When the ball rolls end-over-end it can now fall into the cup from either side, not just the center, and therefore increases the width of the hole by two-thirds. Second, is to understand how to swing the putter and how the putter is used to roll the ball. Often you’ve been told it should swing like a pendulum - yes and no. Swinging like a pendulum simply means to move the putter equal distances on either side according to the distance of the putt. The term releasing the putter simply means to impart some speed or energy to the ball - not to flip at it. Here’s the important part. To roll the ball end-over-end means to keep the putter head square to the intended line and to keep the face as perpendicular to the ground for as long as possible. Third, how do you do that? Your hands operate the putter no matter what type of grip you use, how you stand, or how you see the line. Therefore your hands move the putter and should move approximately the same distance back and through as the putter head. If your hands stop as they approach the ball and the putter head keeps moving to strike the ball, the face angle will change the direction, not only to your intended line, but also the relationship to the ground. This creates sidespin and does not allow the ball to stay on line.
To keep the putter square to the line and square to the ground, your hands must move forward while keeping your wrist position the same or quiet. After learning to roll the ball, distance and direction can then be more easily understood and accomplished. Other factors can then be introduced such as reading greens to determine not only distance (which is 99% of every putt) but also how much break to allow. Operating the putter more effectively and producing a good roll will make you a better putter - I guarantee it! There are a variety of drills that can lead to more effective putting. The “Track Drill” - putting between two clubs on the ground; “Fringe Benefits” - putting from several distances to the fringe; “Round the Clock” - putting around the hole from 3 feet; “The Ladder” - putting 10 balls in a line one foot apart to within three foot circle around the hole. For more details on drills or instruction, visit www.edukaytiongolf.com or call Kay at 518-669-1551.
Golf Central • Volume 18, Issue 5
57