13 May, 2008
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By PGA professional Karl Hayler
As Sergio Garcia grappled with his putting demons at The Players Championship, most of the field were grappling with wind at Sawgrass.
The conditions had a major impact on the tournament and being able to master blustery weather is an acquired skill - but a pre-requisite for any golfer.
PGA Advanced professional Karl Hayler of Lilley Brook Golf Club, Gloucestershire, calls on his own experiences to bring some useful tips to avoid being blown off course.
While watching The Players Championship from Sawgrass it was very noticeable how so many players struggled with the wind.
At times it reached up to 40 mph and created havoc. The course was difficult enough without any help from nature but it highlighted to me how the great players deal with such conditions.
I started my golf career at an exposed downland course in Sussex back in 1978 and I can call on the kind of thought process from then for playing in the wind, which can still be adopted today.
- Swing it easy when it's breezy. Make a smoother swing than usual as hitting the ball harder increases the spin rate, with the result being a higher shot into the wind.
- Consider playing more ¾ punch shots in the wind
- When putting and making all shots adopt a much wider stance for extra stability
- When teeing the ball up use a higher tee whether hitting into or with the wind.
To conclude, and I'd like to quote James Braid when at Walton Heath: 'Use the wind don't fight it'. For example, regardless of whether the wind is blowing left or right allow for it, don't try and fade or cut it.
To contact Karl Hayler at Lilley Brook Golf Club call 01242 525 201 or visit lilleybrook.co.uk