Time to Go Low

Score your best ever— whether it’s 59 or 99.

To put it mildly, I had a pretty awesome start to 2017. Winning in back-to-back weeks in Hawaii, shooting a 59 in the first round of the Sony Open, you couldn’t ask for a happier new year. I’m playing well for a lot of reasons. First, it’s confidence. I don’t get riled as much when I bogey a hole. I know I can get the stroke back. Second, I’ve been working hard on my game, particularly from 150 yards and in. Now I’m really taking advantage of hitting my tee shots as far as I do. When I stand over a full short-iron shot, a pitch, a chip, even a longer putt, I feel like I’m either going to get it close or knock it in. It’s a great feeling to have, believe me. If you’d like to improve your scoring, try some of the adjustments I’ve made, as well as some strategies I’ve learned over the past few years. Here’s your first tip: When hitting a full short-iron shot, you might be able to fly a 9-iron 150 yards—if it’s downhill, downwind and you blade it—but you’re going to be a lot better from that distance if you take your 8-iron, make a smooth swing, and focus on hitting the ball solidly. Turn the page for more scoring tips.

— WITH RON KASPRISKE