Postmechanics

Having realised that I can still hit a fade with a strong grip, still badly mishit shots with a short backswing, and still have trouble of all kinds no matter what mechanics I adopt, it's time to try something different.

Even though the insights from the aforementioned 'Extraordinary Golf' about not allowing the voice in the head to interfere with the stroke have helped me quieten my mind during the stroke and although my set up and swing fundamentals are not too bad, I need more than that to play at the level I would like to maintain.

From my observations of a good ball striker yesterday, I think the key is related to rhythm and timing. The player I watched swung with a smooth tempo, yet seemed to power the ball out of all proportion to the effort that was involved. This is, as we all know, the characteristic of all good golfers - effortless power.

Yet it seems to be beyond the reach of most of us. Despite reading 'Tour Tempo' and knowing that the late hit (using lots of lag) is what's needed, the way of achieving that tempo and late hit is elusive.

My mission, should I decide to accept it, is to return to the pursuit of lag, combine it with the kind of rhythm or tempo that you see with good golfers, and see if I can find the ball striking consistency and effortless power that I've been seeking.

I might also try to play a bit smarter, for example, take a 4-wood off the 8th tee to keep the ball out of the trees to the right (and left) and accept that it is a three shot hole, with a longer third shot. Having a wedge for the third shot, on the occasions where I have actually had that opportunity, doesn't guarantee a decent putt at birdie anyway.

One final thought: hitting the ball out of the centre of the clubface is probably the other thing that good golfers have going for them. I wouldn't mind betting that this is closely correlated to having a smooth and consistent rhythm. Research has actually shown that centre clubface contact is crucial not only for achieving good and consistent distance, but greater accuracy with less sidespin. Something to remember.

So, goodbye mechanics, hello rhythm.