Nick's tip of the week
I would recommend getting a waterproof bag for the winter.
As we seem to have one day good and one day weather wise at the moment I think now is a good time to purchase a waterproof golf bag. They are now becoming more and more popular and the best benefit is after being caught out in the rain you don't have to get everything out of your bag and put it all on the radiator. Let's face it it's the last thing you want to be doing after getting home from golf in the rain.
In store we have the New Dry-Series bag from Motocaddy. The bag is coated with waterproof fabric, heat welded seams and thermo-sealed, nylon-coated zips have been put through rigorous testing to ensure that the contents of the bag remain dry. A special 'zipper garage' also shields the zips for extra protection.
This bag is extremely lightweight and has 7 spacious pockets.
This bag is ideal for golfers looking for a premium-quality waterproof trolley bag.
For the full features and benefits of this bag please click here.
Sam's tip of the week
Distance Drill
A great drill that I often use is to help my distance and pace judgement is to hit some putts from long range, looking at the hole throughout the stroke. By concentrating on the target and not the ball you should start to develop a more natural, instinctive feel for how hard to swing. Use this before going out play and your pace control, which is crucial, will be spot on.
Eyes shut drill
A great drill that gives you a feel both for the greens and your stroke is to hit some putts with your eyes shut. With your eyes closed you'll become acutely aware of how your arms and body are working during the stroke. You'll notice if your body is moving unnecessarily and you should be able to find a more solid stroke. Also, by putting to a target with your eyes shut you'll gain a more acute feel for the pace of the greens. This is another drill that's great to use before going out to play in competition.
Pressure-proof you're putting
Developing a pre-shot routine is essential for anyone who wants to make a good score under pressure. In practice, when the pressure is off, take time to groove the routine. I like to line the ball up with the hole, I then set my address position and make two practice swings. I take one last look at the hole before pulling the trigger. This simple, pre-shot routine will help you switch into autopilot as the pressure mounts.
Recreating pressure
Adding a bit of pressure to your practice routine will prepare you well for competition. I place for tees in a line on the green - 3, 6, 9 and 12ft from the hole. Hit three balls from each position, starting 3ft away and working back to 12ft. The idea is to hole 15 putts consecutively, three from each position so if at any stage you miss go back to 3ft and start again. As you move away from the hole, making the putt gets harder. To succeed and finish the game, you'll need to hold your nerve and make consistently solid strokes under mounting pressure.
Special Offer!
I am doing a special offer at the moment. £25 for an hour lesson for the rest of October.
Just call or email me and Quote 'MOT'
Call 07979 822 885 or email me on Sam.cubitt@btinternet.com.