Weekly Golf Tip

Playing when it matters
Players often ask me when they start to play well. How do I handle the pressures associated with competing? This can be first tee jitters or breaking their handicap or just playing at a different course. It has a lot to do with perspective and implementing a few rules when the heat is on.

My rules are:

• Never hit a shot you haven't practiced with success.
• Enjoy the moment, you have probably done something right to be in this position
• Miracle shots come off about once every millennium on a golf course (plan smart, swing aggressively)
• Take it easy on yourself. You will miss a fairway, hit it in the odd bunker and probably three putt now and then, so will every other player out on the course.
• Enjoy your good shots, disassociate yourself from the bad ones (you can have your cake and eat it).

Every golfer knows what to do under pressure, often it's a matter of asking themselves the right questions. These rules will help you make the decisions quickly and confidently. Good luck and good golfing Craig Bishop PGA Professional