Winter golf is here. Pick and place has started and it’s time to dust off that carry bag. Here are a few tips to keep you smiling on the golf course over the next few months. Of course the number one suggestion is to grab a winter sun holiday!
KEEPING WARM
First of all, the conditions are in contrast to summer months – cold days, cold hands, wet and muddy conditions, and a cool body!
It is essential to be prepared for all variables during the months ahead, these tips are to help you through them.
With cooler temperatures if you are not prepared, then it could be a long round out there! So, here are some simple but essential ‘do’s’ in order to prepare.
Make sure you have a good set of waterproofs, both jacket and trousers. It is worth spending a little extra for a good set, as you want these garments to last several winters. Galvin Green, FootJoy Hydro Tour, Ping Sensor Dry are perhaps the premium ones to look for. These sets are around £200 plus so come with a guarantee. Avoid ‘showerproof’ garments and the same applies to head gear, don’t skimp on a cheap cap, get a decent one, preferably with ear muffs!
Always put your winter clothes on in a warm room. Starting with warm or two pairs of socks and finishing with a pair of winter golf gloves or mitts, the keys is to be warm and comfortable and not be restricted by your clothing when you are swinging, so a jacket or top which gives you the flexibility needed is essential.
Hand warmers can be purchased in most pro shops, they come in a little pouch and are relatively cheap, keep one in each mitt to stop your hands getting cold. They are probably the best winter aid to keep the feeling you need to execute those delicate shots!
THE IMPORTANCE OF THE GOLF BALL
With winter temperatures a lot cooler, the golf ball doesn’t travel so far. Cold conditions, dampness and heavy air all contribute to less distance so here are a couple of things to do to help.
Avoid using a high compression ball (100), try a softer ball (90) or, ladies, look for a 80 compression. You will get a better feel for the shot especially around the greens.
Keep two balls of the same make at hand, one in the pocket, so it stays warm, and alternate use of each ball, you will be amazed how much further a warm ball travels.
WINTER RULES
In general, most courses allow ‘rolling ’ or ‘pick, wipe and place’ during seasonal conditions, so take advantage and mark your ball, clean and replace in a favourable lie.
One of the golden rules of winter golf is to keep the ball in play, so if you can’t reach the green then play safe and keep the ball in play! Many shots are wasted in the winter months just be wrong club selection, with a high percentage of shots finishing short, remember the ball doesn’t travelm as far so a 9 iron in the summers could be at least an 8 iron in the winter months or more. There are no pictures on the scorecard!
See how you get on with these nuggets, should you have any problems drop me a line and I will endeavour to assist you with a simple solution!
Nigel Burch
PGA Professional, South Africa Golf specialist.
nigel@golfplanetholidays.com
