Nuggets - Hackers Revisited

So, with us into Phase 3 of our return to normal from the ravages of COVID-19, golf courses are once again open. But with the limitations of people in carts as well as the restrictions on interior dining, we felt that our annual Hacker Golf Tournament would need to be shelved for 2020.

After all, golf is only a small part of the reason we hit the course each July. Our main objective is to enjoy the interaction and camaraderie that comes every time a group of Re/Maxers get together to socialize. So lets reminisce!  

While in normal years there are a lot of golf tournaments available to choose from, they tend to be somewhat serious events, with rules meticulously followed, scores carefully kept and both prizes and bragging rights to be had. Hackers is not like one of these.  

As its name suggests, the event is meant to encompass everybody. From the very serious, scratch golfer to the novice who has never held a club in their hands. And every year we have both, and everything in between. The format is best ball, so even if you slice your drive a mile into the woods, you don’t have to face it again. Water, sand, trees, all the same. As long as someone in the foursome hits a reasonably decent shot, everybody benefits, cause that’s where the next shot takes place.  

Because for some, it’s a totally new experience, we limit our play to 9 holes. Not too exhausting, especially with everyone zooming along in carts. And for the somewhat serious golfer, we do recognize proficiency with awards going to longest drive and closest to the pin for both ladies and gentlemen.  

Over the years we’ve played at a lot of great locations around the peninsula, but for the last few years we have settled in at Pen Lakes in Fonthill. A very picturesque setting, with some challenging holes, enough water hazards and traps to keep things interesting, and after the round is finished, an amazing buffet to enjoy.  

With so many great moments it’s hard to pick out one highlight, but I suppose sitting out on the back deck overlooking the majestic scene below and enjoying a drink with a very special group ranks up there near the top, as does sitting together in the dining room reliving the days events and sharing some laughs. All in all, it always turns out to be a very special day, magical when shared with these very special people.  

We were forced to take a pass in 2020, but we look forward to our Hackers Event 2021 when COVID-19 is a distant memory and life is back to normal once again.