[Hennybogan]

Continuing on. My thoughts on my putting, even though I am an average putter I still from time to time miss what looks like the easiest of putts.

PUTTING

·I am a pretty average reader of greens, I can see the line the majority of the time but sometimes have problems trusting that it is the right line and can second guess myself.
·Mid range putts (8-15 feet) I am pretty solid but like my friend Bucket I have trouble from 5 feet and in at times.
·When I miss short putts it’s a combination of line and pace. I can either hit it too hard or baby it.
·I probably have at least 2-3 3 putts a round when I am playing badly. Normal day it’s a 3 putt a round usually at the wrong moment.
·Unlike Bucket, I can get a bit mechanical on the greens but have improved the routine to such that its one look and go.
·Trusting my alignment is a bit of a bugbear as is actually aligning correctly at times.
·Distance putting is average, that is where the majority of the 3 putts come from. Usually from not getting the distance right and I am always short.
·I have found that under pressure I am not a bad putter on most putts. Short ones will give me even more problems.

Through the years, I have read many of Bob Rotella’s books so I feel confident when I get to the ball and stroke it but sometimes I am missing a bit of the puzzle and the confidence goes again until the next time.
Been working on my putting routine a lot recently. Watched a lot of Darren Clarke, Aaron Baddeley and Davis Love on their routines. I like how they all take a few practise swings looking at the hole, line up, one look and then bang. Been trying to keep to that of late.

Alex

Alex,

Good info. I like the routine of DC, Badds, DL III, etc. Just make sure that you do it at your individual pace. You are simplifying the routine, that is good, but do not get in a rush. Make sure you practice the routine enough that it becomes automatic.

Good distance putting is a combination of making a good read of the slopes and hitting solid putts. Make sure that you develop consistant contact. It also helps to be confident about making the second putt.

Alignment. You really have to trust it on the course. You can't putt well thinking about it. So fix it off the course. Design of the putter has a big link to how well it will fit you. Necks, offsets, head shape, loft, etc all affect how well you will line up. If you need help in this area, it is best to consult a professional who understands it. There are also set-up variables that can help (eye line, ball position, distance from ball, etc.).

How many putts should you miss before you lose confidence and start going mechanical?

Line on short putts. DECIDE. Smallest target possible. Pace dictates line. Picture both as you consider the line. Stick with your decision. For now your goal should be to be fully organized and committed to the putt at hand.
Practice putting the same putt at different speeds and lines. Do this with both left to right and right to left putts.

HB