My First Hole in One

Jacob and I snuck in one final round in California the Saturday before our departure to drive back east. A cool thing happened!

Holding the lucky ball

I’ve been playing golf since I was about 8-10 years old, including some competitive years on my high school golf teams, but had never chalked up a hole-in-one. It finally happened at Yocha Dehe Golf Club (at Cache Creek Casino) on April 5, 2025. Hole 16, about 140 yards.

Jacob giving me the 1

I’m so grateful this happened with Jacob there to witness! After hitting the shot (easy 9 iron) to the front hole location, we saw the ball hit right at the front edge of the green and start rolling. Knowing it was a good shot I bent down to pick up my tee when I noticed Jacob dropping his club and tee and yelling “it went in!” I think I turned to him and asked “did it go in?” and then celebration dances and hugs and fist bumping ensued.

This isn’t a great feat, more a matter of getting lucky. Playing more golf to get more chances doesn’t hurt. Still, glad I finally checked this off. Next goal up is an albatross. Please don’t call these “double eagles”. Or maybe shooting even par for a round.