Name: Julie Donlon
Golf pro at Beaver Meadow Golf Course
Who is your favorite current golfer? I’d have to say Rory (McIlroy). He’s young and so competitive. I love Tiger, too, and Rory kind of reminds me of him a little bit in the way they play.
What is the most difficult course you’ve ever played? Kiawah Island, in South Carolina. The layout is real tough, it’s long, it’s extremely windy because it’s on the ocean. It’s a beautiful course, though. And the other toughest would probably be Teeth of the Dog in the Dominican, because it’s the same style.
What is the hardest part about teaching golf lessons? The hardest part is trying to keep a handle on other people’s frustration, to make them see that it’s not going to come easy for everyone. People have to be patient and set realistic expectations for themselves.
What is the most memorable golf shot you’ve ever taken? Have you ever had a hole-in-one? I had a hole-in-one, but it wasn’t that memorable because I didn’t actually see it go in. And I wasn’t playing well that day, which is what I remember. All of my memorable ones seem to be bad shots.
What is the hardest mini-golf obstacle: windmill, clown’s mouth or wayward toddler? Definitely the clown’s mouth. The windmill just seems easier somehow.
You played college basketball at UNH. Are you more competitive on the court or on the links? I think only because of my age I would say more on the court. As I’ve grown older I’ve become a little more realistic about my abilities.
Who is the best golfing basketball player (besides yourself, of course)? The worst? Probably Michael Jordan is the best. I’ve seen Larry Bird play, and he’s not bad. For the worst, I’ve heard Charley Barkley is bad, but I’ve never seen him play. What about Brian Scalabrine who used to play for the Celtics? I bet he’s not very good.
Would it be more difficult to get a golf ball in a basket or a basketball in a golf hole? Definitely a basketball in a golf hole, for sure.
If I were going to shoot a golf ball in the basket, though, I’d probably go with a wedge, get it up in the air and try to score it.
What is your favorite golf movie? Probably The Greatest Game Ever Played.
Hidden talent? You’re assuming I have one. I pitched in high school and we won two state championships in softball.
Guilty pleasure? I love walking my dog. Also David Feherty’s golf talk show. And the Bruins, definitely the Bruins. That’s more important right now.
