Course Management is Key to Better Golf

Article by Roy Fankhauser II

One of the things we do at our Golf Academy at The Club at Lost Lake is teach course management. This month we will talk about Course management. Course management in tournament golf focuses on planning each shot with a clear strategy, considering the course layout, hazards, and desired outcome. This includes knowing your yardages, selecting the right clubs, and making informed decisions about wind, slope and grain, to avoid unnecessary risks and capitalize on opportunities. Mental preparation, including visualization and emotional control, is also crucial for executing your plan.

1. Planning and Strategy:
Course Preview: Before you play, take the time to study the course layout, identify potential hazards, and understand the pin positions for each hole.
Yardage Knowledge: Know your distances with different clubs, including how your yardages vary based on factors like wind and elevation and temperature.
Shot Selection: Consider the risk-reward balance on each shot. For example, aiming for the middle of the green on long approach shots, or using a lay-up to a manageable distance on par 4s with tight fairways.
Position Play: Focus on positioning your ball in a way that opens up the best approach to the green, (using the correct angle at the flag) even if it means sacrificing some distance on the tee. Club Selection: Choose the club that best suits the conditions and the shot you want to play. Consider factors like lie, wind, and pin position.

2. Mental Preparation:

Visualization: Mentally rehearse your shots, focusing on the desired outcome and the execution of your plan.
Emotional Control: Stay calm and focused under pressure, especially when making key decisions.
Positive Mindset: Maintain a positive attitude and believe in your ability to execute your plan.

3. Key Strategies:

Prioritize Accuracy: In tournament golf, accuracy is often more important than distance. Aim for the target area and avoid taking unnecessary risks.
Avoid Hazards: Identify and avoid hazards as much as possible. Plan your shots to keep the ball on the fairway.
Master the Short Game: Develop a strong short game, including chipping, pitching, and putting, to capitalize on opportunities and avoid big numbers.
Learn from Mistakes: Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Analyze your errors and learn from them to improve your game. Take notes.
Embrace Technology: Utilize technology like GPS systems and rangefinders to enhance your decision-making and improve your course management skills.