During my years at Pebble Beach Golf Links, I had the opportunity to speak with many tour professionals, including Tom Kite.
One of the best putting tips I received was from Kite, who recommended using a firm stroke that allowed for a small break on short putts.
He felt there was more bounce than break around the hole because of the amount of foot traffic around the hole that builds up as the day goes on.
To him, this was especially true for tournament leaders, who tee off in the day’s final groups.
Early players have an advantage in tournaments because of the little amount of foot traffic. Kite said that’s why there are some tournaments won by players teeing off ahead of the leaders.
If you tee off later in the morning — or play in a shotgun tournament — beware of the greens because the later you play, the more damage foot traffic can cause around the hole.
When that happens, a nice soft touch with the putter may work well in the early stage of a round, but you’ll need to adjust to a firmer and straighter stroke on your short putts when nearing the end of a round.
Rules Question
Tony Ramos just putted and his ball is hanging over the edge of the cup.
How long can he wait to see if his ball is going to drop into the hole? The answer is found at the bottom of the column.
Demo days return Sunday
Ridgemark Golf and Country Club is hosting golf club demo day with Titleist, Callaway, Ping and Cleveland at the golfing range on April 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Cobra will also come the following Saturday — May 5.
Don’t miss the opportunity to try the latest golf equipment for free at Ridgemark Golf and Country Club.
If — or when — you find that perfect club, Ridgemark is offering demo day discounts.
Rules Answer
According to rule 16-2 of the golfing rules, Ramos has enough time to walk to the hole and wait an additional 10 seconds to determine if the ball will drop into the hole.
No, Ramos can’t jump up and down to shake the ball into the cup.
You can’t blow on the ball or try to force it into the cup.
