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Teeing Up Carelessly The teeing area is a breeding ground for mistakes. A few classics: Lining up with the tee box/markers without seeing where theyre really aimed; playing from a spot that isnt level; not teeing up on the side that benefits your shot shape. Here are three things to check. First, dont trust the alignment of the markers. If youve ever seen a grounds crew member mow a tee box, you know how little attention is given to replacing the markers. Use them as a guide, but be sure to align yourself. Also, be mindful that golf course architects sometimes design tees to point off line as an added challenge. Second, give yourself as much room as you possibly can. If you play a slice, tee the ball on the right side so you can start it left without fear of clipping any branches, while allowing for your left-to-right ball flight. Third, the teeing ground can be uneven due to erosion or to facilitate drainage. Locate a level spot as you approach the tee; its tough to tell once youre standing over the ball. If youre still unsure at address, stop and re-tee. Rushing While Playing Through For many of us, the wave from the group ahead shifts our games into fast-forward. Sometimes we get away with a hurried swing, but playing through is often a tense and round-wrecking ordeal. Why do we rush? We want to hit fast and get out of the way. We get uptight in front other golfers. Or we feel we have something to prove, as if being in a faster group means youre a better player. Its all self-inflicted nonsense. Remember, it was their decision to let you through (assuming you werent hitting into them from every tee). Move quickly between shots, by all means, but maintain your normal preshot routine and youll get out of their way in fewer strokes. As for how well you play, theres little connection between skill and speed -- just watch the pros on television. Wait for an appropriate hole to pressure the group in front. They will slow down at difficult spots, like long par threes and tight driving holes. If you dont want to make a tough hole tougher, wait until you feel comfortable with the shots youll have to hit. Then make your presence known. |
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