So Tiger Woods wins the Wachovia Championship -- shocking I know. But this was not a typical Tiger win. He began to pull away during the final round, had a couple of surprising hiccups, but then pulled it together to come away with a two-shot win. This is simply Tiger Woods being mentally stronger than most of the players out there, not just physcially more gifted.
I would also like to add how impressive the tournament was as a whole. The Wachovia Championship has become, in a short time, one of the most favorite events to compete in amongst PGA Tour players. There are many reasons why this is so but the most often cited reason by players is the quality of the golf course. Quail Hollow is a demanding test and will challenge every aspect of your game - including the toughness of your mind. This is where I'd like to offer you some insight to play your best -- whether it's a social match at the club or the next competition on your schedule.
What you witnessed this week is nothing short of phenomenal. Yes, there was some blundered shots, questionable decisions, and missed short putts. But there was also excellence on a higher level - in the form of booming tee shots, a number of eagles holed from the fairways, and miraculous recoveries from trouble. This, to me, is one of the most endearing qualities of the game. Yes, the game can be mastered -- but only at times -- for short periods of time.
That brings us to this week's "A Lesson Learned". Since we are dealing with this ebb and flow nature of success and failure during a round -- you must accept "riding the emotional wave". This is in fact were world class players shine. Their ability to deal with the consequences of one round -- or on that thought -- an entire Championship, has been developed to a high level. They have already experienced success and adversity on many occasions. If you've made it to the PGA Tour -- you've traveled a long and bumpy road.
So where do we begin? First, let me state that the game of golf has the unique ability of exposing the strength of your character. You compete solely on your own - with no teammates to rely on when difficulty presents itself. If you're having a tough day on the links - you just get to see how much tenacity is really within you. Do you crumble or do you trudge through and overcome? Where do you think you fall on the scale of emotional control. Think you can improve? I'm here to tell you -- you definitely can.
EARLY, MIDDLE, LATE
One of the most effective ways you can handle the challenges of your game is to break down your round into six-hole increments. The first six are your Early holes, the Middle six are Holes 7 through 12, and the Late six are 13 through 18. When you use this strategy it simplifies your decision process on the course - and it allows you to maintain your composure during the heat of battle. How? you may ask.
OK, consider this scenario. You begin your round strong -- a birdie on the first, par on the second, and a great par-saving putt on the third hole. You're confident and making your way through the round.
In this scenario - all is well. No difficulty to get you down emotionally. So as you enter the Middle six holes you will be upbeat, positive, and psychologically clear. This in turn will lead to more solid shots because your attitude will be riding high.
As you enter the Last six to play consider the outcome of your Early and Middle six - this will give you a good indication for attempting risky shots or playing safe. If it's been a difficult day - play safe off the tee and with your approach shots. However, if your round has gone well, your swing shape feels good - its time to push on and make as many birdies as you can. Ride the wave and select your shots according to how the round has unfolded.
Now, on the other hand if the Early part of your round was littered with errant tee shots, a few three putts, and missed greens - you need to play safe, swing within yourself, and clear out the emotional baggage. That way as you enter your Middle six it's likely that you can turn it around and improve your score.
Breaking your round down into these six-hole segments is sure to benefit you. Pay attention to your emotional equilibrium - learn to diffuse anger and how to enjoy the heroic shots you pull off. It's all about "Riding the Wave".
Ted Kiegiel is the PGA Head Professional at Carolina Country Club in Raleigh, N.C. and has been a featured guest and writer for numerous golf media organizations. He is a Master Staff member of Callaway Golf. Among his many students are Webb Simpson, the country's #1 ranked amateur player and the LPGA's Lee Ann Walker-Cooper. Kiegiel has worked at Augusta National Golf Club and The Country Club in Brookline prior to his current position.
