Putting is the great equalizer in golf. Approximately 40 to 50 percent of all strokes recorded are created through the flat stick. This might seem like a high number, but keep track of the number of putts in your next round and you will find that I very close. I know for my game, I hover around 45%. I always try to improve that number and shoot for an under 30 putts per round average. This goal is very hard to achieve, but it is a goal that I think is reachable. Having said all this, understanding your putting technique is very important to lowering your golf scores.
Continue readinglower golf scores
The Difference Between Chipping and Pitching
If you did not realize, there is a significant difference between chipping and pitching. These two dichotomous shots are important to have in your golf bag because it opens many options to the multitude of shots around the green. I do not have a preference because I have practiced both over the years, however I do subscribe to start the ball rolling as quickly as possible when hitting up and down shots. Regardless of your preference, each setup is unique and requires a different focus.
To discuss the differences between chipping and pitching, I found a video by Brad Faxon. It is simple to understand and outlines the differences between these two shots.
I like how the explanation does not focus on one shot type over the other. This is important because it is the lie of the ball, location of the pin on the green, course conditions and a plethora of other stressors that drives our decision on which shot to use. These two shots are the foundation of a good short game. They allow every golfer the opportunity to decide on what will be the best shot and club selection for any given situation.
I would note, both of these short game shots can be executed with any wedge in your bag. I carry four wedges and I am comfortable playing each shot with any of them. They all offer different options and I am grateful for that. Knowing how to properly chip or pitch a ball will lower your golf scores. As Faxon says, go practice and see what you can come up with in order to improve your short game.
I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!
If I Only Knew This Sooner
Golf is an amazing sport that offers many opportunities for success. Equally, the negative side of golf can be just as aggressive when fighting for your attention. For years, I walked the path of trying to be a scratch golfer, but alas I have given up that goal. Mostly because I am not willing to put in the time or effort (at this time) to cross the finish line. During my journey, I realized one thing that was consistent every time I reached a milestone. This one trait of all athletes is what helps everyone reach their goals.
Continue readingIs Golf Worth The Trouble
The everchanging landscape of golf has me wondering if all the effort I put into being a better player is worth the trouble. I know my limitations, both physically and mentally, that directly impact my golf scores. I know where I need to improve and what areas I need to fix. To use an expression from my past, I am not sure if the ‘juice is worth the squeeze’. To phrase it another way, is the outcome of all my effort worth the time I put into trying to be a better golfer.
Continue readingA Quick Tip To Hit Better Drives
Thanks to Mark Crossfield for this quick tip. I do not believe there is any explanation required!
Have an awesome day!
I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!
The Grateful Golfer 