Just over a month ago, I had a Vokey SM8 and two SM6 wedges - both very worn down - until my friend generously got me a 56 SM11 for my birthday a month a go. He was tired of me "swinging skillets" as he put it. Just prior to my vacation in Mexico (where a lot of golf was to be played), I rounded it out with brand new 50 and 60 SM11's. Oh, the joy of new grooves!
Fast forward 9 days from my last round on that trip, and last time I'd swung a club. I'm visiting my Mom in SD while in town for a conference, and knowing I'm going to be playing with my friend (same one who bought me the 56) on Thursday after the conference, I realize I can maybe play Mission Bay tonight under the lights, and minimize the rust factor (FYI, that shows you how long it's been since I played there...they no longer have lights, and apparently hadn't for years). A different coworker who lives nearby wants to join for a quick (the back) 9 before the sun goes down. On the 13th hole, I knock down my PW on a 115 yd pin to about a foot. Kick in for birdie. While walking to the 14th hole, I remark to my coworker/friend (relatively new to golf) that "This will sound super douchey, but I'm kind of glad that didn't go in. I have a few aces and they're all at stellar courses. I'm not sure I would want to get one here and mess that record." My friend, who is an agreeable guy, laughs it off while I shoot the distance on 14. 94yds, middle pin. Grab the new 56. Send up a nicely flighted ball drawing toward the pin. Lands about 4 yards past and right of the pin, bounces another two feet and bites, hard... zips back on a southwest line, directly into the cup. No more than three minutes of putting that statement "out there."
While the golf Gods have a great sense of humor, I still enjoyed the heck out of it. The feel and control of fresh grooves digging into my ProV1, and actually seeing a targeted shot do what I had in mind and actually see it go in (last two were blind)...that NEVER isn't cool regardless of where it happens. Best part, we'll have a great story at the conference where I'll get to thank my buddy for helping me get #4 with that new 56 he got me. Given his intention with the gift and the name of the course, I'd say it's safe to say...mission accomplished.
Thank you, Titleist! 5/18/2026
