Golf captures the imagination of its participants in various ways. Some start early, others find their way to the sport later in life. Some are ushered in by friends or loved ones, while others find their love of the game in isolation.
For Rick Dowling, who became a three-time Connecticut Amateur champion this summer, golf and baseball held his attention until it was time to make a choice.
He chose golf, and it's shaped most of his life.
Why did he choose golf as a sophomore in high school?
"I can't really put it into words," said Dowling, 30.
He recalls sneaking onto a nearby golf course in the evenings and falling further in love with the game. A kid alone trying different shots in the waning sunlight.