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I had just gotten back from a 4 day golf outing in Sedona, Az. By the way, if you haven't played golf in Sedona or even visited, the grass is perfect on the courses (Sedona Golf Resort & Oakcreek Country Club) and the views and hiking in the Sedona area are spectacular.
I think that playing the tough but beautiful courses in Sedona got me tuned up for the club tourney. Here are a few preparation tips and strategies that also helped me in the event that might help you too with your game:
- I did a thorough warm-up on the driving range: started with short irons and worked up to the driver. I eye-balled fairway boundaries on the range to simulate play that got my swing and aiming honed.
- Also warmed up chipping and putting at the practice green. This proved to be very beneficial as I had pretty good distance control with chips and putts and had no 3 putts in the second day of play.
- During the game I would take several practice strokes for each shot to get in rhythm and would pick specific targets to aim at (e.g. a shrub in the distance or a fellow competitor, ok, just kidding).
- When I got in a bit of trouble, like behind or under a tree, I didn't try to be too aggressive and get in to a worse position that could cause extra strokes. I tried to take a safe & direct route to get the ball back in play to minimize damage.
- Lastly, I stayed hydrated. It was a dry and warm two days so I drank plenty of water and never felt fatigued.
These tips can be beneficial whether you are in a tournament or just having a friendly round. Do the prep and hit 'em straight!