Playing a new course like a Boss
How to Prepare for Playing a New Golf Course
You've been invited to play golf with a friend or business colleague, and naturally, you want to play well. Playing a new course is exciting, but it can also bring added pressure. One major challenge is that you've never seen the course before. However, with a little homework, you can save yourself several strokes—I guarantee it!
Do Your Research
Thanks to technology, you can likely find detailed images of the course online. Many GPS apps offer free aerial views of the course, allowing you to analyze each hole beforehand.
I’m not particularly tech-savvy, but using ProVisualizer.com, you can search for the course name and explore the holes in both 2D and 3D. It even allows you to print a yardage book. Another useful tool is the Hole19 app, which provides an interactive view of the course, letting you plot tee shots and approach shots.
For example, consider a 323-yard hole with a stream in front of the green. By using these apps, you might determine that hitting a driver could be risky. Instead, a 220-yard tee shot might keep you short of the fairway bunker and leave a comfortable 100-yard approach. This kind of pre-round strategy can help you feel more confident and in control.
Pre-Round Preparation
Arrive at the course with plenty of time to spare. Rushing straight to the first tee without warming up can lead to a rocky start. Here’s a solid routine to follow:
Talk to the Pro – If possible, introduce yourself to the club professional. Ask about green speeds, grain direction, and the general course conditions.
Visit the Putting Green – Spend time getting a feel for speed. Do some drills focusing on uphill, downhill, and sidehill putts.
Practice Chipping – The fringes and rough may be different from what you're used to. A few practice chips can help you adjust.
Hit a Few Bunker Shots – If there’s a practice bunker, test out the sand texture. Knowing how firm or soft it is will prepare you for greenside saves.
Warm Up on the Range – Focus on the shots you'll need that day. If it’s windy, practice a few knockdown shots. If the course favors long irons, work on those.
Even if you're short on time, at least take a few chips and putts before teeing off. A quick stretch is better than nothing!
Course Strategy
Use a Yardage Guide or GPS – Many pro shops sell course guides, or you can use a GPS app on your phone. This will help with decision-making and shot planning.
Play Smart, Not Just Aggressive – Tiger Woods won The Open at St. Andrews without finding a single bunker all week. He studied their locations and tailored his strategy accordingly. Avoiding trouble is just as important as attacking pins.
Choose the Right Tees – If you’re not a scratch golfer, don’t feel pressured to play from the back tees. Playing from the appropriate set of tees will make your round far more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
A little preparation goes a long way when playing a new course. By doing your homework, arriving early, and having a strategy, you'll give yourself the best chance for success.
How do you prepare before playing a golf course for the first time? Let me know your best tips!
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