TOUR Life: Instruction
Travis Fulton Blog: Kim learned the game the right way
By Travis Fulton, Director of Education, TOUR Academy
Travis Fulton is the Director of Education for all TOUR Academies nationwide. Over the years Fulton has worked alongside and learned from numerous GOLF Magazine Top 100 Teachers including Scott Sackett, Todd Sones, Craig Shankland and Martin Hall. These accomplishments and education have put Travis in a lead role with the TOUR Academy Brand where he has been a key figure in the overall performance and vision of the TOUR Academy brand. Travis comes from Kellogg, Idaho, where he had a stellar playing career in high school as well as college. In 1998, Travis won the Pacific Northwest Athletic Conference title. Full Bio and Article Archive
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Learn More: TOURAcademy | Got a question? Send Travis an email
Audio: Fulton's XM interview 
May 6, 2008: It was simply time for Kim to win
What Happened
The youth movement continues on the PGA TOUR, as Anthony Kim won his first title at last week's Wachovia Championship. In a dominating performance, Kim won by five shots over Ben Curtis.
Kim shot a sizzling 16-under par to set a new tournament record on what has been a difficult test at the Wachovia. At the age of 22, Kim is now the youngest winner on the PGA TOUR in nearly seven years.
Anthony Kim used bombs off the tee, radar-like approach shots and a steady short game to get the job done. Perhaps, his experience from just two weeks ago at the Verizon Heritage, where he was in the final group on Sunday gave him the experience needed to hang on for his first win.
This win by Kim was very impressive. Sometimes when players win for the first time, you are not sure if they will become one-hit wonders. However, at only 22 and with the skill set he already possesses it is hard to imagine he won't become a regular winner.
What Can We Learn
Over the last few weeks, I have made many comments on how the youth on the PGA TOUR is beginning to figure out how to win. Perhaps, with Tiger on the disabled list, this has given the young guns an opportunity to win and build confidence.
Whatever the case may be, it is exciting to watch this next batch of great young players begin to surface. With Anthony Kim's victory this week, the PGA TOUR has already seen eight wins this year by players under the age of 30.
What impresses me the most about the new generation is just how fundamentally sound their swings are. Anthony Kim is another great example of a young player who learned the game the right way.
By the "right way," I mean fundamentals first. Sure, it makes a big difference to learn the fundamentals at a young age; however, these same fundamentals are something we can all learn regardless of our age. At the TOUR Academies, we always begin with the fundamentals at address - these fundamentals entail Grip, Posture, and Alignment.
These three fundamentals are crucial on playing consistent golf. If a player can grip the golf club properly, establish the correct posture and align themselves to their target, then they have a great chance to hit the ball to their target.
What's important to understand is no matter how a player sets up to the ball - they will figure out through repetition how to get the ball around the golf course. But when a golfer uses flawed fundamentals, compensations will be made during the swing and this usually leads to inconsistent contact and less than stellar results.
For example, at the TOUR Academies, we spend a lot of time on the grip. The function of the grip is to help produce a square clubface at impact.
Anthony Kim and many TOUR players grip the club in a manner that positions the clubface at the top of the swing in a square position. If they can get the clubface square at the top of the swing, where the angle of the club face matches the left forearm, then they have a great opportunity to deliver the clubface consistently square to the target at impact.
However, most amateurs grip the club so that it results in an open clubface at the top of the backswing. Through repetition, we all figure out the appropriate compensations on the downswing in order to hit the golf ball straight some of the time, but with improved fundamentals you can increase your ability to square the clubface on more shots.
A general rule of thumb is if your golf ball is curving right; turn your hands to the right on the grip. Conversely, if you golf ball is curving left, turn your hands to the left on the grip.
Article: Improve Your GPA (grip, posture, alignment)
Just Because
With spring finally here, TOUR Academy on the Road made its first stop of the year at Victoria National Golf Club in Evansville, Ind. This Tom Fazio design is a spectacular golf course set in the heart of the Midwest. Victoria National is currently ranked No. 1 in Indiana and 22nd overall in the United States by Golf Digest. After playing the golf course a couple of times, I quickly realized just why this is.
This golf course is a major championship type of golf course, just two years ago it was the host to the 2006 USGA Senior Amateur Championship and in June this year it will be the host to the AJGA Rolex Tournament of Champions. If you love golf and are looking to add a golf course to your resume, check out Victoria National.
Speaking of great golf courses, my favorite of all time is on display this week at THE PLAYERS Championship. The twists, turns, bumps and humps of TPC Sawgrass will be on center stage this week to challenge the toughest field that will be assembled all year on the PGA TOUR.
You don't want to miss this one, as it's always one of the best finishes in golf.
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April 30, 2008: Byron would've been proud
What Happened
Hello again, Texas, as the PGA TOUR rolled through with its second tournament of the year in the home of beef brisket with the EDS Byron Nelson Championship at TPC Four Seasons at Las Colinas. A tournament that always draws a great field saw one of the game's rising stars Adam Scott pick off his sixth PGA TOUR victory.
Scott overcame difficult conditions to defeat former U.S. Amateur champion Ryan Moore in a three-hole playoff by draining a 48-foot bomb to seal the deal. Struggling to get the flat stick working all day, Scott finally got one to visit the bottom of the cup when he needed it most. It wasn't pretty on Sunday, as difficult winds and a reworked (and tougher) golf course made it a five-plus hour survival test.
This was Adam Scott's second win of the year worldwide, as the 27-year-old continues to climb the ladder among the game's elite competitors. This win is just another sign of how Scott's game is steadily improving and maturing each year.
The biggest improvements have come in his short game. Scott's growing confidence around the greens is evident and one would think if he can match this same level of confidence with the putter, he has a chance to challenge the two best players in the world -- Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson.
Also, props to Ryan Moore -- also in his 20s -- as he played well all week but couldn't find a birdie in the playoff. As I mentioned a couple of weeks ago after the Masters, the youth movement is beginning to surface -- not only competing well, but winning. It was Trevor Immelman at the Masters as he held off the world's best player, and now Adam Scott at the EDS Byron Nelson.
What Can We Learn
At the TOUR Academies, we often hear people say they'd like to copy Adam Scott's swing. Adam's golf swing is one that is certainly appealing to the eye, as he makes it look nearly effortless.
One of the reasons it looks so easy is his ability to blend his body motion with his arm swing. Adam is a great example of how the body, arms and hands should work together throughout the swing. When done properly, the overall appearance looks smooth and in-sync.
A question we're often asked is "Of the two: body or arms/hands, which is more important?"
The answer can vary, depending on whom you ask. There are many methods that would favor the body while others would lean more towards the arms and hands. At the TOUR Academies, we like to focus on what we call "The Big 3," the club face, club head and club shaft. Learn how to control these three components during the swing, and you can achieve the proper impact conditions. To achieve a good impact, some players may need to focus on the body, while others need to concentrate on the arms and hands. Let me explain.
1. Club face alignment
Arguably, the most important of the three is the clubface and it is probably the biggest weakness we see, as roughly 85 percent of amateurs hit the ball with an open clubface. If you are struggling with an open clubface where the golf ball curves to the right or conversely closed and to the left, then more than likely you will need to focus on the motion of your hands and arms.
2. Club shaft/Club head path
I packaged these two together to keep it simple. After the clubface, it is important to evaluate the club shaft and club head path. If you are struggling with the path, whether too steep or too flat, it is important to determine if a faulty body motion is causing the problem or if the motion of your hands and arms is to blame.
At the TOUR Academies, we like to use video because it helps identify what the "Big 3" are doing. Through a simple analysis, you can then determine if you need to focus more on your body motion or the motion of your arms and hands. Making improvements in the right area begins to blend the two together moving you one step closer to an extremely efficient golf swing like Adam Scott's.
Just Because
Growing up in Northern Idaho, I didn't get to attend a lot of PGA TOUR events. However, when my sister graduated from the University of Montana, she moved to Dallas. I was always excited to visit her as our family planned our trips around the EDS Byron Nelson Championship.
I must admit, at the time I didn't know a lot about Lord Byron, but I can remember seeing interviews with him and thinking to myself, "What a cool guy." Since that time, I've learned more about him I have a much better appreciation as to just how great of a golfer and person he really was.
Byron Nelson accomplished so much and has had an effect on virtually everyone who has played the game of golf over the past seven decades. At this point in my life, I look back at attending his tournament as a child, watching him on TV and how he helped me continue my pursuit of a life in the game.
In addition to watching golf this weekend, I was fired up for the NFL draft. The draft is one of my favorite events to watch, as it always feels like Christmas in the spring as I watch the Seahawks pick players. Once again, Seattle got some good players, but they also had some real head-scratchers. One pick that made me sit in my chair and think for awhile was our sixth round pick: A long snapper from San Diego State.
A long snapper?
Still thinking.
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April 22, 2008: Blocked shots: It happens to the best
What Happened
Can you hear me now? Can you hear me now?
Yes sir Boo, we can hear you now after your second consecutive win at the Verizon Championship in Harbour Town on Hilton Head Island. Boo Weekley finished at 15-under par to win by three shots over Aaron Baddeley and Anthony Kim at this week's PGA TOUR event.
Weekley used rounds of 69-64-65 to build a three-shot lead heading into Sunday and then struggled with his swing on the final day carding an even-par 71. Boo admittedly following the final round, stated he only had his "C" or "D" game on Sunday. However, he used some timely wedge play and solid putting to hold off the field to win his second tournament on the PGA TOUR.
All week and especially on Sunday the crowd was behind Weekley with loud cheers of "Boooooo"!! After the win, Boo stated, "I wanted to do the Moonwalk or Belly-roll."
I must admit, I was little disappointed that he didn't, as that would of certainly been a capper to a great week. I can see it now, Boo wearing the plaid jacket, dip in and belly rolling across the 18th green. Can you hear me now?
On a serious note, the win now elevates Boo to a different place as he becomes a real contender for the FedExCup as well as a legitimate choice for the Ryder Cup. If there was any chance they would play at Harbour Town, I can assure you Mr. Weekley will be on the team. Boo has now joined Davis Love III and Payne Stewart as the only players to win at Harbour Town back-to-back.
What Can We Learn
At some point in our golfing career, we could all relate to the struggles Boo was having with his driver. Boo battled an annoying right shot off the tee that cost him distance and accuracy. Boo managed the swing he had on Sunday well enough to get him around the golf course to win.
When TOUR players struggle off the tee, the shot usually goes to the right. This is the case with amateurs as well. At the TOUR Academies, most amateurs we see will miss their shots to the right as well.
However, there are some differences in why a better player misses right versus the typical amateur. Let me explain.
When a TOUR or better player misses to the right, it is usually because the path of the clubhead is coming too far from the inside on the downswing. When this occurs, the ball will start off line to the right, resulting in a block. This push effect is fixed by feeling the clubhead more out in front of the body during the downswing, allowing the club to move more to the left of the body after impact. This is something that numerous TOUR players work on to avoid blocking their shots to the right.
When the typical amateur misses to the right, it is often because the clubface is open at impact. When this occurs, the ball will curve too much to the right. This curvature to the right is fixed by getting the clubface to close by either a change in the grip or better use of the left hand during the swing.
With the clubface open, amateurs will usually compensate by swinging the clubhead more from the outside on the downswing causing a shot that starts left, then curves right due to the clubface being open. Unlike the TOUR player fix, this fault will need to see an improvement in the clubface position first, then an improved clubhead path that works more from the inside to compliment the improved square clubface angle at impact.
If you are missing to the right, make sure you understand if you need to fix the clubface or the clubhead path, or possibly both.
Just Because
I must admit, I really enjoy listening to Boo Weekley speak, as you never know what exactly is going to come out. The filter -- for the most part -- is off, and what you see is what you get.
His use of the English language is not the easiest to follow, but his personality is one that is needed on the PGA TOUR. No script: Just a good-old Southern boy with genuine actions and words.
He is a guy that most of us can relate to. In some ways, it feels as if Boo is taking the place of the fading John Daly as a crowd favorite. He's the hometown underdog that reminds you of your neighbor. On the surface, you would have no clue he is a very successful professional golfer that has made millions. He'd rather be fishing or hunting like some many of us, but instead, he has to go to work.
Although I don't know Boo, he is a guy I would like to meet. He seems like a positive and fun guy you would just like to hang out with. He doesn't seem to have very many concerns as he just rolls through life doing the best he can while helping others.
Remember last year at the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill when he and his playing partner Tom Johnson approached the second green. Johnson was on the green, but elected to chip because of the shape of the green. He chipped the ball, forgetting to tell his caddie to tend the flag. The ball rolled up to the flag where Boo hurried and grabbed the flag so Johnson wouldn't incur a penalty.
Well, unfortunately, the rule states that Johnson didn't authorize Boo to tend the flag resulting in a two-shot penalty for Boo. An unbelievable example of sportsmanship, but yet, Boo got penalized. After the ruling, Boo looked at the rules official and said graciously, "Thanks, I have learned another rule in the game of golf."
That boy is "fixin" for good things to come.
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April 15, 2008 Blog: Driving dominance
What Happened
Well, the first major of the year is in the history books and -- finally -- we have a major winner under the age of 30. South African Trevor Immelman, 28, wins the Masters by three shots over Tiger to win his first major.
It was just four months ago when Immelman was diagnosed with a tumor on his back, which he had to have immediately removed. Amazingly, he stands before the world as the Masters champion, and the first from South Africa since his idol Gary Player won 30 years ago.
Sunday was like an episode of Survivor when high winds and firm greens made it very difficult for the players chasing Trevor to move up. Immelman's final round of 75 was the highest final round score for the champion in Masters history.
With a comfortable lead most of the day, Immelman admitted he was not watching the leaderboard and really never knew where he stood until the final walk up the 72nd hole, when he realized he was up three. That final walk was enjoyed with Brandt Snedeker -- another relatively young challenger at 27 -- who struggled most of the day on his way to a 77.
What Can We Learn
What can we learn from Trevor Immelman?
Ballstriking, ballstriking and more ballstriking. It was neat to see the swing of Trevor Immelman showcased at Augusta National. Trevor's golf swing is a great example of how an efficient swing can create accuracy and power. Check these stats out from Augusta:
• Driving Distance: 287.5 yards (T4)
• Driving Accuracy: 85.71 percent (1)
• Greens in Regulation: 70.83 percent (T2)
Not too shabby. What really stands out in those three stats are the two about driving. To be in the top five in distance and accuracy is really saying something about Trevor's swing and how it held up all week under intense pressure.
What I like about Trevor's driving is not only his swing, but his setup. Trevor is perfect at address, which helps provide power and accuracy.
Driver setup characteristics:
• Ball is positioned forward in stance -- off forward heel
• Driver shaft perpendicular to the ground (not tilted forward)
• Tilts slightly with the upper body away from the target
• Shoulders are square to the target line at address
This setup allows the driver to be swung on a plane that is relatively closer to horizontal. Most golfers swing the driver too much up-and-down on a more vertical plane, resulting in a loss of power and accuracy. This setup will promote the proper angle of approach into the ball resulting in more accuracy and a lot more power.
Just Because
I must admit it was not the most exciting Masters I have ever watched, but I believe it was one that was good for the game. After all, we had two young guns in the final group of a major looking to hold off the most dominant golfer of all time. Snedeker struggled, but Immelman got the job done.
It really frustrates me to listen to the media and others that choose to not celebrate this win by Immelman. After all, we have been living in a world that Tiger has been dominating with so many questions about who would finally be able to challenge Tiger. Finally, the youth arrives and defeats the world's best at a course that Tiger is supposed to dominate, and yet, most are still not happy and search for another direction.
One of my favorites is, "Trevor shot 75 on the final day, which isn't really that impressive." Impressive enough to put on the Green Jacket. Enough said.
Another one of my favorites is: "If Tiger would've had his A-game, he would have won." I agree, Tiger didn't, and perhaps one of the small reasons he didn't was because of the excellent play of Immelman and the lead he had built.
Another: "If Tiger would've birdied the par 5s on Sunday, he would have won by one shot." True, we could also say that if Immelman would've parred the 16th, then he would've won by five shots!
This type of reasoning could go on and on. Tiger won 13 majors because after 72 holes he had the lowest score -- he did what he needed to do. Immelman won his first major because after 72 holes, he had the lowest score. The fact is, he did what he needed to do.
Celebrate Trevor Immelman. He earned it by beating the world's most dominant athlete under very difficult final round conditions. Those are the facts.
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April 8, 2008 Blog: One shining moment
What Happened
Hats off to Johnson Wagner, who won the 2008 Shell Houston Open with a gritty performance in th final round. After watching and listening to Johnson Wagner all week, it was nice to see him hold off Chad Campbell and Geoff Ogilvy on Sunday.
Johnson shot a final round 71 to finish at 16 under and win his first PGA TOUR tournament. The win earns Wagner a spot in this week's Masters, as he flew immediately to Augusta on Sunday night.
Before this week, Wagner was struggling, missing six of his last nine cuts, good for only 193rd on the money list. So Thursday was just another tournament and a day to get off to a good start -- right?
Wagner tied the course record with a 63 to get things rolling on Thursday. Wagner was on fire and continued the great play, going wire-to-wire to take the first place prize of just over $1 million.
Johnson finished 4th in Greens in Regulation and 10th in Putting for the week -- top tens in these two categories is always a great combination. In addition, Johnson was 17th in Scrambling which included 80 percent on Sand Saves. More on this later.
With Johnson Wagner filling the last spot, the stage is set as we approach the first major of the year -- The Masters.
What Can We Learn
Have you ever noticed just how easy PGA TOUR players make it look out of the greenside bunkers? Their confidence out of greenside bunkers is truly remarkable, especially considering how difficult the greens can be. I have always enjoyed watching the techniques of these great players and learning how they use the loft and bounce of the golf club to their advantage.
As I mentioned earlier, Johnson Wagner finished at 80 percent in Sand Saves for the week, but who is leading the PGA TOUR for the year?
1. Justin Rose, 81.25 percent
2. Paul Stankowski, 72.73 percent
3. Camilo Villegas, 70.73 percent
4. Scott Verplank, 69.57 percent
5. Chris Riley, 66.67 percent
One of the biggest gaps between a professional and an amateur golfer is sand play. PGA TOUR players will often aim for the greenside bunkers, where even the thought for some amateurs creates a tremendous amount of fear. The key to a greenside bunker shot is to use the loft and bounce of the golf club properly.
Bounce is the difference between the leading edge of the golf club and the trailing edge as measured in degrees. Most sand wedges will have 10-12 degrees of bounce, which means that the trailing edge of the club is 10-12 degrees lower than the leading edge.
The bounce of the golf club will help the club slide through the sand instead of dig. This feature allows the clubhead to bottom out before the golf ball.
To promote bounce as well as loft during a greenside bunker shot, here are a few setup characteristics to get you started:
• Set club shaft perpendicular or slight away from the target at address
• Stand to the handle -- butt of club points at (or just left) of belt buckle
• Open clubface slightly
• Ball position slightly forward
• Weight slightly forward
Article: Long and lazy in greenside bunkers
Just Because
Two American sports traditions will take center stage this coming week.
1. The Masters.
I enjoy the Masters for so many reasons. It is, of course, the first major of the year. The combination of the golf course, the history, the unofficial beginning of golf around the country and of, course, that signature music they play on TV.
You know what I am talking about -- Dave Loggins...."Augusta". It gives me goose bumps just thinking about it.
I always enjoy watching the Masters on TV -- the golf course looks absolutely amazing. I would enjoy attending the Masters but I have to tell you, the Masters on my new Samsung HD is tough to beat.
2. The Final Four Championship Game
This week is also the finals for the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament. Memphis and Kansas certainly entertained on Monday night and -- thank goodness -- bring an end to my embarrassing bracket I filled out a couple weeks ago.
What a great game it was with Kansas taking the title -- everybody now -- "One shining moment, you reached for the sky, one shining moment (long hold)."
What a great week it is going to be. Now, if that snow would just melt back home in Northern Idaho -- you know, bounce will work in snow as well. For light-powdered snow. use more bounce and for firm compact snow use less bounce.
Hang in there, my family and friends.
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Learn More: TOURAcademy | Got a question? Send Travis an email
April 1, 2008 Blog: Baird's unusual putting stance
The Zurich Classic of New Orleans is once again the stage for a first-time winner on the PGA TOUR. This year, it is Andres Romero, a 26-year-old from Argentina. After an opening-round 73, Romero turned up the heat with 69-65-68 to win by a shot over Australian Peter Lonard.
Due to the fact that players played in the same pairings for the final two rounds due to the rain delays on Saturday, Romero posted his 13-under par early and then waited nearly three hours until the final group finished. Call it superstitious or just how times are changing, Romero sat on the lead in the clubhouse shuffling through his iPod waiting to see if he won. Hard to imagine Hogan wearing headphones in the locker room listening to Sinatra.
First, it was Woody Austin and Nicholas Thompson coming to the 18th. Unfortunately for Woody, it was not to be as he carded a double bogey 7 to cap a disappointing back nine. Thompson, on the other hand finished bogey-bogey on the final two holes wiping out his chance for a victory.
Romero survived his first two challengers as he purchased the new one from Nelly Furtado.
Next, it was Peter Lonard's turn -- who seemed to have it all under control coming down the stretch. However, with a bogey on the difficult par-3 17th and a disappointing par-5 on the last, Lonard was eliminated leaving Romero the last man standing, or was that sitting?
The win for Romero earned him more than $1 million. That should keep the iPod full of new tunes for the rest of the season.
What Can We Learn
A name that has been appearing on the leader board from time to time this year is Briny Baird. Baird has played very well early in tournaments but has struggled on the weekends, as he did again this week in New Orleans finishing with 71-74.
This week at the TOUR Academies, I had a lot of questions about his unique putting style, so I thought I would discuss his method.
Briny uses a unique stance where the left foot is forward of the right foot at address as a drill first. When doing the drill, Briny putted very well, so he decided to take it on the course. At the TOUR Academies, we use this drill quite often, not only for putting, but for short game shots as well.
The benefit of this address position is it gives the golfer the proper feel of how the shoulders and head should work from impact to the finish. One of the biggest errors in putting and the short game is to come "up and out" where the lead shoulder elevates moving the head away from the target before impact. This motion with the upper body moves the putter head off plane forcing the hands to try to save the putt. With the left foot forward it puts more emphasis on the shoulders to stay level through the hitting area allowing the head to remain steady and the putter head to stay on the proper plane.
If the left foot is forward and you come "up and out", you will loose your balance - usually falling away from the target. Try this drill with putting and for some short game shots and I think you will find solid contact as well as better direction control.
Just Because
Who was the biggest name in sports this weekend? No, not Tiger Woods but how about Stephen Curry! I have to tell you, it has been awhile since I was that excited to watch a college athlete during the NCAA Basketball Tournament. Stephen didn't disappoint either as he dazzled with his unbelievable skills on the hardwood leading Davidson to a near Final Four birth. The kid was flat out awesome!
Also this weekend, I made it down to the Champions TOUR event -- The Ginn Championship in Palm Coast, Florida. Just a short drive from Jacksonville is Hammock Beach and the spectacular Ocean Hammock Golf Course. It was a fun couple of days that was highlighted when I caddied in the pro-am for a friend. What originally was a favor turned into a full time job caddying for he AND his playing partners.
• "Hey Trav"
• "Can you get my pitching wedge?"
• "Read this putt for me."
• "How far is it to the end of the tee blocks?"
• "Towel please!"
• "How do you play this shot off Bermuda grass?"
• "I wanted Unsweet!"
I need some rest -- see you next week after the Tour's first stop in Texas.
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March 25, 2008 Blog: The clubface's role
Thank goodness for helicopters, as I was able to make it back for my 2 p.m. lesson at World Golf Village on Monday. It was certainly a long and tiring week at Doral, as everyone battled the Florida thunderstorms all weekend long.
Well, allow me to be the first to ask the question -- What is wrong with Tiger Woods? A fifth-place finish this week at the World Golf Championships-CA Championship ends his five-tournament winning streak on the PGA TOUR.
I am only kidding, of course, as I thought to myself on Sunday that perhaps Tiger was a little tired from his amazing heroics one week ago at the Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by MasterCard. However, during the Monday finish, Tiger -- taking his cue from the best drama directors in Hollywood -- made it very interesting by quickly closing the gap to within just two shots of eventual winner Geoff Ogilvy.
Ogilvy used great play all week and a timely chip-in on the 13th hole during the final round to propel him to his fourth win on the PGA TOUR. The young Aussie held off a star-studded field to win his second World Golf Championships event.
What Can We Learn
It was only a matter of time before Ogilvy found himself in the winner's circle again. It is fitting his fourth win on the PGA TOUR came at a tournament where patience was key, as Mother Nature offered all kinds of delays, forcing the Monday finish.
Geoff's swing is a motion I would consider more of a timing-based swing that is reliant on consistent rhythm and tempo for optimum performance. I say this because of the way Geoff uses the clubface during his swing. The goal of the clubface in any swing is to arrive square to the shot's intended starting direction at impact.
To do this, a player has three options in the way they can use the clubface during the swing.
1. Square-to-Square -- This means a player will set the clubface square at the top of the swing and then maintain the square clubface back to impact.
2. Closed-to-Open -- This means a player will set the clubface in a closed position at the top of the swing and then open the clubface back to square by the time the club reaches impact.
3. Open-to-Closed -- This means a player will set the clubface in an open position at the top of the swing and then close the clubface back to square by the time the club reaches impact.
Of these three options, Ogilvy rotates the clubface "open to closed". At the top of his swing, you will notice how the toe of the club points straight down. When the toe points down, this is an open position.
Although I wouldn't recommend this clubface position to most amateurs, PGA TOUR players often times benefit from an open clubface at the top of the swing because it allows them to use the club's loft more effectively. This use of the loft helps them to hit the golf ball higher with long irons, as well as control spin and distance with their wedges.
The down side to an open clubface at the top is you have to close it the same amount back to impact, which ties in the element of timing.
For the PGA TOUR players that open their clubface at the top like Ogilvy, their hands are educated enough to close the club face properly on a consistent basis. However, when their timing is off, even the best players can miss the ball both left and right. They either didn't rotate the face enough, resulting in the ball missing right, or they over-rotated the face, resulting in a ball that misses left.
Unless you play a lot of golf, I would recommend trying to get the clubface square at the top or even a little closed, if you struggle with a slice. A square clubface is when the clubface at the top of the swing matches the angle of the left forearm, while closed at the top will see the clubface looking towards the sky. A good example of this would be Jim Furyk or Retief Goosen, as their clubfaces have a tendency to be slightly shut at the top of the swing.
Just Because
I hope everyone had a great Easter Weekend watching the best golfers at Doral as well as some fantastic college basketball all over the country. You know there really is nothing better then March Madness. It is just a thrill to watch the little schools take on the power conferences. Some of the upsets that have certainly ruined my bracket. Thanks, Duke.
Oh, have you tried the new "Red Drive from Gatorade Tiger? Good stuff! Gatorade states, "This drink will allow for advanced hydration (fluids and electrolytes) and carbohydrate energy to fuel athletic performance. The drinks will be positioned to capture the unique qualities of Tiger that have led to 64 wins on the PGA TOUR."
Sounds good to me, if I could do half the things Tiger can do on the golf course I would drink ten a day.
Well, I better go as the Tavistock Cup is starting on The GOLF CHANNEL. Rumor has it that Tiger is a +13 handicap on his home course at Isleworth? That is crazy, and it means that he would need to give me 14 shots if we played a match.
Wow. Another Gatorade please.
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March 18, 2008 Blog: Tiger's new compact motion
What Happened
This just in: Tiger Woods is a very good golfer.
Unbelievable indeed was Tiger's 64th PGA TOUR career win at the Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by MasterCard at Bay Hill. This win fittingly moves Tiger past The King and into a tie for career victories with "The "Hawk," Ben Hogan.
Tiger sank his only putt longer than 20 feet for the entire week on the 72nd hole to beat Bart Bryant by one. This win is now his fifth at Arnie's tournament as well as his fifth consecutive win on the PGA TOUR since last fall.
Bryant played very well all day, keeping the heat on Tiger and forcing the world No. 1 to beat him in dramatic fashion on the last hole. When Bryant couldn't convert his birdie on the 18th, you just knew what was coming when Tiger arrived on the final tee.
We have seen it time and time again from Tiger, a big stage is set and he performs at the highest level. It just doesn't matter what the situation is:
• Tied for the lead with one to play...doesn't matter.
• There is a 170-yards carry over water...doesn't matter.
• Pin cut back right on a shelf...doesn't matter.
• Wind swirling and blowing hard...doesn't matter.
• The world is watching. You get the picture.
It seems the more difficult the situation, and the bigger the stage, the more Tiger is able to focus and get the job done. He wins in so many ways at all types of venues. He is simply the best, and now only Nicklaus and Snead have more wins.
What Can We Learn
The one thing that impresses me the most about Tiger is his continuing effort to get better. It has been no secret that over the years, Tiger has searched for knowledge that will better his game.
Whether it is equipment, instruction, fitness or the mental side, Tiger is willing to do what it takes to get better.
When looking at Tiger's swing, there are so many things you could talk about and learn from. His swing has become simpler over the years, allowing him to more easily repeat consistent golf shots.
The one area where this is most evident is with his precision iron play. Tiger's blend of distance and accuracy with his irons has countered his sometimes-erratic driving. It also sets up endless birdie opportunities.
The position I really like in Tiger's current swing is the position of the clubshaft at the top.
I say the "top" of swing, but really, with his irons, this is closer to a three-quarters position. At this point, you will notice how the shaft is not parallel to the target line, but rather still pointing at the target line.
This is one position that Tiger has improved upon over the years, where he used to get the clubshaft a little crossed over.
With the shaft in a more laid-off position at the three-quarter backswing position, the clubface is also in a better position. At this point during the swing, you will see the clubface slightly to the right of the shaft and resembling the same angle of the left forearm. This clubface is square, and once again, an improvement he has made over the years.
With the shaft on plane and the clubface square, Tiger can be very aggressive on the downswing. He can also shape shots in any direction he chooses.
Just Because
What a great week it was in the world of sports. I mentioned a couple weeks ago that March Madness is one of my favorite times of the year. It is at this time that are we introduced to this year's Cinderella that we can adopt and fight the top seeds. Championship week was certainly off to a good start with some crazy upsets across the county.
I thought to myself, "With all these upsets in the world of college basketball, maybe we will see one in golf this week." When Bart Bryant showed up on the leaderboard over the weekend, I thought to myself, "Tiger is going to get upset this week."
I was wrong.
How about this upset in women's college basketball: top-seeded Utah (16-0 in the conference) loses to Colorado State (0-16 in the conference) in the first round of the conference tournament.
Have you ever heard anything along those lines before? That is unbelievable. That would be like Chris Berman beating Tim Herron in a first round of a tournament.
Anyway, the brackets are set, and with so many talented teams in college basketball this year -- anything can happen, and probably will.
2008 Cinderellas
West Region: Western Kentucky. With a nickname like the Hilltoppers, how can you not cheer for them?
South Region: Austin Peay. You heard it here first.
East Region: Boise State. They are not just a football school. They can bounce it around a little bit.
Midwest Region: Gonzaga. Never forget where you came from. Go Zags!
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March 11, 2008 Blog: O'Hair shows how to sustain the down
What Happened
Stewart Cink fell back, and Sean O'Hair sprung forward to win the PODS Championship at Innisbrook. After 63 holes of solid golf, Cink lost four shots over four holes on the back nine to give way to O'Hair on Sunday.
O'Hair carded a final round 69 to win his second PGA TOUR tournament of his young career.
With high winds most of the week and a difficult Copperhead golf course, O'Hair relied on his efficient golf swing and a good old-fashioned pep talk from his father-in-law to get the job done. For the week, O'Hair finished second in total driving and fifth in ballstriking to keep pace throughout the difficult conditions and eventually win the title.
What do we make of Cink? After losing the title match 8 and 7 to Tiger Woods at the World Golf Championships-Accenture Match Play and now finishing poorly on Sunday at the PODS Championship, Stewart seems so close -- but yet so far away.
What Can We Learn
It was great to see Sean O'Hair play well this week at the PODS Championship. Since O'Hair's arrival on TOUR in 2005, I have enjoyed his game from his first win at the John Deere Classic, to his near-win last year at THE PLAYERS Championship.
| Sustain the down | |
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When evaluating Sean's game, there are really no weaknesses. His short game is solid, with a full swing that is not only powerful -- but compact.
His golf swing demonstrates a great combination of distance and accuracy that we all can learn from. A key position to pay attention to with Sean's swing is his controlled, abbreviated finish.
This finish was best-represented with his accurate iron play this week.
You may have noticed over the years that the abbreviated finish has become more apparent. Many players have really shortened there arm swing not only in the backswing but the finish as well.
This abbreviated finish allows the players to "sustain the down" through the hitting area ensuring solid contact, as well as keeping the club shaft on plane. This type of finish really allows a player to control trajectory, spin and distance.
To achieve a more compact finish like O'Hair's, here are a few things to think about:
1. Keep the clubhead down. This is best achieved by keeping the trail wrist bent through the hitting area. When abbreviating the finish, don't worry about the up, but rather sustain the down. The clubhead will swing up on its own.
At the TOUR Academies, we see that most amateurs allow the clubhead to swing up too soon, resulting in poor impact alignments and a very high finish with the hands, arms and golf club.
If you struggle with this and want to lower your finish, just take the approach that there is no up -- just down.
2. Go with it. If you plan to sustain the down, then the pivot will need to support and go with it. Abbreviating the arm swing doesn't mean the pivot stops.
In fact, there is more emphasis on the body to have weight on the lead foot and rotate -- opening up to the target. This effort will support the down and take the hands, arms and the club shaft back to the inside of the target line.
For a right-handed golfer, this finish will feel less down the target line and more to the left.
Just Because
In case you haven't heard, Brett Favre retired from the Green Bay Packers this past week.
I must admit I have mixed emotions about this. One side of me is saddened that the NFL has lost one of its best players and personalities it has ever seen, while the other side of me is a little relieved, as I have grown tired of Favre and the Pack eliminating my Seahawks from the playoffs what seems like every year.
So what's next for Favre -- perhaps the game of golf?
I can see him now at the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am next year slapping George Lopez in the butt after a big drive and then tackling John Daly from excitement after Daly's third consecutive birdie.
Favre would be good for golf, just like he was good for the game of football.
My favorite Favre moment was a story I heard about him early in his career. The team was watching tape early in the week on the opponent going over their defensive packages.
Coach says, "Now, let's take a look at some nickel defensive packages.".
Favre turned to his backup and said, "What does nickel mean?"
Thanks for the memories, Brett!
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Learn More: TOURAcademy | Got a question? Send Travis an email
March 4, 2008 Blog: Els' tempo never gets old
What Happened
The "Big Easy" wins one for the good guys this week at the Honda Championship as the PGA TOUR rolls into Florida for the month of March. South African Ernie Els shot a final-round 67 to win by a shot over England's Luke Donald. The win was Ernie's 16th on the PGA TOUR, but it was certainly one of his most satisfying, as it was his first in four long years.
During this stretch,we have seen the world's third-ranked golfer lose a number of tournaments in dramatic and painful ways.
Earlier this year in Dubai, you may recall Ernie blowing a four-shot lead on Sunday to Tiger Woods; this was sealed when Ernie's fairway wood came up short in the water on the final hole.
Last year, we saw Boo Weekley hole back-to-back chips on the 17th and 18th at Harbour Town to beat Ernie by a shot. He has had some definite missed opportunities over the years, and I just kept thinking to myself that perhaps this could be another.
First, what seemed like a good bunker shot from Mark Calcaveccia on the 15th just kept rolling and found the water.
This gave Ernie the outright lead, eliminating Calc from the race and only leaving Donald to fight for the win.
After a good shot on difficult par-3, 17th, it seemed possible Luke was going to birdie the last two holes, resulting in another tough loss for the big guy. However, once again, Luke failed to birdie, and then missed another birdie chance on the par-5 72nd hole.
It worked out for Els and all the emotions from this long winless stretch finally came out during his post-round interview.
What we can we learn
Watching Els hit a golf ball never gets old. He definitely makes the golf swing look smoother than should be humanly possible with his tremendous blend of rhythm, balance and power.
So how does he do it?
Els's swing is a great example of blending the motion of the body with the swinging of the arms and hands. The body motion is defined as the pivot, and if you want to have this same type of rhythm, balance and power, the pivot must follow the proper sequence:
Load. Shift. Rotate.
This sequence allows the body to move fluidly and support the motion of the hands and arms throughout the swing.
Oftentimes, you will see a pivot that is out of sequence resulting in a player trying to move their arms and hands independently to create speed and power. Els' backswing, or "loading" phase of the pivot, is one of the most impressive in the game.
Smooth tempo starts with a backswing that will allow the body to build and store power. At the TOUR Academies, we like to do drills without a golf club that teaches a student how to get their body into their ideal "loaded" position. These drills create the proper feel for how the body should work.
Todd Jones instruction: Prime the pivot for more power
Just Because
Well, as we cruise into March, things are just beginning to heat up. March is such a great month as the Florida Swing continues with the PODS Championship, Arnie's tournament at Bay Hill and another World Golf Championship at Doral.
In addition to some great PGA TOUR golf, we gain an hour of daylight so we too can play more golf in the south (sorry, Northerners) and finally, we all will be treated to the greatest tournament in all of sports -- March Madness.
I always thought it was amazing on how the same association could host the greatest sports tournament in the country and also the worst? The NCAA has certainly got it right with college basketball, when 64 colleges will go for the title
However, they continue to bogey every year with college football. Can you imagine if college basketball crowned their champion like college football does?
Anyway, March is here so get ready for some great golf as well as some great college basketball.
Go Zags!
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Learn More: TOURAcademy | Got a question? Send Travis an email
Feb. 26, 2008 Blog: Tiger's influence creeping into workplace
What Happened
The Accenture Match Play Championship is one of my favorite events on the PGA TOUR. It is part of the World Golf Championships, which were added to the TOUR 10 years ago.
The objective: To bring the best players in the world together more often each year. This year, the Accenture Match Play Championship was no exception as the very best golfers gathered to participate in single elimination matches in the Arizona desert where, over 18 holes, anything can happen.
Anything can happen? You have to appreciate the idea and sense of optimism for all participants looking to knock off the world's greatest golfer Tiger Woods. Early in the week, I was thinking maybe this is the event that will slow Tiger down, make Tiger seem human and beatable.
On Wednesday afternoon on the back nine during his first match, it looked like it was going to happen. J.B. Holmes was 3-up with five holes to play, as Tiger was really struggling. However, like so many times before, Tiger flips the switch and rolls off three birdies and an eagle over the last five holes to win 1-up. It was as good a match as you'll ever see, and it was only Wednesday!
On Friday, here comes a charging Aaron Baddeley, who throws 10 birdies at Tiger. Ten birdies! Ten! Good enough to win, right? Not against this guy -- Tiger wins in 20 holes! Again, Baddeley makes 10 birdies out of 20 holes and loses.
How is that possible?
Over the weekend, K.J. Choi and Henrik Stenson played well but were eliminated leading to the finale against an outgunned Stewart Cink. Most impressive to me about Tiger's win is that he will work his tail off all this week because he wants to do whatever he possibly can to play even better in the next event.
His pursuit of perfection is scary at times.
What Can We Learn
There is so much we can learn from Tiger Woods both on and off the golf course. I am a big Tiger fan and find myself not only cheering him on but trying to do so many things like him. For example, often times with my own game I try to swing like him, hit impossible short game shots like him, I even stopped my downswing mid-way down the other day for no apparent reason. And it's not just me either.
I see thousands of golfers at the TOUR Academies all across the country doing the same things and much more. For example, a student this weekend asked me, "How do I hit the Tiger 2-iron stinger?" We discussed and went through all the components -- I even threw in the patented twirl of club at the end.
I hear teachers using him as an example all the time, from how he walks, how he talks to even how he blinks -- (we try to draw the line there). Nevertheless, Tiger Woods has taken over and has left us all speechless.
By the way, he is winning tournaments at twice the rate of the other greatest players in the history of the game with a 29 percent winning percentage for his career! Tiger has an effect on not only everybody he plays with but everybody who is watching as well. He is contagious and makes things seem so easy to the point that we too can do things like him.
In today's sports world that is infested by the endless saga of steroids and HGH in baseball, cheating in football and gambling in basketball -- it is truly refreshing to have the golf led by someone that surely seems to avoid the shortcuts and the temptations to relentlessly focus on developing his skills to a higher level every day of his life.
Just Because
All right, enough about Tiger -- what else happened this week? First off, I would like to give some props to Paula Creamer and her great comeback win this week on the LPGA Tour. This is Paula's fifth win on the LPGA Tour, as she is really beginning to look like the next great American woman golfer.
The LPGA is looking stronger then ever with the exceptional youth movement led by Paula and Lorena Ochoa and the savvy veterans including Annika Sorenstam and Karrie Webb. The LPGA is getting better every day and you should be watching.
Brian Gay won the Mayakoba Golf Classic in Mexico on Sunday as well -- this was his first win in 293 starts on TOUR. Brian won by two shots over Steve Marino and three over Matt Kuchar. Seems like just yesterday when we were watching Matt and his dad smiling after every birdie and bogey at the Masters.
Finally, I am sure most of you caught some of the Oscars on Sunday night. I just can't get into the Oscars as I always feel so out of touch with what is going on. Most of the time, I have never even heard of the movies and know very little about the actors - When did that movie come out? Who is that actor? Never heard of this song? Probably just not my thing. I did, however, catch Tilda Swinton accepting her award. What happened there?
No time for movies here at the TOUR Academy. The Florida Swing is next!
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Feb. 19, 2008 Blog: Phil wins West Coast race
Sunday, Feb. 17, 4:30 p.m. ET:
This week, let's take a look at how things play out in real time on Sunday.
This past Sunday, the PGA TOUR was Lovin' L.A. at the Northern Trust Open with a pair of Arizona State grads -- Phil Mickelson and Jeff Quinney -- seven shots clear of the rest of the field as they approach the 12th hole.
It's a two-man race in California with the "Great American Race" roaring along in Daytona Beach, Fla.
5:23 p.m.
What happened: Quinney just tucked his shirt under his left armpit.
What Can We Learn
You will often see PGA TOUR players pinch part of their shirt under their lead arm -- Vijay Singh and Padraig Harrington are both good examples.
A TOUR player does this before they hit a shot because it solidifies the pressure between the upper lead arm and the chest. This pressure ensures that the swinging of the lead arm works in unison with the rotation of the upper body.
If the lead arm comes off the chest then the body and the arm swing will likely become disconnected. Great drill if you are struggling with pushes or hooks.
Just Because
76 Laps to go at Daytona...Go!!!!.. OK. Back to golf.
6:05 p.m.
What Happened: Quinney pushes a short left-to-right par putt on the 17th, giving Mickelson a three-shot lead. His once-hot putter has checked out and left town.
What Can We Learn: For a right-handed golfer, one of the most difficult putts is a short left-to-right putt. So many times you will see a golfer hold the face square to the hole into the through stroke, rather then allowing the putter head to release back to the left.
A good drill for this is to pinch your shirt under your lead armpit. It's not only a good drill for the full swing, but for the short putts as well.
Just Because: I often cringe as an instructor when I hear someone say, "Swing the clubhead down the target line." This image usually leads to pushed shots and forces the hands to become overly involved to try to save the shot.
The reality is that club head is moving in a circle and along an inclined-plane relative to the target line. The club head is on the target line for just a brief moment as the club swings through impact. This is why pinching the shirt under the lead arm is good because it helps to ensure that the club head moves back to the inside after impact as the body continues to rotate.
6:22 p.m.
What Happened: Phil Mickelson wins the 2008 Northern Trust Open. This is Mickelson's 33rd victory and puts him in 13th place for wins on the PGA TOUR. Mickelson used his magical short game and some crunch-time bogeys down the stretch by Jeff Quinney to win by two.
What Can We Learn: There is so much we can learn from Phil's extraordinary technical skills. However, Phil makes it difficult for us instructors at times with his often overly-aggressive shot selection.
At our golf schools at the TOUR Academies, we take our students on-course and discuss how to break the hole down and choose shots that are most likely to produce the lowest possible score for that golfer's skill level. Phil -- on the other hand -- often chooses shots that contradict this strategy.
Even with a two-shot lead with two to play, Phil pulled the driver out and blasted it up a narrow alley, where a long iron or a fairway wood would have allowed for a wider landing area.
Nevertheless, he nailed the fairway. It was another example of how Phil plays, but perhaps not how the majority of us should play if we're trying to shoot our lowest possible score.
Just Because: 495 miles in the books in Daytona and 72 holes complete in California. I must admit I have never been a big racing fan, but will tune in now for the last few laps of the Daytona 500.
Until next time, I will leave you with a prediction -- Ryan Newman will win!
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Feb. 12, 2008 Blog: How to build consistency
Learn More: TOURAcademy | Got a question? Send Travis an email
More help from Fulton: The other GPA
What Happened
Another week, another playoff.
You know I am not talking about the BCS -- but rather Steve Lowery's win over Vijay Singh at the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am in scenic Pebble Beach.
Lowery, at the age of 47, capitalized on a slew of birdies over four days, as well as an uncharacteristic collapse from Vijay, where Singh made three straight bogeys during the back nine on Sunday.
Lowery's birdies were the result of a hot putter -- he was second for the week at 1.59 putts per hole.
This was Lowery's third win and his first since 2000 when he won the Southern Farm Bureau Classic in a playoff over Skip Kendall. He sure seems comfortable going into overtime!
What Can We Learn
Last week, we were treated to a playoff between J.B. Holmes and Phil Mickelson at the FBR Open and this week, surprisingly, neither made it to Sunday at Pebble.
Have you ever played really well one day or one week and then just couldn't do anything right the next? Of course we all have. That is what makes this game so difficult and such a mystery at times.
When students arrive at the TOUR Academies the biggest request is, "I want to be more consistent." We instructors hear you, and apparently so do Holmes and Mickelson. Sure, there is always some let down after a tough battle, but their up-and-down performance at Pebble Beach is another example for all of us just how difficult consistency can be to achieve.
Here are two ideas to be more consistent with your game:
Schedule time to practice and play. PGA TOUR players schedule time to practice, and play and so should you. Every time you go to the golf course you don't always have to play a round of golf.
Set time aside to work on your short game and full swing. Work on the areas that need the most help, whether it is something in your full swing, putting, chipping, bunker play, etc. Improve your weaknesses, and this will make your game more consistent.
Be fundamentally sound: Having proper fundamentals only makes proper execution easier to achieve. The fundamentals entail Grip, Posture and Alignment (GPA). These three components make up the foundation for every shot.
If any of these three are incorrect, then some type of compensation will be needed which leads to more inconsistency. At the TOUR Academies, we are big believers in the fundamentals of the address position -- it is the foundation of our "building block approach."
• Fulton: Building the basics of grip, posture, foundation
Just Because
During the AT&T, I happened to notice the struggles of one of my favorite sportscasters - Chris Berman. And after watching a few of his drives, it became apparent that he didn't get the nickname "Boomer" on the golf course.
What I like about Chris is not only his great personality that seems to relate with all viewers, but we share the same love for the Seahawks.
In all the years I have never seen Boomer pick against the 'Hawks -- thanks Boomer! On a serious note, Chris has been with ESPN since the beginning in 1979, and week-in and week-out has been entertaining viewers like only he can.
That is consistency.
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Feb. 5, 2008 Blog: Belly putter useage on TOUR
Learn More: TOURAcademy
More help from Fulton: Sustain the down for crisper shots
I'm Travis Fulton, Director of Education for the TOUR Academies and beginning this week I will offer my insights on a variety of PGA TOUR-related topics. Each week I will break down the week's activities in three categories:
• What happened?
• What can we learn?
• Just because
This unique column will give readers an overview of "What happened?" at the tournament and "What we can learn?" from it. The third topic...."Just because," will be a random topic, idea or thought that has no limitations and should be fun. Let's get started.
What Happened
J.B. Holmes wins the FBR Open at TPC Scottsdale with his long drives and efficient putting.
When you take a 302-yard average off the tee with a hot putter (Holmes was second for the week in putting), you've got the formula to win any tournament.
And how about Holmes flying his 3-wood 290 yards in the final round?! It is truly amazing how far these guys can hit a golf ball. Can you imagine standing on the 17th tee at the TPC of Scottsdale -- all 332 yards of it -- and being in between clubs? Do you step on a 3-wood or just smooth a driver? Tough call.
J.B. defeated Phil Mickelson in a playoff to take home his second FBR Open title. It wasn't easy -- J.B. struggled most of the final round but really pulled it together with a late birdie to tie Phil and eventually get into the playoff.
J.B. showed some real patience and mental toughness through his struggles. At times, he seemed to be very uncomfortable with his swing. Nevertheless, he held it together and got the job done, mainly because he was able to rely on his hot putter in the playoff.
What Can We Learn
What about that hot putter? Was it just me or was belly-putting on center stage on Sunday? Both J.B. Holmes and Charles Warren (solo third finish) used the belly putter.
Belly putting is an efficient way to putt. Although not conventional, it is growing in popularity. Remember Stewart Cink just a week ago? He finished third at the Buick Invitational with a belly putter -- 10 shots behind Tiger. Maybe Tiger would have won by more had he used a belly putter.
Want to try a belly putter?
If so, my advice is to be fitted for it. At the TOUR Academies, we like to get students looking good with the five lines at address first. The five lines at address allow a player to be fit for a more standard length putter.
• Related instruction: Learn more from Fulton about the five lines of putting
From there, you can then take the measurement from the end of that putter to a comfortable spot near the belly. This will give you the correct length belly putter based around the proper fundamentals (five lines). This combination will give you the best chance to move the putter head on its natural arc.
Just Because
What a great day of sports on Sunday. I must say it wasn't my most productive day in the world around the house, but it certainly was fun to watch my two favorite sports -- golf, of course, and football.
I love football and I must say I was very happy for Eli Manning, Tom Coughlin and the rest of the New York Giants. What a great game it was with the last-minute drive to beat the undefeated Patriots. Although I was tired of hearing about the 1972 Dolphins as much as the next person, it was neat to see Peyton's younger brother get it done on the biggest sports stage in the world.
Often in golf, we are treated to great family moments after a player wins. It is not very often in football do we as fans get to see these same family moments. On Sunday night though, it was great to see the superstar older brother in Peyton Manning cheer and show such genuine passion and affection for his little brother Eli. Great stuff all around.
I'll be back next week with a look at the goings on at Pebble Beach. See you soon.
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