Subtle Thoughts on "Improvement" (Lesson No. 38)

I recently returned to the golf course after a three week vacation. I took with me a marvelous attitude and was optimistic. I hit briefly on the range, practiced a few chip shots and putted a few.  My thoughts going to the first tee were simply, "My memory is not as bad as I thought. There are more elements to a good shot than I ever perceived. I wonder if I am too old (67) to improve substantially." I then approached the first tee.

I did many things right and forgot to have a good shoulder turn - draw left to the trees. Great out from under and reasonably good chip and two putts for bogie. Was I disappointed? Great out from the trees and a very good chip shot. Great bogie. Not bad...............

Did I learn anything? Of course I learned that when working on elements it is quite possible to forget one of them. My conclusion? Remember the shoulder turn. My next tee shot was straight and long (250 yds.) I remembered the shoulder turn.

The No. 8 hole is a 145 yd. par three. I almost always draw it left to the fringe or bunker. I remembered my shoulder turn and hit to ten feet,  pin high with my nine iron. Working on your game has obvious benefits. It is not easy but it is the right path to improvement.

For the longest time I kept  hitting my long irons out to the right. I went to see Cindy Reid at Sawgrass in St. Augustine, Florida for a lesson. Cindy heads up Instruction at that very famous venue, home of the Players Championship. She watched my shots and advised me very wisely to stand further from the ball. I was hitting very slightly fat and opening my club face. Her advice has proven to be perfect. My long irons are vastly improved. Similarly, my 3 wood from the fairway.

Cindy Reid is a very competent instructor; formerly played on the LPGA, pretty as a picture and author of two books on golf. Wisely, her books are oriented towards lady golfers but she has given advice to such golfers as Vijay Singh and many others. Cindy has spoken very highly about my "Golfers Need Tips" journal.  Since she has been responsible for a large improvement in my long game I am listing her web site for your information:

http://www.cindyreidgolf.com/

I also recommend her books for anyone that is looking to improve their game. Her text is easy to read and filled with common sense. A good teacher is very hard to find and Cindy Reid is a very good teacher.

As to subtle thoughts, I would simply say golf requires a subtlety, a relaxed approach and patience. Things must be right at address which is why the pros take a surprisingly long period of time at addressing the ball. During my recent practice round I did not keep score (never do) but I can assure you my best shots were unhurried and my thoughts were collected before I took my back swing. I believe that is what is meant when pros say they were being patient during their round.

No hurry. Collect your thoughts.

RHE

 

Today, I Return to the Course.....(Lesson No. 37)

My interests wax and wane between composing symphonies, golf and my beautiful garden.After composing nine symphonies I concentrated on golf (improvement). Improvement was significant but at age 67 one has certain limitations not anticipated. Thus, I returned to my home to develop my beautiful garden (pictured above). I also completed the finale movement of my Concerto for Piano and Orchestra, four years in the making. Today, I return to my golf course for some game improvement. The garden is prospering well. The music now rests. How shall I approach my new attempt at a better game?

Interestingly, many years ago, after a two month lay off in Ohio, I drove from Cincinnati to Lexington, Ky. one afternoon and played one of the best rounds of my life at Griffen-Gate. I was relaxed and had no stressful memories. Today, I will not worry about my game. I will be relaxed.

I have learned a lot about my game over the past five years. I will know that I have new knowledge and that it is good knowledge. I know what works and will make use of it. I know what fails me and will be mindful of such.

Surprisingly, I will have no predetermined expectations. But I will have the advantage of a three week layoff; some instructional reading and good advice from friends.

What key thoughts will pervade my mind as I begin my return effort? Here they are:

1. Posture and address.

2. Orientation (preparing for the back swing) at address.

3. Attacking the ball from the inside.

4. Balance throughout the swing.

5. Weight shift back and through the swing.

6. If orientation iscorrect and complete I will have but one swing thought in the take away.

7. I will take a bottle of water with me and drink it enroute to the course.

8. I will hit a small bucket and practice chipping and putting before I tee off.

9. I will expect miss hits and focus on the next shot rather than the preceding one.

I am sure I will enjoy the cooler temperatures and lower humidity. Good weather helps your game.

RHE