Michigan Golf Journal June 2020

35 June 2020 www.michigangolfjournal.com inputs. Greens can still be firm and roll true, even if they are a bit slower on the Stimpmeter. This can lead to more interesting flagstick locations and an increased variety in the course’s daily setup, which will ultimately translate into more fun shots and more strategic thought being required. This reflects the true heart and soul of the sport – and is how the game started in Scotland. Let’s learn to embrace these great qualities once again. Golf can emerge from the COVID-19 era with a better idea of what is really important about this popular pastime. We can walk, play, and exercise while engaging with others, and still pursue that little white ball. By simplifying its “touches” and limiting potential exposure to the virus, golf maintenance might just deliver us a more sustainable model which will allow us to keep enjoying the game we love. In the end, the game may become more affordable and, therefore, more popular to a wider demographic. The “grow the game” initiatives of the last few years have been searching for new ways to interest more people in golf. Perhaps the restrictions and related impacts of this challenging time will point the game back towards its more humble roots and make it more popular than ever. MGJ Pilgrim’s Run Note: Life-long Michigander Mike DeVries is one of the world’s most talented and award-winning course designers. His work stretches worldwide, and those at home include Kingsley Club, Greywalls, Pilgrim’s Run, Diamond Springs and The Mines. Kingsley Club