Every golfer is to some degree competitive when they take to the golf course. You can play the game ‘just for fun’, or else you can try to improve on the score that you posted last time out. Competitive golfers will play against each other for either money or simply the opportunity to secure bragging rights.
We all want to play better golf and post scores that we can tell our friends about. Your personal best might mean that you finally broke 100, 90, or even 80 for the first time.
To achieve your lowest score you first keep track of some vital statistics. Fairways hit, greens hit in regulation, putts, as well as ups and downs, must be recorded in order to determine your weaknesses.
When you miss fairways, you often set yourself up for difficult approach shots to the green. You might look at your club selection from the tee or work on improving your driving skills at the range with your local pro.
Greens hit in regulation, one swing on a par three, two on a par four and three swings on a par five, will also tell you things. First, it will indicate how successful you are at ‘keeping your ball in play’. Secondly, this statistic will tell you how good your iron play is and how accurate your approach shots are.
A good short game can mean the difference between your best and your worst scores. Players who chip and pitch the ball well around the greens often make stroke saving up and downs. A good short game will also lead to many birdies.
Keep track of how many putts you take for each round of golf. A one putt will indicate that you are either a good scrambler or a good putter, while a two putt might suggest that your skills as a putter are ‘simply average’. Consistent three putts mean that you better improve either your putting skills or work on getting your approach shots closer to the pin.
To post your best score this season, you need to first better understand your own game. I suggest that you try keeping some statistics the next time you play. Numbers, like the camera, generally don’t lie. They will help you to determine your weaknesses and allow you the opportunity to correct them. The practise range is the best place to work on your game and make adjustments to your swing. Take the time to practise and prepare for your next round. This should be the year you achieve your personal best ever score!
Cameron Burechails (Teaching Professional) The Georgian Bay Golf Academy @Meaford Golf Club (705) 441-0865 baygolfacademy@bell.net www.meafordgolf.com
