Golf Ego-adjustment

Written By: Tom Chillemi - tomsgolftours.com | Issue: 2015/05 - May

In teaching and playing with many club golfers, there are two glaring faults I notice on nearly every course.

Not taking enough club. We all want to hit the ball further, and that’s not a bad thing, but I see so many golfers picking the club that they would have to hit perfect with a hard swing to reach the green. Instead of that, try taking one more club and hitting it 75 instead of 100 percent. I promise your swing will be much better at a speed you can handle easily. It will take some willpower, but as I get older I’m doing it and am getting better results. Sure, it’s nice to say I hit a 9 iron 130 yards, but where did it go? Hit the 8 iron with a short smooth swing and I’ll bet you hit more greens.

I also see so many golfers who, as soon as they get near the green, grab their lob wedge. Sure, there is a time for this shot. It is only when you have very little green to work with and must hit a short, high shot. I try to let the amount of green I have to work with make my decision for me. There is nothing wrong with using a 7 or 8 iron to chip with and just gauge where the ball needs to land and roll to the pin. With less loft, you just need to play the ball back in your stance and use a short firm swing, keeping your hands leading the shot. The odds of you making proper contact with this shot is much better than trying to be a touring pro and hit very difficult lob shots that take a pretty full swing.

The key to both of these is to not let your ego get in your way and play the percentage shot. It takes some willpower, but if you try these two things, your game will improve along with your scores.

Don’t forget to get in touch with me if you are interested in a golf trip to Ireland or Scotland. Check out my ad in the Laurel.

Current IssueSubscribeArchives
Subscribe to Laurel Magazine
Subscribe to Weekly Events

(828) 526-0173 | [email protected] | Copyright 2024 – All Rights Reserved.