[PA PLAYA]

Pretty simple for me.

I typically start out great. It's not that unusual for me to find myself -2 or better through 11 or 12 holes. But that last 1/3 of the round really wears on me.

I used to think that it had more to do with the layout of the back-nine than the front nine. But over time, I learned that that has very little to do with it. Because out our club, we sometimes start on the 10th hole as opposed of starting on the first hole some days. And I've experienced the same cruel fates under that scenario. And, for that matter, when I play other courses in the area.

I can blame fatigue, I can point to a number of factors that support the fatigue excuse. And I've really been working hard to improve my physical conditioning so that my mental focus lasts for more than just 11-12 holes. But that's where my biggest challenge awaits me when I play -- the ability to stay the course mentally from start to finish. And my lack of physical conditioning certainly has played a role.

But back to the point -- there's just something personally gratifying to me about finishing well. If I can string together 4-5 consecutive pars coming in to finish, maybe get a bird in the mix somewhere, but at least finish on a strong note.... I tend to sleep much better that night, despite what the score was in the end.

So finishing the round with good play -- that's really what gives me a good feeling.