How to get more tap-ins from long range.
Being ‘target aware’ is important on any shot, but it’s critical on the greens, where many amateurs tend to mis-read putts or get caught up in how their stroke looks or feels. They often spend very little time looking at the hole and as a result, have a difficult time getting the speed right.
If you often three-putt, it’s probably because of poor speed control, not bad reads. Fortunately, the solution can be as simple – and obvious – as honing in on your target more. If you can create a good picture of the target in your mind and keep that visualisation through your entire putting routine and stroke, you’re going to manage your speed a whole lot better.
Try this: as you make practice strokes, look directly at the hole [above]. With your eyes locked on your ultimate target, you’ll be able to better judge the distance, slope and break of the putt. You’ll naturally factor in this information as you rehearse the length of stroke and the speed needed to lag the ball close. Then, set the putter behind the ball and take one last look at the hole. As soon as your eyes return to the ball, start your stroke.
By making a strong visual connection to the hole, you become more reactive to your target and better able to tap into the feel and awareness you need to judge speed – and stop three-putting.
Jackson Koert, a Golf Digest Best Young Teacher, is director of instruction at Atlantic Beach Country Club in Florida.
