surfdude

someone asks: "Who is John Galt" Presumably that's an Ayn Rand reference..? Anyway, in either case: whether he's an all-too-rare literate and also polite young man, or an older 'poseur', this person did start an interesting thread! As in: I started at 53 (and would also like to hear from some other 'late bloomers' out there) and am now in my third season. This is also my first "ball sport" - I never played baseball, football (nor soccer), etc. as a kid - I sailed during the Summers and .. tried to .. run track and field in jr high and participate in gymnastics in high school. Since college I've windsurfed, surfed and now also stand-up paddle occasionally (again: nothing to do with hitting balls around!). At any rate, to learn I've read a few books (including Tommy Armour; Harvey Pennick), taken a few lessons, watched a few videos (Leadbetter, Phil's, and also Tom Watson's - like that one!), attended a few "short game clinics" at a local course and also went to a 3-day Leadbetter camp last summer. Some people are more 'technical' and some learn better by 'feel' - so try a little of multiple approaches and see what seems to work for you. With the access you say you have to a club and a pro - you should be able to learn and progress very quickly.... Unfortunately I get very little actual on-course time but do get chances to go to a nearby driving range and practice practice practice. Spend most of that time doing target practice with the wedges - starting with the 50-yard sign, then going for the 75 and then for the 100. I can see my progression over time in increasing consistency and accuracy. I know these will always be continuing goals but .. I do enjoy a challenge!!! Next target to start work on = 150. I've also invested in, or have received as gifts, or made for myself a few swing training aids which I've found extremely helpful. But - as others have cautioned - get lessons first so that you're trying to ingrain the good mechanics and habits! Yes: my game still sucks and no: I don't really keep score. Yet. My eventual scoring goal is +1 'average' per hole over the course of a round; ie. a 45 (or better, of course) for the 9-hole courses I'm able to get out on. But my near-term "scoring" goals are to.. (1) not lose any balls in a round; then (2) as often as I can, put the ball into the fairway with each tee shot and onto the green with each approach shot (ie. hit my targets). In fact, my last time out (on a fairly challenging 9-hole) I almost birdied the first two holes (gotta practice that stupid putting more, also!) and ended up with a few pars and mostly bogeys for most of this round, with only 1 "blow-up" hole - but right after which I hit probably my most awesome tee shot so far (I hope!): approx 195 (using a 3H) just left of center on a narrow fairway with nasty rough then water on both sides. I was pretty happy with that, but when we got closer and my fiancee - yes guys: I play golf with my fiancee and I enjoy it!, and I plan to keep playing with her after the "Big M" - and when my fiancee starting jumping up and down all excited for me ... well, that made me feel even better ;-)

"..power comes from the left hip, and compression comes from the left wrist" Aha! This dovetails nicely with the "Slide your hips!" thread (I've been reading and trying to "get" and trying to work on in my practice sessions) .. have to make this a new mantra! Thanks!

As a beginner (just started this Spring) I have LOTS of golfing goals .. .. but I guess I'd prioritize with: 1. smooth and consistent swing and 1(a) ..out on the course with every shot 2. better short game and more confidence on those approach shots (practice, practice, practice...) 3. decent "recovery" shots after the not-so-nice ones My scoring goals are: 1. 9-hole score of 54 consistently (avg 6 per hole) then.. 2. 9-hole score of 45 (avg 5 per hole) and also.. 3. 18-hole score of See ya~!

As a newbie to the forum .. and to this crazy 'game' of golf - I just wanted to clarify: >> golf-playing (and beer-drinking) partner But seriously, my buddy has helped me out TREMENDOUSLY and HUGELY in getting going with golf, and is always coaching and encouraging me - on the range and on the course - including trying to get me to "get" the concept of the hip slide. And as a beginner (just started this Spring) when I get my backswing quieted down and my forward weight shift closer to correct .. I can really see the difference! Ball takes off and flies straight and carries some distance, too! And THANKS!!! iacas/erik for putting up all that great and helpful info!!!