Teeing Off with Kellie Stenzel on Scotland's Scenic Courses
Ever wondered what it’s like to tee off in the land of golf legends? Join us on "The Weekend Golf Guys" as John Ashton, Jeff Smith, and special guest Kelly Stenson take you through an unforgettable journey across Scotland’s lush greens. Kelly shares her latest adventure with her 15-year-old son, recounting the highs and lows of golfing in Edinburgh and beyond. From the thrill of playing multiple rounds under Scotland’s extended daylight to the laughter-filled challenges of navigating narrow roads, this episode is a treasure chest of heartwarming and humorous stories that underscore the irreplaceable memories made when family meets fairway.
Get ready for some laughs and maybe even a few travel tips as Kelly paints a vivid picture of her Scottish escapade. Imagine playing on courses like Cruden Bay and Brora, where foggy weather and furry spectators add an unexpected twist to the game. We’ll also dive into the charming essence of Scottish towns and their distinctive eateries, offering a taste of the local culture that goes beyond the greens. And just when you think it can’t get better, we ponder the accessibility of these world-renowned courses compared to public ones elsewhere, making a case for why Scotland should be on every golfer’s bucket list.
But golf isn’t just about the game; it's about the connections we make. We explore how this sport fosters unity and genuine bonds, whether through casual rounds or competitive meetups. From online competitions to real-life golf events that bring people together from all walks of life, the power of golf to create lasting friendships is truly remarkable. We also celebrate the young talents making waves in junior golf and even muse about creating golf travel trails akin to Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail. Wrapping things up, we share techniques for conquering those pesky deep bunkers, ensuring you’re always on top of your game. Don’t miss out on this engaging, insightful, and heartwarming episode!
(00:00) Family Golf Trips
This chapter of "The Weekend Golf Guys" is a lively discussion featuring John Ashton, Jeff Smith, and special guest Kelly Stenson. We explore Kelly's recent golf trip to Scotland with her 15-year-old son, emphasizing the joys and challenges of golfing in Edinburgh and surrounding areas. Kelly shares how they managed to play numerous rounds of golf, taking advantage of the extended daylight hours. We reflect on the value of traveling and playing golf with family, reminiscing about our own experiences and encouraging listeners to create similar memories. The conversation underscores the importance of seizing opportunities to bond over golf, whether it's abroad or within the United States.
(13:09) Scottish Golf Trips
This chapter takes us on a vivid journey through Kelly's recent golf trip to Scotland. We explore her experiences navigating the narrow, left-hand drive roads and balancing her love for golf with some brief, spontaneous sightseeing in Edinburgh and St. Andrews. Anecdotes about driving challenges and amusing moments with backseat drivers add a touch of humor. We also discuss memorable golf courses like Cruden Bay and Brora, each with its unique quirks, such as foggy weather and animals on the course. Additionally, we touch on the charm of local Scottish towns, their distinctive eateries, and the cultural immersion that comes with exploring beyond the greens. Lastly, we ponder the accessibility of golf courses in Scotland, comparing them to the public courses commonly found elsewhere.
(25:15) Golf as a Unifier
This chapter takes us on a journey through various experiences with golf, highlighting its unique ability to bring people together. From personal anecdotes about exploring the stunning landscapes of Montana and the allure of Banff and Lake Louise, we transition into the world of online golf competitions, where I reached number five in the world and built lasting friendships. The narrative continues with stories of real-life meetups, including an unforgettable event at Covered Bridge in Southern Indiana, and a touching moment when the mayor welcomed our group with open arms. We explore how golf unites people from all walks of life, whether through charity fundraisers or golf schools in South Carolina. The authenticity and vulnerability required in golf create a level playing field, breaking down barriers and fostering genuine connections. Finally, we reflect on the role of instructors in supporting players, especially when they struggle, ensuring everyone feels included and valued on the course.
(34:20) Junior Golf Success and Bourbon Trails
This chapter celebrates the achievements of young golfers, particularly highlighting Ava Bunker's impressive performance at the World Juniors in Pinehurst. We reflect on the joy and fulfillment that comes from working with junior players compared to the high expectations placed on PGA Tour players. We also discuss the potential for creating golf travel trails similar to the Bourbon Trail in Kentucky, such as the I-64 golf trail, to attract travel golfers and promote collaboration among golf courses. Additionally, we share personal anecdotes about tasting spirits, from bourbon in Louisville to whiskey in Ireland, and the acquired taste required for brown liquors. The conversation wraps up with a teaser about an upcoming golf question and a mention of travels to Scotland.
(39:31) Bunker Play Techniques for Success
This chapter explores the challenges and techniques of playing out of deep bunkers, specifically referencing experiences at iconic courses like St Andrews and North Berwick. We discuss the importance of using a lofted club, taking plenty of sand, and maintaining good technique to avoid common mistakes such as falling back or trying to lift the ball. Additionally, we share anecdotes about famous bunker struggles, including Bobby Jones' legendary difficulty at St Andrews, and provide tips like the "hinge and thump" method to improve bunker play. Whether you're a skilled bunker player or still learning, these insights aim to help you tackle even the most daunting bunker shots.
(43:55) Greenside Sand Play Technique
This chapter explores the importance of mastering greenside sand play in golf, emphasizing the key elements of quality sand and speed control. We share a unique analogy comparing bunker shots to removing a spider from a swimming pool—highlighting the technique of hitting behind the ball to let the sand propel it out. Additionally, we express gratitude for Kelly's return and her travel stories, and we encourage listeners to try the bunker tip the next time they find themselves in the sand. Enjoy this insightful and engaging conversation on improving your golf game.
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