by Casey Camp
I have finally found a topic that I speaks to me: golf, and all the permutations thereof. I have been playing this agonizing game since the age of 9, which may indicate some mental illness, but that is another topic that we dare not broach at this juncture.
There are no shortages of details to the old game and it seems the more one improves the more fascinating golf becomes. Paradoxically, the simpler one tries to approach this game, the better one may play too. The mental side is at least half (and some experts say even 90%)of a player's 'success' in golf. Think of it as zen practice with sticks.
In choosing the right clubs on the course one must be familiar with one's own game and know the distance he averages with each club. For me it is 2 iron: 200 yards, 3 iron: 190 yards, 4 iron: 180 yards, and so on in 10 yard increments with each club. Keep in mind that this is approximate and is wholly dependent on a variety of factors, which include wind, temperature, adrenaline, or simply how my back is feeling. More technically, and I hate this part, there is your swing speed, type of golf ball, club maker, shaft, etc. to consider.
The location of the golf course can determine the distance your ball will travel If playing at a higher altitude you will hit it significantly farther (about 10% at 6500 ft.) than at sea level. Conversely, at sea level and in more humid conditions, the ball won't fly as far. One must factor in the nature of the golf course as well. Are the fairways firm or soft? What kind of grass is prevalent? Bermuda grass is spongier than fescue and tends to limit a golf ball's roll, assuming you get it airborne. How close the fairways are cut can affect distance too.
If you've ever watched the British Open all these variables are on wonderful display. The wind is usually much more of a factor than here in the States (except Texas). The hard fairways contribute much more distance, just as the rain or cold weather can detract. When competing it is not unusual to see seasoned pros misclub by not accounting for the adrenaline coursing through their bodies. This can happen anywhere and is independent from weather variables.
Finally there is psychological element to consider when trying to determine the right club on the course. And that is the machismo factor. Hitting the longest drive is everyone's favorite goal, at least at times. Keeping up with your playing companions off the tee is not always in your best interest. Keeping the ball 'in play' is. This may necessitate hitting a club you are confident in rather than blasting away with your big headed driver. 300 yards and out of bounds isn't so great, but a 5 iron and a 8 iron and 2 putts for a par is. Keep a zen mind and keep your ego at bay until it's time to sign your scorecard.
Learn more about this author, Casey Camp.
