Travel to Tri Cities
Drove down to Kennewick this morning, 3:30 AM start. Watched to morning break through the windshield of Ram truck, a rising orange and golden glow in the side view mirror, illuminating the sage and wheat with a wash of morning light. Turning south on highway 395 the railroad tracks marking the route of the old 2 lane that connected the now abandoned farmhouses and grain silos.
Rolling through Pasco and past Sun Willows golf course, I can feel the memories returning, many rounds played there through the 1980s and 90s. Dad, Rod, my brothers on occasion. The Design Industrial Golf Tournament held there back in the heyday.
Canyon Lakes
Turning into Canyon Lakes a row of mature scotch pines are backlit as the sun begins to climb. This marks the boundary of once empty fields, now overbuilt with homes, condos and commercial buildings. The surrounding golf course looks familiar, but much has changed.
Checking in at the pro shop for a 7:08 AM tee time, load up clubs and drive to the first Tee. I am paired with two cousins from Tri Cities and Boulder Colorado. Drew Lockwood, a Canyon Lakes resident, upon hearing our the McCleary name he asked if I knew a Lori McCleary…what are the odds? Turns out he dated Lori’s best friend and spent a lot of time with our cousin.
Gordon West (Gordy) asked if I had any family in Colorado. Turns out he is a dentist and aunt Barb is one of his patients. Another interesting coincidence.
Had a good time playing with these guys as they prepared for a weekend tournament. We talked in the clubhouse after and planned to connect in October for chuckar hunt in Oregon. Turns out a lot of shared interests and a lot in common.
Ended round with an 81.
Zintel Creek
Got an early start, Austin and I stopped at Hill’s for breakfast on our way to the course. It was a nostalgic return to the course where my golf obsession began. We were immediately struck by the scale of the improvements. The new ownership has created an amazing and unique experience with the old course.
While warming up before our round, Aaron, Sonya’s brother randomly showed up. We chatted a bit before teeing off. We were paired with two young gents, surname, Puckett. Related to Gary Puckett, a name from the past associated with the LaMear family.
Enjoyed reminiscing with Austin as we played the course. Best greens we have played in a while.
Finished with 72 +6, Austin 76 +10
Ritzville Municipal
Sunday on the drive home, Austin and I stopped to play 9 at Ritzville. Carrie read a book on the patio while we played.
It was a perfect end to the trip. Fun to walk and play a 9 hole muni. It is interesting how these small town courses are a hub of the town with faithful followers showing up excitement to take the first tee.
Carded a 40 +5
