The ability of any golfer is limited in a moment in time. Regardless of your skills, when faced with a difficult golf shot most amateurs (myself included from time to time) look at shots that is not in their arsenal. During my two tournament victories last week, I was faced with this exact situation multiple times and each time I decided on the conservative approach to shot making. In all instances but one, I made par. The other was a bogey to half a hole. When playing in an event where every stroke matters, overreaching is a mental failure that most amateur golfers experience to the detriment of their score.

To be clear, there are times when overreaching is a good strategy. Mostly it is when we are practicing our game or having fun with our friends. Making that ‘amazing shot’ in front of our buddies is always a good thing. Trying very difficult shots when nothing is on the line is okay. However, when playing in a competitive match, preventing our ego from taking over is very important. Hitting shots we know we can hit is the proper approach to winning golf competitions.

I know many players who have tried the big swinging hook around the tree (using the video above) and failed. What actually happened was they hit the tree more often than not. They were overreaching and played an extremely low precentage shot. The smart play, as shown above was to hit to a distance that was best for their game. If that distance is 100 yards vice 80 yards, then select a club that leaves you with the distance best suited for your game.

You will notice I did not suggest a particular club or distance. The shot your select leaves you with a shot that helps you hit the green on your next shot. The distance is entirely up to you. By trying to hammer a shot out of the rough, over bunkers, onto the green is an overreach for most players. If this is the case for you, then I recommend taking your medicine and hit to your distance.

Golf is a sport that offers various opportunities to be successful. When playing in a match, I recommend playing to your strengths, hitting to your distances, and focusing on shots you know you can make. The moment we stop focusing on course management and start overreaching for shots is the moment we have lost the match.

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