Learn to Read the Course. Part 1

Before spending hundreds of dollars on the latest electronic gadgets, let's talk about learning how to read the golf course. Separate from reading a putting green, players sometimes forget, or don't know, how to read a golf course. By reading we mean judging distance, using strategic markers, making notes, etc. For example, course designers will sometimes place trees or bunkers at specific measurement points on a course. If you learn how far a large fairway bunker is from the tee box, then that's one less thing you have to worry about. If your drives are typically 250 yards and the bunker is at 235 yards, you know your drive has to be at least that far to clear the bunker. Anything short of that you are in trouble. No need to pull out the electronic laser range finder, the tape measures, smart watches, or phone apps. You've already stored this information in your head. - For Free -

You can also use metal markers on the course to help find your way around. Fairway markers (As shown in the pic above) are metal markers placed on courses in the middle of fairways. They’re usually circular and can generally be seen on par 4 or par 5 holes. The markers are color coded according to distance, and while most courses use the same system, check with a course starter or pro shop manager on duty. A red disk represents 100 yards to the center of the green. A white disk measures 150 yards. A blue disc measures 200 yards. Many courses also match up their sprinkler heads with the distance to the center of the green as well. Most course designers/pros often place colored posts or unique tree markers to indicate distance, the most common being at 150 yards. When in doubt, use the hole diagrams on scorecards. Those can help too. Then, take notes in a book after completion of your round.

Using yardage markers helps us learn how long we need to hit each of our clubs consistently.

Other factors to consider with each shot decision include:

• Elevation

• Wind conditions

• Weather (Dry, rainy, cold, etc.)

• Placement of the Sun/Time of Day

• Grass direction - Blades

Stay tuned for Part 2 coming soon..