For any purist, to carry or not to carry, that is the question to be answered. I must confess, it wasn’t until a few months ago that I became a true carry convert. Up until that point, I was part of the ‘pushcart mafia’, as it is called in the USA.
I have nothing against using a pushcart, having always thought carrying too much a strain on the back/shoulders, rather than pushing dead weight on a set of wheels. But it wasn’t until looking at what was in the golf bag, that I realised carrying wasn’t a bad idea.
It really started when I offered a friend the use of an extra set of clubs I had, avoiding the need to rent. Picking up the spare set, there was a noticeable difference in the weight to that of my regular gear.
Until this point, I carried everything you could possibly need. Be prepared was my motto, not that I was a boy scout, especially considering the Melbourne weather. Wet weather gear, umbrella, loads of balls, tees and an assortment of not so useful gadgets or memorabilia. All removed and I was amazed at how much lighter the load became.
How on earth professional caddies manage to lop around a tour bag full of the necessitates for the pro golfer, bewilders me. So now I have become a full convert, carrying the bag with bare essentials, minimising the weight, but enjoying the freedom of walking where ever I need. Not worrying about circling a green, sticking to paths. Liberated.
A few months ago I had my first big test, going to Barnbougle for three days. Could not think of a better place to carry in such splendid settings. They do have nice pull carts, with large wheels, easy to traverse some of the dunes on the course. But it was confirmed how much easier carrying was, when on the second round of they day, I decided to use the push cart. Going down a stony walkway, nearly went flat on my ass. Earlier in the day I had walked the edge of the path carrying without any issue. Certainly helped to convince me to ditch the push cart on the back nine.
Along with safety, I have the freedom of both hands. Score if in competition or take photos, something I regularly do. So the next step, lighten the load a little more. Maybe ten clubs at most. Then a bit more stylish bag.
So to carry or not to carry? This little duck will push or pull no more. Well until I physically unable to carry at least.
