What Does a Slope Rating in Golf Mean?

What Does a Slope Rating in Golf Mean?

For many golfers, the challenge of a golf course isn’t always obvious until they’re several holes in. Some courses are more forgiving, while others demand precise shot placement, strong course management, and a deep understanding of how the layout affects scoring. But how do you measure a course’s difficulty before ever stepping onto the tee?

As a trusted name in the golf community, Deer Creek Golf Club understands how a golf course’s difficulty influences the way golfers approach a round. Whether you’re a new golfer looking to expand your knowledge or a seasoned player brushing up on the finer details of the history of golf, knowing how courses are rated is essential for improving your game and making informed choices when selecting where to play.

The purpose of this blog is to break down slope rating in a way that is easy to understand, helping golfers at all levels learn how it impacts their scores, how it differs from other golfing terms, and why it matters when comparing golf courses. With the right knowledge, players can make smarter decisions, set realistic expectations, and ultimately enjoy the game more, whether they’re playing at their home course or traveling to a new one.

 

Defining Slope Rating and Other Related Terms

What is slope rating in golf?  The USGA defines the slope rating of a golf course as a measure of the relative difficulty of a course for players who are not scratch players compared to those who are. Since playing length and obstacles impact higher-handicap golfers more than lower-handicap golfers, the slope rating accounts for these differences. A scratch golfer plays to a handicap index of 0, while a bogey golfer typically has a handicap of around 20 for men and 24 for women. The higher the slope rating, the greater the expected difference in scores between these two types of golfers.

Relation to Course Rating and Other Related Phrases

Course Rating

One of the most common terms of golf associated with slope rating is course rating, but the two are not the same.

  • Course rating represents the expected score for a scratch golfer (a player with a 0.0 handicap system index) on a given course.
  • Slope rating measures how much more difficult a course plays for a bogey golfer compared to a scratch golfer.

For example, if a course has a course rating of 72.5, it means that a scratch golfer is expected to shoot close to 72.5 strokes on that course. However, that doesn’t reflect how difficult the course will be for a higher-handicap player, which is where slope rating comes into play.

  • A course with a higher slope rating means that bogey golfers will struggle much more compared to scratch golfers.
  • A lower slope rating suggests that the course plays more evenly for both scratch and bogey golfers.

Bogey Rating

Another key factor in determining slope rating is bogey rating, which is one of those golf terms that are often overlooked but play a major role in how courses are rated.

  • The Bogey rating represents the expected score for a bogey golfer, a player with a 20 handicap (men) or 24 handicap (women).
  • This rating is always higher than the course rating because a bogey golfer is expected to take more strokes than a scratch player.
  • Slope rating is determined by calculating the difference between course rating and bogey rating.

Since higher-handicap players struggle more with long distances and hazards, slope rating helps measure how much tougher a course is for a bogey golfer compared to a scratch golfer.

For example, if a course has:

  • A course rating of 72.5
  • A bogey rating of 92.0

That 19.5-stroke difference is then multiplied by a constant (5.381 for men, 4.24 for women) to determine slope rating, which we’ll cover in the next section.

 

How to Calculate a Golf Course Rating and Slope

The United States Golf Association developed the course rating system to measure how difficult a course plays for golfers of different skill levels. This system assigns every course a slope rating, which helps golfers understand the difficulty of the course before playing.

While the USGA oversees the course rating system, it relies on local Allied Golf Associations (AGAs) to conduct on-course ratings. These organizations, with support from the USGA, train staff and volunteers to evaluate courses within their jurisdiction. Their work makes sure that the Course Rating System™ remains accurate, allowing golfers to apply their Handicap Index® consistently across different courses. Without the dedication of AGA staff and volunteers, the World Handicap System would not function effectively.

Factors That Influence the Rating of a Golf Course

The USGA considers several factors when determining slope rating, all of which affect how difficult a course plays for different skill levels:

a golf scorecard

  • Total Yardage: Longer courses tend to have higher slope ratings because they challenge bogey golfers more than scratch players.
  • Fairway Width: Narrow fairways increase the difficulty of the course by making tee shots less forgiving.
  • Hazards and Rough: More water hazards, deep bunkers, or thick rough increase course rating and slope.
  • Green Speed & Complexity: Faster greens and undulating surfaces make putting more difficult for higher-handicap golfers.
  • Elevation & Wind: Uphill holes and wind-exposed layouts add to the difficulty of a golf course.

These factors determine how difficult a course is for players at different skill levels, which creates a fair handicap calculation system.

The Formula to Find a Slope Rating in Golf

​In the USGA’s calculation of a golf course’s Slope Rating, the constants 5.38 for men and 4.24 for women are used to standardize the measurement of a course’s relative difficulty for bogey golfers compared to scratch golfers. These specific multipliers ensure that a course of standard difficulty receives a Slope Rating of 113, which is considered the average.

Origin of the Constants:

  • Men’s Multiplier (5.381): An average Slope Rating of 113 is assigned when the difference between the Bogey Rating and the Course Rating is 21 strokes for men. The multiplier 5.381 is derived from dividing 113 by this 21-stroke difference (113 ÷ 21 ≈ 5.381)
  • Women’s Multiplier (4.24): Similarly, for women, a standard Slope Rating of 113 corresponds to a 26.65-stroke difference between the Bogey Rating and the Course Rating. The multiplier 4.24 comes from dividing 113 by 26.65 (113 ÷ 26.65 ≈ 4.24).

These constants are integral to the formula:​

Slope Rating = (Bogey Rating − Course Rating) × Multiplier​

By applying these specific multipliers, the USGA ensures that the Slope Rating accurately reflects the increased difficulty experienced by bogey golfers relative to scratch players on a given course.

How Slope Rating Affects Handicap Index

A golfer’s Handicap Index® is a numerical representation of playing ability, allowing golfers of different skill levels to compete on an even playing field. However, not all courses present the same level of difficulty, which is where the Slope Rating comes in. By factoring in Slope Rating, the World Handicap System™ adjusts a golfer’s Course Handicap™, ensuring they receive the appropriate number of strokes relative to the difficulty of the course. A golfer playing a harder course will receive more strokes, while a golfer playing an easier course will receive fewer strokes.

The USGA Course Rating System™ calculates Course Handicap™ using the following formula:

Course Handicap = (Handicap Index × Slope Rating) ÷ 113

  • 113 represents the Slope Rating of a course with standard difficulty.
  • A higher Slope Rating increases a golfer’s Course Handicap™, giving them more strokes to account for added difficulty.
  • A lower Slope Rating decreases their Course Handicap™, meaning fewer strokes are given on an easier course.

By adjusting a golfer’s strokes based on course difficulty, the Slope Rating ensures fair competition on any course. Golfers can use the USGA Course Handicap Calculator to determine their official Course Handicap™.

 

Experience a Golf Game at Our Club!

Understanding slope rating gives golfers a better way to evaluate course difficulty, whether they’re tracking their Handicap Index or just planning a casual round. But at the end of the day, the most important part of golf is enjoying the game—and there’s no better place to do that than at Deer Creek Golf Club. Are you curious about our course rating and slope rating? Check out our course tour and scorecard to see the details before your next round.

Located in Deerfield Beach, right in the heart of South Florida, Deer Creek Golf Club is known for its beautifully maintained course, inviting atmosphere, and top-tier amenities. Whether you’re looking to challenge yourself on a course with a well-balanced golf rating and slope or simply unwind with a relaxing round, our course is designed to be both fun and rewarding for golfers of all skill levels.

For those looking to improve, we offer professional golf lessons and a top-notch practice facility, making us one of the most well-rounded golf clubs in Florida.

Enjoy a round at one of the best South Florida country clubs, or take your game to the next level with a lesson from our experienced instructors. Contact us today to book your tee time, and for more golf insights, read our blog. See you on the course!

 

Related Readings: 

What Is a Links Golf Course?

What Is a Links Golf Course?

Ever wondered why golf links is considered the purest form of the game? The secret lies in its natural terrain, rugged landscapes, sandy soil, and deep-rooted history in Scotland.

A links course is unlike any other golf course in the world. While types of golf courses vary greatly, true links courses are shaped by nature, offering firm fairways, deep bunkers, and unpredictable wind conditions. Unlike a coastal golf course, which may include modern landscaping, a links course remains largely untouched, embracing its raw, undulating design.

While Deer Creek Golf Club is not a links golf course, it still provides an exciting and strategic round for golfers looking for a premium experience. And while many golfers associate these with Scotland, some of the best links courses in the world can be found beyond the east coast of Scotland.

 

What Is a Links Course? Understanding Golf Course Types

Definition of a Links Course

What is a links golf course? A links course is a coastal layout, typically built on sandy soil with undulating fairways and natural terrain. Unlike a traditional golf course, links layouts emphasize firm ground, allowing the ball to roll more than it does on lush parkland courses.

Links are known for deep pot bunkers, unpredictable winds, and fairways that require strategic shot placement. Historically, these courses were built with minimal earth moving, every contour was shaped naturally, often along rising ground.

Unlike many modern courses, golf links challenge players to adapt to unpredictable conditions, use creativity, and embrace traditional strategies.

Types of Golf Courses Compared to Links Courses

Unlike many modern types of golf courses, which rely on heavy landscaping, artificial hazards, and softer fairways, golf links embrace the land’s natural contours, making every round an unpredictable test of skill. Here’s how they stand apart from other courses:

  • Parkland Courses: Found in wooded areas with lush, soft fairways and minimal wind interference (common in the U.S.). Unlike links courses, these layouts favor high ball flights and hold approach shots better.
  • Desert Courses: Built-in arid regions like TPC Scottsdale, with man-made fairways contrasting against sand and rock. Unlike links, desert courses lack coastal winds, rely on irrigation, and present challenges tied to heat and dry conditions.
  • Mountain Courses: Feature steep elevation changes and variable winds (such as The Cascades Course). Links courses are flatter, with rolling dunes and steady coastal winds, while mountain courses challenge golfers with altitude shifts and unpredictable gusts.
  • Heathland Courses: Open layouts with firm ground and fewer trees than parkland courses. While heathland and links share natural landscapes, heathland courses lack the extreme coastal winds and rugged dunes that define true links.
  • Sandbelt Courses: Found in continental Europe and Australia (like Royal Melbourne), with firm fairways, deep bunkers, and fast greens. While links share the firm ground and strategic bunkering, sandbelt courses are more structured by course design rather than raw, natural terrain.
  • Executive & Par-3 Courses: Shorter layouts designed for quick rounds and golf lessons. These courses are manicured and forgiving, while links require endurance, creativity, and adapting to ever-changing natural conditions.

 

The History of Links & Famous Links Courses Worldwide

Origins of Links in Scotland

The history of golf dates back to early courses across the pond on the east coast of Scotland, where Scottish golf courses developed naturally among sand dunes. The most famous example, St Andrews Old Course, is regarded as the home of golf and one of the most prestigious links courses in the world.

A golf course near the beach

Courses in Scotland were designed to follow the natural rising ground, with little earth moving. Early golfers played on open land, dealing with wind and sandy landscapes. Over time, these golf courses in Scotland became the foundation for modern golf links.

The first major tournament, The Open Championship, has been played primarily on true links courses, further cementing their status as the ultimate test of skill.

Famous Links Golf Courses in the World

Some of the most renowned golf links courses include St Andrews Old Course, the most legendary golf course in the world, known for its deep traditions and challenging design.

  • Royal Troon is a historic host of The Open Championship, with some of the most challenging holes in links golf.
  • Carnoustie is considered one of the toughest golf courses ever played, notorious for its brutal wind conditions.
  • Pebble Beach is a rare links-style layout in the U.S., featuring stunning views along the coast.

 

How Playing Links Golf Differs From Other Courses

Conditions & Challenges of a Links Golf Course

One of the defining features of playing links golf is the unpredictable conditions. Unlike parkland courses, where trees protect shots, links golf demands adaptation to wind, firm grass fairways, and the constant challenge of deep bunkers.

A needed skill in links golf is learning to keep the ball low. The open landscape of a coastal golf course means wind plays a significant role, requiring players to adjust their approach with every shot.

Challenges That Make Links Special

Golfers must adapt to undulating terrain and bunkers that can significantly impact their strategy.

  • Pot bunkers are deeper and more penalizing than traditional hazards.
  • Bobby Jones played a key role in shaping modern links golf course strategies.
  • Poor shot placement can leave a golfer with a tough putt or a recovery shot from thick fescue.

Why Golfers Dream of the Links Experience

Many golfers consider playing a true links golf course a bucket-list experience. The links experience forces players to rely on skill, adaptability, and strategy rather than power alone.

For those seeking an authentic test of traditional links golf, these courses are often regarded as the pinnacle of the game.

 

Why Deer Creek Golf Club Offers a Fun and Challenging Golf Experience

A Premier Golf Destination in South Florida

While Deer Creek Golf Club is not a links golf course, it is still one of the best golf clubs in Florida, offering pristine fairways and fast greens for an enjoyable round.

Strategically placed bunkers require thoughtful play, without the extreme challenge of pot bunkers.

A welcoming South Florida country club atmosphere provides both casual and competitive rounds.

A Golf Course for All Skill Levels

For those looking to improve their skills, golf lessons at Deer Creek Golf Club provide professional instruction for all levels. Whether you want to work on your putt, refine your tee shots, or gain confidence on different course types, expert coaching is available. Whether you’re playing competitively or just enjoying a day out, Deer Creek Golf Club delivers an exceptional experience!

 

A Fun Golf Experience, No Matter the Course Type

While Deer Creek Golf Club isn’t a true links golf course, it offers a rewarding challenge for all golfers. Players don’t have to travel to courses in Scotland to experience championship-caliber golf, South Florida has excellent options.

For those looking to enjoy a top-tier round of golf, Deer Creek Golf Club is a must-visit among golf clubs in Florida. Experience Championship-Caliber Golf and book your tee time with us today! With us, you can enjoy a premier South Florida golf experience! If you’d like to learn more about golf and general tips, feel free to read our blog! We can’t wait to see you!

 

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Adapting to the Latest Advancements in Golf Technology: Enhancing Your Experience at Deer Creek Golf Club

Adapting to the Latest Advancements in Golf Technology: Enhancing Your Experience at Deer Creek Golf Club

A golf bag with clubs and balls scattered around it.

At Deer Creek Golf Club, we are committed to providing an exceptional golfing experience that seamlessly combines tradition with innovation. As golf technology continues to revolutionize the game, we understand the importance of staying ahead of the curve. We explore how our golf course is embracing the latest technological advancements to elevate your time on the greens. Join us as we delve into the exciting world of golf technology and how it enhances your game at Deer Creek Golf Club.

Advanced Golf Course Management Systems

At Deer Creek Golf Club, we utilize state-of-the-art golf course management systems to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. These systems integrate data from various sources, such as weather forecasts, player bookings, and maintenance schedules, allowing us to make informed decisions and optimize course conditions. By leveraging these technologies, we ensure that every aspect of our course, from fairways, greens, and bunkers, is maintained at its best, providing you with a consistently enjoyable golfing experience.

GPS and Course Mapping

To help you navigate our course with ease, we have implemented GPS and course mapping technologies. Our golf carts are equipped with GPS devices that provide accurate yardage measurements, helping you make informed club selections for each shot. Additionally, detailed golf course maps are available on our mobile app, allowing you to visualize the layout, plan your strategy, and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. These technological tools empower you to make more precise and strategic shots, improving your overall game.

Swing Analysis and Instruction

Mastering your swing is crucial to improving your golf game, and at Deer Creek Golf Club, we offer cutting-edge swing analysis technology to help you achieve just that. Our advanced swing analysis systems provide detailed insights into your swing mechanics, club path, ball flight, and more. Our expert instructors at our golf school use this data to provide personalized instruction and tailored practice routines, helping you refine your technique and achieve better results on the course. Embrace the power of technology and unlock your full potential as a golfer.

Online Tee Time Booking and Mobile App

We understand the importance of convenience and accessibility in today’s fast-paced world. That’s why we have implemented online tee time booking and a user-friendly mobile app. With just a few clicks, you can book a tee time, manage your bookings, and receive important updates directly on your mobile device. Our app also provides real-time course conditions, upcoming events, and special promotions, ensuring that you stay connected and well-informed as a valued member or guest of Deer Creek Golf Club.

Come To One of the Best Golf Courses in South Florida Today!

As golf technology continues to shape the landscape, Deer Creek Golf Club remains at the forefront of innovation. Our commitment to embracing the latest technological advancements enhances your experience on our course, providing you with the tools and resources to elevate your game. From advanced course management systems and GPS technology to swing analysis, we harness the power of technology to deliver an unparalleled golfing experience. Join us at Deer Creek Golf Club and discover how technology is revolutionizing the way we play the game of golf. Elevate your golfing experience with us today!

Call us or fill out our form today to learn more about our membership options and available times to come and play a round or for any other questions you may have. Our expertly crafted golf articles provide valuable tips and insights to help improve your game. 

 

Related Readings

The History Behind the British Open

The History Behind the British Open

The History Behind the British Open

Golf is a game of tradition. As a landmark South Florida country club, we are aficionados of golf history. We believe that we should pass on our knowledge of golf traditions and tournament traditions to the next generation. The British Open, also known simply as the Open, has a long and storied past. As the 2021 Open winds down, we thought it would be interesting to look at the history behind the British Open.

When Did the First British Open Take Place?

The 2021 British Open marks its 149th edition of the tournament. As a result, you may think that because 2021 minus 149 is 1872, that would mean that the first British Open took place in 1872; however, this is not the case. The first Open was played on October 17, 1860. While the tournament is a yearly occurrence, complications in history have caused the competition not to be played in some years. Understandably, coronavirus caused the cancelation of the 2020 Open, but this was not the only cancelation of the event. 

The first cancelation of the tournament occurred in 1871. A golfer named Tom Morris won the three previous Opens, and as a result, was given the ceremonial trophy at the time, the Challenge Belt. Until Tom Morris’ third victory, the belt was returned by the previous victor, to be competed for again. In 1870, they decided to award Tom Morris full possession of the belt, meaning there was no trophy to compete for in 1871. 

Other cancellations were more obvious, with the tournament not being held from 1915-1919 and 1940-1945 due to World War I and World War II. 

 

The History of the Claret Jug

As the Challenge Belt became the personable property of Tom Morris, the tournament needed a new prize. The Claret Jug, or the winner’s trophy, was created in 1872; however, this award was not finished by the end of the 1872 Open, which Tom Morris also won. As a result, Morris was instead presented with an engraved medal. This new tradition of a medal was adopted and has been used since the 1872 tournament. Like the Challenge Belt, the Claret Jug must be returned by the winner and competed for at the next tournament. 

 

When Was the First Claret Jug Awarded?

The first Claret Jug was awarded in 1873 to then-winner Tom Kidd. The original Claret Jug was retired and placed in a museum. 

 

The History of the Current Claret Jug

The current Claret Jug was first awarded and presented at the 1928 Open to Walter Hagen. The trophy is still returned by the winner, who receives an engraved medal and replica to keep. 

 

Today’s British Open

As the tournament comes to a close, we welcome the sight of a new custodian of the Claret Jug. The tournament concludes tomorrow July 18, 2021, at Royal Saint George’s Golf Course, where a new champion will most likely be crowned. 

While we’re not fortunate or talented enough to play the British Open, we do have the luck to play at our esteemed South Florida Golf Course regularly. Contact us today to play at our beautiful course, or view our membership page for more information. 

 

Related Readings:

History of Golf in South Florida

20 Surprising Facts About Golf

Top 4 Major Golf Tournaments

Top 4 Major Golf Tournaments

Top 4 Major Golf Tournaments

Winning even one of the four major golf tournaments is seen as one of the highest peaks in a golfer’s career. Winners of golf majors hold a prestigious title, are a part of golf history, and receive a substantial reward. The golf enthusiasts at our South Florida golf course are sharing everything you need to know about the top 4 major golf tournaments on the horizon.

What Are the Four Major Golf Tournaments?

If you were to ask any professional golfer, they will tell you that the major championships are the most prestigious golf tournaments in the nation. The four major golf tournaments include the Masters, the PGA Championship, the U.S. Open, and the Open Championships, also known as the British Open. 

When Are the Golf Majors? 

The major golf tournaments are held annually throughout the spring and summer seasons. 

  • The Masters is held in April
  • The PGA Championship is held in May 
  • The U.S. Open is held in June 
  • The Open Championship is held in July 

The Masters Golf Tournament

To kick off the major golf tournaments, qualified professional golfers gather at the Augusta National Golf Club, where only exclusive members such as Bill Gates can play a round of golf, to compete in The Masters, which is considered one of the most prestigious golf tournaments of all. The Masters was first played in 1934 and the popular green jacket awarded alongside the trophy was introduced in 1949. 

The current Masters Champion is Tiger Woods; the professional golfer won over $2 million back in 2019. Tiger Woods has a collection of 5 green jackets, go figure!  

What Does The Masters Green Jacket Symbolize? 

The Masters green jacket is the ultimate symbol of a person’s success in golf. It shows the world that the major golf tournament winner is now an honorary member of the Augusta National Golf Club.

The green jackets are kept on the grounds of the Augusta National Golf Club and removal is forbidden unless you have been declared the champion. The current Masters champion is allowed to take the green jacket home for 12 months, after which they must return it to the golf club. 

PGA Championships 

The PGA Championship is another one of the four major golf tournaments and is played on a variety of courses throughout the United States. While the PGA Championship has traditionally been hosted on the East Coast, it’s expected to move to the West Coast in 2021, at TPC Harding Park in San Francisco. 

The winner of this big golf tournament receives a replica of the original Wanamaker trophy. The original Wanamaker Trophy is currently on display at the PGA Gallery in Florida. The current PGA Champion is Brooks Koepka, who has won in both 2018 and 2019. 

U.S Open Golf Tournament 

The United States Open Championship, known as the toughest of all four majors in golf, is not only one of the biggest golf tournaments but it’s actually staged by the United States Golf Association (USGA) instead of the PGA. This big golf tournament sparks a lot of controversy as many golfers believe that the course is too difficult, really challenging golfers. 

This major golf tournament has been won by Americans 85 times compared to the 34 winners from other countries. The current U.S Open champion is Gary Woodland. 

The Open Championship – The British Open 

The last major golf tournament of the year is The Open Championship, also known as The British Open or simply The Open. It’s not just the only golf tournament held outside of the U.S, it is also the oldest golf tournament in the world. 

The winner of The Open Championship gets the honorary title of “Champion Golfer of the Year,” a title that every professional golfer aspires to have. The current Champion Golfer of the Year is Shane Lowry, who won the major golf tournament in his home country of Ireland at the Royal Portrush. 

Becoming a Professional Golfer

Do you want to become the next professional golfer and play like some of the champions at the major golf tournaments? Swing by Deer Creek Golf Club and check out our incredible golf club membership deals. Whether you’re a novice who wants to learn the game or a more intermediate golfer who’s looking to brush up your skills, we offer golf lessons at our schools in the area that can give you tips to improve your golf game at home and on the course. 

Get everything you need to become the next major golf champion like Tiger Woods at our on-site pro golf shop. To book your next corporate golf tournament or schedule a tee time at our golf club, call or contact us today.  

 

Additional Reading: 

Adam Sandler’s 25th Anniversary Tribute to Happy Gilmore

Cringeworthy Stories About Cheating in Golf 

The Best Golf TV Shows to Watch  

An Ode to Golfers

An Ode to Golfers

An Ode to Golfers

To our fellow golfers, we thought we’d share some an ode to golfers or two for you to read. Remember these odes to golfers next time you’re playing a corporate golf tournament or having some good old fun at your South Florida golf course.

1. Is There A Golf Course In Heaven by Harold R Hunt SR

Is there a golf course in heaven
Is there a golf course in heaven
O’lord of mine. 
I have cheated 
I have lied 
I have killed
I have steal
I have made people sad 
I have made people mad.
But I just want to know one thing before I go.
Is the a golf course in heaven? 

 

2. Golf Poem by H H Rutledge

Some might say that God had a plan
For every other woman, child and man,
To grab a club and hurry, hurry
Onto the green no later than early.
To hit little balls into the air.
Where do they fall? Somewhere out there.
‘Twas Babe, Palmer, The Bear, and Ben..
Now Tiger’s throngs are puttin’ to win.
I know not why it rules their souls,
This little ball.. this little hole.
In short I’m wet.. I stand ashake.
My favorite ball fell in the lake.

 

3. Golf Of Course by Ima Ryma

Two craggy Scots, Angus and Hank,
Had golfed a round of eighteen holes.
In the clubhouse, they sat and drank
Scotch to warm their bodies and souls.
It was a blustery raw day.
The wind howled fierce off the North Sea.
Sleet whipped down from skies dark and gray,
As nasty as nasty can be.
Hank and Angus thawed out some more.
Ice melted from their beards, and drips
Fell into puddles on the floor.
Angus asked Hank in between sips.
“Same time next week we be hittin’?”
“Aye,” Hank said, “Weather permittin’.”