During the Buick Invitational Sunday telecast, the announcers mentioned more than once that Tiger Woods had made 100% of his putts inside 5 feet - 40 out of 40 for the golf tournament. On his 41st attempt the "announcer's curse" did not get him, and he continued the streak on his 42nd attempt. Unfortunately, I lost the recording due to lightning so did not hear if they continued coverage of this aspect of Tiger's performance. Nevertheless, thanks to ShotLink I was able to confirm that he remained perfect from this distance for an event total of 49 out of 49 putting attempts from inside 5 feet.
Our ShotByShot.com data long ago revealed that 5 feet is a magic distance and that it warrants appropriate attention and practice time. Tiger has obviously figured this out, too, and has spent time making sure that he maximizes these key opportunities. We can all learn from his consistent and committed approach to these critical putts.
Our ShotByShot.com data long ago revealed that 5 feet is a magic distance and that it warrants appropriate attention and practice time. Tiger has obviously figured this out, too, and has spent time making sure that he maximizes these key opportunities. We can all learn from his consistent and committed approach to these critical putts.
Tiger exhibits a consistent approach and highly practiced routine. But as with just about everything, there is an important added variable. I believe Tiger chooses the appropriate speed for each putt that maximizes the size of the hole in that particular instance. In the past, most of the greats have become known generally as "die it in the holers" (Nicklaus) or "aggressive" (Watson in his prime). Tiger is not consistently in one mode or the other. Rather, he adjusts his speed to match each specific opportunity. This tactic alone is not totally unusual but Tiger's unique ability to remain committed to the line and speed chosen for each putt is part of his greatness.
Here is what I take away from Tiger's example:
1. Practice putts in the 3, 4 and 5 foot range. The "Star Drill" is a good one and is described in the FAQ's & More section of the Golfer Home page of the ShotByShot.com website. (If you're not already a subscriber, you can register for a free trial subscription to access this part of the site.)
2. Categorize these putts (as with all lengths) as green, yellow and red light opportunities. Build this into your practice routine.
Green light - Uphill: be aggressive as there is little or no chance of a 3-putt. A firmer, more aggressive line will serve to increase the relative size of the hole and your percentage made.
Yellow light - Slightly side-hill: medium speed will tend to hold your intended line but not run away if you miss.
Red light - Downhill or downhill/side-hill: plan to die the ball over the lip and play all the break that is needed to do so.
2. Categorize these putts (as with all lengths) as green, yellow and red light opportunities. Build this into your practice routine.
Green light - Uphill: be aggressive as there is little or no chance of a 3-putt. A firmer, more aggressive line will serve to increase the relative size of the hole and your percentage made.
Yellow light - Slightly side-hill: medium speed will tend to hold your intended line but not run away if you miss.
Red light - Downhill or downhill/side-hill: plan to die the ball over the lip and play all the break that is needed to do so.
Obviously, if you are in a match play situation and the next putt matters not, you should adjust your categories accordingly. Let me know how this works for your game!
It's true Peter - too often players (of all ability) are either aggressive putters or die it in the hole putters. Another good tip is to practice rolling in 4 footers at different speeds (let it fall over the edge, hit it off the back lip, etc). You'll learn how to make the most of the hole as you practice.
ReplyDeleteGood point Alf and the key is to learn to make a commitment to your line and speed an integral part of your shot preparation.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Peter