“When it’s breezy, swing easy”! Yesterday was a test of my ability to play golf in the wind. If you are not used to shooting your best golf in windy conditions, then my round was not for you. Although the sun was shining, the 30-35 kph breeze lowered the temperature a fair bit. Not to worry, I was dressed in layers and was completely prepared.

I can honestly admit that my knowledge and skill is not where I need it when playing in a strong wind. Other than just playing, it is something that I tolerate and do not practice. Recently, I stumbled across this article on Twitter by Real Golf Irish  and I thought it was well worth sharing.

The following is a cut and paste from their article. As I read it, I began to understand what many pundits have suggested over the years. I am not sure why their message resonated with me, but it has. Now I want to put their advice into action. Here is what Real Irish Golf had to say:

Hitting Into The Wind:

• Fight the urge to swing harder; an easier swing will keep the ball down.
• Take more club: Don’t be afraid to go 1, 2 or even 3 clubs up. and swing at 75 percent. Fast swings create more backspin and send the ball higher, so resist the urge to smash it.
• Move the ball back in your stance.
• Move you weight more onto your left side than normal.
• Grip down and make a shorter back swing.
• Finish low to hit it low.

Hitting Downwind:

• Watson: The key to hitting downwind is to swing full speed to spin the ball more and fly it higher. It’s hard to do because the breeze flattens the trajectory, even though the ball will travel farther with the added roll.
• Assume normal ball position and setup and make a full swing.
• It will be harder to stop your shot so allow for roll out when determining distance.

Hitting Into A Cross Wind:

• If you can work the ball in directions, you want to work the ball INTO the wind. Visually think of banking the shot into the wind.
• A three quarter swing will give you more control.
• A controlled, on balance swing is still the best swing for you.

There was a bit too much information to try to assimilate in one day. Therefore, I focused on my swing. I tried 75% power into the wind, full swing with the wind, and 3/4 swing into a cross wind. As I looped the course, I found their advice very valuable. I kept the ball in play and finished with a 6 over 77!

Given the windy conditions, I am very happy with the results. Thanks Real Irish Golf for the help and I look forward to working on the rest of your suggestions.

Do you play golf well in windy conditions? Do you have anything else to add?

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!