The Players Club - American Golf

THE PLAYERS CLUB INSTRUCTION H alloween is fast approaching, and fall brings some of the best golf weather of the year, but golfers need not fear that the combination of the two will bring them more tricks than treats. While there are plenty of shots that may make us look as if we've seen a ghost, there are also techniques to help you overcome those fears. We spoke to Dana Dahlquist, a veteran instructor at El Dorado Park Golf Course in Long Beach, to examine golf's scariest shots and how to overcome the fear of them. ••• The Shot: Drive off the first tee. Why it's so scary: You want to get your round off to a good start and want to avoid embarrassing yourself in front of your buddies. How to overcome the mental obstacles: Even the best players in the world have nerves. If we understand and accept that having nerves is a normal reaction, then we don't overindulge them. How to play the shot: The more you focus on your routine and the visualization of what you're trying to do, the easier it becomes. Your golf swing on the first tee should be second nature. Try to keep moving once you've started your pre-shot routine, because that maintains your athleticism. Consider hitting a driving iron or a hybrid. ••• The Shot: The 5-foot knee-knocker to save par. Why it's so scary: You want to make that putt to keep your scorecard clean. How to overcome the mental obstacles: You want to have a clear understanding of what type of putt you're hitting – uphill and straight, downhill with a lot of break or whatever. Recognize that you can't control imperfections on the green – you may hit the putt perfectly and it still may not go in. How to play the shot: The more you can focus on and control your speed, the better. What's the best speed to make the hole the biggest? That's a good way to visualize it – don't try to be perfect, but hit the putt at the pace you trust. ••• The Shot: Over water and all carry. Why it's so scary: I think golfers set unrealistic expectations. If you're hitting a long shot over water, your target needs to be a lot smaller. How to overcome the mental obstacles: You need to understand your variance first and foremost. If you slice the ball generally, a lot of your shots are going to end up short right. You may need to adjust your target so your errant shot doesn't end up in the water. How to play the shot: If you can't carry the water, find the next best scenario. Lay up if you have to. Generally holes with water are among the harder holes on the course, so just try to make a good score and get out of there. ................................................................. > CLICK HERE to visit Dana Dahlquist's website. SPOOKY SHOTS! How to overcome your fear in golf 's toughest situations Shots that require all carry over water can create anxious moments.

• Cover