Today starts the day of three (potentially four) rounds of golf in tournaments. It will be a very busy week, but great fun as well. Unfortunately the three booked are scrambles with the potential of the potentially fourth round being match play. The rounds will all be a different courses and with different players. So, lots of golf with great friends is in my future starting today. Being matched with a variety of players, it will be challenging to keep my strategy in check because each player brings something different to the table.

Over the years I have offered many different approaches to my golf strategy. This weeks tournaments does not change how I am going to play, however there is one aspect of my game that will required additional focus in order to play my best golf. What I need to ensure is that I remain mentally tough. For those who have not played in a three day event or back to back tournaments, it is mentally draining regardless of the format. Hence, my efforts to remain mentally focused and in the moment on all the upcoming shots.

Staying mentally focused can be a challenge, however I know of three things I can do that will give me the edge I want:

• First, stay hydrated. Our mental acuity lessens if we are not hydrated. It affects us physically as well, however mentally not staying hydrated will cause as many problems. Therefore, I will need to drink lots of water.
• Second, staying rested. I will be carting it for two of the rounds (included in the tournaments) and walking the third. This will help with my energy levels, however after the matches will require some focused rest to recharge. Experience tells me that the third day will be the toughest because of the prolonged mental focus, yet the back nine of day two can be a struggle if I am not rested.
• Lastly, stay light between shots. While waiting for my time to hit, I will need to relax my thoughts. Being ramped up for prolong periods does take its toll mentally. It is not always important to talk to my playing partners between shots. Being quiet and relaxing is a great way to recharge my mental tank during a round.

Playing golf for three days in a row can be both physically and mentally challenging. Many golfers out there play friendly matches for multiple days, however tournaments add a bit more stress to each shot. Staying strong mentally is a challenge that all golfers face. I do have some coping techniques and I have experience on my side. Hence, I am prepared for some great golf, fun conversation, and perhaps a win or two. 😉

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