Not enough is written about the putting game. I say “putting game” because putting is an entirely separate discipline to that of the long game, short game and mental game in golf. Most of what we read in golf magazines these days seems to focus on distance off the tee. Fair enough, but keep in mind that a par 72 golf course is designed for 36 full shots and 36 putts; putting is half the game!
The problem I have giving advice on putting, however, is that there are no absolutes for putting technique. From the “claw grip”, to the “belly putter”, putting technique is singularly individual to each player. Therefore, I must provide the following disclaimer: the ideas that follow in this column are merely suggestions; truly, whatever works for you on the putting surface is correct.
Here are a few suggestions that work for me. Perhaps they can help you to drain that 12 foot birdie putt at your next Sunday match.
The Grip
The Stroke
I would like to reiterate that these are putting concepts that I use. I wouldn’t suggest they are for everyone. Again, whatever works for you is the correct method of putting! Good luck and please let me know if any of these concepts work for you. More on putting next month!