A Good Walk Together
The Grant Thornton Invitation - The first mixed event since 1999.
Amidst the controversies surrounding the golf ball rollback this week, there's one thing happening we can all agree is awesome. This week marks a historic event, as LPGA and PGA Tour players are teeing up together in the Grant Thornton Invitation - the first mixed event since 1999.
For me, this tournament strikes a chord. My love for mixed sports has deep roots. I grew up idolizing my older brother which led me to play all of my sports - basketball, baseball, and golf with the guys. Until my freshman year of high school, I joined the girls golf team. That year, we won the state championship, but two years later we didn’t even have enough girls to make a team. So, I had to join the boys team and I loved it. We ended up winning states that year too!
For me, there was immense value in getting to experience both sides of the coin. My bias leans towards playing with guys because it fosters a fearless mindset, a chip on your shoulder, a distinct personality, and the assumption that you'll inevitably level up. This is precisely why I think bringing back a mixed event is so great.Â
Watching the event, I've noticed a remarkable transformation in the female players—more fearlessness, an unbridled display of personality that sometimes hides behind a shield of seriousness, and a generally more aggressive approach. On the flip side, some of the male players might feel the pressure to rein in errant shots and adopt a more polished demeanor on the course.
The beauty of this mixed event lies in the harmony between these contrasting dynamics. There's no need to declare one approach superior to the other; instead, they complement each other seamlessly. It mirrors the enduring appeal of mixed doubles in tennis, and I earnestly hope that tournaments like this will stand the test of time.
The Good Stuff
Your World Within is one of my favorite sources of inspirational content. Hope this quote provides someone with the inspiration they need.
