Lessons learned watching the action unfold included staying focused on your own game, not getting too flustered by a mishit, and most importantly was course management in the windy, rainy, challenging conditions they experienced on a very undulated golf course with lots of bunkers and water hazards.
1-Have a game plan: especially in less than desirable conditions. Play a bit more conservatively, that is, play to your strengths and do not take unnecessary risks. Use your go to clubs and shots. (Note: work on the weaker parts of your game on the practice range not on the golf course).
2-Pick specific targets: know the distances to trouble areas and desired landing spots. Know the distance to the front and back of a bunker, to the back of the green, before and after water, etc.(consider using a range finder). Beware of elevation changes and select more or less club depending on up and down slopes. Choose landing areas that will leave you with enough space on all sides in case of a slight mishit.
3-Adjust to the conditions: wet conditions can slow your ball down with less roll. Dry conditions can make the ball go farther on the fairway and greens. The wind can play havoc with the ball. Note which direction the wind is blowing on each shot and adjust your club choice and shot selection:
- Wind in your face: don't swing harder, club up - use more club (e.g. a 9 iron instead of a pitching wedge)
- Wind at your back: don't swing slower, club down - use less club (e.g. an 8 iron instead of a 7)
- Wind to the side (cross wind): keep the ball lower and consider how the wind will move your ball left or right...aim appropriately