This is an adage I came up with long ago and it works for many things in life, especially golf.

Think ahead

If you’re going to the golf course what will you need?

• Golf balls – Properly identified with a permanent marker pen. Keep more than one in your pocket.
• Tees – Big tees for the driver (and repairing ball marks on the greens), small tees for the rescue woods and irons on the shorter holes.
• Ball Marker – To mark the position of the ball on the putting surface (green).
• Towel – Any old towel will do. Wet half of it. Use it to clean your clubs or golf ball after a shot
• Rule Book – You never know when it will come in handy
• A sand divot bag – whether it’s you or your caddie, make sure you fill any divot you make with sand
• Dress for the weather
• Take a snack, banana or apple for an energy boost
• Water! Stay hydrated. Even in winter

If you’re on the golf course what will you need next?

• If you’re in a greenside bunker take your putter with you as well as the sand wedge because you’re probably going to use the putter for your next shot. Make sure you keep the bunker rake close by also.
• Don’t wait until it’s your turn before you start your pre-shot routine, even on the putting green. As long as you avoid disturbing other players, start your routine as soon as possible. Be ready to play when it’s your turn.
• When playing a shot from the turf, bring the sand bag or divot bottle with you. This saves time and the golf course.

Plan ahead

• Make sure you warm up at the range before play. Don’t forget to hit a few putts to help determine the speed of the greens.
• Play a few bunker shots, both greenside and fairway, as it can help in providing more confidence on the course.
• Obviously you want to hit some drives, but don’t forget those shorter lob shots and pitches too.
• Your warm-up should not last more than 30 minutes. It is important to remember that a warm-up is just that. DON’T PRACTICE!

Stay Ahead

By thinking and planning ahead you can make your game more enjoyable and even more consistent, which in turn can help you stay ahead of your fellow competitors.

Thinking, planning and staying ahead also has to do with another important part of playing the game – AVOIDING SLOW PLAY.

See you on the Leaderboard!……

By John Volz