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A/230th Golf Scramble - 10 September 2005

A few members of company a, 230th engineer battalion of McKenzie and Milan recently had the opportunity to compete in a 4 man golf scramble, Iraq style. The competition was held at a makeshift golf course near a forward operating base South of Baghdad on September 10th.

The course consisted of only three holes due to the amount of space available within the confines of a guarded perimeter, so teams played each hole 3 times from different directions to complete a 9 hole scramble. Although the course was small, it was highly challenging due to the rough terrain, rocks, and the razor wire and obstacle perimeter surrounding the course. Each green consisted of carpet held in place by sand bags to hold the edges down. Some local Iraqi's were also on hand to caddy for the event.

Sgt. Chris Perry, Sgt. Johnny Sexton, Sgt. Brian Carpenter, and Spc. Eric Griffin represented Co. A/230th in the event. The soldiers found the event to be a great relief from the stress of being in a combat zone. The soldiers jokingly made comments such as "what to do if your ball hits a landmine" or, " how to hit over the camel's back". The team tied for third place finishing 3 under par. Sgt. Chris Perry won the "longest drive" competition and was awarded a Taylor Made golf bag. Highlights from the event will be aired on the Golf Channel September 28th.

Left to right: Spc. Eric Griffin, Sgt. Chris Perry, Sgt. Brian Carpenter, Sgt. Johnny Sexton

Sgt. Chris Perry tees off.

Spc. Eric Griffin retrieves his ball from the razor wire boundary.

Story and photos by Sgt. Johnny C. Sexton
Unit public affairs representative
A Co, 230th Engineer Battalion
APO AE 09331