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Instruction

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Pick up the pace

A well-read putt can only go in with enough speed. Use this drill to focus on consistently rolling the ball to the hole.

By Matthew HiltonPublished: October, 2009

Place a shaft or a stick about 18 inches behind the hole and putt six golf balls in a row with your main focus on speed (PHOTO: Eddie Meeks).
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I often see players miss putts after spending too much time guessing the correct line and leaving the correct speed as an afterthought — especially on mid-range putts. Even after picking the line they believe is correct, they begin second-guessing while addressing the ball, which often leads to a loss of relaxation in the stroke and subsequent mis-hits. 

I prefer to have students think primarily about the speed of the putt and have the line be reactionary. Try this drill to help keep your mind focused on getting the proper distance on mid-range putts: Place a horizontal target, like a shaft or a golf club, about 18 inches behind the hole. Take your address position and focus solely on hitting each golf ball with enough speed so it stops at the shaft behind the hole. You’ll be surprised how many balls go in simply by the hole getting in the way.

Matthew Hilton is Director of Instruction at the David Leadbetter Golf Academy at Strawberry Farms Golf Club in Irvine. For more information, call (949) 777-6897 or visit davidleadbetter.com.