If not tournaments, then what?

This past weekend, I had the pleasure of attending the 4th Annual Fernburner at Lucky Mud, an almost overwhelmingly positive experience. I say experience, because while the Fernburner is technically a tournament, it amounts to so much more. You’re can stay at the inn or camp out on the course, are fed ample amounts of great home cooked food, and have plenty of opportunity to kick back, take a deep breath and lose yourself in serenity of your surroundings. Not to mention, you’re surrounded by a group of great people who all likeminded and share a common love. Sure, the competition is there if you want it, but it just seems to be one facet of this gem.

On the Sunday following the tournament, some of who camped out had a round of casual random draw doubles. My partner was Jenn, the only woman playing in the doubles. My game was simply not there in the morning, and Jenn had to do the majority of the work for us. And you know? I’m not embarrassed to admit that. The girl has game. She’s a solid player that could give a lot of guys a run for their money, and would probably do very well in PDGA tournaments. I’d even go so far to say she’d quite possibly dominate in the WA State Series, were she to play in it. But no, she only plays one tournament a year, and that’s the Fernburner. More on If not tournaments, then what?