The Newbie
Jessica Hess is learning the game 75 yards at a time. |
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| April 15, 2008 |
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| Jessica Hess is a new-comer to the game, a Tiger Woods fan, and a mother-to-be! |
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What is the best piece of golf advice you have ever received?
When I started, my dad said, "Just try to hit the ball." I grew up watching him play and he would make me be positively silent during his shots. That's a good piece of advice that makes the game fun. I just walk up, go through my set-up, and swing. If I hit the ball, I did good.
If you had the chance to play one course (anywhere) for FREE, what would it be?
I'd play the TPC in Scottsdale. I love when the fans boo and cheer on the stadium hole. When I watch basketball or football, I always want to be one of the players getting cheered for. Plus, Tiger has played that course.
What’s the defining moment that got you hooked on golf?
My husband got me watching golf during the 2005 U.S. open. We were on our honeymoon and he would leave the pool to go watch the back 9. The showdown between Michael Campbell & Tiger was great. But the moment that got me hooked was when I started playing more. I'm 5 months pregnant now and my in-laws bought me lessons & starter clubs 3 months ago. I've played two rounds so far and it's great.
What is the funniest thing you’ve seen, heard, or overheard on the golf course?
My husband & I were playing with his brother at Link N Greens, and he was driving the cart back towards us to tell us something. I didn't see him coming because I was setting up for my shot. My husband may or may not have seen him coming. I got a hold of it, he swerved but it still drilled him in the arm. Hilarious.
Who is your favorite professional golfer and what aspect of their game do you admire most?
I'd have to go with Tiger Woods. It's like watching Michael Jordan play golf...you never know what he's going to pull off next. He's so good and works so hard, just don't do anything while he's in his backswich. Plus, he's hot!
Tell us about the top 5 courses you've ever played.
Well, I've only played two. Here's how they rank: 1) Orange Tree Golf Resort, AZ- Played this one with my husband and in-laws in Scottsdale, AZ. Great course built in 1955. It's a pretty course and there are plenty of rest stops for the pregnant woman. 2) Link N Greens, CO- A public course in Fort Collins, CO that's wide open and a fun time. It's where I played my first 9 holes. I like it because there's no pressure, and you can run across the street to Wal-Mart if you need a drink.
What local golf course do you enjoy playing the most?
Only played one- Link N Greens - so that would have the be the default. The course staff is super nice and the guys in charge of making sure you're playing fast enough will take time to have a conversation with you. Plus, it's only $15 for 9 so I can pick up my ball when I feel tired and not worry about wasting money.
Where is your favorite place to hang out for 19th hole?
I would have to say it's at home, taking a nap. Golfing can be hard work when you have another person growing inside of you. Sometimes we'll go get ice cream, but my ultimate 19th hole is on the couch, falling asleep to a good movie.
Besides golf, what do you like to do in your spare time?
Right now, a lot of spare time is spent getting things ready for the baby. When I'm not doing that, napping, relaxing and resting are on the top of my list. I also like to read, go for walks, shop, and watch TV.
How would you describe your golf game?
A work in progress. I'm working on showing my mom, dad, & brother I can actually play golf. Athletics have never been my strong suit, so they all kind of giggled nicely when I told them I was going to start. Right now, I also stick to just my 7 iron, wedge, and putter. While everyone else is bothering with the rough, I move it down the fairway 75 yards at a time.
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| Name: |
Jessica Hess |
| Age: |
24 |
| Birthplace: |
Columbia, Missouri |
| Hometown: |
Fort Collins, CO |
| Played: |
4 Years |
| Handicap: |
N/A |
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| Driver: |
Acuity |
| Woods: |
Acuity |
| Irons: |
Acuity |
| Wedges: |
Acuity |
| Putters: |
Acuity |
| Golf Ball: |
Acuity |
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