in the net division. I played with Sally Hargrove, a 26 handicapper (shot 87 on day 1) who loves golf and is an international banking consultant. My other partner was Tracy Leinbach, who recently retired as CFO of Ryder. (talk about a powerful group!) Tracy played golf for William and Mary in the early 80's, and earned her MBA from Chapel Hill. Sally graduated from Chapel Hill, and earned her MBA from Wharton. We had a blast, and the ladies were great to play with.

Prior to Pinehurst I played in the Bermuda Open, and it was my first trip to that great little island since our honeymoon 25 years ago! I missed the cut by 3 after shooting 78-78-78. It was windy all the time, and poured on day 2. The greens were tricky, and I putted well but did not make anything over 5 or 6 feet. I did shoot 72 in the Pro-Am, so all was not lost!

Prior to that I played in the Seaweed and finished in the money 2 days and made some cash. I love playing there and had fun.

Next I am off to Portugal for the European Senior Tour qualifying tournament. My birthday is too late in the year to go to Champions Tour qualifying, and if I am able to get through in Portugal, I will be able to play in 10-12 events there. I am looking forward to going over there and experiencing yet again another event that will make me more competitive. Wish me luck!

During The Patriot Steph and I attended parents (Sigma Kappa) weekend at NC State with Barrett and Ann Howell. That was much fun, and we are blessed to have 2 great daughters (no slight to the other 4 mind you) who go to school in close proximity!

Anyway, much practice is on the schedule prior to going to Portugal on November 8. I will be gone for 16 days, and unfortunately will miss Thanksgiving if I make it to the finals. More after that adventure....