The weather this year has not been very good for many of our local courses. The mild winter prevented frost from forming and the dry spring combined with the lack of runoff has made many courses dry and brown. We have also experienced record high temperatures during the months of June and July.
Hot, humid temperatures are not only uncomfortable but can be dangerous to those that are old, young, and to those that have breathing difficulties.
If you are a golfer and do not want your game to be affected by the heat, then here are a few tips on ‘beating the summer heat’.
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Schedule your games or practise rounds for early morning or late evenings. Temperatures are usually cooler and humidity levels are not as high. Book these times early as they are usually very popular during heat waves.
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Take a power cart, which will shield you from the hot rays of the sun and also provide you with a much-appreciated cool breeze.
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Drink plenty of water. You will need at least 2-6 8 ounce glasses of water during an 18 hole round of golf. Bring out a thermos bottle with plenty of ice to help keep your water cold.
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Bring along some snacks that will replenish the salts that you lose when you perspire. I like to snack on salted peanuts or cashews, but some may prefer trail mixes or granola bars. Fresh fruits will also help replenish your body’s fluid levels and provide you with carbohydrates and natural sugars for energy.
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Make sure to wear a hat. This will help protect you from the sun and help keep your body cool.
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Bring out a soaking wet towel on the course with you. Evaporation is a cooling process, and every time you wipe your face with a cool wet towel, you will help keep your body temperature down.
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Cool down in the shade. You will find cooler temperatures there as well as comfortable breezes.
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Freeze a couple of containers of water before you play a round of golf. These ice bottles can be used to keep you cool and eventually can be used as a source of cold drinking water.
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Avoid the consumption of too many alcoholic beverages. These drinks may feel like they are quenching your thirst, but alcohol will actually cause you to become dehydrated sooner.
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Play only a 9 hole round rather than 18. You will not usually overheat after a short round of nine and your chances of becoming dehydrated will be reduced.
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Wear comfortable microfibre golf shirts that will not only help keep you cool but also prevent you from perspiring too much.
Remember, if you feel overheated on the course stop playing, sit down and rest. Try to rehydrate yourself with either water or cold fruit juice.
Enjoy the summer as the warm weather is usually short-lived. Follow my tips and you will have a more comfortable and safe golf season.
Next Week: Local Knowledge
Cameron Burechails (Teaching Professional), The Georgian Bay Golf Academy at Meaford Golf Club (705)441-0865 baygolfacademy@bell.net or www.meafordgolf.com
