A *Serious* Loss of Distance!

[Double Mocha Man]

On 9/30/2018 at 6:23 AM, LeftyWhiff said:

Interesting post, which relates to an issue I've had. How accurate are GPS distance measures? The point to point from shot to landing point measure has to be calculated from the reference point on the green that the GPS uses. So if it's 400 from hitting point to green, and you hit 220 yards, but hit left or right of the point on the green and are 210 to the center of the green, won't your measure show as 190? Of course, the relevant number distance to green on 2nd shot is 190.

The reason I've started questioning my GPS is that I once got a 160 something reading on a dogleg. I didn't hit my best shot, but it was longer than that. I have gotten a 230+ reading a few times (I used to think I hit my best shots about 240), and then I was pretty much center of the fairway on the shot. These were also quite exceptional shots for me, 200-220 readings are my typical ones, sometimes lower. I also don't want to think I'm hittng the distances the GPS says I am, and have quit looking.

All of the above could be wrong, a rationalization from an old man resisting what he is, or is fastly becoming--older and weaker.  

Most GPS apps/units allow you to mark where you hit from and then mark again when you arrive at your ball.  It gives you the accurate total distance, whether you hit it left, right or straight.  Or if you have a rangefinder you can get to your ball and scope back to the tee marker or a bush or a bench next to where you teed off.

[Hoganman1]

I'm 68 and I've lost distance too. I've started lifting light weights and doing stretching exercises. I also have gone to a senior flex shaft, added loft to my driver, and I play the Titliest AVX which doesn't spin as much as the Pro-v-1. I've gotten back a few yards, but it's clear Father Time is winning. I'll probably move up a set of tees (6250 to 6000) when I turn 70. I'm just happy to still be playing at this age.