Part II of Rex and Pete – Still golfing at 93
They should be on the cover of Golf Digest
In the back of my mind I was, and still, hope a national magazine would pick up their story. From the very beginning, I felt strongly that Rex and Pete could possibly be the two oldest golfers who are still actively playing 2-3 times a week. And, they live only a couple miles apart, and over the years, played some of the same courses. Read their inspiring story in http://clarksburgpost.com Columns, "Michael's World."
I first approached Rex about getting up a game with Pete. I said, "Rex, I will call the television stations, the local newspapers, notify all the members, and turn this into a major media event - "Rex Carder vs. Pete Kaites - The Super Senior Match of the Century." Rex looked at me and just shook his head, "No way." Over the next few weeks I kept casually mentioning it, especially after I talked with Pete at The Greek Food Festival held annually in Clarksburg, West 
Virginia.Pete was all for playing with Rex. I didn't tell Pete about my grand plans.
In the meantime, I changed my proposition with Rex. One day on the course I said, "Rex, how about a nice Friendly game with you and Pete?. I'll invite a fourth and we will just have a nice day. I can take some pictures and write an article for the newspaper and forgo all the previous hoopla." Rex agreed. I immediately thought of inviting Sonny Donaldson (blue shirt). I really enjoy having Sonny as part of our regular games. He is always on time. He does not let 'errant' shots turn the day into chaos and ugly. Sonny is never in a hurry to be some place else. And we are pretty equal competitors, both being basically bogey golfers.
Unlike a few guys I have played with over the years, I know I am not 30 any more and know I cannot play like I did years ago - not that I was really any good then either. Although I was a pretty good athlete in my teens and twenties. I am realistic about my game. "What athletic injuries have not stiffened up, old age and arthritis have." Yes, I want to be competitive and do better, but I take the game of golf for what it is - a chance to exercise, loosen up a little. socialize, and have fun. And that was what my day was like with Sonny, Pete, and Rex - FUN!
When I interviewed Rex and Pete, they both told me a few stories that were not for print - I promised. But, I must admit, It would do many people a lot of good (hopefully) if they would read, and think about what they told me in confidence. However, these stories will remain with me.
What I admired most when watching Rex and Pete swing a golf club was their athleticism. After a certain age, we all have 'quirky' swings.Backs do not bend right, hips do not swivel properly, shoulders do not rotate like we want, and arms do not extend fully - but we still enjoy the game. I know, because of back injuries, I can only take about 1/2 - 3/4 swing at best. Yet, when I watched my two heroes, they still swing the club well and generally get good results. And remember, these men are 26 years older than me.
Boys will be boys at any age. We all push ourselves too far at times. And I know, when I reach # 15 tee, the tank is pretty empty. I watched Rex and Pete closely and they maintained their gate and swing until the end. Yes, we did not look as crisp as we did on the first tee. Our step was a bit shorter, but we all shook hands to celebrate the game that Arnold Palmer called, "The greatest man has invented."
When Pete and I finished the round, we had a cold beverage in Conky's 19 Hole - the bar at Sonny Croft. That is where we met up with Jeannie Marsh, who I call 
the Matriarch of Sonny Croft. 
Her family has been a member of Sonny Croft since the early 1950's. When I saw Jeannie walk into the bar, Pete's eyes lite up. They have known each other since 1952. The three of us just sat there for over an hour. And believe it or not, I said very little. It was so wonderful to see two people who have known one another for 64 years do one hour of "Remember...and remember when."
As the weather turns "non-golf," I must meet with Pete to see how he fills his days and stays active during the Winter months. As for Rex; I know where I can find him. Almost every day during the week, he can be found at Sonny Croft, in the locker room, around the pool table. Not only is he a pretty darn good golfer, he also has a keen eye on the pool table. Rumor has it that Rex and club President, George Hayhurst, are planning to "rule the table" this Winter. Time will tell.
In the meantime, I have a plan: To hold an annual "Super Senior 2017' with Pete and Rex next year. Perhaps this one could be at Pete's home course, Pete Dye Golf Club in Bridgeport, West Virginia. This is a beautiful course, and is rated by Golf Digest in 2016 as one of the Top 100 Golf Courses in the United States (#53). Google Pete Dye Golf Club, Bridgeport, West Virginia and enter a beautiful place. My goal for Winter 2016 - set up another wonderful day with two inspiring men. Wherever we play, it will be a fine day. Rex Carder and Pete Kaites - Enjoying a sport that is more than a game.
So, friends and followers, it is time to say good bye - until next time. Hoping everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving. And, amidst all the festivities, remember the real meaning and remember those who are a circle of one.
Michael