Backyard football is the unofficial sport of Thanksgiving, but pick-up pigskin works better as concept than reality. Half the crew is out of shape, there's always one guy delivering cheap-shots, and the quarterbacks are so bad they make Nathan Peterman look competent.
Which is why we humbly propose a new Thanksgiving tradition: a round of golf. Yes, putting together any golf outing can be an endeavor, so it's understandable the holiday hoopla throws extra wrenches into the process. But fear not. Our insider’s guide to the proper Thanksgiving golf outing will give you all the tools you need to tee it up this Turkey Day.
It is a time of gathering, but at some point, everyone needs their space. Don't worry about offending family by heading out to golf; they're probably getting sick of you anyway. Besides, chances are part of the clan is going shopping. Their journey to the mall is your ticket to the course.
Depends. Make sure everyone feels included; conversely, this is not the time for your 94-year-old grandma to pick up the game. (Sorry Grandma Betty but both you and I know your weekly church-league putt-putt jamboree doesn't count.) If a family member isn't totally foreign to the sport, pass along the call.
You wouldn't think twice about sending the invite if it was football, and many friendships are just as important, if not more so, than family relations. Plus, odds are you're going to need a few bodies to fill out your groups, yielding a sound reason for bringing your buds along.
Morning. There are negatives to this. Chiefly, it's going to be on the colder side, and—depending on the prior night's events—it could be a challenge to roll out of bed. However, the later in the day, the more likely you're going to be foiling family obligations. And there's a good probability your mom and sisters are doing their shopping before lunch, making the morning window your best opportunity.
Is it snowing or raining? No? Then layer up and get your butt to the course. Besides, parades are boring and the Cowboys and Lions games usually blow.
This ain't the time to travel, pal. You may know of a charming joint an hour off the beaten path, but save that for a lazy summer weekend. Same goes with your town's most challenging test of golf. Stick to something local that won't throw curveballs to the higher handicappers in your group.
Na; take a casual approach. Play everything as a lateral, roll out of divots, free drops if leaves are possibly hiding the ball, and be generous on the gimmes.
Make that bastard putt everything out.
Sticking with the relaxed theme, we vouch for scramble. It keeps the fringe, recreational players involved while reducing the risk their play submarines the round. It also stands to reason that, at this time of the season, no one is bringing their "A" game. Not often you're allowed to shake off the bad shots while celebrating the gems. Take advantage of this while you can.
Easy there, Sack. Creating a more inclusive environment doesn't mean we're handing out participation trophies. The name of the game remains getting the lowest score as possible, which allows plenty of room for competitive fire and cageyness.
I thought you said your sister’s boyfriend was the dolt.
No one will put up a fuss if you're out playing football for 90 minutes. A five-hour golf excursion might raise some eyebrows. If the course is open and things are moving, forward on, but chances are you won't be the only group out. Pray for 18, prepare for nine.
By no means are we advocating to get liquored up, yet there's nothing wrong with dabbling in the spirits. (True story: the Pilgrims and Wampanoag Indians shared a Thermos filled a spiked cider. Look it up.) It will likely be a tad nippy out; putting that beer coat on is almost a matter of health.
Thanksgiving dinner conversation occasionally gets schismatic, especially in these times, so table any political discourse during your round. Rolling back the ball should be the most divisive topic broached; even then, proceed with caution (particularly if your family member works for the USGA).
Thanksgiving is period of recognizing your blessings. While both the game and your family are prone to try you crazy, you're a lucky bastard to have them in your life. Savor this opportunity to bring both together.