Increasingly sneaking its way into golf conversations is the charming game of Pitch & Putt, and its about time. As a co-founder of VAPPA (Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»Amateur Pitch & Putt Association) Im somewhat biased, but the greatness of the game cant be overstated.
Pitch & Putt, or par 3, is almost impossible to classify it both is, and isnt, golf. To play golf you need more than two clubs, you are expected to have proper shoes, and you dont get 18 chances to have a spiritual experience (if youve never had a hole-in-one, I suggest you try it).
Pitch & Putt changed all that. Its like starting a MarioKart race on the last lap, mid-star, with a lightning bolt in the chamber. You get access to the best parts of the game, straight goods, comfortably and cost effectively. I shot -5 at Stanley Park on Saturday wearing a tank top and flip flops, and I played for the price of a movie ticket.
But the appeal goes beyond saving money and being able to show up straight from the beach. This isnt mini-golf, after-all. Pitch & Putt is for the wind-measuring, glove-wearing, dead f-ing serious as much as for those who have never played before. Golf is about spending time outside, challenging yourself, and enjoying legally purchased ice cold beverages discreetly with your friends; Pitch & Putt makes the experience inclusive. So go ahead and bring your significant other, who may not think he/she likes the game, without worrying youll hear Jason Segel in your head screaming This is my nightmare!
As we get closer to Fathers Day well hear a lot about golf. The two are tied together like no other sport and holiday. If your old man plays the game, Ill bet you a green fee the majority of his gifts over the years have included, or required, a sleeve of Titleists. This year, why not take dad to a local Pitch & Putt course? Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»has some of the finest, most accessible courses anywhere, and theyre waiting for you.
Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»Pitch & Putt locations
Stanley Park Pitch & Putt
Stanley Park (near Beach Ave entrance)
Adult - $12.95, Seniors & Youth - $9.38
Open 7:30 am-dusk
Rupert Park Pitch & Putt
3402 Charles Street
Adult - $12.05, Senior & Youth - $8.53
Open 9:00 am - dusk
Queen Elizabeth Park Pitch & Putt
Queen Elizabeth Park
Adult - $12.05, Senior & Youth - $8.53
Open 8:00 am - dusk
University Golf Club
5185 University Blvd.
Free Pitch and Putt
Open 6 am - 9 pm daily (except Thursdays open at 10:30am)
By Desmond O'Brien
