Lewis: When struggling on the golf course, revert to your practice swing

Many golfers never understand why their practice swing is so good and their real swing is so bad. First, you are much more relaxed with your practice swing because you are not hitting the ball. There is no consequence to a practice swing.

The practice swing is used for relaxation and to gain a feel for the club you are about to use for your shot. Set your golf club six inches directly across from the ball and take a serious practice swing. The practice swing should be just like you are going to hit a ball.

After the swing, look to see where the divot is in relation to the ball.

Using an iron, the divot should be in line with the ball. If you are slightly behind the ball, you need to set up with the ball in the back of your stance. If the divot is in front of the ball, set up slightly forward.

This gives you a good idea where the true bottom of your swing is and will help create better contact with the ball on the course.
Hole-in-One for newest member

Kyle Laubach scored an ace while playing with his best friend and his future father-in-law. On hole No. 8 of the Diablo Course at Ridgemark Golf and Country Club, Laubach hit the shot. On the steep 122-yard par-3, Laubach  never saw the ball go into the hole.

Witnesses were Brandon Kief and Don Brennan. Congratulations to Ridgemark’s newest member.

Rodriguez passes PGA School

Alex Rodriguez, one of our assistant golf professionals at Ridgemark, passed all eight of his tests at PGA School I in Florida this week. Now Rodriguez will  prepare for School II in four to six months in hopes of becoming a PGA Member within 12 to 18 months. Congratulations.
Winners of the 2-Man Net Scramble

Last weekend the Ridgemark Men’s Club held a 36-hole, 2-man net scramble event. Winners of the first flight were Barry Brady and Kevin McKenzie with a score of 129.9. Second flight winners. Leo Villar and Lamar Huntzinger, scored a 127.4 and third flight winners, Frank Geisler and Mike Kivlehan, carded a 136.4. 

Stocking Stuffer Tips

Here are some last-minute stocking stuffers for your golfer.

Golf balls, gift certificates, club cleaners, hand warmers, glove or a new grip for their driver are excellent gifts for a golfer. I suggest buying a set of new grips for all clubs, as many golfers just need new grips rather than a new set of clubs.