Author: The Grateful Golfer

US Open Final Thoughts

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Congratulations to Dustin Johnson for winning the 2016 US Open. Despite some drama on the 5th hole, he played extremely well on a tough course. His approach shot on the 18th hole was clutch and it was one of the many highlights of the day. He putted very well (which was key to his win) and carding a final round 69 was exactly what he needed to walk away with is first, of many, Major championship.

Dustin’s round was solid and consistent; exactly what was needed to claim the US Open Trophy. There were other highlights of the final round, both good and bad, however Oakmont appeared to be the talk of the weekend and I am not sure the course should be center stage of any Major, however the media chose this issue as their main theme. Continue reading →

The Golf Mutter!

/ The Grateful Golfer / 2 Comments

You are playing a course that is kicking your butt. It is long and challenges your every shot. The rough is crazy thick and the greens are so fast that it is like putting on your kitchen table. Wait this sounds exactly like Oakmont! However, that is a different conversation!

When playing the tough courses our mind shifts from focusing on the positive to hoping we don’t make any large numbers! The round slowly starts to erode our confidence and our winning mindset becomes a damage control approach to golf. And this is when the golf mutter starts!
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The US Open – What is Going On?

/ The Grateful Golfer / 10 Comments

As the US Open unfolds, many pundits are scratching their heads wondering where all the superstars are! The are definitely not at the top of the leader board except for Dustin Johnson, Lee Westwood and Sergio Garcia. These stars are household names in golf with others some the others like Shane Lowery, Jim Furyk and Bubba Watson just a few strokes back.

The second round was delayed for darkness, however the top players in the world have some work to do just to make the cut! Are we really surprised at the current leaderboard…..really? Continue reading →

A Review of The Awning Stripe Performance Polo by Carnoustie

/ The Grateful Golfer / 2 Comments
Performance Polos Classic Collection (1)

Performance Polos Classic Collection

How much thought do you put into buying a new golf shirt. If you are like most people, whichever shirt is on sale is good enough. Unfortunately, this method of buying active wear generally leads to disappointment and a closet full of unworn golf shirts.

When selecting a golf shirt I look for five specific qualities: style, comfort, freedom of movement, ease of care and of course value. These qualities are important because if I am going to spend money on active wear, it must be able to stand up to the rigors of my life on and off the course.

Taking more time to invest in quality golf apparel could enhance your game. Recently, I was introduced to a black Awning Stripe Performance Polo by Carnoustie and I can say I am not disappointed. The “ELEGANT STYLE, TIMELESS APPEAL” of this shirt, as touted by the company, is exactly that: timeless and elegant. From what I have experienced so far, Carnoustie easily hits the mark. Continue reading →

Golf Drill – Chipping Drill Using Practice Flags

/ The Grateful Golfer / 2 Comments

Simple golf drills are the best! With 15 minutes of chipping practice before my round, I try to simulate what I will experience on the course. This drill uses the available course equipment and works all three of my Titleist Vokey wedges.

I like to start with my gap wedge, then sand wedge and finish with my lob wedge. I keep the same launch spot for all the shots for consistency of aim during all the chips. This drill follows the KISS theory and I use it almost every time I warm up.
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