Carolyn Bowman of Clarion has been golfing since she was 13 or 14, and finally achieved what many recreational golfers never do. On April 26, she hit a hole in one on number six at Clarmond. She was shooting a round with her husband Denny at the time.
“It was a cool and partly cloudy day, and there wasn’t much wind, so pretty good conditions to golf,” said Bowman. “I have probably played that hole hundreds of times, and I didn’t know it went in when I hit it.” She goes on to say that the pin placement was in the upper right of the green, and so only the top part of the pin was visible from the tee. “We estimated the distance was about 135 yards from the tee to the hole,” she said.
She explained that she knew the direction was good because when the ball hit the front of the green it rolled toward the pin but out of sight. “It’s a tough green to hit because it’s elevated,” said Bowman. “I have had pretty good success lately getting enough loft and length to reach the green with my five wood.”
When they approached the green, she didn’t see her ball. “Denny had hit his over, and I thought mine must have rolled off the back also,” said Bowman. “I was thinking I would have to pitch it back and try to keep it from rolling too far past the pin.” As she walked toward the back of the green to find her ball, she noticed it was in the cup. “I couldn’t believe it, and I yelled for Denny to come and take a look,” she said. “I got a high five and a hug! Unfortunately, she had left her phone in their car so couldn’t even take a picture of the momentous occasion.
She goes on to say that Clarmond is the main course they play, as they have been members since the 70’s. The couple also tries to golf whenever they travel, and have played in quite a few area tournaments over the years. “The overall condition of the course is above average compared to other courses I’ve played,” said Bowman. “The greens are good and there’s enough change in topography to make each hole interesting. There’s also enough trees and sand that you can get into trouble if you don’t keep it pretty straight.”
Bowman said that Clarmond is a bargain for them, as the membership fee is very reasonable and they as able to play several times a week. “We just love Clarmond,” said Bowman. “We are very spoiled, because we can normally play with very little delay or waiting. There’s beverages and snacks available, and during normal times we can enjoy two-balls and both lady’s and men’s day activities. Since we both love the game, it’s an activity we enjoy together.”
