18 Pastures

The reviews were so bad,

I was curious.

A championship golf course

With panoramic views—

Now so seemingly neglected.

Overgrown landscape,

Disintegrating tee markers,

Vintage power carts.

Rusted irrigation spouts,

Overwhelmed parched greens.

Was it sad or progressive?

Was there something nostalgic

And ecologically balanced about

This cow pasture philosophy?

The trail running of golf courses.

Maybe that’s why I loved it.

(18 Pastures, Mission, BC, June 9th, 2024)

Penny Youngash

It’s been over two years since I golfed at 18 Pastures while camping at Rolley Lake in Mission. It was such a refreshing departure from my usual golf experience. More in keeping with my “Why I Like Golf” blog, (February 2026.)

My suggestion is to give courses like 18 Pastures a try. Carry a few clubs, lots of balls and leave your golf handicap at home. Have fun. I also thought it would be a great idea for 18 Pastures to host a x-country run event. I don’t think it would damage anything.

Transitions

I miss trail running. I’ve always preferred the scenic route and most of my 30 years of running have included park paths or ocean views. I’m feeling less nimble or coordinated and my trail options are more conservative.

I need to pick up my feet. I also like looking for owls, checking my surroundings and daydreaming, so for self preservation I should pay more attention.

I’ve been guilty of running on my local Fairwinds cart paths early in the morning or when weather has kept the course closed. It’s one of the only safe places to run in the snow. It’s actually quite delightful but has become controversial if the actual golf course hours aren’t respected.

I’m transitioning into more golf but continue to maintain a casual attitude towards the game. I used to think it was glorified kick the can, but each round presents new challenges and keeps me humble. There are lots of steps in a round of golf.

A friend once said that golf isn’t expensive. She would spend more money if she spent the same amount of time shopping.

Keep your eye on the ball.

Penny Youngash