Chase Elliott, better known for his prowess on the NASCAR track, has recently taken a growing interest in golf, joining many of his fellow drivers in swapping their racing suits for golf polos. Since last year, Elliott has developed a surprising competitive streak on the golf course, revealing an emerging enthusiasm for the sport beyond racing.
Facing the Reality of His Golf Skills
During a conversation with NASCAR journalist Jeff Gluck, Elliott admitted that his initial competitiveness on the golf course quickly met a humbling reality check. Despite his enthusiasm, he realized he wasn’t as skilled as he initially believed, especially when compared to his friend and fellow driver Ryan Blaney. This awareness shifted his focus from obsessing over his score to simply enjoying the game.
A Competitive Spirit That Still Burns
Though Elliott has cooled off somewhat from his earlier intensity, his natural drive remains strong. He described moments when playing with friends and stakes are involved, like a hundred-dollar bet, reigniting his competitive nature. However, the obsession he once had has toned down compared to a year or two ago, reflecting a more balanced approach to his golf game.
Ryan Blaney’s Playful Challenge
In an interview segment known for lighthearted jabs, Ryan Blaney took the opportunity to tease Elliott about his golf abilities. He asked,
When are you ever going to get better at golf, and how many hours will you have to put in to get to my level?
Elliott responded with humor, saying,
Wow! Wow. It’s a valid question,
before admitting,
I go through these little pockets where I get better, and then I fall back apart again.
He went on to share his determination, explaining,
For the record, I’ve hung with him a few times. I’m not as good as him… I’d love to get out more and play and try to give him a run. But listen, I want to be able to go beat him. There’s nothing like going to play somebody like him who’s going to give you a bunch of crap for it and him have to give me strokes. That just sucks. So maybe one day. We’ll keep chipping at it,
Elliott added.
Golf as a Personal Escape and Growth Opportunity
The No. 9 Chevrolet driver previously admitted to Dale Earnhardt Jr. that when he first started golfing, he felt lost but gradually improved his swing. Golf has evolved into more than just a recreational activity for Elliott; it serves as a release from the relentless pressures of stock car racing. This new passion offers him a different sort of challenge and a welcome mental break.
Ryan Blaney’s Unexpected Golf Journey
Ryan Blaney’s enthusiasm for golf is well-known among NASCAR circles. He revealed during an ESPN 101 podcast that he only began playing during the COVID-19 lockdowns, coming from a family that never shared his passion for golf. Once he started, he quickly became hooked and now frequently organizes tournaments with other drivers who also enjoy the game, turning golf into a shared community event beyond the racetrack.
Chase Elliott’s Growing Connection to Golf
Earlier this year, ahead of a race in Texas, Elliott shared photos on Instagram from a visit to the PGA Headquarters, signaling his deeper involvement with the sport. The visit reflected how the quiet intensity of golf games is becoming an appealing challenge for someone accustomed to the high-speed drama of NASCAR.
The Road Ahead for Elliott’s Golf Competitiveness
Chase Elliott’s ongoing journey in golf demonstrates a resilient and passionate effort to improve, despite acknowledging he has a way to go to match Ryan Blaney’s level. His willingness to embrace competitiveness and enjoy the game points to a sustained commitment that could eventually bridge the gap between the two drivers on the fairway. For Elliott, golf is not only an entertaining diversion but also a test of his intense and determined nature off the track, promising continued efforts to refine his skills and competitiveness.
