The Multi-Purpose 5 Iron

I firmly believe that there should be a 5 iron tournament !

One club, one ball, one golfer and his wits.

No bulky bags to manage, prancing nymph-like freely along the fairways and whistling Dixie through a cheese-filled Brady Bunch smile...Ya Right!

You see, I have done it. (Prancing and Dixie whistling and Brady Bunch smile excluded, usually.)

When I was younger my father advised me to practice my game using what he called "the most versatile club in your bag".
"This club can do just about anything, I mean anything" he would articulate wisely.
Feeling somewhat like the kid in the kung-fu series , I would reply, "What do you mean (master)?".
"Well" he would reply, a deep look of serious contemplation resting on his right eyebrow. "If you play the ball off your left foot and tilt the shaft back, you can simulate the 7, 8 and 9 irons". Flabbergasted, I made no retort but stood like a wide-eyed bunny rabbit seconds prior to becoming roadkill.
"Ya", he would continue, his voice becoming more animated as he mistook my fear for enthusiasm, "And if you play the ball off your right foot and slightly close the face, she acts like a putter".
He eagerly gazed upon my countenance awaiting some sign of revelation.
Not wanting to appear rude, after all he seemed to feel like he had just imparted some golf holy grail secret and was expecting a sniper to "take him out" from the clubhouse toilet window for his act of disobedience. I responded the only way possible.

"Huh?" The sound kind of forced its way out. "Ahem, that's interesting" I cajoled, hoping it would make him stop.

"And"....he paused...his head glancing at the toilet window just to be sure, "If one plays two good 5 irons from center position one can easily match the best drive" he finished, like an awestruck kid talking about his new shiny bicycle.

There was a long silence as we stood with our eyes locked like two gunfighters preparing to draw.

Then, he handed me a 5 iron, winked wisely and walked away.

I don't remember how many rounds I played with just a 5 iron, but it was one of the best pieces of advice I have ever received concerning the game.
My whole game improved and upon returning to my full set to play a round, I noticed a vast improvement in my technique.

So, come on guys...Play 5 iron 4 ball this Saturday and test your skill !!!