White Dragon Golf

Previously, I discussed my annual trip to Golf Town to check out the deals and hopefully buy a new 3-wood or putter. This yearly pilgrimage signifies the close of one season and the start of another. I start by making a list of goals, hopes and aspirations for the upcoming golfing season. To accomplish these amazing feats, I check my clubs and decide if I need any new equipment. For me, purchasing new clubs is a want, but has to fit a need.

This year my list consisted of three major items (and some minor items that were definitely a want):

3-wood;
putter; and
rain gear.

Each of these items fills a goal of being able to have more options while on the tee and fairway, greater confidence around the green, and the ability to play in wet weather. These goals seem very broad, but I will discuss them in greater detail in upcoming articles.

Back to my trip; as I entered the store, I followed my usual routine. I walked around looking for sales, examined the new equipment, and then focused on the items on my list. As a side note, I always go to the golf ball section to see the sales. Sometimes I impulse buy to try a new ball if the price is right. But, not this trip.

I decided to start at the putters section. The putter I use is approximately 10-years old. It is a ProGear putter with a resign insert in the face. I have had tremendous success with it through the years, unfortunately less so in the past two. I did some research (checked out The White Dragon Putter – it is very interesting) to make sure I knew what I was looking before I tried them. As my selection process started, I picked up a blade putter, mallet putter, offset putter….you name it I tried it. I tried all the big named putters, not so bit name putters, and one was even a hockey stick (worked for Happy Gilmore!). Sadly or maybe not, I putted the same way with all the putters. It made no difference what so ever! So after an hour and 500 putting strokes, I concluded that the reason for my failing putting stroke was not enough practice. So I am going to start there before I buy a new club. Check out PGA.com for selecting a new putter, I found it very helpful.

Next was the wet weather gear. It was a quick look. I did not find anything I liked under $400. I am not ready to spend that kind of cash on golf clothes……yet!

Callaway WarBird – 1998

Click On Image for Club Review from Golf.com

Last was my search for a new 3-wood. I went around to all the different makes and models and tried a couple in Golf Town’s practice facility. Most had a lower profile face; this is different for me because I still use my 1998 Callaway Warbird 3-wood. It has a Memphis 10 shaft which I hit straight, but have lost some distance, hence the need for a change.

Ultimately, I chose the Callaway Razr Fit. It suited my eyes well; it felt solid; and the ball appeared to jump off the club head. It is a couple of years old, but I liked it better than the new technology clubs. Additionally, it was at the right price. It has a stiff shaft and that fits the rest of my clubs.

Well, the 2014 season has officially started. I am excited to see what this year brings. As per earlier years, I am filled with hope and excitement for the links to open. So the count down has started. 106 days!

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

The dawn of a new day! What a great time to play golf!

What a great question! If a poll was taken of 100 different teaching pros on what is the most important skill required to play golf, I bet there would be 100 different answers! Golf is a unique sport where the elusive perfect swing comes in a million forms. Yes, a million forms!

The golf swing is a series of different movements broken down, analyzed, and taught at varying skill levels. Each player requires something unique to match their fitness, coordination, and willingness to change. Reading many great articles from White Dragon Golf, Mind Body Golf, Golf Habits, GP Golf Report, or Hitting it Solid, I have concluded that great advice is found for those who are searching. However, to break 100 consistently or to maintain a single digit handicap each player has to find their own way on how to play golf. Golfers must find their swing, develop it, and hone the skills required to find their perfect swing.

If you are just starting golf or wondering how to play better, all I can say is welcome to the endless merry-go-round of trying to improve your swing. It will be challenging, frustrating and exhilarating all at the same time! The first time you hit the shot of your life, you will want to hit a better one! What a vicious circle…..no wonder golf is the greatest sport!

Golf is really meant to be played; the only way to get better is to practice, play, adjust, practice and play; then repeat one million times. It seems like a pretty simple system, well give it a try. Actually, golf is meant to be enjoyed! If you are not having fun, then what is the point.

Finally, 3underthru12 has a fantastic video on how to play golf that will make you laugh. For some of us seasoned golfers, we will remember watching it when it first came out! For others, enjoy it for the first time.

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