Hitting the ball in play is always the goal of any golfer. Whether you are hitting off the tee or else where on the course we all strive to hit the ball consistently. The very first shot of any round happens at the first tee (duh, right). Actually, the first shot of every round starts before first contact through a variety of practice swings, maybe some range work, and through metal visualization. So, our round of golf starts earlier than we think and this is not really anything new. Therefore, building consistency off the first tee (usually with a driver) is key to starting your round off properly. But, how do we do this you am ask? Great question, I stumbled across a great drill that might help you on your way to hitting your driver with great consistency.
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I Forgot My Putter!
Many amateurs do not check their bag before heading to the first tee. We generally have one set of clubs and they usually reside in one location around our house. In my case, my clubs stay in my vehicle for the summer and rarely come our for non golf related activities. Having said that, there are times when I remove certain clubs for practice and as a result playing around of golf with out a putter is entirely possible. Well, actually, over the years I have played a few rounds without a putter, PW, SW, 3 wood and Driver. Leaving these clubs behind generated some interesting and colourful conversation. Additionally, I had to wait for at least 9 holes before I could retrieve my wayward clubs from my car. With important clubs taking a rest, I had to be inventive on how I replaced them during the round.
Continue readingToe Chipping Made Easy
Chipping around the green can be a challenge. Additionally, it offers a plethora of techniques you can use to chip the ball close or in the hole. Over the past few years I focused on toe chipping in order to develop a technique to consistently hit the ball close. I like toe chipping and have developed my 5 and 7 iron for longer chips, but have not mastered using the higher loft clubs because my confidence is not quite there…..yet. Regardless, toe chipping is a great way to successfully chip the ball when your lie is not the best. I guess your next question will be how to tip consistently with the toe of the club.
Continue readingHitting A Close Approach Shot – Then What?
Nothing lifts a golfer’s spirits than hitting a golf shot close to the pin from 150 yards. I specifically chose that distance because most of us are hitting from that distance more often than not for approach shots. Regardless, the premise is good and solid. All I know is that our emotions rise when we see we have an opportunity for an up and down from that distance (usually for birdie). After making such a great shot, what do you do next? Are your actions as you reach the green hurting or helping your chances to sink the putt?
Continue readingKnowing Your Golf Game And Trusting It
Many golfers are riddled with the challenge of self-doubt. It seems to be the nature of most athletes in any sport, but golf accentuates the mental challenges of knowing our golf game. After many years of experience on the links, I still encounter situations where I know the shot and I still let negative thoughts control my play. I do immediately recognize the issue, yet I cannot change the narrative. I do believe I am not alone and most golfers, regardless of experience and skill level, face the same situation during every round of golf.
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The Grateful Golfer 