Years ago, as I got into playing a lot of golf, the more I appreciated the Open Championship, which is being contested this week at Royal Liverpool in Hoylake, England.

When I was growing up—a rabid sports fan—I just thought of the British Open was a strange event played in a strange land with dead grass and horrible wind. I didn't get it. Now I love it.

As a young American, I knew of The Masters and the US Open, of course, but I was probably most familiar with the PGA Championship. It was the one major of which I watched the most total coverage. Usually August was the only time I wasn't in the middle of a season of playing ball.

I hate that the PGA Championship moved to May. No longer is it "glory's last shot." But ... I cannot control these things.

Tuning into the majors—even though my interest in sports is at its lowest point in four-and-a-half decades—is still must-see television for me. Now we're in the midst of the year's last major.

Everyone plays the same course. Things such as "luck" (or weather or your tee time) may have a small effect, but they don't have a "major" effect.

Low score wins, but it comes down to execution at the highest level that determines the winner.

The most-skilled golfers in the world all have a chance heading into the weekend.

Under these circumstances,

One of the great things about major golf is that it is the ultimate "man versus self" sport. In stroke play, you play the course. (Match play—which I love—is a bit different in that you "play" your opponent, but only insofar as you have to "match" strategy and tactics. You still have to play the course.)

So, while there is a giant field of competitors, it is usually the fellow who wins at his "self" who emerges at the top. There may be exceptions.

Talent, obviously, is a huge variable. But it's not the only one, and at this level, certainly not the biggest one.

My 6-year-old has a desire to play golf. He has very few skills. The grit and determination may or may not come with time.

The ultimate concern is for us both to enjoy the game. I will never be the Champion Golfer of the Year. Percentages say that he won't be hoisting the Claret Jug either.

But, just a few moments ago, we agreed to go practice next week at "the golf course." I have to now find a proper facility that will work for the both of us.

We're going to start with putting, I think.

I've been eyeing a 9' x 3' indoor putting surface. Have to run it by Mom first, however. Before the summer runs out, I'd also like to get a chipping mat with targets that float in the swimming pool (with floating golf balls).

If you're a golfer, and want to improve your skills (&/or your fashion) on the links, our affiliate link for Lesmart Golf is worth at least checking out. Plenty of devices, mats, etc. for improving putting and chipping. Plus, some apparel at a decent price.

Then I actually have to start playing again. On a course. And record my scores.

As always,

Brian