TGD Magazine - 2017 Issue

MAGAZINE GOLF COURSE OF THE YEAR

The Heritage Club *FEATURED COURSES*

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TGD Academy - Fitting & Tips Patriot Golf Day Challenge SC Junior Golf Association

Scott Taylor RIVER OAKS GOLF PLANTATION

PGA PROFESSIONAL Of The Year

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To Chip Or Not To Chip...That Is The Question?

Mickelson will quarter, half, or three quarter his swing for his famous flop shots.

The Godfather

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By George Honeycutt Why is it that during every round of golf we deal with the nerve racking decision of how to (or whether to) execute a successful chip. For the golfing minority (that would be the low handicappers) this shot is no more than just another swing in their arsenal. For the majority or us, this shot may be our biggest nemesis.

More often than not, we may decide to putt from off the green rather than to chip simply because we do not have confidence in the shot.

I'm not saying you shouldn't putt from off the green…there may be many situations when that is the proper shot to take. I'm just saying, you should master the chip shot because it can improve your game dramatically.

Let's look at the foundation of a chip shot.

Easily defined as “a piece of or portion of something separated from a complete item”, the chip shot should simply be a piece or portion of your golf swing. We should never attempt a chip shot with our full driver or long iron swing. Even the great Houdini named

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Rather than getting into physics, geometry, and metallurgy… and rather than working about grind, bounce, loft, lie, sole, grooves, shaft, and weight, let's focus on the first and most important element in chipping (and golf in general)…your brain. Leave all the hi-tech mumbo jumbo aside for now and let's get this part conquered first. All the greats like Ballesteros, Mickleson, Hogan, and countless other professionals learned how to chip with all sorts of clubs such as: their fairway metals (or woods); long irons; hybrids; and even putters. So the club you use is irrelevant if you don't have the right brain with you. What we're talking about here is mental focus, or adopting the right pre-shot thought process.

So, how does one prepare to be a good chipper? Have you ever said, “I wouldn't stand there, not quite sure where this is going?”

This would be an indication of poor mental focus and general lack of confidence in your shot…and possibly your game. Here's another (more serious) example of the same thought process: Your standing in the road and an 18 wheeler is about to run you over and your first thought is “if I jump out of the way he will probably swerve and hit me anyway!” The chip shot in golf is no different than that 18 wheeler. A strong mental picture of your planned action is how you can execute a chip shot…or dodge an 18 wheeler if you ever have to. That mental picture can include any type of shot or club to be used to execute the shot. Create a positive mental picture of the shot, go with your instinct, and relax because the hard part is over. Once your mind settles on what to do, like other events in your life, it will tell the body to execute. The best way to build confidence, and gain the ability to focus on the action at hand is to practice, practice, practice, and practice some more. I'm not suggesting your practice dodging 18 wheelers….just give it some thought for now.

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Feast on your passion for the game, as well as great food. Roam from room to room, savoring the rich wood decor and all the memorabilia collected by Sam himself. Choose from a wide selection of foods grilled only with locally-cured oak. We serve Black Angus Beef, the freshest local seafood, ribs, or chicken. Complement all this with a fine wine, or your favorite cocktail.

For the lighter appetite, there’s a wide selection of salads and sandwiches.

Golfers bring your scorecards, and earn 10% off you meal. (not applicable to alcohol, cannot be combined with any other offer)

Sam Snead’s Oak Grill & Tavern

1004 Glenforest Road | Myrtle Beach, SC | Near Tanger Outlets on 501

843.903.3150 | SamSneadsMyrtleBeach.com

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Located in the quaint fishing village of Calabash, NC, Crow Creek Golf Club is an 18 hole public course designed by Rick Robbins. Since opening in 2000, the course has maintained the reputation for being one of the most immaculately maintained courses along the east coast. The tifsport bermuda fairways and bent grass greens along with the challenging and fun layout make Crow Creek a preferred stop for visiting golfers and a local’s favorite.

RESERVE YOUR TEE TIME TODAY

Toll Free

877.287.3081

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Challenging. Immaculate.

Unforgettable.

490 SOUTH CROW CREEK DRIVE | CALABASH, NC 28467 | 910.287.3081 | CrowCreekGolf.com

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