The hidden treasures of Golf and the Compass Cup

In 2020 my youngest child took up golfing.  It seemed to be the one sport youths and adults alike could still participate in, albeit in a very modified form. 

It ignited in me a renewed love for the game of golf.  Up until then I played periodically here and there but 2020 brought about it’s hidden gifts amongst the chaos and unpleasantness.  And for me, golf was one of those such hidden gifts.   

Fast forward 4 years and little did I realize how many treasures this gift held: 

TIME IN NATURE

Golf courses hold some of the most beautiful scenery in some of the world’s most beautiful venues.  Being out in nature was a big draw for me and no matter how my round goes, I am always grateful to be outdoors enjoying the fresh air and mesmerizing scenery

TIME WITH FAMILY

While my youngest is most passionate about the sport, my husband and older son both enjoy hitting the course as well so what better way to spend time doing something I love with the people I love.  I tell all my “mom” friends, family and clients if you ever want to spend time with your boys, take up golf.  It’s one of the best ways to get teenagers to spend time with you.

And how fortunate am I to have a 15yr old and 18 yr old want to hang out with me for 4.5 hours on a weekend willingly 😊  While my daughter never took to the sport she has come out with us from time to time (she especially enjoyed driving the cart before she could drive and was a great spotter for me).

TIME WITH CLIENTS, FRIENDS, VENDORS AND COLLEAGUES

A few years ago I came across an article in the Wall Street Journal that talked about how women in business were at a disadvantage because so much business was conducted over a round of golf, a sport dominated by men.  It would be interesting to see stats today where the LPGA is getting more publicity and recognition, and more women are getting into the sport. 

For me, golf has enabled me to deepen relationships with my family, friends, clients, vendors and colleagues.  After all, when you are spending 4.5 hours with 1,2 or 3 people in your group, conversations flow (though not while someone is striking a ball) and you really get to know someone better.

I’ve celebrated closings, said thank you for a referral and appreciated my vendors all over a round of golf.  I’ve also had a chance to meet many women who share my passion for this sport, some of whom have now become dear friends of mine. 

CHARITIES

Golf has a way of giving back to the communities and various causes by hosting golf tournaments.  Charitable Golf Tournaments have been a very successful way of raising not only money but also awareness to many causes both large and small.   

THE COMPASS CUP

I’ve enjoyed playing in many tournaments for such causes, one of them being the Compass Cup.  Each year in May, Realtors from Compass get together for a round of golf with various vendors all to raise money and awareness for various charitable organizations.  This year marked my 3rd year attending the Compass Cup. I am always amazed at how well organized this event is that I reached out to my fellow Compass realtor Mike Kenyon who is one of the creators to learn what inspired the project:

“Back in 2021 when Covid was easing up, we were looking for a way to get people back together as well as do some good for the community.  After a round of golf we were brainstorming and came up with the Compass Cup as a way to do both, as well as use our hobbies and have some fun doing it.  We always focus on putting on an outstanding event with great value to our participants as well as sponsors, while at the same time raising money for various causes. We have donated to charities such as shop with a Cop, Els for Autism, autism speaks, Center for the Intrepid, First Tee, Good Karma Bikes for Kids and have also done donations for specific needs such as providing funds for an underprivileged girl who needed a specialized dog to help detect and manage her diabetes.”  

The organizers also like to throw in some friendly competition for the players with awards for overall lowest team score, longest drive and closest to the pin.  I’m proud to say in 2022 I took home the trophy for closest to the pin in the ladies division and this year my team won the award for overall lowest score and I brought home the trophy for longest drive in the ladies division. 

Awards aside, I am truly grateful to have rekindled my passion for this sport that allows me to unite so many blessings in my life! 

Michele