Many aspire to reach the summit of their craft, and I am no exception. Golf, while enjoyable, fuels my competitive spirit and desire for excellence. In this pursuit, a game improvement plan is essential for transitioning from a high handicap to scratch golf.

For those unfamiliar, here are a few quick definitions:

High Handicap: Refers to a golfer with a relatively high handicap index, indicating scores typically above par.

Source: United States Golf Association (USGA) – Handicap Index

Scratch Golf: Describes a golfer who consistently shoots scores equal to or better than par.

Source: Golf Monthly – What is a Scratch Golfer?

Par: The predetermined number of strokes a skilled golfer is expected to require to complete a hole, based on the hole’s length and difficulty.

Source: Golf Monthly – What is Par in Golf?

GIR (Greens in Regulation): A golf statistic measuring the number of times a player successfully hits the putting surface (green) in the regulation number of strokes or fewer.

Source: Golf Digest – Understanding Greens in Regulation

Law of Diminishing Returns: States that as more investment (time, effort, resources) is applied to an activity, the incremental return on investment eventually decreases.

Source: Economics Online – Diseconomies of Scale

Utilizing Data:

Regular play provides insight into various aspects of one’s game. Tracking stats like Fairways Hit, GIR, Putts Per Hole, and Penalties Per Round offers valuable information. Consider using tools like the 18 birdies app to track and analyze your performance.

Achieving scratch golf requires incremental gains. Setting achievable targets and consistently working towards them is key. Targets such as Breaking 100, 90, 80, and eventually Scratch Golf can guide your improvement journey.

Breaking 100 entails averaging one additional shot per hole, with some margin for error. Breaking 90 eliminates this margin, requiring more pars to reach the target. Breaking 80 signifies playing the course as designed, though challenges persist. Finally, Scratch Golf demands consistent par performances.

Applying the law of diminishing returns to practice sessions is crucial. Focus on areas furthest from their target for maximum improvement efficiency.

Getting Started:

For novices, professional lessons are invaluable. However, if you prefer a DIY approach, tracking your game’s progress is vital. Start by noting key stats during or after each round, using pen and paper or mobile apps.

Personal Results:

Reviewing my data reveals areas for improvement.

• Fairways hit: 50%
• GIR: 6%
• Avg Putts Per Hole: 2.3
• Penalty Stroke Per Round: 4

While putting and tee performance are promising, approach shots and penalty strokes hinder progress. Identifying weaknesses allows focused practice and refinement.

Closing Thoughts:

Data analysis guides focus areas for improvement. For me, the mid-game requires attention, with inconsistent ball striking and distance. Stay tuned as I delve into Ben Hogan’s Five Lessons to become a more consistent ball striker!