How To Improve Your Handicap In The Golf Game

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Improving your handicap is critical to the overall improvement of your golfing experience. Just remember, this can't be done on the basis of only one score. For instance, if you play an individual round of a 10 over par, then it is almost impossible to determine your handicap. It is however, possible to make something out of it, after you have registered multiple scores.

Another important note is the average score that you have is still typically not your handicap. For example, a golfer who usually has an normal of 10 over par will usually have a handicap of a 7 to 9 range. The specific score will vary and is dependent on the actual courses that are played and the ratings that accompany those courses.

Pro golf players however, feel that one of the best ways to improve your handicap is with developed putting and wedge abilities. If you can drive the ball perfectly, but fall down on your putting then you are going to be looking at a very high handicap always. Just taking the time to center hard upon a good putting strategy can really help you knock off a few points off of your handicap and improve your game. Between wedge and putting, focus more on putting since all holes would have to be putted but not all holes need a wedge shot.

Usually, beginners who learn golf discover that as they strive to improve their putting and wedge strategies, their long drive skills improve at the same time. Although this isn't feasible all the time, the primary idea is to work at your short shots, and your long strokes will improve as well. When you use the right stance for your shorter strokes, your score improves and this in turn helps you to do better in your long shots at the same time. This can result in a massive impact on your handicap since you can see a significant improvement in your placing.

Another condition that you should be aware of is your confidence and you will discover that a person who lacks confidence is prone to commit more mistakes no matter what  they are doing. They may be an expert in their field, but if they don't have self-confidence, they would commit small errors simply because they are worried. Before you can think of improving your handicap, be sure that you are not committing these mistakes merely because you don't have self-confidence.

Acknowledge what you are good at and focus on it, and this will make you a more confident golfer. Perceive all mistakes as part of the learning journey. This can enable you to improve your golf game effectively and bring up your self-confidence as well. This together with other valuable tips mentioned above can help you maximize your handicap, as well as help you to become a good golf player. Even when you have tons of experience behind you, some of these tips referred to above could help a professional player to improve his golf game.

Improving On Your Golf Grips For A Better Swing

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People who love the game of golf have a pretty clear understanding of the importance of using high quality clubs. Many golf aficionados willingly spend a pretty penny on their golfing equipment and they are usually willing to continue spending money on various types of golf training aids to improve their game. But, many times, these same people completely overlook one of the simplest things they can do to help their game: changing their golf grips.

Outfitting your golf club set with new grips is a very inexpensive and effective way to quickly improve your golf game by helping you have more consistency simply because you can get a better hold on your clubs. With a better and firmer grip, you will also be able to improve your golf swing.

If you have a set of old and worn out golf grips on your set of clubs, then it doesn't really matter is you go out and find the very best golf training available because the condition of the grips will interfere with your ability to play your best game. Any golfer who is serious about the game is aware of the importance of maintaining their golfing equipment in the best condition possible.

Most amateur golfers never even think about the need to change the grips on their clubs. Novices can play for years with the same set of clubs without changing the grips and then wonder why they don't see any improvement in their game, even though they put in time to practice and buy other golf improvement aids and tools, watch all the golf training videos they can get their hands on, and constantly talk about wanting to be a better golfer.

Professional golfers know exactly how important it is to change the grips on their clubs regularly. In fact, some pros will have their clubs re-gripped at the end of every round of a golf tournament or other competitive event they are participating in. The reason they do this is so that their clubs feel exactly the same in their hands every day that they start a new round of play.

This may be overkill for the average golfer, but in the highly competitive environment of today's golf tournaments, the pros are looking for every advantage they can find and they don't like to leave things to chance. If the professional golfers put that much emphasis on making sure their grips are in great condition, then that should be a strong signal to everyone else interested in lowering their scores and improving their game.

The general guidelines for how often to replace grips are as follows. If you play golf an average of one time per week, then the grips on your clubs should be changed once every year. If you frequently play a round two times a week, then you should increase the frequency of replacing the grips to twice a year. If you also get to the driving range once or twice a week, then you should change those grips even more often than that.

You may not need to replace all of the grips on your club set at the same time. It really depends on how often you use your clubs. You can choose to only replace the grips on the clubs that are used more and are starting to feel worn. However, some golfers like to have all of the clubs re-gripped at the same time so that, for awhile at least, all the clubs have the same feel to them.

It is good to get into the habit of checking on the condition of the golf grips on your clubs at least once a month, especially if you play a round once a week. Grips that have that shiny look and slick feel should be replaced. A set of grips in good condition will feel a bit sticky and will feel great as you wrap your hands around them. When you have new grips on your clubs you will have a better sense of confidence, which in turn will lead to more success on the course.

Tips To Perfect Your Golf Swing Technique

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If you don't master your golf swing technique, it is not feasible to play a superb round of golf. Without this important skill, it will be an uphill battle to actually have a good game of golf. This doesn't mean that golf cannot be played without this ability, but it definitely improves the overall gaming quality, the same can be said for your putting skills. It is essential before you start working to improve this area to remember the aim is not so much to improve your power, but also to improve your distance and form.

If you start with a good sound position as you swing, which includes correct posture, as well as wearing the right shoes and having the correct alignment with the ball, you are going to have a much better chance improve your golf swing. Unless you have a firm and solid posture, you would finally twist untimely and have a lot of troubles with gripping the club in the right manner. All these working together can effectively mar your endeavors to improve your back swing. Your first line of defense is to continually ensure that you have the proper stance, which will help you to quickly and naturally execute the appropriate follow through for your swing.

If you are not sure of your posture, take a picture of yourself or ask someone to do it for you. Then take your picture and compare it with one that shows the correct position. If this is doesn't help you, take live golf lessons, which will allow you to work with someone to truly master your posture. When you have your basic skills right, you can work on them as you progress with time. If you can get a good golf teacher, it is the smartest way to pick up the game, as they can give you their direct and truthful opinion regarding your skill improvement - which is better than analyzing it by yourself.

Once your posture is perfected, give a closer look at your grip. If you are over extending your grip, or even gripping the golf club a wrong way, youwill have a bad backhand from the very outset. Until your grip of the club is perfect, you can never master a good back swing. It is virtually impossible and you will find that you are met with an infinite number frustrations from attempting it. A tiny shift in the position of your hands even to the tune of a fraction of an inch can result in incredible perfection.

Before you lift the club from the ground, remember to pull it from the golf ball, and this is the final major tip, to improve your back swing. The common bad habit that golfers have is to raise the club from the ground and back from the golf ball at the same time. This not only causes the club to hit  the ball off center, but also hinders your movement. Foremost pull the club back in a straight direction and then raise it off the ground, and watch a dramatic improvement immediately. This is not something that should be unnatural or difficult to do. As long as you make a calculated effort to pull the club back beforehand, you should find that is sufficient to help improve your swing and therefore you game of golf.

What Golf Clubs Are Best For You?

Golfing for a beginner is an often written about topic, yet an area which is grossly overlooked is what kind of equipment should beginners start out with? Choosing your first set of clubs requires a degree of knowledge if you are to make the right choice.

There are of course those lengthy books on how to swing, practicing tips, and how to train to be a good golfer, and you will find some of the best known sports stars endorsing some great products, making them even more desirable.

All of the big, brand name sports equipment manufacturers spend so much money advertising and hoping that customers will realize who has the best golf gear but as a new golfer how much do you need to spend?

However, not every golfer is Tiger Woods, so not everyone will need the same equipment that he uses, especially if the golfer is just beginning to learn about golf.

If you are new to golfing, using a Tiger Woods golf club will only make it harder on you because it was made for a professional, not someone who is just learning and only needs basic golf equipment or golf balls for example.

Golf clubs are going to be your most expensive purchase and therefore you should spend a lot of time researching on a set of clubs which will work best for you. It is advisable to not go by brands but what works for you, as they will affect the way you play golf.

Golf clubs are primarily made of Graphite and Steel. There are alternative materials too, like carbon fiber and titanium and composite alloys, but it is best to stick to the tried and trusted steel and graphite.

They produce far less twist, but don’t have the effective range that graphite shafted clubs do. You will have to use more power and a quicker swing to make the golf ball go the distance you need it to.

Graphite shafted clubs are far more expensive and they are not as durable or robust as steel shafted golf clubs. They also generate large power levels, and are therefore effective as driver clubs.

Choosing the right shaft flex is an important consideration too as this will be dependent on your swing style and speed. When your are just starting on your golfing journey, developing accuracy is the most important thing so ask your golf tutor what stiffness will best suit your current style.

Now that you are able to see beyond the advertising and endorsements and understand that it is about personal styles, you are in a far better position to make a sensible purchasing decision when you buy your next set of golf clubs or any other golf equipment for that matter.

Aldila VS - The Shaft Setting a New Standard

The Aldila VS Proto By You shaft has been classified as an NV on steroids. That may be true.  Even though the NV shaft has enjoyed popularity seen by few shafts, the VS by all counts, seems to be well on its way to matching the glory that the NV has seen.  Why has this shaft literally come out of nowhere to achieve greatness at such an early age?

Well, there are probably a number of reasons that make the VS Proto popular. In addition to the obvious performance improvements which culminated from 2 years of research. Continued improvements were made to the already successful Micro-Laminate Technology. Lastly, Aldila cleverly marketed the VS Proto adding "By You" to the name. The marketing seemed to work -- the VS made a big splash onto the scene, one that it continues to enjoy today.

The shaft features Aldila's exclusive Next-Generation Micro Laminate Technology (MLT), Carbon Nano Tubes combined with a propriety A65 performance resin system. In addition, the straight tapered tooling of the VS eliminates "dead zones" found in the majority of shafts today. The patented features allows for an unparalleled performance and power. Because of the high modulus graphite fibers found in the shaft, the responsiveness and feel is unmatched.

Introduced in 2006', the Aldila VS has gained in popularity.  Of course, having many top tour players commend the shaft doesn't hurt.  Aldila, early in its introduction, claimed the new VS was their best ever.  This comment certainly got attention since the shaft maker already had a one of the most popular lines in the the NV, NVS and DVS models.

The Aldila VS shaft is designed for the higher skilled player that can generate adequate club head speed. The VS will have a slightly higher launch angle than the NV and is designed for the larger club heads.  All around, this shaft is considered a premier shaft if you have the game for it.

How To Improve Your Golf Putting Ability

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One of the ways you can improve your golf game is to improve your putting talents. It could appear terribly unlikely but you can actually improve your skills by doing consistent practice and paying attention to some minor areas of your game. After you have grasped what you have to do, you should master the art through repeated practice. It is really important to remember that without proper putting skills, you can not achieve a good long shot.

Which skill is needed to be practiced to learn golf alters from one player to the other, but it is essential to be mindful that without practice, you can not make any improvement. There are three particular areas which are commonly recommended that you have to focus on, to play the best golf. How do you make sure that the ball hits the center of the club head? If you can not strike the ball with the center of the club head, you will not be good at putting. The ball can not just go straight, if it is hit by the side of the club head. What it really does is make you feel frustrated. It does not matter how many hours of practice you invest in your game, you simply can't get your desired results like this.

Once you have perfected this skill ability to hit the ball using the center of the club head, you need to move on to ensuring you always strike the ball in a straight line towards the target. What this means is that if you desire the ball to move 2 feet away from you, say towards the lake, your aim should not be the tree next to it. You may think that this is quite unusual, but not a lot of people know how to make the ball hit the specific target. How did they miss the shot, is the next question which crops up in their minds. Even if you are off by just a fraction it can seriously affect your putting skills as the ball is not going to go where you like it to go.

This aspect of the game should be practiced more. It also increases your handicap. Only more practice will help you get rid of this problem. The good thing is you can practice at home or office if you use a small home putting kit. While you are trying to work on this area, it is best to not go to the driving range.

The second ability you need to improve while trying to master your putting skills is to learn the skill of pumping in more power to your club head as it travels closer towards the ball. Slowing down the club before it contacts the ball is a general mistake done by a lot of golf amateurs. This generally results in a fall in momentum which deters the ball from hitting the target. By putting this into action, you can improve your golf putting skills and should assure you of a more challenging golfing experiences the next time.

Want Help To Improve Your Swing? Here Are Some Simple Golf Tips.

There are about as many tips for golf swings as there are golfers. Your friends, relatives, and even people you just met on the course will offer you tips. The truth is, that there is a lot of disagreement even among pros, so how are you to improve your swing? Well there are three basics that are standard tips from professional golfers. If you keep these in mind you will likely see improvement in your game.

Keep Your Head Still

It sounds simple enough, but one of the most common problems with amateurs and thus a common tip for golf is keeping the head still. With all of the other movements going on with a golf swing, it can be easy to let your head move around. Keeping your head still will keep you consentrating on the same part of the ball without changing perspective.

Relax Those Muscles!

By relaxing your muscles, you can attain one of the most important parts of a golf swing: balance. Stand so that you are comfortable and relaxed while positioning youself near the ball, make sure that you can reach it easily. Remember, it dose not matter which club or what distance you are swinging, what will make your swing strong and fluid is balance. Of all the tips for golf swings that you might get, relaxing and maintaining balance may be the most important.

Keep the Head of the Club Traveling Straight Through the Ball

Again, it seems simple enough. Most people, in principle, realize that the club head must travel straight through the ball, but they don’t give it any thought when they are playing. Once you have achived balance and your head still, the remaining tip for your golf swing left is to keep the head straight. By striking the ball straight, you can get rid of that nasty slice so many beginners have.

Golf can be a difficult game, which is why there are many tips for golf instruction online, in books, from friends, and anywhere you might look. While pros may vary on swing theory, these three tips are fairly universal and should get you going in the right direction.

Good golf aids can also be a great help on their own. However, if you already take lessons, they will enhance the experience. You can use the aids you pick up or read to add on to the information you get form you lessons. You will be amazed at how quickly a few lessons will improve your game.

Golf Gifts - The Top 4 Best Golf Gifts

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It often amazes me that some people struggle to come up with good golf gift ideas. I mean, we are not talking about a collector of expensive gold coins. We are talking about golfers and what they would like to receive. Golf & Gifts go together easily as there are so many options.

I have received plenty of crass golf gifts over the years. I have had to put up with embarrassing golf presents like bright coloured knitted golf club headcovers with a Christmas theme. So, to avoid anymore of these unwanted golf gifts, here are my top 4 types of golf gifts.

Practical Golf Gifts

The best golf gifts that you can buy are practical ones. All you have to do is find out which brand and type of golf balls the golfer uses. Then you would buy a box of those golf balls or perhaps even buy some higher priced ones. You will have to find out what golf ball specifications the golfer prefers – distance, high spin, medium feel, etc.

Another idea for the best golf gifts is to buy replacement brand name golf club headcovers. If the golfer uses Callaway golf clubs, for example, and the headcovers are worn and scuffed or just plain or mismatched, then you could buy some Callaway replacement headcovers.

Personalized Golf Gifts

If you want a more unique golf gift, then how about buying Personalized Golf Gifts. There are several choices of personalized golf equipment or accessories. The most popular are personalized golf balls, where you can usually have up to three lines of text imprinted on the golf balls of your choice.

Other items of personalized golf accessories are monogrammed golf shirts, golf caps, and golf towels. You can also get personalized golf bags with two lines of text from the likes of Nike and Callaway Golf.

Golf Memorabilia

If you are looking for an unusual golf gift then you can’t go wrong with Golf Memorabilia. You will want to make sure that the item is certified and authentic golf memorabilia. Look for a guarantee and that every autographed product comes with a Certificate of Authenticity (COA).

One of the companies to check out is Pro Sports Memorabilia. These are the guys to go to for peace of mind when it comes to guarantees and certificates of authenticity. You will surely find that unusual golf gift you were looking for and something that any golfer would be pleased to receive.

Corporate Golf Gifts

If you have your own company and are also a golfer, you have probably done some business on the golf course. Or, maybe you work for a company and you need to buy corporate golf gifts for some customers. Either way, your best option is to order some custom logo golf gifts.

Custom logo golf products are a great way to endorse your company. There are many golf products that can be customized, so you will be spoiled for choice. Again, the most popular is custom logo golf balls which can even have their own custom logo packaging. Other items include custom logo tees, shirts, caps, towels, divot tools, umbrellas and gloves.

So, there you have my top 4 golf & gifts ideas. You should be able to find the perfect golf gift from these ideas – whether it is for a friend, a loved one, or a business associate. Also, you can visit my golf site for more information on Golf Accessories and Gifts.

 

The Usual Mistakes Made by People Who Are Learning To Golf

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Learning to play golf is not an easy thing that you can carry out  brainlessly. Golf in real life is many times very complicated and will require that you pay close attention to the exact rules and form. You have to be conscious of some common mistakes that amateurs are prone to commit and a professional golf trainer can help you from making those same mistakes. Everything becomes simpler with the help from a professional instructor.

This is one mistake that beginners usually make: new golf learners who are learning golf tend to lookup when striking. This is a problem as it can result in a stroke being counted even if you didn't hit the ball. It is vital to always look down until after you have hit the ball. You can achieve this by keeping your hips rotated after the hit. Stretch your arms fully - this posture really helps a beginner who is learning golf. Pace yourself by counting to up five after a hit to avoid looking up too quickly.

Another usual mistake for people learning golf is that once on the green, too many putts are missed. You can prevent this by taking a putting stance and focusing at the top of the ball. This will increase your chances of hitting the ball while steering it to the direction you want it to go. The success you experience will propel you towards bigger accomplishments.

It is kind of funny to see the ball of new golf learners, going to the sides instead of the middle of the green. Some patience will go a long way to remedy this situation.

Proper stance is essential to execute the perfect stroke. You have to make sure that you are taking the time to meticulously evaluate your stance before each swing so you may have to back up a little to make sure that you are not hitting the ball from the side of the club. Hitting the ball from the side of the club will definitely propel the ball to the side of the green. Ensuring a solid, square swing will send your ball to fly to your envisioned location with continued practice.

Beware of hooking - they are very irritating flaws that are found in most beginners learning to golf. Some have a problem with their stance which causes the ball to hook, while others are holding on to the club too hard, causing it to hit the ball the wrong way. Hooking the ball can also be caused by the act of gripping the club too hard. Finally, always remember that practice is vital in order to improve the game of golf.

What Golf Grips Can Do For Your Game

Using Golf Grips

Every golfer knows how important a good set of golf clubs is to their game and many golfers spend quite a tidy sum of money to purchase the best quality clubs they can afford. In addition, many golfers also spend a lot of money on private golfing lessons and golf training aids, but sometimes they overlook one simple and fundamental thing; their golf grips.

Outfitting your golf club set with new grips is a very inexpensive and effective way to quickly improve your golf game by helping you have more consistency simply because you can get a better hold on your clubs. With a better and firmer grip, you will also be able to improve your golf swing.

If your golf club set has worn and tired golf grips, then it won't matter if you spend thousands of dollars to buy the best golf training aids on the market because the grips that are in bad shape will be a detriment to your game. Golfers who are serious about playing to their highest potential know that it is extremely important to keep all aspects of their golfing equipment in great condition.

Most amateur golfers never even think about the need to change the grips on their clubs. Novices can play for years with the same set of clubs without changing the grips and then wonder why they don't see any improvement in their game, even though they put in time to practice and buy other golf improvement aids and tools, watch all the golf training videos they can get their hands on, and constantly talk about wanting to be a better golfer.

The professionals on the other hand know exactly the importance of changing their golf grips regularly, and as a matter of fact they even ensure that their clubs are re-gripped at the end of each and every round of the golf tournament or event that they are playing in. They do this so that their clubs fell does not change and that their hands feel the same on each round that they play.

It would certainly be an overkill to change the golf grips after every round for the average golfer, but considering the extremely high level of competition in the golf tournaments today, every advantage counts and for the pros they will leave no things to chance. By the fact that the professionals are putting that much emphasis on ensuring that their grips are in the best condition, it should not be surprise for any other golfer why they are not in the same league if they are unable to make the same commitment in keeping their golf equipment in top condition.

The general guidelines for how often to replace grips are as follows. If you play golf an average of one time per week, then the grips on your clubs should be changed once every year. If you frequently play a round two times a week, then you should increase the frequency of replacing the grips to twice a year. If you also get to the driving range once or twice a week, then you should change those grips even more often than that.

It may not be necessary for you to replace each club in your golf set at the same time. The frequency of changing the grips on each club will vary with how much you actually use a particular club, and you can choose to replace the golf grips that tend to be used a lot more and start to feel worn out. Most golfers do however, like to get all their clubs re-gripped at the same time so that all their clubs have the same feel.

It is good to get into the habit of checking on the condition of the golf grips on your clubs at least once a month, especially if you play a round once a week. Grips that have that shiny look and slick feel should be replaced. A set of grips in good condition will feel a bit sticky and will feel great as you wrap your hands around them. When you have new grips on your clubs you will have a better sense of confidence, which in turn will lead to more success on the course.

Get Better At Golf By Attending A Golf Fitness Program

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It is clear that playing golf is a hobby and a sport that many people enjoy, making it a very popular pastime. In part, this is because it is a game that people of many physical levels and ages can enjoy, and because of the many golf aids and with the use of golf carts, people who can't walk long distances can still enjoy being out on the links. But, for those who have a stronger interest that goes beyond the hobby stage and into the area of competitiveness, using a golf fitness program can provide many benefits and improve your game.

A fitness program for golf is considered to be a must-have for those who are serious about the game, whether they are amateurs or professionals. The demands of the game of golf are rather minimal if you are just playing for fun and for the enjoyment of being out of doors on a regular basis; yet, if you are at all interested in being competitive, then your golf improvement will depend to a large degree on your physical level of fitness.

Many golfers discover that they get sore and achy after a round of golf, even if they are not new to the game. The primary reason for this is because the motion of swinging the golf club can put a great deal of strain on the back, but a golf fitness program can help to strengthen the back muscles. In turn, this will improve your golf swing and will cut down on the aches.

Regular exercise is important for staying in shape and for playing golf to your best abilities, especially if it is a competitive game with a group of golf buddies who like to take bets on the round. A good fitness program designed for golfers will help protect your muscles and joints simply by making them stronger and better able to handle the rigors of a vigorous round of golf.

The best thing about these golf improvement programs is that they help you to maintain the necessary physical mechanics that support the swing, which is the most important aspect of the game. By doing golf stretching movements and exercises that are part of golf training videos for fitness, you will be able to create and build the correct muscles and also increase joint resistance and flexibility. Combined, this helps to keep you strong and limber at the same time, which will help you to execute the needed moves.

As golfers age, they also need to stay in the best shape possible if they want to feel that their game is always improving rather than diminishing. However, it is easy to spot those older golfers who obviously follow a golf fitness guide because you can see them walking the fairways with a spring in their step. Age does not have to interfere with playing a great round of golf that you can brag about all week, but it does require the effort of doing golf exercises on a regular basis.

Making use of a good golf fitness program does not mean that you have to commit a big chunk of time and it can usually be combined with other exercises, such as walking. For instance, you might take a quick 15 minute warm up walk and then take another few minutes to do some simple golf stretching exercises. This small amount of effort can result in wonderful improvements to your game that might amaze you.

Custom Golf Club Set Can Help Improve Your Game

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Every single golfer on the course has a different physical capacity and a distinctive golf swing that is uniquely their own. Because of these unique differences, a custom golf club set can be a wonderful asset to an aspiring golfer who wants the experience of achieving the level that reflects his best abilities and potential. Many of the best golf clubs on the market today can be custom fit.

Creating a custom set of golf clubs involves measuring the golfer and then adjusting the clubs for shaft type and length, for the lie angle, and for the size and type of grip. Many people feel that out of all the various golfing equipment they have purchased and all of the golf aids they have tried to improve their game, the best equipment has been the custom set of clubs they invested in.

The process that goes into getting a custom golf club set made is quite straightforward and rather simple. First, the golfer decides on the brand of golf clubs that they want and then they have some measurements taken. In most cases, the person who is getting the clubs customized also needs to fill out a questionnaire and self-assessment of how they see their golf game, as well as their weaknesses and strengths.

In some cases, if the golfer is taking golfing lessons from a pro, then the instructor may be asked to help with the assessment. This can often be very valuable to the process because the instructor is an impartial third party who also has the golf training and expertise to be able to identify the weaknesses that need to be addressed with the club set, and perhaps even by adding a golf training club as well.

No matter what your own level of experience with golf is, a custom set of clubs can be very beneficial. This is because the customization is done with one purpose in mind and that is to make sure that if you execute a proper swing, the club will squarely impact the golf ball in order to produce a good, clean, straight shot.

Custom clubs that has been correctly adjusted for your height, your skill level, and your golf swing speed, can improve many aspects of your game and can even help correct a chronic golf slice. When a golfer slices a ball, it is because the toe of the golf club has lead into the golf ball. This could be caused by a poorly executed swing, but it can also be caused by a club face that is too flat. The process of customizing clubs for you can help eliminate this problem, and then you simply have to maintain focus on your golf swing improvement.

Just buying a custom golf club set alone is not going to instantly "fix" your game and make you a pro. However, when you use your new clubs in combination with golf training videos or professional golf lessons, you might be able to unlock your true potential as a golfer. Many people find that this combination is very powerful and well worth the investment of time and money.

Custom Golf Clubs: How To

Every golfer's physical capability and swing is distinctive. Many of today's best golf clubs can be custom fit for lie angle, shaft type and length, grip type and size. Custom fitting golf clubs involves several easy measurements and a quick self-assessment of your game. This custom golf club has become more than a fad that even not so professional golfers test its waters. You might think that going out and buying some new, fancy, utility golf clubs will fix your game, but that won't help as much as having your clubs custom fitted.

The purpose of a custom golf club us is to make sure that the club is nice and square when you strike the ball, given a proper swing.

To custom fit your golf club set, you need to know: your gender (male or female); your height in your stockings or socks; the distance from your wrist (where it bends) to the floor with your shoes off; your age; your handicap or skill level; how fast you swing a golf club; what club you use at the 150 yard marker.

Gender is used to put you into the correct fitting scale for custom golf clubs. The golf industry uses different definitions of "standard length" for men and women.

Your height and the distance in inches from your wrist to the floor are used together to determine the length of a custom golf club that is appropriate for you. Clubs can range from -3 inch to plus 1 inch. A tall person with long arms can very easily require shorter clubs than an average height person with short arms. Only 20 percent of golfers out there fall outside the standard length.

Your age, handicap (if you happen to have one), self-assessed skill level, estimated golf swing speed and club you use at the 150 yard marker are all combined to determined the custom golf club's shaft flex that is appropriate for you.

If you want to fix a slice, custom fitting can help. If you slice the ball it means that the toe of the club is leading into the ball which opens the face of the club. That may be down to a swing problem, but another possible cause is that the club flatter than it should be. So as part of the custom fitting process you can make the custom golf club more upright to help with this. This will mean that the toe of the club will be slightly off the ground at address to compensate.

There are different methods of fitting according to custom golf club manufacturers but ultimately they are all trying to improve your game. To begin with simple measurements such as wrist-to-floor, height and hand size are taken and will point you to the right size club and at what angle it should be to the ground. Then you will take a club and hit some balls. One way of doing this is to put impact tape on the bottom of the club, with an impact board on the floor.

As you hit the ball the board will leave a mark on the tape showing whether the heel or the toe of the custom golf club is striking the floor first. The resulting mark will show whether the club face needs to be flatter or more upright. After this, things get trickier. Analysis equipment can measure everything from your club speed to the side spin of the ball so that you can get maximum distance from your shot. You can also measure the launch angle of the ball, how much backspin you generate and impact efficiency - all which affect distance. The angle in which the custom golf club approaches the ball and the sidespin of it can help fix your game too.

Rather than bringing down your old clubs, it might be better to start from scratch. It's a big misconception that custom fitting is only for good golfers. Anyone can benefit. That said, if you plan to upgrade a new set of clubs with the same manufacturer they may be able to adjust your old set to become custom golf clubs.

Lastly, custom fitting is often free of charge. But it is usually on the condition that you buy some clubs once you've been fitted. So it really depends on what your budget is. If you're getting new clubs anyways, you should certainly get them fitted.

Golf In Florida Part 7

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By Jim Nettleton

Another must play in the Tampa region is the University of South Florida Golf Course, located on Fowler Avenue in the northeast area of the city. Affectionately known as “The Claw”, a name derived from one of its holes, the USF course is a stern test for golfers of all abilities.

The course was designed in an around a swamp, which comes into play on many holes. Generally, the fairways are narrow with trouble on both sides on several holes. The Claw starts you out with a relatively benign par 4 of 439 yards, which has little trouble on either side. But things begin to close in quickly as you play the second, another par 4 that is considerably narrower. The par 5 third hole also requires extreme accuracy on both the drive and the second shot.

After playing number 4, an outstanding par 4, and number 5, an excellent par 3 that is a realistic birdie chance, you are face with the tee shot on the sixth. This is a wonderful par 5 that doglegs left around a lake. Big hitters can choose to cut off as much of the corner as they dare to be left with a short second shot to the green. It’s a hole requiring courage off the tee.

Seven, eight and nine are also fine tests, with the par 3 eighth playing a robust 220 yards.

The back nine continues to force players to be accurate off the tee. Nowhere is accuracy more necessary than on the fourteenth, the infamous ‘Claw’ par 5 that winds through swamp and forest to present a severe test.

The USF course features elevated greens and natural surroundings throughout. Greens fees are reasonable and this course should be placed near the top of your list for a play.

Heading southeast, to Valrico, we find one of Florida’s finest courses, in my opinion, The Bloomingdale Golfers Club. You’ll find no tennis courts, no swimming pool here – just golf in beautiful surroundings and a course that is second to none.

Many tour pros have been members here since they find it a perfect spot to work on their games. The course stretches 7,155 yards from the tips and has a rating of 74.4, which should tell you to bring your ‘A’ game when visiting. Golf Digest, in fact, described Bloomingdale as having the best collection of par 5s on one golf course that they’ve seen.

Two of my favorite par 5 holes at Bloomingdale are the fourth and the ninth. The former measures 564 yards. It begins by bending left and then turning right. Finally, it turns left again to the hole. Accurate tee shot placement is a must as is an accurate second shot. The ninth is a 546 yard dogleg left with a lake on the right that comes into play on the tee shot. It plays to a green that is almost an island.

Along with those, you’ll find a collection of some of the best-designed golf holes in the region, if not the state. Another favorite is the eighteenth, a great par 4 at 409 yards that demands a very well placed tee shot to set up an approach over a marsh up to the green.

The Bloomingdale Golfers Club is most certainly not to be missed on your golf tour of the Tampa area.

About the Author:

Jim Nettleton is a radio and television professional who is a lifelong golf addict and lived in Tampa for 10 years. He highly recommends The Simple Golf Swing - http://tinyurl.com/2mmeux for those struggling with their game. Visit his golf blog at http://golf-golf-andmoregolf.blogspot.com/

Improve Television Golf Coverage

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By Jim Nettleton

Overall, television coverage of professional golf is very good. But I feel that adjustments are necessary for that coverage to reach the level of excellence.

Typical tournament coverage involves many distractions from the game at hand. Endless interviews while there is action on the course are an annoyance, taking away from the focus on the continuity of the tournament. These diversions can be easily eliminated.

Television is, obviously, a visual medium. There is no need to concentrate entirely on an interview with a player while blocking out what’s transpiring on the course. Baseball also falls victim to this tendency, as do other sports, failing to use split screen technology that keeps sport fans in touch with the developments on the field while announcers are interviewing players.

I enjoy interviews with players that interject their perspective on the contest, but I want to also see the current action on the field. Too infrequently, television devotes one hundred percent of its attention to these sidebars and neglects the story that is unfolding on the course at the moment. There is no reason that TV cannot multitask. One set of actions does not have to be sacrificed for another.

One of my pet peeves of television’s golf coverage, for example, is the ever-present need to indulge in lofty introductions as they begin telecasting a golf tournament. Introduce the announcers, give a synopsis of previous play, mention the sponsors, etc. By the time we get to actual coverage of what’s happening now, we’re five, six or seven minutes past the opening of the telecast.

I want to see what’s happening now, not a day ago. I’ve already read about that in my morning newspaper. I don’t want to see today’s analysts bantering back and forth, I want to see what’s going on at the course, live and on time.

The analysts can banter if they wish, and much of what they say is timely, but we can and should see the game develop at the same time. These do not have to be separate and independent exercises.

Then there is the obligatory appearance by the CEO of the sponsoring company. There is no reason that we must see him/her full screen to the elimination of the course action. Put him/her on a quarter screen, while we still follow the game on the course.

If television would give us all a chance to see multiple views more viewers would be able to see more action. The other imperatives which networks need to include could all be accommodated by using split screen technology and we could all enjoy that continuity of tournament coverage that we deserve to have.

About the Author:

Jim Nettleton is a radio and television professional who is a lifelong golf addict and lived in Tampa for 10 years. He highly recommends The Simple Golf Swing - http://tinyurl.com/2mmeux for those struggling with their game. Visit his golf blog at:

http://golf-golf-andmoregolf.blogspot.com/

Golf In Florida Part 6

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By Jim Nettleton

Today’s review of Tampa area golf courses is focused on two municipal courses owned by the city of Tampa. The city owns three in all, a fortunate state of affairs for residents, who can play these venues at very reasonable rates.

First up today is Rogers Park Golf Course. First opened in 1952, Rogers Park was renovated in 1976 with noted Florida golf architect Ron Garl in charge. Originally a nine hole layout, the course was expanded to additional city property across the street and became a regulation eighteen hole course. More renovation and redesign was done in 2000 including the addition of a new clubhouse facility.

The course now begins with a par 5 that stretches 551 yards. Again, all distances given are from the tips, but the course can play much shorter. From the back tees, Rogers Park plays a solid 6,802 yards. The first hole plays every bit of its yardage and is an opportunity to get your round started with a birdie with two solid shots.

The second is a formidable 432 yard par 4 that is fairly straightaway. This is followed by a relatively easy par 4 of 387 yards, a good birdie candidate. The fourth hole is a good par 4 with water in play off the tee. It plays 417 yards.

Skipping ahead to the eighth hole we find a terrific par 3 of 204 yards with water very much in play in front, to the right and behind the green. This hole requires an extremely accurate tee shot. You’ll be very happy with a 3 here.

The front nine wraps up with a lovely par 5 of 509 yards that is another good birdie opportunity. But if you’re a big enough hitter to go for it in two, you must avoid water tight to the left of the fairway and green.

Now we cross the road and head for the back nine, a very diverse set of holes that you’ll really enjoy. You’ll have a crack at birdie right away on the first two holes. The tenth is a par 4 of 375 that plays downhill to a tricky green. Woods border the hole right and left. Number eleven plays back up the hill and bends right. You need to favor the left side of the fairway on your tee shot.

The twelfth is a great par 3 that plays 202 yards through a chute of trees to an undulating green. Again, a 3 here will put a smile on your face. Number thirteen is a sweeping par 4 of 399 yards that plays over a slight crest and down to the right with water behind the green.

The fourteenth hole is one of the most dramatic par fives in the region. It bends slightly left and requires a very accurate tee shot that must carry water. The water is present the entire length of the hole and you must negotiate it again on your second shot. Add to this the trees and bushes down the right side, so your shots have to thread a needle on this hole.

Fifteen and sixteen are good holes as well, playing 205 and 380 yards respectively. Seventeen is a solid 422 yard par 4 that bends left with water coming into play on the left off the tee and around the green. The eighteenth, which used to be a par 5, is now a formidable 427 yard par 4 that bends slightly right. The second shot is played over a lake.

Rogers Park is a very pleasurable golf experience and certainly merits a play when you’re in the Tampa region.

Not far away from Rogers Park, in the Forest Hills section is another city course, the sporty Babe Zaharias, named, obviously, after the great female athlete. Although ‘The Babe’ plays only 6,200 yards, it is a very enjoyable test. There are plenty of birdie opportunities on this course, but also many possibilities of throwing up a big number.

The greens, for the most part, are small and require accurate approach shots. There are two par fives, numbers 6 and 12, both of which are reachable at 481 and 490 yards respectively. Four of the par 4 holes play over 400 yards, with the longest being the sixteeth at 433 yards. The par 3 holes are nicely setup and are comfortable lengths ranging from 151 to 176 yards. The seventeenth, which is the par 3 of 176 yards, is one of my favorite holes on the course, playing from an elevated tee down to an undulating green protected by a pond.

Another favorite is the thirteenth, a 430 yard par 4 that plays over the crest of a hill down to an elevated green protected by water.

All in all, Babe Zaharias is a fun golf course that gives you room to breathe but can also take your breath away with some of its tougher holes. It’s a sporty course, as mentioned earlier, that is enjoyable and not overly taxing.

About the Author:

Jim Nettleton is a radio and television professional who is a lifelong golf addict and lived in Tampa for 10 years. He highly recommends The Simple Golf Swing - http://tinyurl.com/2mmeux for those struggling with their game. Visit his golf blog at http://golf-golf-andmoregolf.blogspot.com/

The LPGA And The English Flap

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By Jim Nettleton

Recently the LPGA and its Commissioner, Carolyn Bivens, has been at the center of a storm of controversy concerning the organization’s intent to suspend players who did not speak English. This proposed action was quickly deemed discriminatory by some lawmakers and a few corporate sponsors.

Let’s try to examine this issue rationally and logically. As we all know, each tournament features a Pro-Am event preceding the major competition. Amateurs fork over large amounts of entry monies to participate in these Pro-Am events, principally for a chance to play with the professionals, of course. Would any of us be happy if we turned over a considerable chunk of change only to find that we couldn’t even communicate with the pro in our group?

I’ve played in several PGA Tour Pro-Am events over the years and once in an LPGA event some years back and in all cases one of the highlights was the interaction with the professional. The players in whose groups I participated made all the amateurs feel at ease, dispensing tips and telling stories that made the events delightful.

Communication with amateur players is a necessary skill for pros both male and female. Naturally, some are better at making amateurs feel at home than others, but all need to have the skill sets to at least make a good try at creating a cordial, fun atmosphere during the Pro-Am event. If the pro simply can’t communicate, the participating amateur golfers are being cheated of a large part of the reason that they spent money to be there.

One of the time-honored traditions in Pro-Ams is that of the pro golfer imparting tips to his amateur flock. This would not be possible if the pro spoke no English. It further complicates rulings, as well. A tour official can’t explain a rules situation to someone that doesn’t understand him or her. The added expense and inconvenience of having interpreters all over the golf course becomes burdensome, as well.

A requirement that players speak English isn’t discriminatory, it’s logical. It’s not as if the golfers only play in this country occasionally. Most are regulars on the LPGA Tour. In fact, the LPGA currently has some 121 players that hail from 26 different countries, which includes 45 from South Korea. That would certainly be quite a Tower Of Babel if all 121 spoke no English.

Carolyn Bivens rightly points out that speaking English is advantageous for the players from a monetary standpoint as well. Many endorsements, speaking engagements and the like would be far easier to come by if the players spoke English.

In my opinion, requiring the players to be at least minimally proficient in English is certainly not beyond the pale. It is for everyone’s benefit as well as their own. All involved with the LPGA Tour, the amateurs who pay to play, the officials and even the spectators benefit, since players could communicate with them during the tournament.

Given the huge amounts of money they are privileged to play for on a regular basis, it seems a small price to pay. Speaking English will pay them dividends on many levels in the years to come. At the time of this writing, the LPGA has softened its stand and is rethinking its proposed policy. Hopefully, the right final decision will be made so that all involved will be winners.

About The Author

Jim Nettleton is a radio and television professional who is an avid golfer and golf historian. He highly recommends The Simple Golf Swing - http://tinyurl.com/2mmeux

for those struggling with their game. Visit his golf blog at http://golf-golf-andmoregolf.blogspot.com/

Golf In Florida Part 4

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By Jim Nettleton

In this fourth installment of a series, we’re going to look at two more Tampa Bay area courses, each of which was a personal favorite during the years I lived in the area.

First, a course designed in the Scottish links tradition by Ron Garl, an excellent Florida architect, with many fine venues to his credit. Summerfield Golf Club is located in Riverview, Florida, just a few miles south of Tampa off Interstate 75. Aside from supplying golfers with nice amenities off the course, players will find Summerfield an outstanding challenge, particularly from the back tees which stretch the course out to 6,903 yards playing to a par of 71.

Summerfield is built on rolling terrain, with some elevation changes not routinely found in this area of Florida. On the front nine, you’ll find a terrific mix of par fours, beginning with the first hole measuring 417 from the tips. It plays slightly uphill to an undulating green. The second is a 432 yard affair that plays downhill and slightly left to a big, elevated green.

For the third hole, extreme accuracy is needed. It’s a par 3 of 180 yards over water to a tricky green that is angled from right to left. Holes 4 and 5 are wonderful par fours, 4 playing uphill and bending left and 5 playing down through a valley then up to an elevated green.

At the sixth hole, you’ll find Summerfield’s signature entry, a 171 yard par 3 that plays slightly downhill to a green that is nearly an island, surrounded by water on three sides. When the wind blows, it’s a daunting shot. Holes 7 and 8 are nicely contrasted par fours, with the 7^th playing 381 yards and requiring an accurate tee shot to a narrow fairway. Number 8 is a brute of a par 4 at 463 yards.

The ninth, the first par 5 on the course is an excellent rambling affair the plays uphill on the second shot and bends right to an elevated green.

The back nine begins with a par 4 of just 345 yards. Before you think, ah, an easy birdie, check out the green. It is angled left to right and has three tiers. Placing your tee shot is imperative for the best approach to this difficult green. The 11^th plays 168 yards through a shoot of trees to a narrow, well-bunkered green.

Number 12, a 570 yard par 5, requires an excellent tee shot, avoiding disaster on the right and left. The second shot is played over a marsh area and is a blind shot – so you’d better check the layout before hitting. The 13^th hole is a straightaway par 4 of 400 yards. It really gets interesting on the 14^th hole, a monster of 457 yards with the second shot playing over a chasm to a tricky green. You’ll happily take a 4 here.

Number 15 presents a birdie opportunity at 352 yards, but placing your tee shot well is a necessity in order to cash in. Number 16 is a 429 yard par 4 that is a demanding driving hole, with water lining the right side, and deep, impenetrable marsh on the left. The 17^th is a par 3 of 154 yards that plays slightly downhill to a very tricky green.

The finishing hole is another par 5 of 560 yards that plays uphill for your second shot to an elevated green.

Summerfield is a definite must play that is well designed and enjoyable.

Just a short distance away from Summerfield, off Route 41, is Apollo Beach Golf Club, a big time favorite of mine. It was designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., and he used the watery terrain to full advantage. Water is present on every hole on this lovely course that winds beautifully through scenic surroundings.

Your round begins with a par 4 of 410 yards that plays straightaway. Things tighten up considerably at number 2, a memorable par 5 of 573 yards. Big hitters can shorten that distance by quite a bit by cutting the corner of the dogleg left. The green is protected by water in front.

The 3^rd is a par 4 of 373 yards, presenting a birdie opportunity. The 4^th is a terrific par 3 that stretches 206 from the tips and plays over water. Number 5 and 6 are both stout par fours of 436 and 419 yards respectively, both requiring excellent tee shots to negotiate. Number 7 plays 556 yards. The par 5 presents difficulty for big hitters with thoughts of hitting the green in two. The hole bends slightly left and the elevated, small green is guarded by a stream in front.

The 8^th is a good par 3 of 192 yards. Nine plays 414 straightaway to an undulating green.

The 10^th hole is one of the toughest on the course, usually playing into the prevailing wind at 440 yards. The tee shot is demanding, with trouble on both sides and the second shot is struck to a big green that is difficult to read.

Number 11 is a 528 yard par 5 guarded on the right by a large mound that runs nearly the length of the hole. The 12^th is a 170 yard par 3 that has a generous green that could yield a birdie with a well placed tee shot. Number 13 is a terrific par 4 of 430 yards from the tips. The second shot plays over a river to a green set in the side of a small hill.

The 14^th is a par 4 of 422 yards, with the tee shot hit over that same river. Trouble is down the left and the approach shot is demanding. Number 15 is a relatively benign par 4 of 375 yards with a small green. But it does present a good birdie chance.

Number 16 is an outstanding par 5 of 572 with water lining the left side and mounds on the right. Your third shot, and even big hitters probably won’t go for this green in two, must be accurate. The green is guarded by water in front and on the right.

The 17^th hole is a par 3 of 201 yards that possesses a very tricky putting surface. The round wraps up with a 400 yard par 4 that bends slightly left. Out of bounds beckons on the left side.

Apollo Beach is a fine test, especially when the Florida breezes circulate. Enjoy it on your next trip to the Sunshine State.

About the Author:

Jim Nettleton is a radio and television professional who is a lifelong golf addict. He highly recommends The Simple Golf Swing - http://tinyurl.com/2mmeux

for those struggling with their game. Visit his golf blog at

http://golf-golf-andmoregolf.blogspot.com/

Fujikura Speeder Shafts - Experience the Power

The Fujikura Speeder shaft has experienced success from all ends of the spectrum including the most demanding, the PGA Tour. Although the Speeder remains one of the most popular shafts on tour, Fujikura has taken the shaft to the masses with success.But why has the Speeder shaft been so good?

To start, Fujikura holds one of the most promising shaft technologies to date - the Triax technology and it's at the heart of the Speeder Series. Triax is a carbon fiber woven in honeycomb structure giving the shaft extraordinary capabilities. The Triax technology allows the shaft to withstand the tremendous forces of twisting that occurs during the swing which provides much more consistency throughout.  Better vibration dampening and an incredible enhancement of energy transfer at impact. The Triax technology remains one of the highest touted technologies to come along in years.

The Speeder shaft also offers diversity.  The Speeder Series is available in five models, identified by desired weight, spin, launch and bend points. These models include the Fujikura Speeder 569, 586, 652, 686, and 757 models.

The 569 series is the lightest model designed for the average player looking for higher spin, higher launch and a low to mid bend point.

The 757 is the heaviest model, coming in at 77 to 82 grams.The 757 is most definitely geared for the more accomplished player seeking a penetrating ball flight with a lower trajectory.

In between the 569 and 757 lies a range that most golfers will find safe haven.

The vast popularity of the Fujikura Speeder is loud and clear.  It is safe to say, the Triax technologies has made the Speeder a premier shaft - a following and popularity experienced by few shaft makers. The wide choice of models is what makes the Speeder series alluring to the all golfers.  If your plans are for a new shaft in the future, you need to put the Speeder shaft on your short list.

Will Annika Be Back?

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By Jim Nettleton

The golf world was stunned earlier this year when perhaps the finest female player ever to play the game announced her retirement at the end of this year. That the announcement came at a time when she was at her career peak made it doubly stunning.

Annika Sorenstam has rapidly amassed titles and honors during her career, a span of time that saw her win 72 tournaments for third place on the all time list. Among those victories are 10 majors. But it must be said that those ahead of her on the all time list, Kathy Whitworth with 88 and Mickey Wright with 82, played at a time when competition was not remotely as intense as it is now. During the careers of Whitworth and Wright, there were only a small handful of players who actually had a chance to win each week. Today, dozens of players have a realistic chance to win. Given that assessment, Annika’s accomplishments become even more impressive, as do Tiger Woods’, judged by the same criteria.

Tiger called her “the greatest female golfer of all time” and said that it was sad to see her walk away. The 37 year-old Swedish superstar has said that she wants to devote more time to her business and to start a family. It’s a good bet that it will be a golfing family. Her fiancé is Mike McGee, the son of the former PGA Tour player Jerry McGee, so the genes are definitely there.

But it’s hard to imagine an athlete with her credentials going cold turkey from the game she dominated for so many years. Anyone who has achieved a lofty status in athletics, or any other endeavor for that matter, will find it difficult not to be drawn back to those circumstances around which their lives revolved for so long. According to Sorenstam, her last tournament will be the Dubai Ladies Masters, which takes place after the end of the regular LPGA Tour schedule. But will that really be the end?

Many of us who love the game hope not. Although her performance this year hasn’t been, in general, up to Sorenstam standards, although she has won three times to date, much of that is probably due to a division of concentration as she makes her final tour and thinks ahead to starting that family. She still strikes the ball as well as ever and still possesses the length to dominate any field she’s in.

The major loss to the LPGA Tour will be not only her stellar play but the manner in which she’s comported herself over the years and the example that conduct has set for younger players coming up the professional ladder. True leaders are always rare and we can ill afford to lose any of them.

Personally, I believe Annika will be back, if not on a full time basis, then playing select tournaments and perhaps the majors. After a year or two away from the competition and, yes, the glory, I believe the urge to experience some of that again will overcome other issues. Even if she does start her family promptly, that will not be a significant roadblock. There are many young mothers who are active on tour and who bring their families along with them.

Certainly we all wish her the very best with her new directions. But let’s hope that we haven’t seen the last of Annika Sorenstam, nor the last of the class and dignity she brought to the game. Is she does decide to return occasionally, she will be a welcome sight indeed.

About The Author

Jim Nettleton is a radio and television professional who is an avid golfer and golf historian. His lowest handicap was 2. He highly recommends The Simple Golf Swing - http://tinyurl.com/2mmeux for those struggling with their game. Visit his golf blog at

http://golf-golf-andmoregolf.blogspot.com/

Golf In Florida Part 5

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By Jim Nettleton

This is the fifth installment of a continuing series reviewing great golf courses in Florida and, in particular, the Tampa Bay region. We’ll cover other areas of The Sunshine State in later installments.

This time around, a look at two fabulous courses that belong to one facility. It’s The Eagles Golf Course At Tampa Bay, located on Nine Eagles Drive in Odessa, northwest of Tampa and just a bit north of Tampa Bay Downs. The Eagles is a fabulous layout, one of the very best in the region. The facilities are outstanding and both courses are a definite treat for all levels of players.

Let’s look first at the Forest Course, which, from the tips, stretches to 6,719 yards at par 72. The first hole is a par 5 at 510 yards. The water on the left of the tee should not come into play. A well-placed drive will get you a chance of reaching the green in two. A deep bunker guards the right side of the green and fairway mounds need negotiating.

The second hole is a lovely par 4 of 386 yards, bending right gently across rolling, mounded terrain. Number three on this beautiful course is a wonderful risk-reward par 4 of just 311 yards. But if you go for it, you’d better be accurate. The straight path to the green doesn’t play the full 311, since the hole bends right. But water down the entire right side and some serious bunkers might make you rethink the gamble.

Number four is a picturesque par 3 of 141 yards that plays partially over water which shouldn’t come into play. At number five you’re faced with the toughest hole on the front side, a 443 yard par 4 with water down the left, requiring a very accurate tee shot, and a green guarded by a huge bunker on the left and severe depressions on the right.

At number 6, make sure you have the right club. This 158 yard par 3 is a virtual island, surrounded by water on three sides. The seventh is a 519 yard par 5 double dogleg, with water on the right. The eighth is a 410 yard beauty of a par 4. It’s a dogleg left with water down the entire right side and a well-bunkered green with a tricky putting surface.

The front nine wraps up with a 410 yard par 4 that sports water down the left and deep fairway bunkers on the right. Grabbing a par here is a solid score.

The back nine on the Forest Course begins with a terrific par 5 of 476 yards that is reachable, but the second shot has to be very accurate as the green is guarded by water front left. Number eleven is a solid test at 403 yards. It’s a dogleg right that plays to a narrow green.

Number twelve is without argument the most difficult par 3 on the course at 228 yards that plays to a very large, undulating green with a hump in the middle. Number thirteen will give you all the par 4 you can handle at 443 yards. It’s a lovely hole that angles slightly right. After a well-placed drive, your second needs to carry across a lake to a big green that has lots of putting adventure in it. A par 4 here will make your day.

The next two holes give you a break, with number fourteen playing at 385 yards and number fifteen 371 yards. Fourteen is a slight dogleg left and fifteen is fairly straightaway. It’s the second shot on fifteen that’s tricky. The green is guarded by water on the left.

Sixteen is one of the prettiest holes on the course, a par 3 that measures 190 yards and is played over water. With a lake to your right, it’s truly a beautiful setting. Number 17 is an outstanding par 5 of 534 yards with water down the entire left side. The fairway is fairly narrow, so accuracy is a must. The third shot, or second for the bigger hitters, must thread its way onto the narrow green.

The Forest Course winds up with a 402 yard par 4 that is about a forty-five degree dogleg left. The fairway narrows down in the driving area, making it a tricky tee shot. The Forest Course is the newer of the two at The Eagles and certainly is a must play in the region.

Now, let’s get in 36 as we swing over the The Lakes Course at The Eagles, a stout test at 7,089 yards and par 72. It begins with an unusual 498 yard par 5 that is a double dogleg. The tee shot must negotiate a narrow opening of trees on both sides. The second shot must be carefully placed, since water guards the left side of the fairway and the left front of the green.

The second hole is a 391 yard par 4 that calls for an accurate tee shot, since the fairway narrows down severely in the driving area. Number three is another par 4 of 398 yards that allows for more latitude on the tee shot. It’s a slight dogleg left. Number four plays at par 5 and 527 yards and is basically straightaway. But your second shot needs to favor the right side, since the green is partly tucked on the left.

Number five is a picturesque 387 yard par 4 that bends left around another of the ever present lakes and requires an accurate second shot to an undulating green. Number six is a lovely par 3 of 216 yards that plays over water, although the water ends well in front of the green and shouldn’t come into play.

Number seven winds its 420 yards around and between two lakes. The hole bends right and demands a very accurate tee shot. The second shot plays to an elevated green with a lot of contour. Number eight is a good par 3 of 208 yards, with a green that is slightly bowl shaped.

The front nine ends with a strong 443 yard par 4 dogleg right with a lake on the right and two small ponds on the left. The green is long and narrow. A four here is a victory.

The tenth hole is a terrific par 5 of 535 that beckons you to gamble. A tee shot in the right place will enable you to cut across the lake that sits in the dogleg of this hole with your second shot. But miss it, and you’re on your way to a big number.

The eleventh is a difficult par 4 of 449 yards that bends slightly left and requires an accurate tee shot to a narrow fairway.The second shot is played to an elevated green that is shallow and angles right to left. Another hole where par is an excellent score.

The twelfth is a very nice par 3 of 172 yards that plays to an undulating green with several mounds. Put your tee shot in the wrong spot, and two-putting becomes an adventure. The thirteenth is the last break you’ll get on this tough back nine. It’s a 386 yard par 4 with a tee shot over water to a fairway that bends left toward the elevated green.

As you approach the fourteenth, you need to get your game face on, because the finishing holes are tough and challenging. Fourteen is a brutal 462 yard par 4. The landing area is generous, though, but if you’re playing into the wind, this baby is all you can handle.

Fifteen is another strong par 4 at 433 yards. Your tee shot needs to hug the left side, since a lake is strategically present on the right. But if you hug the left too much, a large tree will give your second shot trouble.

Sixteen is a 412 yard par 4 that might seem short after the last two holes. It bends gently left and features a wide fairway and a large, slightly elevated green. Seventeen checks in at a stout 232 yards. This par 3 is a real test over a lake that is definitely in play.

The Lakes Course comes to a close with a terrific par 5 that measures 521 yards. There is water to the right off the tee and a ditch to carry on your second shot. The green is small and tricky.

The Eagles At Tampa Bay is one of the fine tests in the region, no matter which eighteen you decided to take on. The golf complex is, indeed, a cut above.

About The Author

Jim Nettleton is a radio and television professional who is an avid golfer and golf historian. He highly recommends The Simple Golf Swing - http://tinyurl.com/2mmeux

for those struggling with their game. Visit his golf blog at http://golf-golf-andmoregolf.blogspot.com/

Golf Tip - How To Improve Your Backswing

Every golfer should invest some time and effort into fine tuning their backswing. Although there are many golf tips that can help develop better aim and form, the best advice is to stick with the basics. This holds true for beginners and amateur alike.

Mustering as much power and accuracy as possible while maintaining form and balance is the goal for every golfer. To accomplish this, you must be able to give the ball everything you've got, but without what is commonly referred to as “coming over the top”.

That describes a swing flaw which causes the clubhead to veer off to the outside of your target line during the downswing. The result? A horrendous slice.

Come From The Inside

The best way to avoid such a shot is to learn how to avoid coming over the top, thus keeping your clubhead from moving outside of the target line. This can be accomplished by simply working on a technique which is opposite of coming over the top: come at the ball from the inside.

More accomplished golfers can do this each and every time they try, but coming at the ball from the inside may be easier said than done for the beginner golf player. Practice, practice, practice is the key and once you get the hang of it, you can rid yourself of that terrible slice shot by making impact with the ball from a downswing which comes from the inside of the target line ever so slightly.

Train Yourself To Target The Inside

There are drills that you can practice which will help you train yourself so that you can come from the inside on your swing whenever needed. Below is a simple training procedure known as a swing path drill:

1. Take 3 tees and placed them into the turf approximately 3 to 4 inches apart from one another, and in a perfect line at a 45° angle with your target line. If you are a right-handed golfer then the line should be pointing to your left foot. Make sure that you have enough room in between each tee so that you can swing the club through.

2. Now it is time to find your swing path. Take out your 5-iron and initiate a few swings by attempting to hit the top portion of the middle tee. In order to do so, your clubhead must pass between the outside tees in a pathway best described as “in-to-out” in order to avoid contact with them.

By practicing this technique and hitting the middle tee in this fashion on a consistent basis, you are making contact correctly from the inside. If you happen to hit the outside tees then you are still coming over the top and need more practice on your swing.

Get more golf swing tips at http://howtoloweryourgolfscore.com/golftip/

Bring The Real Game Of Golf Back

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By Jim Nettleton

I freely admit to being a fanatic about playing the great game of golf as well as being a lifelong fan of the professional game. I first started following the pro circuit when Arnold Palmer broke on the scene like a swashbuckling D’Artagnan. I quickly fell in love with the nearly poetic beauty of the game and became fascinated by Palmer’s bold adventures.

From today’s perspective, we look back on those days, the days of television’s early feeble attempts at covering a game played over many acres, and realize that what were then called ‘fast’ greens were, in reality, excruciatingly slow and bumpy. And that course conditions were, for the most part, ragged. Observe some of the replays of All Star Golf and the early Shell’s Wonderful World of Golf on the Golf Channel and you’ll see what I mean.

It only makes all the more remarkable the achievements of the greats of those days and the days long before them. How, for example, under those conditions, was Byron Nelson able to set an incredible scoring average that stood for decades until Tiger Woods (who else) broke it in 2000? But the record was broken on courses manicured to a degree that Nelson could only have dreamed of during his prime.

All of which brings us to the current day and what is happening to this great game. True, today’s players are bigger, stronger and better conditioned than any who have gone before. And true, their talent level as a whole is greater – after all, they’ve had amazing role models from whom to learn. They’ve also had the benefit of an unprecedented amount of research and electronic analysis that didn’t exist in their predecessors’ time.

It is normal and even beneficial that the overall talent level and general proficiency improves and that cherished records fall on a fairly regular basis as Father Time marches on. But what we’ve seen over the past ten to twenty years is too much.

Players now on the Champion’s Tour are hitting the ball farther than they ever did while in their prime on the regular tour. The average driving distance on the regular tour is increasing geometrically. Architects are being forced to stretch classic courses to inconceivable lengths: courses routinely now measure an incredible 7,500 yards – and, I believe, the overall health of the game is suffering.

It is in some ways similar to what’s happened to basketball over the years. Once an intriguing game of finesse, it has become nothing more than a group of extremely tall people dashing madly up and down the court and stuffing the ball ferociously into the basket. What were once fouls are ignored – traveling and palming the ball are now routine. Just about anything goes in today’s world of Full Contact Basketball. Gone is the intricate teamwork that once made the game a joy.

Golf is in danger of undergoing the same type of deterioration. With the incredible advances in club and ball technology that have largely gone unchecked by the USGA and R&A, great courses are becoming obsolete, records are becoming fodder for the shredder and the game’s finesse, except in the case of a few modern players such as Woods and Michelson, is disappearing at an alarming rate. It is becoming a ‘slam it hard and find it’ game.

When was the last time you saw a pro gently cut a long iron – and I’m talking a 1 or 2 iron – into the target? Today’s ball is harder to curve and fewer and fewer pros master the art of working the ball.

I liked Jack Nicklaus’ idea of some years ago – his suggestion of a ‘standard ball’, if you will. Strictly regulate the distance the ball can go under normal circumstances to retain the integrity of our great courses. Let’s make talent the determining factor, not who happens to grab the latest hot technology.

A great story is told of Sam Snead playing Pinehurst #2. When he was in his prime, he used a 1 iron on one of the longer par 3s on the course. Many years later, playing on the Senior Tour, he used a 3 iron. He was well into his 50s at the time.

That classic picture of Ben Hogan at Merion in 1950 hitting a 1 iron into the 18^th green is another example. Years later, I attended the Open there and stood at exactly the same spot watching Jack Nicklaus use a 5 iron.

We need to bring the game under control. The great players will still be the great players – Tiger Woods would have been a force of nature in days past, just as he is today – but the big winners would be the classic courses like Merion, which has no more room to expand to accommodate today’s super boomers; the environment, since less area would be needed and less maintenance required; and the history and integrity of the game.

About The Author

Jim Nettleton is a radio and television professional who is an avid golfer and golf historian. He highly recommends The Simple Golf Swing - http://tinyurl.com/2mmeux

for those struggling with their game. Visit his golf blog at http://golf-golf-andmoregolf.blogspot.com/

Diamana Shaft - A Winning Breed of Golf Shafts

The Diamana shaft by Mitsubishi Rayon has been in a long standing tradition of premier golf shafts.  Mitsubishi, the manufacturer, has several models to choose from, Red Board, White Board, and Blue Board.

The choosy golfer has come to expect more from shafts and what they provide for their games.  Diamana is at the head of the class.  Mitsubishi has a highly intensive and performance-oriented prototyping and testing process.  Most notably, tour players get heavily involved in the pro-typing process.  All the major tours give input to Mitsubishi along the way allowing continually and evolving improvement for the shaft all the way to market.  This process is matched by few shaft makers, a win-win for all involved.

To add to the extensive production process, Mitsubishi has what they call Vertical Integration technology.  This technology allows them to combine any number of resins and fibers required to increase the performance of the shaft.  Mitsubishi puts a lot of stock in this technology and labels this their Material Difference.

Below, is a Mitsubishi Diamana model summary:

Diamana Red Board is a low torque, active tip, stiff mid-section and softer butt section.  The active tip helps "load" the the shaft during the swing transition and promote a higher launch, a great distance achiever.  The stiff mid section provides an element of control.  This shaft is designed for the average to above average player looking to increase distance without giving up control.

Diamana White Board is a low torque, stiff tip, stiff mid-section and softer butt section.  The White Board provides the penetrating ball flight similar to the Blue Board.  This shaft is definitely geared for the stronger player looking for good control and slightly higher ball flight than the Blue Board.  Higher launch and low spin is definitely the trend to optimize distance.  The White Board provides this balance.

Diamana Blue Board shaft is probably the most popular and scrutinized of the three.  The Blue Board is a low torque, stiff tip shaft that offers a very balanced feel for a variety of shots.  A very stable mid-section offers a less kick to enhance balance and responsiveness.  The penetrating ball flight is well suited for the advanced player with plenty of swing speed, looking for a combination of balance, feel and versatility.

Golfers that understand the importance of shaft technology also know the Mitsubishi Diamana delivers.  Are you ready for the power and control of a Diamana?  If you are looking to upgrade your shaft during the off season, you owe it to yourself to check out the Diamana Shaft.

Golf In Bermuda

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By Jim Nettleton

Bermuda has been my favorite vacation retreat for decades. Its friendly people, clean environment and wonderful weather are always a joy.

Being an avid golfer, experiencing the game and the courses on that beautiful island is also a never-ending joy. Bermuda has more golf courses per square mile than any place in the world. There are 8 courses there and each offers a splendid test.

The Belmont Hills Golf Club is a short but challenging layout that measures a little over 6,000 yards from the tips. It was rebuilt not long ago to USGA standards.

If you’re looking to spruce up your short game, try the Fairmont Southampton executive par three course, located near the southwestern tip of the island. It’s a fine array of 3 pars that will test every aspect of your iron play.

Farther along the southwestern tip you’ll find the spectacular Robert Trent Jones, Jr. designed Port Royal Golf Course. Several of its holes hug the cliffs overlooking the ocean. My personal favorite is the par three 16^th, which plays 176 yards over a chasm to a green perched on a cliff. At 6,561 yards, Port Royal is Bermuda’s longest course. Don’t miss it.

Heading back northeast, you’ll come upon Riddell’s Bay Golf & Country Club, a short but testing course along the water, measuring 5,800 yards.

Not far from Hamilton, the Ocean View Golf Course affords lovely views of the ocean. It’s only a 9 hole course measuring a little over 2,900 yards, but the scenery is worth a play.

Traveling farther north, Tucker’s Point Golf Club, the former Castle Harbour, presents itself. It was recently redesigned a while back, but maintains the elevation changes that made the old course so challenging.

Farther along the north route in the lovely town of St. George is the 18 hole executive course, St. George’s Golf Club. It consists of 8 par fours and 10 par threes. Designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., this stunning layout wraps around historic Fort St. Catherine and offers challenging play and terrific views. Sadly, this course is closing soon, so enjoy it while you can.

I’ve saved the best for last. Heading back toward Tucker’s Point you’ll find the marvelous Mid Ocean Golf Club, ranked for years among the top 50 courses in the world. Play it and you’ll see why. Although it measures just under Port Royal in length, play it from the tips and you’ll think you’ve just come up against a 7,300 yarder. Spectacular holes along the ocean are to be savored. Be sure to bring plenty of memory cards for you cameras.

Some of these courses are private – but arrangements can be made through your hotel.

I can’t wait to get back there and enjoy those lovely links again.

About the Author:

Jim Nettleton is a radio and television professional who is a lifelong golf addict. He highly recommends The Simple Golf Swing - http://tinyurl.com/2mmeux for those struggling with their game. Visit his golf blog at http://golf-golf-andmoregolf.blogspot.com/

Golf In Florida Part 3

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By Jim Nettleton

As we continue to examine some of the fine courses in the Tampa Bay region of Florida, we'll concentrate on two more fine examples, one relatively new and the other a venerable course that's been around for many years.

The relatively new layout is Westchase Golf Club, located just about ten minutes from Tampa International Airport in western Tampa. This 6,710 yard track was designed by Lloyd Clifton and features a beautiful golfing trip through local fauna and flora that you'll truly enjoy.

Westchase starts you out with a fairly benign hole that measures only 347 from the back. But it's benign only if you hit it straight. Water lines the first all the way down the right side and guards the green partially from the front and totally from the right and back. An iron off the tee might be a good choice.

Number 2 is a lovely par 5 of 549 yards with water coming into play on the left. The third is one of the most dramatic par 3's in the region, if not anywhere. It plays 212 from the back down through a chute of trees to a green guarded by water in front. An outstanding and difficult hole.

Moving ahead to number 5 and 6, you'll get all the par 4 you can handle from this pair. #5 is 426 and #6 is 440. Although water is present on each, it is not, or shouldn't be, in play. But if you're playing into the wind, 4 is a very good score, indeed.

The 8th is a superb par 5 that bends right all the way. The second shot must be well placed to get at the green, which is tucked near a stand of woods.

The front 9 finishes with a solid 404 yard par 4 with water on the right. The second shot must carry a waste area.

The back 9 begins with a short par 5 at 505 yards, but those able to try for the green in two must be very accurate. Water guards the green very closely.

The 11th is a crackerjack of a par 3, 190 yards over water. The 12th is, to my mind, the most difficult driving hole on the course, requiring a long carry off the tee and an accurate second shot to a difficult green.

At 13 we come to another par 5 of 507 yards with water in play all along the left side. 14 is a straightaway par 4 and 15 a very nice par 3 of 160 yards.

The 16th is a very interesting hole requiring an accurately placed tee shot. Big hitters can reach a waste area that juts out into the fairway from the right, making the second shot semi-blind.

Number 17 is a solid par 4 of 402 yards requiring an accurate second shot over water to a tricky green. The finishing hole, which parallels #9, measures 388 yards and requires a second shot over the same waste area that borders the 9th green.

Westchase is, all in all, a tremendously enjoyable golfing experience.

The second course we'll look at today is Pebble Creek Golf Club, located in the northeast area of Tampa, one of the oldest courses in the area. They recently underwent extensive renovations (2006) and have improved the facility greatly. It's a sporty course featuring a very solid layout that plays 6,436 yards to a par of 71.

The scenic layout begins with a 370 yard par 4 with the second shot over a creek. #2 is a strong 193 yard par 3 that forces you to contend with a big tree on the left.

To play #3 well, you'll need to work the ball left to right off the tee. This 400 par 4 is a solid test. #4 is a 368 yard par 4 which is best played by favoring the left side of the fairway, but water lines the left side, so caution is necessary. A tee shot to the right will block your approach to the green because of woods lining the fairway on that side.

Number 5 requires a tee shot over water and an approach shot over water as well. Number 6 provides respite in the form of a 160 yard par 3. Number 7 is a straightaway par 4 of 372 yards with water on the left. The 8th hole is the first par 5 on the course at 504 yards. There is water on the left, but it shouldn't come into play. The third shot carries a creek.

The front 9 finishes with a strong, 434 yard par 4 that requires a tee shot down the right to right center to avoid being blocked by trees on the left as the hole bends left.

The back 9 gets going with a neat little par 4 of 367 yards. It's a good birdie opportunity, but you must place your tee shot down the right side to avoid being blocked on your second shot.

On #11 you don't want to pull your tee shot or it will meet a watery grave. It's a straightaway par 4 of 385 yards. Number 12 offers a nice par 3 of 168 yards with a tricky green. The 13th hole is a lovely par 5 that sports water protecting the green, making reaching it in 2 difficult.

Number 14 is only 346 yards at par 4, but placing your tee shot is imperative. Number 15 plays 181 yards at par 3 and you must be below the hole on your tee shot. Number 16 is a good birdie chance at 360 yards at par 4.

The penultimate hole, #17, is a wonderful par 5, requiring an accurate tee shot. There is water along the left and the driving area is tight.

Number 18 is a fine finishing hole at 394 yards. Pebble Creek runs in front of the green, making an accurate approach a must.

Pebble Creek is a fine test and a must play when you're in the Tampa area. The club has lovely amenities, good dining and a terrific atmosphere.

About The Author

Jim Nettleton is a radio and television professional who is an avid golfer and golf historian. He highly recommends The Simple Golf Swing - http://tinyurl.com/2mmeux

for those struggling with their game. Visit his golf blog at http://golf-golf-andmoregolf.blogspot.com/