Malcolm Young Golf Coaching

Tee to Green Tips
In any typical links course you can be sure there will be a stretch of downwind holes which in theory would seem easier but it’s not always that simple.
Here’s how to tackle downwind holes.
1) Plan ahead - A good focus is to work yourself back from the green, using a yardage book you can plan out the hole and make better decisions on tee shots and approach play.
2) Add yardage - even with some basic knowledge of the course you can determine the effect contouring and firmness might have on the ball. Adding yardage to every shot is simply gauging and calculating how much you feel the wind will add to the shot then allow for extra roll to help select the right club
3) Check the Pin - knowing the pin location before teeing off helps you plan ahead for club selection, assess best aim line and create a clear plan for the hole and each shot.
4) Manage Expectations - With the unpredictable nature of wind sometimes you will have to be happy with just being on the green with a long putt.
5) Learn Hole by Hole - Adapting to the environment is a key part of the process of playing downwind not every shot goes to plan but each shot provides the feedback for better decision making
6) The Simple Summary - Add more loft, let the ball ride the wind, allow for the roll, accept the result
It’s one of the fun things about playing links golf a little planning and a little luck need to balance to get your just rewards.
Location: The picturesque 9th hole
golftips