September 2007
Swing into fall
Advance planning is important for late season golfing
As we head into late September it is important to remember that in spite of falling leaves, morning frost and early sunsets, we still have some great golf left.
Dress for success: The temperature can fluctuate dramatically over the course of an hour and you must be able to adapt quickly, so when getting dressed for the day be sure to put clothing on in layers.
For a variety of reasons fall happens to be my favourite time of the year to play golf. The mild temperatures are a relaxing change in comparison to the stifling heat we deal with in the summer. The courses are still in reasonably good shape, fall green fee specials are in effect, and nothing beats a quiet golf course that is not packed wall to wall with players and tournaments.
In order to make the most of your late season rounds you need to plan and prepare in advance.
The temperature can fluctuate dramatically over the course of an hour and you must be able to adapt quickly, so when getting dressed for the day be sure to put clothing on in layers. This will give you an opportunity to remove or replace layers on an ongoing basis. Start with a long-sleeved golf shirt or turtleneck, followed by a vest, sweater or fleece, and finally cover it all up with a light jacket or wind shirt.
If you find your body temperature warming up, try to anticipate the removal of a clothing layer. Once you find yourself sweating—even lightly—it is too late to remove a layer. The moisture you generate will make it difficult for your body to sufficiently warm up and you will suffer the chills for the remainder of the round.
Be aware of the cooler conditions that are present, and spend a little more time on your warm-up and stretching routine prior to play. Periodic stretching is important throughout your round as well, so do some light stretches and walk briskly to your ball to help keep you loose and limber. If you regularly ride a power cart, have your playing partner take over driving the last 15 yards to your ball—this will allow you a brief moment to get the old blood pumping again and keep you warm.
The hardest thing to do during a round in the cold is maintain your feel for putting and chipping. Be sure to pack a pair of gloves in your bag so that you can wear them between shots, while walking or riding the cart. The warmer your hands are the better sense of touch and feel you will have on and around the greens.
Getting yourself prepared in advance is the key to fully enjoying the day. If the only rake you pick up this fall is used for the leaves in your yard, you are missing out on a great opportunity—even if it does involve raking the sand trap behind you.
Trevor Moore is a CPGA professional based in Medicine Hat, he owns and operates Advantage Golf Academy. You can contact him via his website www.advantagegolf.ca.