For Robert Mims Memphis is the place to be for anyone who wants to play golf, whether it is their first time or not. The sport is a fantastic game and has laid the foundation for many friendships and business relationships alike. Hailing from Louisville himself, Robert Mims went to Memphis after university in August and quickly took on the role of CFO for a great company. He feels, however, that while this may have been where he built his career, it was at the clubs that he built his friendships and truly became a member of the community.

Recently, Mims received a report about a young child who tried to shoplift a convenience store. Following his arrest, the news broke at his work and he was fired. Mims saw in that boy a young soul that was being abandoned and took him under his wing. He told him not to steal and that he would be on report, making sure he was cited with the local golf course and that he knew each and every guideline to follow. The boy agreed and became a member, learning how to play golf. This inspired him to truly turn his life around and, for Mims, provided proof that there is more to golf than just hitting a ball. As a result, he has now devised a list of tips to help beginners get into the game.

Robert Mims Memphis on Getting into Golf

Mims believes the starting point should be to get to know the different clubs. It is important to choose the right ones, but beginners don’t have to think too much about it. Rather, they should stick to the simple clubs and move on once they have a bit more experience. Mims also feels people should start borrowing clubs rather than purchasing them, so that they can afford it.

Second, it is all about keeping it short. Spending a full day on the green is tiring and will leave your body aching. Hence, beginners shouldn’t start playing an 18 hole course. Just a couple of games and practice sessions is more than enough. Once you build your stamina, you can start playing more. This is also because you don’t need physical stamina, you also need mental concentration.

Next, he believes that to play golf properly, you need instruction. The boy he mentored was a prime example. He has become very good at the game and he probably had a natural talent. However, that talent was nurtured through lessons and that is what made him go from a talented player to a truly good player. Mims feels it is better to invest in lessons than to invest in clubs.

Finally, Mims believes it is important to learn how to control your emotions. Golf can be incredibly frustrating. The first time you whack a bunch of grass and the ball remains in the tee is funny. The fourth time will make you feel like flinging your club in the nearest lake. To play golf, you must be able to handle failure.