My debut as a pro is this coming weekend. I signed up in a pro division since everything in the AM's filled up within hours of registration opening and I missed it all. All that was left was 2 spots in the MP40+ (Male Pro 40 years or older) division. Derp. Still, if anything I'll learn a few things and playing along side better players helps me shoot better. The biggest benefit is having a later start time. Usually, they'll start AM's in the early hours and the Pro's get the late (prime time) starts, which in part is for the players to have optimum prep time, as well as being more convenient for spectators and vendors. Historically, my game doesn't come alive until after 3pm anyway. All my best scores have been after work rounds, which is always after 3pm, and my start time this Saturday is 2:40pm. I know I'm just mind ****ing myself into thinking I'll do ok, but even if I come in last place, I'm gonna have a good time.

https://thumbs.gfycat.com/Enlightene...restricted.gif

Thanks Mindful!

I fold like a bad poker hand when it comes to pressure putts, but if I just say **** it and turn my brain off, I should do ok. The muscle memory is there, I just have the 'what if' mindset during tournament rounds and it gets the best of me.

I played right around my rating on an XL (looooooong distances) layout, so that's not too terrible. I was keeping up with the other pro's on my cards all weekend as far as some of the drives on tricky holes, and I managed to beat 2 MPO (Open Pro's) in the division just above me. This was in a field of about 40 players in these 2 pro divisions combined. My whole purpose was to just get through the tournament though. The heat index was over 100°F and there were a few who dropped out, so being able to power through and finish strong felt great. Last year at the same tournament I wasn't able to finish since my Dad passed away after the first round (it's a 2 day tournament) and I left in the early hours of the morning of day 2 to head up north and hopefully make it in time to say a final goodbye, which didn't happen since he passed while I was on my way but I stayed to help with arrangements and what not. This was more of a tribute to him as well as some closure for me. Love you Dad.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KI9tUrjjwXk

Thanks Mindful.

For sweaty hands, I use one of these:

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Not quite yet. Maybe some day.

I mean playing in a pro tournament makes you pro, right?