Your New Year's Golf Resolutions

[iacas]

I'm not normally a fan of resolutions, because I think that self-improvement is an ongoing effort. However, given that I now live in the land of sub-zero temperatures and snow, my golf seasons now once again have definite starting and ending points. So, I may as well key up some self-improvement for the coming year.

I've broken my goals up into areas if you wish to follow along, or not.

My handicap index goal: Currently 5-7-ish, I want to get down to 3. That's the lowest I've ever been and I'd like to get back there. I have no idea how I ever was a three before - perhaps I putted like a 12-year-old at the ripe old age of 17 and 18 - but I'd like to get back.

My swing goal: To simplify my swing. I'm working on compacting and simplifying my swing down to key components. My first swing had a lot of lateral movement (I was keen to avoid the reverse pivot, you see!), and as such I've always had a little more movement than makes me happy. I'm looking to simply get into a powerful, rotated position on the backswing and to aggressively and simply move through the ball. Lowering the ball flight is a natural evolution of that, but not a primary goal. Plus, see below.

My clubs goal: I'd like to decide between the 680 and the two 690 models. I don't think my 962bs are cutting it anymore (I think they're contributing to my high ball flight). I may replace the 2I with the 503.H (19*). I'm going to get new grips (the corded v-55s I think, or the Titleist version of those) in February/March. I have a new driver, 3W, putter, and lob wedge, so this complete-set makeover should last another six or seven years.

My fitness goal: to follow the fitness laid out in that ebook I reviewed . I've been putting it off until January because I've still had a lot of "moving" and "settling in" issues, but I've got the equipment and I'm ready to get going. Can do it while watching West Wing reruns and the PGA Tour on TV.

My most important goal: one that never changes: I will enjoy playing golf. I always have. I enjoy the frustration, I enjoy the good shots, and I simply enjoy being outside. I'm now a member to one of PA's best courses and I will have a ball. I'll practice hard, I'll play hard, and I'll spend a lot of quality time with my girlfriend/fiancee, who has taken up the game. I can't wait.

So, those are mine, now let's hear yours. What are your new year's golf resolutions?

[Rafcin]

My handicap index goal: drop from 4.1 to 2 or better

My swing goal: redo the swing tempo, more fluid, less power (a la Ernie Els)

My clubs goal: replace my TM 200 retail woods with tour-only edition.

My fitness goal: lose the John Daly shape by droping 15 pounds. Bye bye McDonald

My most important goal: Actually I've 2 on top of my list:
1. Club Championship (lost semi's match last 2 years)
2. 5 rounds at par or better (had 2 this year)

Happy New Year guys !

[MJonGolf]

As far as New Year's resolutions, I simply think the beginning of the year is a practical time to assess one's goals in life - whatever they may be - and, often the missing piece, determine how to achieve. Relative to golf, my goal shouldn't be of any surprise:

GOAL = Reduce my average 18 hole score 5 strokes over 2004 end of season.

How do I plan to do so?

1. Sustain and improve the swing I became extremely comfortable and confident with towards the end of this season by working out with my modified swing trainer daily.

2. Hone a recently discovered putting method, in which I have already have significantly improved confidence, over the winter.

3. Come spring, daily chipping (50 yards and shorter) practice onto a target on the lawn.

Can't wait for the 2005 season.

Have a no three putt new year!

[jcgolfpro]

I only have ONE goal/resolution...to actually PLAY golf this year. And with the new club, that should be a realizable goal.

[Ben]

Keep my +1 handicap alive. Play, and place in, a couple mini-tour events.

Working on the course, and my flexible schedule with my other job, will allow me to practice as much as necessary and really concentrate on improving my game. I'm really excited about this coming year in golf for me!

[flap]

JC pro where in SC are you?The Mrs and I will be relocating to Conway.As for my New Years resouloutions#1Move to Conway.#2 Get handicap from current 11 to 8.#3 get my wedge game respectable.#4 Get my Mrs HCP down to 18 from 24.