I was emotionally unprepared for my first hole-in-one. Through junior golf, high school golf, college golf, and some post-collegiate tournament play, I had seen it happen to others, and come close on so many occasions myself. I was not prepared when it was my turn to watch a ball disappear over a mound on the green after a 185 yard trip over water, into the wind with a cleanly struck 4 iron. I was playing a Titleist Pro V1x. I always play a Titleist. For 42 years, I have always trusted my game to Titleist. My playing partner and I both hit good shots onto the green, but as we approached it, only one ball was visible, and it made me nervous for a reason I had never felt before. I knew, but I was afraid to tell myself it was okay to celebrate because what if... I knew, though. I know how a good ball feels coming off of my long irons. I know what it does when it grabs the green. That’s why I have stuck with Titleist. I trust what it will do. The walk to the hole was surreal. I still didn’t want to celebrate prematurely. I was so nervous, but I had to face the moment I have been waiting for for so long. Looking over the edge of the cub, I saw something familiar. I saw the cursive Titleist on top of that dimply ball. I had permission to claim that moment, and here’s what it felt like: An ace is deeply personal and deeply satisfying. Inside, I was awash with gratitude, still a bit of disbelief, and deep contentment. It was like taking an exceptionally good bite of your favorite food. I just wanted to savor that moment for all it was worth. It wasn’t an overly animated moment, but it was one of the most vivid experiences I can remember. As it replays over and over in my head, I see one thing each time...the look of that cursive Titleist just over the crest of cup. That image helped me hear the, “yes, finally” that my inner voice whispered as my doubt disolved; fully bathed in gratitude.’ Thank you for being with me for the entire journey, Titleist.