Once upon a time, I was the golfer who could casually stroll onto the course and deliver a scorecard that earned nods of respect. Birdies? Pars? Eagles? Sometimes

Almost guaranteed.

Then life happened—running shoes, cycling jerseys, tennis rackets, and even motorbike helmets replaced my golf gloves.

Playing twice a month without touching a driving range has turned me into what I call a “bogey king.”

Still “respectable” 🤮🤮🤮, but nowhere near my prime.

So, when my usual old golfing gang (let’s call them the “B Division”) invited me back for our friendly bets over drinks and makan, I couldn’t resist.

But now, I’m wondering lately…

Should I aim higher and risk it all with the “A Division” elites with heavy betting?

Hanging out with the B Division is pure fun. The stakes are light—losing a round might cost me RM200, which only happens once in a blue moon.

My scores? Bogey or par on average, enough to hold my ground but never enough to intimidate.

It’s relaxed, it’s manageable, and frankly, it’s enjoyable.

But lately that made me rethink everything.

Last week, I watched in awe as an A Division player scored a 38 (2 over par) and still lost to a veteran with a jaw-dropping 35 (1 under par).

Their game is no joke, and their bets? Definitely not for the faint-hearted.

RM1,000 or more losses per round are standard fare especially for my current form.

No chatting, no laughing, just intense focus for four straight hours.

To keep up, I’d have to commit—weekly driving ranges, extra rounds.

Could I handle the pressure? Maybe or not. But could I sacrifice all my other hobbies for this? Highly unlikely.

After much thought (and a long internal debate), I’ve decided to stay with the B Division.

Mediocrity? Maybe.

Fun and laughter? Absolutely.

While the allure of playing with the A Division remains, I’ve realized I’d rather enjoy my game than turn it into a high-stakes battlefield.