Tip of the Month

September 2004

By John Pallot
Director of Instruction

The Belfry, located in northwest England, is a true test of golf. In recognition of this it has been selected for the 7th time as the site of the 2005 Ryder Cup Matches. On my recent trip to Britain I was invited to play it. Set in the midst of picturesque English countryside, this course of gently sloping terrain and narrow fairways, has it all. The challenges are many and varied. Beautiful conifers outline the fairways. Water comes into play on eleven holes, every green is lightning fast, and the fairways are liberally punctuated with varieties of bunkers. The 18th hole is a spectacular finishing hole. The drive requires a right to left shot with a carry over water and trees. The second shot must travel roughly 200 yards over water to an uphill green which slopes severely back to front. You must stay below the hole. It truly demands a special shot under extreme duress. Many a match has been won or lost on this hole.

Here are my keys to hitting great shots under pressure:

• A consistent pre-shot routine. Aim your clubface at the target or intermediate target, then set your body parallel to the target. This promotes a swing toward the target.
• Keep grip pressure light and weight on the balls of the feet at address position.
• Complete your back swing. An unforced, unhurried swing will allow you to maintain equal tempo throughout the swing.
• Finish in balance. Your swing must be a coordinated effort of arms and body. This must be achieved for consistency. Practice swinging with your eyes closed. This improves balance.

Following these keys will surely improve your game and at the end of your round you will be able to say, as they say in England, "jolly good."