***Official 2014 Golf Thread*** (2 Viewers)

[bigmarc27]

My biggest problem putting is sometimes I take what I call "video game" lines. I see a breaking putt and aim it 6 ft right like I would on tiger woods golf. In the end, that putt breaks 2 ft at most.

 

[joffer]

Any simple tips that can help a horrible putter like myself? I'm talking 35-45 putts every round. I tend to miss left. I know I hook em when I make contact. So freaking tough to sink putts.

I am taking this seminar this weekend.

I know a guy who uses this at my club, it helps reading greens, not really with your stroke. he raves about it though.

 

[John Bender]

When it comes to putting, I act like I'm taking a shot in basketball. Before you fire up that shot, you're not thinking, "How hard should I throw this?" or "How should my hands be moving?" I

like to think that my body can judge it on the fly better than I can trying to work out the mechanics.

Since doing this, I've become a much better

putter.

This is similar to Dave stockton's philosophy. In his opinion you simply concentrate on a particular line and expect to make it every time. Iirc he also suggests taking out practice swings (or cutting them down at least).

Interesting. I don't really take a practice swing either. I step up just off the ball, get into my position to get the feel, then move up and take the putt.

"Putting Out of Your Mind" - a great mental approach to putting. I read this about 10 years ago and it noticeable improved my putting to the point my playing partners were asking to borrow the book.

Thanks Ray

Any chance you could give us the broad strokes of the book or sort of sum up exactly what it teaches you?

 

[TheIronSheik]

When it comes to putting, I act like I'm taking a shot in basketball. Before you fire up that shot, you're not thinking, "How hard should I throw this?" or "How should my hands be moving?" I

like to think that my body can judge it on the fly better than I can trying to work out the mechanics.

Since doing this, I've become a much better

putter.

This is similar to Dave stockton's philosophy. In his opinion you simply concentrate on a particular line and expect to make it every time. Iirc he also suggests taking out practice swings (or cutting them down at least).

Interesting. I don't really take a practice swing either. I step up just off the ball, get into my position to get the feel, then move up and take the putt.

"Putting Out of Your Mind" - a great mental approach to putting. I read this about 10 years ago and it noticeable improved my putting to the point my playing partners were asking to borrow the book.

Thanks Ray

Any chance you could give us the broad strokes of the book or sort of sum up exactly what it teaches you?

 

[joffer]

Awful round for me too.

Shot the best round of my life last Thursday at Atlantic City Country Club.

what's that course like? headed up there early October to play a round and gamble a little

 

[TheIronSheik]

Any PA guys that can get me on at French Creek Golf Club? Place looks really nice. I used to have a lot of hookups in Houston, but since moving to PA, I'm stuck playing public courses only.

 

[Ray Karpis]

When it comes to putting, I act like I'm taking a shot in basketball. Before you fire up that shot, you're not thinking, "How hard should I throw this?" or "How should my hands be moving?" I

like to think that my body can judge it on the fly better than I can trying to work out the mechanics.

Since doing this, I've become a much better

putter.

This is similar to Dave stockton's philosophy. In his opinion you simply concentrate on a particular line and expect to make it every time. Iirc he also suggests taking out practice swings (or cutting them down at least).

Interesting. I don't really take a practice swing either. I step up just off the ball, get into my position to get the feel, then move up and take the putt.

"Putting Out of Your Mind" - a great mental approach to putting. I read this about 10 years ago and it noticeable improved my putting to the point my playing partners were asking to borrow the book.

Thanks Ray

Any chance you could give us the broad strokes of the book or sort of sum up exactly what it teaches you?

It has been 10 years since I read the book, but here's the gist:

This is not a mechanics book at all. It's about your mental approach to putting. Rotella emphasizes developing a pre-putt routine - both physical setup and mental - and following it every time. The focus is supposed to shift from worrying about making the putt to trusting your routine and knowing the putt is going to go in if you execute your routine.

It's difficult to summarize it -especially since I'm not fresh on the material. I can say unequivocally, though, it will improve your putting.

It's also a short read - you could knock it out in a night or two.

 

[Joe T]

Callaway x2Hot or Big Bertha are Great drivers currently

Been using the X2Hot for about 2 months now. Had a Taylor Superfast before. Went to a 10.5 from a 9.5 and have been hitting way more fairways with about the same distance. Much better control.

Anyone else use the Ping G series drivers?

I couldn't hit my (callaway) driver for a long time. About 8 years ago I bought a used G2 and have not had a problem sense then. I recently upgraded to the G10 only because I found it in the used club bin at PGA Superstore for $40. It is awesome as well.

 

[Joe T]

Also, just added the G10 irons and I've never hit anything so easily. (Had Callaway X-16 Pro Series before.)

 

[Judge Smails]

I have a line on my ball that I align with my alignment mark on my putter before every putt. Mark and lift the ball, aim the line where I want the putt to go, then it's just a matter of distance and making the right read.

i stopped doing this because if i had a shaky backswing i would mentally screw up the putt....so i just throw the ball down and go for it...

If you are constantly missing left then there's a 99% chance that your putter face is lined left at address. You think you are square but you are not. Using lines (ball and putter if possible) to retrain what is square is a must. I have this problem, and my pro forced me to do this. I have a line on my ball and a line on the top of my Odyssey 2 ball. Now he has me line up, trust that the lines are valid, think speed while keeping my putter face square through impact and beyond (no twisting/turning of the face at impact). Huge help to me. It takes time.

 

[TheIronSheik]

I have to admit, I had no idea about most of the stuff when it comes to buying clubs. I mean, I knew a little, but this thread really spread some light on it.

My intention is to buy some new clubs possibly this winter in time for next season. Currently, I'm shooting anywhere from an 85 to a 95 consistently. I don't shape shots and I'm not a single digit handicap. The clubs I currently use are about 20 years old. I love them, but I think it's time for something new.

What type of clubs should I be looking at? And what about shafts? Any suggestions? I'm not going out tomorrow to buy them, so I'm not worried about what's on sale or where to get some cheap. Just trying to get an idea of what's good now for someone like me.

 

[John Bender]

Awful round for me too.

Shot the best round of my life last Thursday at Atlantic City Country Club.

what's that course like? headed up there early October to play a round and gamble a little

Real nice and easier than the slope rating would have you believe because of it's open lay out. No trees so you can be long and wild off the tee and stay in holes.

The back 9 I found very difficult. A lot of guarded greens with long grass.

Also has a great view of the strip. Real nice.

In short: Don't need precision for your long irons, woods and driver; need lots of precision with your shorter irons and approach shots.

I enjoyed it. Check out the locker room before hand if you can. There's a ton of celebrities with their own lockers there (Fred Couples, Roger Clemens, etc)

 

[bigmarc27]

I have to admit, I had no idea about most of the stuff when it comes to buying clubs. I mean, I knew a little, but this thread really spread some light on it.

My intention is to buy some new clubs possibly this winter in time for next season. Currently, I'm shooting anywhere from an 85 to a 95 consistently. I don't shape shots and I'm not a single digit handicap. The clubs I currently use are about 20 years old. I love them, but I think it's time for something new.

What type of clubs should I be looking at? And what about shafts? Any suggestions? I'm not going out tomorrow to buy them, so I'm not worried about what's on sale or where to get some cheap. Just trying to get an idea of what's good now for someone like me.

Get fitted for game improvement irons - just tell them you're looking for game improvement and they'll know what you're looking for. Those clubs are more forgiving and are weighted to help you hit the ball long and straight. Maybe check golf magazines club buyers guide for GI clubs and you'll get an idea what's out there - every manufacturer has them. http://www.golfdigest.com/golf-equipment/hot-list/2014-03/photos-hot-list-game-improvement-irons#slide=1

 

[TheIronSheik]

I have to admit, I had no idea about most of the stuff when it comes to buying clubs. I mean, I knew a little, but this thread really spread some light on it.

My intention is to buy some new clubs possibly this winter in time for next season. Currently, I'm shooting anywhere from an 85 to a 95 consistently. I don't shape shots and I'm not a single digit handicap. The clubs I currently use are about 20 years old. I love them, but I think it's time for something new.

What type of clubs should I be looking at? And what about shafts? Any suggestions? I'm not going out tomorrow to buy them, so I'm not worried about what's on sale or where to get some cheap. Just trying to get an idea of what's good now for someone like me.

Get fitted for game improvement irons - just tell them you're looking for game improvement and they'll know what you're looking for. Those clubs are more forgiving and are weighted to help you hit the ball long and straight. Maybe check golf magazines club buyers guide for GI clubs and you'll get an idea what's out there - every manufacturer has them.http://www.golfdigest.com/golf-equipment/hot-list/2014-03/photos-hot-list-game-improvement-irons#slide=1

Thanks.

Just wondering though, what exactly are GI clubs? Is that like a type that all manufacturers make?

 

[belljr]

Yes it just means you want a more forgiving club

 

[Apple Jack]

Yes it just means you want a more forgiving club

Have to say game improvement has a much snappier ring to it than cavity-back or perimeter-weighted. Bravo marketers.

 

[belljr]

Yes it just means you want a more forgiving club

Have to say game improvement has a much snappier ring to it than cavity-back or perimeter-weighted. Bravo marketers.

i would like a perimeter weighted , low moi, forgiving shift tip

 

[mr roboto]

I went from a muscle blade (DCI 990s) to a mild 'game improvement' iron (AP2). This has made the game a lot more enjoyable. I just couldn't hit the sweet spot as often anymore.

 

[Ray Karpis]

I've been doing a little research on the GI category lately, and the consensus seems to be that the Nike Covert 2.0 Forged and the Titleist AP1 714 are the best in that category.

They are expensive as ####, though.

 

[Zow]

I've been doing a little research on the GI category lately, and the consensus seems to be that the Nike Covert 2.0 Forged and the Titleist AP1 714 are the best in that category.

They are expensive as ####, though.

I know guys who play both. They are the cream of the crop for game improvement.

 

[bigmarc27]

I'll plug my burner 2.0 irons. Love them.

 

[Joe T]

I've been doing a little research on the GI category lately, and the consensus seems to be that the Nike Covert 2.0 Forged and the Titleist AP1 714 are the best in that category.

They are expensive as ####, though.

Where do the Ping G__ irons rate?

If there is something out there easier, I will go to the store and try them.

 

[Joe T]

Interesting, just saw the same thing, top rated game improvement irons are Nike Covert 2.0 Forged on Golf.com.

I will go give these a test soon.

 

[urbanhack]

where do you guys book your tee times online?

 

[Zow]

where do you guys book your tee times online?

www.golfnow.com

 

[Zow]

I've been doing a little research on the GI category lately, and the consensus seems to be that the Nike Covert 2.0 Forged and the Titleist AP1 714 are the best in that category.

They are expensive as ####, though.

Where do the Ping G__ irons rate?

If there is something out there easier, I will go to the store and try them.

They seem to have a sort of cultish following to them. My BIL and one of my frequent playing partners swear by them. But I've heard others bash them pretty hard for some reason.

 

[John Bender]

I brought this up in here before.

But if you're up for a great golf game you can play right online.

Check out wgt.com

It's a great time waster.

It is actually extremely challenging and not like Tiger Woods golf where you can max a guy out and hit every ball 380 yards with 20 feet of spin. In fact, it's frustratingly difficult at times.

You can start your own Country Club. In other words, I can start the FBG Country Club and we can play each other in matches for "credits" or set up tournaments that everyone can participate in within the time frame allotted. For money (credits) or for fun.

I will say this: although the game is free, you should be prepared to drop a few bucks to upgrade your equipment as you progress. You can earn credits by winning tournaments in our country club, or watching ad videos/taking ad surveys.

It's fun, but VERY challenging as far as golf games go and a great time waster when you're sitting on the couch at night or as a break from the work day.

If interested, sign up and send me your handles (or post them here) and I'll start a FBG Country Club

 

[Da Guru]

where do you guys book your tee times online?

I only book online when taking out clients and have used Golf Now and Tee Time. Open for Suggestions though.

 

[The Flying Elvis]

where do you guys book your tee times online?

I only book online when taking out clients and have used Golf Now and Tee Time. Open for Suggestions though.

I'll also use GolfNow to look for "Hot Deals". Have gotten normal $70 for 18 holes/cart for like $25 bucks at times, also have gotten a few $12 for 9 holes etc.

 

[urbanhack]

http://deadspin.com/what-happens-to-golf-after-tiger-1621609188

 

[Joe T]

http://deadspin.com/what-happens-to-golf-after-tiger-1621609188

despise articles like that. #### deadspin.

 

[chet]

Any simple tips that can help a horrible putter like myself? I'm talking 35-45 putts every round. I tend to miss left. I know I hook em when I make contact. So freaking tough to sink putts.

I am taking this seminar this weekend.

If you could please post review here. I'm very interested in this.

Just finished the lesson and thought it was good.

Aimpoint is entirely about figuring out where to hit the putt. It doesn't address putting mechanics or speed etc. We learned the express system which breaks putts into 4 groups: putts under 6 feet, 6-20 foot putts, > 20 foot putts and lastly, double breakers. The system uses feel (as opposed to sight) to estimate the slope of the green. Depending on the category of putt, you stand at various points along the line and feel with your feet how sloped the ground is. Unless it's flat, the slope will be ranked 1-7 with most slopes being 1-4. You then use the same number of fingers to estimate the aiming point to start the putt.

At the very least, this system will help me reduce the 2-3 3-putts that I have per round, and I might actually start making more 6-10 footers.

I'm happy to answer any questions or provide more detail if there's interest.

 

[mr roboto]

Any simple tips that can help a horrible putter like myself? I'm talking 35-45 putts every round. I tend to miss left. I know I hook em when I make contact. So freaking tough to sink putts.

I am taking this seminar this weekend.

If you could please post review here. I'm very interested in this.

Just finished the lesson and thought it was good.

Aimpoint is entirely about figuring out where to hit the putt. It doesn't address putting mechanics or speed etc. We learned the express system which breaks putts into 4 groups: putts under 6 feet, 6-20 foot putts, > 20 foot putts and lastly, double breakers. The system uses feel (as opposed to sight) to estimate the slope of the green. Depending on the category of putt, you stand at various points along the line and feel with your feet how sloped the ground is. Unless it's flat, the slope will be ranked 1-7 with most slopes being 1-4. You then use the same number of fingers to estimate the aiming point to start the putt.

At the very least, this system will help me reduce the 2-3 3-putts that I have per round, and I might actually start making more 6-10 footers.

I'm happy to answer any questions or provide more detail if there's interest.

I 'd definitely love to hear how it translates on the course. How much did the program cost? Also, iirc you are in Chicago. Where did you go?

 

[chet]

Any simple tips that can help a horrible putter like myself? I'm talking 35-45 putts every round. I tend to miss left. I know I hook em when I make contact. So freaking tough to sink putts.

I am taking this seminar this weekend.

If you could please post review here. I'm very interested in this.

Just finished the lesson and thought it was good.

Aimpoint is entirely about figuring out where to hit the putt. It doesn't address putting mechanics or speed etc. We learned the express system which breaks putts into 4 groups: putts under 6 feet, 6-20 foot putts, > 20 foot putts and lastly, double breakers. The system uses feel (as opposed to sight) to estimate the slope of the green. Depending on the category of putt, you stand at various points along the line and feel with your feet how sloped the ground is. Unless it's flat, the slope will be ranked 1-7 with most slopes being 1-4. You then use the same number of fingers to estimate the aiming point to start the putt.

At the very least, this system will help me reduce the 2-3 3-putts that I have per round, and I might actually start making more 6-10 footers.

I'm happy to answer any questions or provide more detail if there's interest.

I 'd definitely love to hear how it translates on the course. How much did the program cost? Also, iirc you are in Chicago. Where did you go?

I did the lesson at Harborside which is a public course south of Chicago. There were only 2 of us and it cost $200.

There will definitely be a learning curve while I implement the system during rounds.

 

[joffer]

77-79 first two rounds of the club championship. I'm in 6th. Course was ridiculously hard today. Tips are normally rated 75.7, played harder than that today. I'd be happy with a top 5 finish.

 

[belljr]

I hit about 10 grounder yesterday...something I haven't done in 20 years.... shot 83 lol.... shot of the day...after a grounder I was 237 away from the flag into a breeze, over a pond. Left it 12 feet, missed the birdie... stupid golf

 

[John Bender]

Jealous of both those scores.

Something has happened with my driver.

Last Saturday everything was pulled left off the tee. Fixed it with a coaching session. Everything yesterday sliced. Killing me. Every other club has been solid but hit 108 yesterday

Bought the new Cobra Bio Cell today. Hope that helps with a higher loft.

I'm think the 9.5 loft Cobra I had might have run its course as I no longer have the power I used to.

Having a hell of a time folding my arms up to my chest after striking the ball. I end up way too high in the air and in front of my body instead of over my shoulder. Guess it's a muscle memory thing I'll need to work on over time.

 

[chet]

I hit about 10 grounder yesterday...something I haven't done in 20 years.... shot 83 lol.... shot of the day...after a grounder I was 237 away from the flag into a breeze, over a pond. Left it 12 feet, missed the birdie... stupid golf

Dunno what that means.

 

[mr roboto]

Golf Club of Illinois has a 678 yd par 5 (I play from the tips). Used to be the longest par 5 in the US but not anymore. I played into a 10-15 mph breeze, ripped a driver, hit a low stinging 4 iron and still had 210 in. Hit a 3/4 4 wood into the bunker, bunker to 10 ft. Par. Only damn time I've pared that hole. OB all along the right side (about 10 yds off the fairway).

 

[gump]

Any simple tips that can help a horrible putter like myself? I'm talking 35-45 putts every round. I tend to miss left. I know I hook em when I make contact. So freaking tough to sink putts.

One aspect of putting often ignored is the putter. You should buy a putter that fits your natural stroke...not the other way around. Determine if you need a face-balanced, toe-weighted, or heel-toe. Get measured for the proper putter length.

Putting isn't easy, but it's amazing to me how little people think about the equipment aspect.

 

[Ray Karpis]

Anyone have a Big Moss putting green? Kinda interested in getting one.

 

[belljr]

I hit about 10 grounder yesterday...something I haven't done in 20 years.... shot 83 lol.... shot of the day...after a grounder I was 237 away from the flag into a breeze, over a pond. Left it 12 feet, missed the birdie... stupid golf

Dunno what that means.

worm burners

 

[belljr]

I am in the midst of the worst golf slump in 20 years. I go to the range and work everything out and hit the ball great. On the course I have no clue. Nothing feels right. Shanks grounder skulls fat. It's like I'm just starting playing. So frustrating. Think I need to take a couple weeks off...just not fun rigjt now

 

[chet]

I am in the midst of the worst golf slump in 20 years. I go to the range and work everything out and hit the ball great. On the course I have no clue. Nothing feels right. Shanks grounder skulls fat. It's like I'm just starting playing. So frustrating. Think I need to take a couple weeks off...just not fun rigjt now

Beginners don't slump with an 83. HTH

 

[John Bender]

I am in the midst of the worst golf slump in 20 years. I go to the range and work everything out and hit the ball great. On the course I have no clue. Nothing feels right. Shanks grounder skulls fat. It's like I'm just starting playing. So frustrating. Think I need to take a couple weeks off...just not fun rigjt now

Come over the river and see my guy.

PM me if you want his number. He'll fix what ails ya in an hour.

 

[Apple Jack]

I am in the midst of the worst golf slump in 20 years. I go to the range and work everything out and hit the ball great. On the course I have no clue. Nothing feels right. Shanks grounder skulls fat. It's like I'm just starting playing. So frustrating. Think I need to take a couple weeks off...just not fun rigjt now

Sometimes a reset is all it takes.

Or looking at your spine angle.

 

[belljr]

I am in the midst of the worst golf slump in 20 years. I go to the range and work everything out and hit the ball great. On the course I have no clue. Nothing feels right. Shanks grounder skulls fat. It's like I'm just starting playing. So frustrating. Think I need to take a couple weeks off...just not fun rigjt now

Beginners don't slump with an 83. HTH

Well I shot 87 today. I'm a 7 hcp will be a 10 by the end of the year if this keeps up

 

[chet]

I am in the midst of the worst golf slump in 20 years. I go to the range and work everything out and hit the ball great. On the course I have no clue. Nothing feels right. Shanks grounder skulls fat. It's like I'm just starting playing. So frustrating. Think I need to take a couple weeks off...just not fun rigjt now

Beginners don't slump with an 83. HTH

Well I shot 87 today. I'm a 7 hcp will be a 10 by the end of the year if this keeps up

Take a lesson.

 

[belljr]

I am in the midst of the worst golf slump in 20 years. I go to the range and work everything out and hit the ball great. On the course I have no clue. Nothing feels right. Shanks grounder skulls fat. It's like I'm just starting playing. So frustrating. Think I need to take a couple weeks off...just not fun rigjt now

Beginners don't slump with an 83. HTH

Well I shot 87 today. I'm a 7 hcp will be a 10 by the end of the year if this keeps up

Take a lesson.

no

 

[chet]

I am in the midst of the worst golf slump in 20 years. I go to the range and work everything out and hit the ball great. On the course I have no clue. Nothing feels right. Shanks grounder skulls fat. It's like I'm just starting playing. So frustrating. Think I need to take a couple weeks off...just not fun rigjt now

Beginners don't slump with an 83. HTH

Well I shot 87 today. I'm a 7 hcp will be a 10 by the end of the year if this keeps up

Take a lesson.

no

y so stubborn?