Golf Ball Diving

There is apparently much debate over the precise origins of golf. Theories abound that place its beginnings in either ancient Rome, China, Persia or Europe. The prevailing theory places its birth on the British Isles in the country of Scotland around the 12th century. Wherever its inception, golf has been a great contribution to mankind, providing us with hours of entertainment.

For instance, where else would one get to laugh at old men dressed in ridiculous patterns of plaid? In addition to its intrinsic humor, it has the added effect of becoming a powerful anesthesia when shown on television. Hence its airing on Sunday afternoons while everyone is taking their nap. I actually sat and attempted to watch it once, I did not wake up until late the next day.

Perhaps though, one of golf's greatest gifts is the water hazard (not to be confused with the Dukes of Hazzard). These littles jewels dot the landscape of any well designed golf course, beckoning would-be golfers to send their ball off into oblivion. Golfers may try to avoid the wiles of these ball traps; however, many will succumb to their siren song. Leaving a plethora of little, white treasures in a watery grave.

Enter golf ball diving.

Golf course water hazards make the perfect late night excursion, as long as you do not get caught. During the summer months, there is nothing quite like a nocturnal goodwill mission to rescue water-logged golf balls. In a good night, you can pull several hundred old balls out of these little ponds. Bring a bucket, but leave your flashlight at home.

Rarely are these makeshift pools deeper than 4-6 feet, so they provide the perfect place for a few night-time laps, or a good game of Marco Polo. The added benefit is walking away with more golf balls than you can carry, providing you with an activity for the next night... trying to lose all of those golf balls.

Golf courses abound in the Jackson area, there are three right in town. Some are easier to access than others, so exercise common sense. Oh, and do not destroy anything. Golf courses can get picky if you mess up their manicured lawn.