On her first time doing set-up, Alma Cavaletto attaches the money hole sign to the pin. Photo by Peggy McGee
Peggy McGee
Every week, about 45 minutes before the Lady Putters’ start time, two ladies meet to do the set-up. Each week, it is a different pair who has volunteered for the job, often someone new to set up and an experienced “set-up pro.” The set-ups team’s mantra is, “If I don’t do well today, I only have myself to blame!” Or could she blame her helper?
The first order of the day is to put signs at the three entrances to the putting green telling golfers that the green is closed. The signs are often ignored, sometimes until the Putters are approaching the green en masse. Next, safety cones are placed on possible tripping hazards — storm drains, sprinkler heads.
Finally, the pins are rearranged in sequential order. Then the serious work begins as the starting points for each hole are determined. The set-up team takes great care in ensuring that the balls do not cross paths as play proceeds. Two balls must be hit off the grass while the remaining 16 are placed on the green. There is a mix of uphill and downhill shots. The set-up team then determines the money hole for the day, the hole perceived to be the most difficult. This keeps the treasurer happy, since each lady who gets a hole-in-one for the money hole wins $5. In the summer, the start point for the money hole is always in the shade, while in winter, it is placed in the sunniest location.
A final walk-around takes place to make sure the numbers are in order with the number facing the starting point.
The green is ready for the putters. After the final team has finished putting, the set-up team gathers the signs and cones and puts everything back in its proper place until the following week.