A Call to Preserve Tradition

Good morning, friends. Today, we celebrate the family as the cornerstone of society, where traditions are passed down, shaping who we are and how we connect. Traditions, whether holiday gatherings, shared meals, or storytelling, bind generations, creating a sense of belonging and identity.

Families are the first place we learn values like respect, resilience, and compassion. Through traditions, such as a grandmother’s recipe or a parent’s bedtime story, we inherit lessons that guide us. These practices strengthen bonds and provide stability in a fast-changing world. They remind us of our roots and the sacrifices of those before us.

Families, biological or chosen, are society’s foundation. They teach us how to live together, resolve conflicts, and build community. Reflect on your family’s traditions. Are you sharing them with the next generation? Start small, perhaps a weekly meal or story-sharing. Let’s nurture these traditions to fortify our families and, in turn, our society.

May we cherish and pass down traditions that strengthen our families and communities.

The game of golf has surged in popularity over the past few years, ignited by the spark of Covid and fueled by the gasoline of YouTube and social media. However, the sport was unprepared for this explosion, and the influx of new players has challenged its time-honored traditions.

In this community, we hold the traditional rules and etiquette of golf in high regard. My own journey with the game began with early morning drives to the course with my father and countless rounds with family as a young boy. These moments were more than just games; they were lessons in how to play and live the right way. I learned directly from my father, an authority figure to me, not from the internet or social media. Music, phones, and poor behavior were simply not tolerated. We played with quiet respect for our partners and the game itself.

Every wayward shot and moment of frustration became an opportunity for growth. I vividly recall the first time I heard the word "etiquette" on the golf course. I was a kid. Each errant tee shot and subsequent lesson in composure was a life lesson in disguise, shaping my character in ways I didn't fully appreciate at the time.

This traditional approach, learning from family at country clubs over years, stands in stark contrast to the modern trend of watching YouTube personalities play in golf carts, sporting untucked shirts and sipping drinks. For me, golf was a cherished weekend activity as a kid, becoming more and more a part of who I was each time we stepped onto the first tee. For me, it was (and still is) something to anticipate with reverence, not a four hour drinking contest. The game is woven into my identity, thanks to the values instilled by my family.

I’ll never forget a moment I had at work a few years back - a senior exec came up to me one day (side note, we had just played together in a scramble and shot 59. He played exclusively in scrambles. No stroke play events. Hilarious) and told me he was getting his 6 year old kid into golf, and that he wanted his kid to turn out like me. Frankly, I didn’t know what to say, and all I could think about was how lucky I was to have been taught the right way to play and act. The lessons golf taught me had spilled over into the real world.

As I reflect on the state of the game today, I see a troubling shift. The traditional funnel of learning golf through mentorship and respect has flipped. Many who pick up the game later in life bring behaviors and attitudes that clash with the sport's core principles. While most are unaware of the proper etiquette, their six hour rounds, un-repaired ball marks, blaring music, and improper attire, impact those who value the game's traditions. The evidence is clear: big letter hats, garish clothing, and relaxed dress codes signal that golf is bending to accommodate a new generation, when it should be the other way around.

To be clear, not every golfer who starts later in life is a detriment to the sport. Many bring enthusiasm and potential. Yet, the preponderance of evidence suggests that the influx of new players often disrupts the game's sanctity. Golf courses and communities must uphold the sport's traditions, teaching newcomers the respect and etiquette that define it. Only then can we ensure that golf remains a game of integrity, not just a casual pastime.

If you ever see one of these lines on the putting green, set up shop for an hour or so. This line helps you set up square to the putt and ensure you are starting it on the right line. Make 100 or so 4 footers in a row and watch your confidence skyrocket.

One obscure golf rule addresses what to do when a dangerous animal, such as a snake, is near your ball. Under Rule 16.2 of the Rules of Golf, if a dangerous animal (e.g., a poisonous snake) is close and could cause serious physical injury if you play the ball as it lies, you can take free relief. This means dropping the ball at the nearest point of complete relief from the dangerous animal condition, ensuring it’s not closer to the hole. However, relief is only allowed if the risk is due to the animal, not other factors like a difficult lie. For example, if your ball is next to a dangerous snake, you can move it away without penalty, prioritizing safety. This rule is particularly obscure because such encounters are rare, especially in regions without dangerous wildlife. The more you know!

I have two rounds lined up this weekend. My goal this summer is to shoot sub 70 at least once, and a great way to do that is to not make any double bogeys and not lose any balls. Those are the goals this weekend, maybe I get it done? Will report back.

My intention with BowtiedGolf is to grow it as the elite clubs do — through referrals.

If you’ve improved your look, laughed a little bit, or learned something because of this newsletter… why keep it to yourself?