WCC - Day 2 - Enniscrone

Gale-force winds were reported last night off the Connemara coast. Needless to say, we were met with our sternest test yet on arguably the toughest track in the tourney lineup. 35-45 mph winds, but other than a few short showers, thankfully no real rain. Golfers need to experience links wind to gain an appreciation of its formidable challenge. Mike's hat was blown off on the first tee. Bino's tripod bag was blown over four times. Chuck's trolley was knocked over backwards. You could feel the wind moving your clubhead on every shot. Any putt -- especially 2-3 footers -- could become an adventure. If (as in Mike's case) your driver goes south, you are left with a plethora of dings, i.e. no Stableford hole points. It can get ugly and demoralizing in a hurry. Mike should have left his driver in the car -- he scored a mere 20 points. Bino and Chuck fared much better, with Bino rallying on the back nine with 18 points for a team-leading day total of 30. Bino laced a 4-iron to four feet on a 150-yard hole and notched his 2nd birdie. Chuck, sporting a solid tee ball, was also able to solve the conditions and register a very respectable 28 points, highlighted by his reaching a 522-year par five in two (he missed the wind-blown birdie putt).
It was Mike's turn to buy the post-round guinness and it was enjoyed down the coastal road at the fabulous Aughris Head Beach Bar -- a slice of Irish heaven. Doug was on our minds throughout the day. A rainbow graced our presence at the beach.