I have just returned from a 54 hole regional tournament.  It was fantastic and I thoroughly enjoyed my time on the links.  Unfortunately, I did not qualify for the national tournament, but maybe next year!

During my time at the Garrison Golf and Curling Club, I had time to think and wonder why I was not performing to my expectations.  I wondered if I practiced my chipping and putting enough; did I play in enough tough conditions; was a physically fit; or did I mentally prepare properly?  After much debate, I determined that my mental preparation was lacking.

I believe that pre-tournament preparation is as important, if not more important, than our physical preparation.  Obviously, the physical preparation includes chipping, putting, hitting balls, and playing rule enforced rounds of golf.  However, the most overlooked aspect of tournament preparation is the mental game.

At the Mental Game of Golf, it outlines many aspects that are very important to success on the links.  They state in their blog on the mental game three aspects that I agree with to significantly improve your performance during a competition.  They are: establish your rhythm, mentally preview your round, and have a game plan.  These are three aspects of the game I have used for years and believe they significantly improve performance.  Playing during the tournament I realized I was not as prepared as I could have been; well next year I will be ready!  I am a grateful golfer!

Golf is both a physically and mentally demanding game.  A mentally strong player will be able to navigate the course easier and with more precision.  There is no doubt in my mind that proper preparation will help everyone meet their expectations.

How do you prepare for tournaments?