In this months issue of Golf Digest, there is an interesting article called "How low can you go?" It talks about the real difference between "scratch" golfers and touring professionals. When we think of a scratch golfer, we think of someone who has a zero handicap. We think of that person at our club that walks right out of the car and shoots even par or sometimes one or two under. We think, I wonder if that person has a chance to qualify for a PGA Tour event? The reality is they probably do not. There is a huge divide between being a scratch player and a touring pro.
Some of the best players in the world share their stories in this article about the time they officially became a scratch golfer, and how it takes a whole different level of dedication and fine tuning to make it to PGA Tour levels.
I thought that the most interesting part of the article is when they were interviewed legendary instructor, Butch Harmon. Butch says "There's a huge difference between a club scratch and a good amateur who's scratch. A good amateur's handicap is based on traveling to different courses and competing. If you're not shooting four or five under every time you tee it up at your home course, where you know every little break, then you're no good." The article then goes on to say that Harmon is not being cold hearted. He is simply stating what it takes to be a great touring player or amateur.
Although this article talks mostly about the difference between a scratch player and a pro, I found it made some very good points that could be directed at players of all abilities. It touched on parts of the game that mid to high handicappers need to work on that will change their games completely. It talks about holding back and not attacking every single pin out on the course. Think about it, if you see a pin tucked right in the back of a green on a small slope, what are your odds of hitting it close? Slim right? The mid to high handicap player simply sees a flagstick and tries to fly their shot directly at it, whereas the scratch player or touring professional will hit to either a safe part of the green or to a spot that gives them the best chance for an easy putt.
These simple decisions on the golf course can make a dramatic difference in improving your game. Talk to a PGA Professional in your area to find ways like this to lower your scores.
Chris
