Masterclass: No.2 Long putts
Top short game coach John Cook continues his new exclusive Masterclass series
Posted: 14 July 2004
by John Cook
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Putting from long distance
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When we produce those annoying three-putts, it usually results from a bad first putt. And normally it’s the pace of that first putt that causes the problem.
Most of us do not practice our long putts anywhere near to the same extent as we practice our short and medium length putts. Is it any wonder why our long putting lets us down?
Take advantage of the times you are on the putting green on your own to practice putting to holes more than 10 yards (nine metres) away.
Producing a consistent strike off the putter face is essential. The same putt hit from the toe, the heel and the centre of the putter will result in three different distances.
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Positioning the ball slightly forward of the centre of your stance encourages a better roll on the putt, and holding the grip with the least possible amount of tension in the fingers will keep the action smooth.
Ensure, too, you develop a longer flowing putting action - back swing and follow through the same distance. This will help with the consistency of strike.
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Long backswing…
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…same distance follow-through
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Positions on the putter face
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John Cook’s short game clinics, which are running throughout the summer at The De Vere Belfry PGA Academy, near Sutton Coldfield, range from a full-day’s coaching for £179 to two days of short game coaching, including accommodation and all meals from £335. For more information or to book, visit
www.johncookgolf.com
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