Beat your Scoring Plateau

By: B. J. Hathaway, G.S.E.B., M.C.I.

At some point almost every golfer reaches a stage where scores just don't seem to improve. Whether it's hitting balls or the occasional lesson, nothing helps and you find yourself stuck in a rut, frustrated and searching.

There may be several reasons, but let's look together and see if we can find some answers. Instead of looking for some magic swing key, let's analyze the big picture. When we really look at it, we will discover that there are four basic reasons why your game is stuck:

Swing mechanics, mental frame, physical capability, and equipment

1. Swing Mechanics:

Let's be honest, this is the area most of us get stuck at for one reason or another. Golf is a game of technical skill and coordination, yet most of you have never had a lesson. I don't know anyone would would buy a plane and jump in the cockpit and expect to fly and land successfully but- most people take that approach to golf. So having an understanding of the proper technique is critical, and then we have to be capable of performing. Make the investment in golf lessons from a qualified instructor and you will save yourself years of frustration on the golf course.

2. Mental Frame:

The golf course and competition bring on a new test every time you tee it up. Learning to control emotions and nerves are critical and that's why the Tour pro's study the mental aspects of the game and use sport psychologists. Most of us don't have Dr. Bob Rotella on speed-dial but that doesn't mean we don't have access to improvement in this area. I see a great deal of negative thinking on the golf course and yet we don't recognize how this impacts our game! If you expect to hit the ball out of bounds, guess what- you just made it very likely that your ball will go exactly there! Negative emotions like anxiety and anger can ruin even a technically sound swing, so make every effort to replace those thoughts with something positive.
I recommend you check out the Clear Key concept by Dr. Carey Mumford, or use the Internet or library to study this very key area of your game.

3. Physical Capability:

This is another key issue. Many of you try to emulate "positions" that you see on TV, but lack the strength or flexibility to make those positions profitable. If you can't make a John Daly back swing and yet you insist on trying, guess what, something is going to brake down in your technique and what have you gained? The answer is nothing! Flexibility, stamina and body control are key areas that most anyone can work on and improve. Do you get tired after 13 holes? Well guess what, your swing is going to break down because you're out of shape! As Tiger and the younger generation have proven, the physical side of the game is a key ingredient
Use a workout and flexibility program that is golf-specific and you can take strokes off your game without beating balls!

4. Equipment:

Here is the one area we like to spend money on! If every shoe store only sold a size 11, we would have a lot of folks with sore feet but we have no problem walking into a golf shop and buying a standard set of clubs and accepting the results. We assume that new $500 driver was made just for us. Well guess what- every club in your bag from putter to driver needs to have the correct lie angle, swing weight, grip size and shaft that suits your particular swing characteristics! I know what you are thinking: I'm not a Tour pro so whatever clubs I have are just fine. Well you are just plain wrong- the wrong shaft in the right head will never give you a consistent ball flight no matter how good your swing is! See a professional club fitter who has a launch monitor and let them fit your clubs to you because that big hook may just be your clubs and not you!!

Now you have the four keys to can help you lower your scores. For some of you the problem may be in all four areas but now you can develop a plan of attack. Golf is a wonderful game and there is no other sport like it, so do a little self-assessment and improve your technique, mental game, body and equipment and watch your scores improve!

Improve your game
www.augustagolfinstruction.com

Lesson Expectations

What to expect from a lesson and choosing an Instructor

By: B. J. Hathaway, G.S.E.B., M.C.I.

If you've never had a golf lesson before or have changed instructors you may not know what to expect from your session. Here are some tips to help you understand the process of improving your game. Now before we go anywhere let's understand one thing- one single lesson is not a cure-all for your entire golf career! Improving your game is a process, and that process depends on the teamwork between student and instructor; so prepare yourself to understand that this process takes time and effort. If it was easy we would all be playing on TV, but you can become better and enjoy the game more and more, if you do your part.

Think of a golf lesson as being similar to a visit to your doctor. He will do some basic diagnostics like checking your pulse, weight and blood pressure before you sit down to discuss your concerns. Then it's time to tell him what the problem is and the dialog begins. A good golf lesson will be similar in many ways.

1. Your teaching pro should watch you hit some shots and may not say much. The good instructor is looking at key alignments to see what the root problems are. He may use video to help identify the issues more clearly and to let you see them for yourself. If the instructor does NOT use video then look somewhere else! No one can clearly see what is going on with the golf swing at 100 mph with the naked eye, and from the student standpoint you WANT to see yourself on video-no matter how painful it might be- so that you can see what is "feel versus real"!


2. Once he has established the key issues, he or she should begin the dialog process of asking questions and giving you feedback on the difference between what you feel and what is really happening. Remember some of what you feel is not real when it comes to the swing!

3. He or she should then offer solutions or drills to help you change the problems.

Now, here are some things a good teacher should not do.

1. Stand there and just watch you hit balls the entire session as a cheerleader. Everyone loves praise and there are times when you should be told about the good things you are doing, BUT their job is to help you improve and if your Pro is only telling you what you want to hear then either you are having a perfect day or they are being a salesman and not an instructor.

2. Remain quiet and leave you wondering what to do. Although it may take several minutes to discern what ails your swing, a good instructor will soon begin the discussion of what needs to be done and why.

3. Offer too much information. There are occasions where an instructor may know this was a one time visit, but other than that you should be receiving limited information. The qualified Pro should give you one or two key elements to work on, even though they know there may be a dozen! It is very difficult for even advanced players to change too many things at one time because your mind and body get confused and you lose ability to focus when you have too much information. Your teacher may discuss other issues with you to let you know how they relate to your current situation, but they should give you one or two key things to work on until they feel those areas are improved.

Now let's talk about what to look for in an instructor. Whether you choose them from the yellow pages or referral, it pays to find out what this person has to offer.

* Many of you would be surprised to know that more than a few teaching professionals do not have much of a foundation to support their ideas. They may get new ideas from this month's golf magazine or the new DVD on the market. Although their intentions are good and they want to help you, they are quite frankly lost in the shuffle of information that bounces around constantly and that will not help your game in the long run.

* The method teacher. These are the folks that teach the same swing to every single person who steps onto the lesson tee regardless of age, flexibility or ability. Don't get me wrong, most methods have validity for SOME people, but not everyone swings the same and not everyone can make progress from the cookie cutter mold that some teachers use. You can look like Davis Love III but it doesn't mean you can swing like him!

* The fundamentals teacher. These are the people you want to spend your money with because they have spent many an hour researching and learning the science of the golf swing -why and how it works. They understand that there is no "the way" to swing a golf club because there are quadrillions (that's 15 zero's folks) of ways to effectively hit a golf ball, but every one of those employs key alignments that you must have to make a repeatable motion. Every one of us at the Medicus Golf Institute and The Golfing Machine are rigorously trained to discern how YOU swing the club and what corrections need to be made in YOUR swing and the information is based on the geometry and physics of the golf swing, not opinion!

My recommendation to those who really want to improve: find a qualified instructor who is professional, courteous and a good communicator. Ask them what they teach and how it will help your game. The job of your instructor is to give you good information and show you how to apply it. Remember, they can't MAKE you improve! Your job is to listen and apply. It sounds simple but that's the real key, listen and apply. We can't follow you home or make you practice, we give you the information and the keys.

www.augustagolfinstruction.com

The Right Equipment for Your Game

By: B.J. Hathaway, G.S.E.B., M.C. I.

Medicus Golf Institute

I am not a club fitter, but in my group lessons there are always beginners with "starter sets" and those are just fine for the short term. But even if you never plan to compete you still need the right equipment to play your best golf. This game can be frustrating at times and one huge reason that people often overlook are the 14 clubs in their bag!

Now- let's be honest, you cannot buy a golf swing in the pro shop and having the most expensive set of golf clubs in the world will not lower your handicap- if they don't fit you or if you have terrible technique! If you were buying shoes, you would not go to a store that only sold size "x" but carried all the major brand names unless you just happened to wear that size, nor would you buy a pair that was three sizes too small but looked good because - after 5 minutes your feet would hurt!

The moral of the story -don't play golf with clubs that hurt your game. Here's what you need:

1. grips that fit your hands correctly and that are comfortable.

2. shafts that are the right flex- too stiff or too weak will cause direction problems.

3. club length that fits your height and arm length- clubs that are too short or long will again cause problems.

4. correct weighting- clubs that are too heavy or light will cause a multitude of problems.

5. correct lie angle which is the angle the club sets when you put it in the address position.

So if we look at all of these important factors, it is possible that you can have good technical skills and yet still not play the kind of golf you are capable of. Your options are to buy a custom-built set or take your existing clubs and have them fit to you. Be sure to go to a professional club fitter and check out their credentials first. Once you have your equipment squared away, then take some lessons from a qualified instructor.

Good equipment: $600

Golf lessons: $700

Hitting the ball where you want it to go: priceless.

www.augustagolfinstruction.com

The Golfing Machine wins at Hilton Head

AP Photo

by: B. J. Hathaway, G.S.E.B., M.C.I.

Brian Gay closed his Sunday round with a 64 yesterday and set a new tournament scoring record in his win at the Verizon Heritage. With a 10 shot margin of victory, he didn’t just beat the field- he lapped the field. It’s been since the ‘06 BellSouth Classic since we’ve seen a margin of victory of this proportion.

Surely he must have some secrets, some inside information into golf’s book of buried treasure? Well actually….he does. Two years ago Brian began his quest to unlock the secrets of golf’s most famous book, The Golfing Machine.

Inside the yellow hardback cover lies the true science of how and why the golf swing works based on two concepts: physics and geometry. Lest you be afraid of tall men in white lab coats with multiple clipboards….do not be afraid golfer! Yes my friend, the book is a bit of heavy reading and some of its concepts daunting. You see, the book was actually written as a guide for instructors- a golf encyclopedia if you will- that documents the components of mine, yours, and all golf swings. But this book is based on science- not theory, conjecture, guess work, old wives tales or riddles.

The secret of TGM is the flexibility it permits. There is not just one golf swing that will work and that explains why John Daly’s swing doesn’t look like Tiger’s who doesn’t look like Phil’s, etc. But what the book does help us understand is what my swing must do in order to be successful, and once you have that knowledge it gives you the freedom to build your swing around who you are.

The book is now in its 7th edition and you are welcome to pick up a copy and give it a test read. If however you find the material difficult, do not despair! The Golfing Machine has a worldwide network of Authorized Instructors who are extensively trained to help you improve your game and also the Medicus Golf Institute trains its certified instructors to teach TGM.

So congratulations to Georgia’s own Brian Gay, a professional golfer and true golfing machine.

www.augustagolfinstruction.com

The Golfers Guide to Cigars

By: B.J. Hathaway, G.S.E.B., M.C.I.
Augusta Golf Instruction

Just like a green jacket at Augusta, a fine cigar and good round of golf are a perfect match for many golfers these days. Professional golfer Darren Clarke is a cigar connoisseur and it has been estimated that he spends £25,000 annually on cigars. Although most golfers don't have that kind of budget, finding the right cigar will make your round that much more enjoyable.

The golf course is one of the few places a good cigar can be enjoyed without worrying about where your smoke flies, and even if you're hitting it sideways a great cigar can mellow your golf nerves.

With golf there are certain fundamentals that apply to bring success and to really enjoy your cigar you need to know the basics. Recently I sat down with cigar expert José Ortega: Vice President of Sales for Reyes Family Cigars in Miami to get the inside information you need before heading to the first tee.

AGI: What is the best way to transport a cigar when playing golf?

José: I usually keep it in my mouth! But we have found also found an interesting tool that should do a fine job on the course called The Cigar T.

AGI: What are the keys to cutting and lighting a cigar properly?

José: You want to cut as little of the head as possible. A good cigar will draw with just a tad of the head cut. When you light your cigar, make sure it is even and take your time. You want to make sure the foot is evenly lit and blow into it to see.

AGI: Is there a best time to light up, as in before beginning a round of golf, or during?

José: Why wait, I like to light up right before I begin the round. I'm already happy to be on the course and away from the wife, let's make it a trifecta with a good cigar!

AGI: How do you judge a good cigar?

José: Cigars are purely subjective. What you may like, I may not. Just like wine and food, what you consider to be the best is what the best is.

AGI: Does ring size affect flavor?

José: Absolutely. Usually, the bigger the ring gauge, the cooler the smoke and the milder the cigar will be. The smaller ring gauges burn a little hotter and place more emphasis on the wrapper, which constitutes more of a percentage of the blend due to the proportions.

AGI: How about the wrapper?

José: Wrapper constitutes at least 70% of the flavor of a cigar, if not more in my opinion. The wrapper is the most important component of a cigar

AGI: Are there any etiquette rules that apply to cigar smoking?

José: My simple rules - never blow smoke in anyone's face and always be courteous to those around you if you light up a cigar in public. I understand that not everyone enjoys the odor of a cigar, and as a sign of respect I will ask those around me if it bothers them before I light up a cigar. That's of course if I am in an environment that is not an actual cigar shop.

AGI: How did you get into the cigar business?

José: My wife knew the Reyes family and found out they were looking for a National Sales Manager. I was working for a big company that sold conferences and was literally burned out. I was hired right on the spot on my first interview, back in 2003 and it's been smooth sailing ever since!

AGI: Tell us a little about the history of Reyes.

José: Rolando Reyes Sr. has been making cigars for 70 years! He is 84 right now and started in Cuba at the tender age of 14 or perhaps even younger. He moved to the United States, New Jersey to be exact, back in the 70's. From there, his business kept growing and he moved to the Dominican Republic in the 1980's. Towards the end of the decade, he decided to build a factory in Honduras, where he fell in love with the area when he visited. We have been manufacturing our cigars there in Danli, Honduras for the past 20 years.

AGI: What is your favorite cigar?

José: Well, asking me to choose a favorite cigar is like choosing a favorite child, but if you put a gun to my head, I'd have to say the Cuba Aliados Regordo is my personal favorite. It is a 6x60 cigar that delivers intense flavor and will give you an hour of undeniable smoking pleasure.

With 10 brands to choose from, Reyes certainly has a cigar that will suit any taste and make your time on the golf course more enjoyable. Special thanks to José Ortega and Frank Santos of Reyes for their valuable input and be sure to check out the entire line at http://www.purosindioscigars.com/.

For golf lessons in the Augusta area visit www.augustagolfinstruction.com

I Saw an Angel at Augusta

by: B. J. Hathaway, G.S.E.B., M.C.I. Medicus Certified Instructor
The Golfing Machine Authorized Instructor


I was fortunate to attend the Masters twice this year and of course the beauty of this place is like no other that I have witnessed. As an instructor, I have a real appreciation for the skill that these players have. For the true golf aficionado, there is nothing like the sound of compression of ball against club at impact created by the best players in the world.

But.....not everything about Masters week was perfect. Personal favorites like Ernie Els and Fred Couples didn't make the cut. Our own Georgia boy Stewart Cink just barely missed the mark, and big names like Choi, Goosen, Norman, and Scott had to pack their bags early. And of course we sadly say goodbye to two of golf's ambassadors: Player and Zoeller.

On Monday however, I did see an angel play at the Masters, or as we know him- Angel Cabrera. Now here is a guy who walks with a swagger. He just has that look about him that says, I belong here in the spotlight. He's comfortable on the course, but just slightly impatient. He is golf's version of John Wayne, except he chews gum and carries a Ping driver. He has a U.S. Open title, and 3 top ten finishes and 5 top 25's at Augusta.

Only Sunday will tell, but I think there's a good chance an Angel will be dressed in green.

Improve your game
www.augustagolfinstruction.com

April in Augusta: Tournament Guide

by: B. J. Hathaway, G.S.E.B, M.C.I.
Medicus Certified Instructor, The Golfing Machine Authorized Instructor
Augusta Golf Instruction


The Masters....there is no tournament and no place on earth quite like it. Welcome to Augusta, GA in April, when Spring presents Bobby Jones' masterpiece in all of its glory. For those of your lucky enough to gain admittance to those hallowed grounds here are some tips on finding your way.

Arrival

Gates open at 8:00 a.m. and close approximately 6:30 p.m. If you are an early riser, you can beat some of the traffic and join the dew sweepers. You can also get an unobstructed view of the course and pick your spot to sit if you prefer to stay in one place. If you prefer to follow a group, get a pairing sheet and track your favorite golfers from the first tee.


Parking

Lot 1 will now be available only to the media, members and players and service vehicles but the club has added more than 6,000 parking spaces along Berckman Road. From here you will need to enter by walking across the street to Gate 6A.

As a spectator

Following the guidelines set down by Bobby Jones, guests are expected to follow golf etiquette and obey all tournament rules and signs. Running, protesting, jeering and other ill-mannered activities are forbidden. You are expected to wear appropriate clothing and shoes. This is the year's first major, so don't be afraid to display your finest golf attire.


Cell phones, beepers, weapons, radios, walkie-talkies, coolers, etc. are not allowed at any time.
Cameras are only permitted during practice rounds. Bags and pockets are subject to inspection for security purposes.

There is a no autograph policy except for the parking lot side of the clubhouse.

You will find almost every convenience that you may need once inside the gates. ATM's, first aid, concessions, spectator guides and more are all provided. Don't forget sunscreen, you don't want to be miserable for the rest of the week because you spent 10 hours on the course and got burned.

Entrance

Once you enter the property just follow the paths and signs until you get to the security checkpoint. Once you get past security....paradise awaits. As you come in on the right you will see the huge Pro Shop, expect to stand in line for admittance but it's worth it. If you don't want to wait there are several other mini pro shops around the property. You can also wait until the end of the day, usually there is more than enough inventory unless you just want to get it now.

Go straight ahead for the golf course, up the hill and to the left for the practice area and club house. Take a peak at Magnolia Lane or sit on the bleachers at the driving range and watch the pro's warm up. Walk the course and enjoy a barbecue sandwich. Imagine sunshine, lush green grass perfectly manicured, flowers in bloom, a slight crosswind across the first fairway, and the unmistakable sound of impact between ball and club.....all provided for you.

Good food, a bag of tournament souvenirs, the scenery, the crowd roars..... this is the Masters...... this is golf's Nirvana.

www.augustagolfinstruction.com

For more information on tournament details visit www.masters.org