MEDIA CONTEST: Playing the Pro: Slices of life (Series) Published Dec. 27, 2006 Series Entry 2A ACC MEDIA CONTEST -- (Editor's note: This is the first in a four-part series on Moody's Quiet Pines Golf Course.) As springtime grips Moody with warming temperatures and the first signs of green are appearing in the grass and trees, more and more people will find a magnetic pull toward local golf courses. As an average golfer who has been known to break 90 on a few, very select occasions, doing a series on Moody's Quiet Pines Golf Course and getting to play while on-the-job seemed like a great idea. So over the next four weeks, I will meet weekly with new Quiet Pines course director and golf professional Dumas "Ben" Bennett. Each week, we will take an in-depth look at three holes of Quiet Pines and discuss the best way to play each hole. Then I will take on Bennett at each hole and see how I fare against the pro. My great idea may have become a little less great. But before we play the course, I spoke with Bennett and discussed ways the average golfer should prepare for returning to the "links." Equipment The first thing golfers should look at before returning to the course after an extended layoff is their equipment, said Bennett, who took over the course director position in January. They need to see if their equipment meets the needs of their game. "If not, then you have to ask yourself, 'What type of golf do I want to play' and then make an investment you feel comfortable with," he said. Bennett recommends golfers, who have the financial ability, should have clubs custom-fitted for their personal style. This will help prevent buying a set of ill-suited clubs, which may lead to the development of bad habits or having to buy an additional set. In addition to the clubs, golfers should consider updating their accessories, including a pair of spikeless golf shoes and tight-fitting glove, he said. Stretching Stretching is another key element Bennett said all golfers should do before hitting that first drive. "Back injuries are common in this game," he said. "Stretching and working out your back can not only prevent injuries but add power to your game." In addition to back stretches, he added golfers should stretch their legs, triceps, rotator cuffs and torso areas, allowing easier body rotation, a requirement when swinging a club. "Golf requires a person to be physically and mentally healthy," said Bennett, who carries a two handicap. "If you have a body problem, you are not going to be able to play golf as well as you would like." Warming up After stretching, another important factor is hitting the driving range. "To be honest, I am not a big fan of practicing because all my good shots are gone on the range," Bennett said jokingly. "It is important, however, for those who don't strike the ball well to practice hitting balls. It also helps get the body loose." The key to hitting on the range is to start slowly, he said. Begin by hitting a high iron, like a seven- or eight-iron, and practice making solid contact with the ball. "The two most important factors to consider when hitting balls are to have a loose, relaxed grip and, most importantly, a balanced stance and swing path," he said. To prove this point, Bennett took me to the driving range for a quick lesson. After reviewing my grip, stance and swing, he made several corrections to increase my balance. Lessons For those golfers who want expert help with their game, Bennett said lessons are available at Quiet Pines. Taught by Addie Cobb, a contracted golf instructor, course customers can purchase individual or group lessons by contacting the course pro-shop at 257-3297. Lessons are generally held on Saturday and cost $30 for an hour session or $80 for three one-hour lessons. Bennett added the course is also planning a series of clinics beginning in April. After dusting off my clubs, learning a few new stretches and getting some helpful pointers at the range, I guess I am now ready to take on Bennett and the first three holes of Quiet Pines next week.