Play Within Your Capability

Course management is a subject not talked about enough on courses that put a premium on shot-making.

It all starts with a good imagination, being able to hit the shot you envision.

When on the tee, look at the hole and see where the most trouble is located. Then tee the ball up on that side of the tee box and hit away from that area.

Don't try to overpower the hole. If it is a short par-4, or you are not as accurate as you would like to be with your driver, leave it in the bag. Hit a 3-wood or iron off the tee and go for accuracy.

When hitting a shorter club, don't try and hit it as far as your longer clubs. You are using shorter clubs for accuracy, so swing easy and put the ball in play.

Be smart when hitting approach shots. All of us would like to stick it right next to the pin with a long iron, but be realistic. Find out what clubs you can hit accurately and put a green sticker on them. Only go for the pin using those clubs. Otherwise, hit away from trouble and go for the center of the green.

If you do find that lurking sand trap, don't get cute. First, get out. Second, get on the green. And third, get it close to the hole.

When facing that monster 50-foot putt, you don't have to concentrate on making them every time. Draw a 3-foot circle and hit it in that. Most of us can make a 3-footer.

Also look for the low side of the hole and leave your lag putt there. Better to hit an uphill putt coming back than another downhill putt.

When finishing up that round of your life you can get out of your comfort zone, but trust what got you there. Look to the center of the fairways and the center of the greens. Don't get fancy. Swing the club and don't try to steer the ball.