When
you think golf, you usually think of hitting the links, right? Well,
who needs lush fairways and groomed greens and golf carts, 190 North's
Janet Davies discovered a whole new gritty version of the game that's
made its way to Chicago!
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Yes, a new city-fied version of the 500 year-old Scottish sport
is spreading across the country -- first in San Francisco, then
the Big Apple and finally Chicago.
"We go out to alleys, we go through L tracks, we go through vacant
lots and we play rounds of golf using tennis balls, not golf balls
to minimize damage. Its just a way of getting people together and
having a good time," said Jane Davis.
Jane Davis is one of the founders of the 'Urban golfing' group
that had its first outing back in the spring. Now, many weekends,
you'll find them tromping through alleys, ducking under parked cars
and sifting through garbage -- all for the sake of their shot.
Each outing begins at a neighborhood 'watering hole.' This time,
it was the Green Eye Lounge in Logan Square. Then, clad in their
best tartans, knickers, golf spikes and plenty of argyle, the group
heads out to the course to tee off.
Of course, there are hazards along the way -- from the occasional
oncoming car to trash, to even more offensive obstacles.
"We do have 'game off and on.' We're very careful to make sure
we don't interrupt the flow of traffic too much," said Jane.
You can imagine some of the looks these golfers get as they traverse
the city's back alleyways but most onlookers find it funny, even
a little entertaining.
Bystanders have also been known to join in along the way
There are a few rules -- the lowest score wins and judges do dole
out penalties. All rules aside though, having fun as they whack
away is the name of the game! For more information:
www.cudgel.org
