With the Open Championship showcasing the best of links golf, it’s an ideal time to focus on the unique challenges that links courses present. Your junior golfer can learn a lot from the pros, especially when it comes to the essential skills needed to excel. Here are five key skills that will help your young golfer conquer links courses with confidence:
1. Control Your Ball Flight
Encourage your junior golfer to master the ability to hit low, controlled shots to combat the wind. Practice punch shots and stingers to keep the ball under the wind and on target. This skill is crucial for maintaining accuracy in challenging conditions. Best tips for help doing this are, place the ball further back in your stance, shaft leaning forward, hit the shot with a shorter swing and feel that the loft at impact is being decreased further.
2. Short Game Precision
Links golf demands a sharp short game. Advise your golfer to work on their chipping and putting to handle the tight lies and undulating greens typical of links courses. The one they don't like playing usually is the good old bump-and-run shots, this will enhance their control and precision around the greens. Best practice for this is to use less loft around the green.
3. Bunker Play
Links courses are famous for their deep, challenging bunkers. Your golfer should hone their bunker skills, focusing on clean contact and precise distance control to escape these hazards efficiently. Mastery in the bunkers can save crucial strokes, its all about loft and bounce, with slow speed in the hands and past speed in the clubhead.
4. Course Management
Developing smart course management strategies is key. Teach your golfer to study the layout, understand wind directions, and choose the safest routes. Avoiding trouble spots, especially fairway bunkers, and playing to their strengths can make a significant difference in their scores. When watching the Open this weekend see how often they play to the middle of the green or away from the flag.
5. Adaptability
Links golf can be unpredictable with shifting winds and weather. Emphasize the importance of adaptability. Encourage your golfer to stay flexible with their game plan and be ready to adjust their strategy as needed. Remind them to always have their winter gear handy to handle sudden weather changes.
By mastering these skills, your junior golfer will be well-equipped to tackle any links course with confidence and success.
As we watch the Open Championship, let’s inspire our junior golfers to learn from the best and apply these techniques to their own game.
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