We are golfers, not always considered the smartest athletes on the planet. We play a game that constantly frustrates us, makes us angry and most times down right demoralizes us. Yet we continue to play with the reservation of no matter how bad it gets, we still will continue to play.
The simplest way to save some shots around the course is to make sure you are comfortable before you even swing the club. Allowing yourself to hit your best shot ``most often'' is a necessity. Too often a player will comment after a wayward shot that they knew it was going to happen. Comments like: ``I was never ready to hit that one,'' or ``I felt it even before I took the club back,'' are things we all have said. Whether you are a scratch golfer or 30-handicapper, we continue to swing the club when not ready, a major mental mistake on the course. There should be a penalty for making the same mistakes over and over on the course. The more years you've played the game, the stiffer the penalty.
Understand that if you are ever uncomfortable addressing the ball, you usually will hit an uncomfortable looking shot.
Get prepared and if it feels wrong, step away and begin your pre-shot routine again. The same rules apply on the putting green as well. Pick your line, feel your speed and don't begin your stroke until fully committed. Get comfortable from the 1st tee through the 18th green and play well.
Damon Klepczynski is the head golf professional at Scotland Run Golf Club. His professional staff provides individual and group instruction. He can be reached at (856) 863-3737, ext.‚102. Or visit www.scotlandrun.com.
