Tom Watson’s Open Championship Links Tricks

It’s only three years ago that the then 59 year old Tom Watson nearly made off with the Claret Jug at Turnberry using a whole different approach both physically and mentally to the rest of the field.  Here’s a collection of Tom Watson’s links tips I’ve gathered from dusty articles.

Crosswinds:

When dealing with a crosswind, you should think of the break on a green. The wind will act as "slope" and make the ball curve, just like slope on the putting surface does. When the wind is moving right to left, I aim off the right edge of the green. I also slightly slice the ball into the wind, to land it on the far right side of the green, where it should bounce and roll left with the crosswind. If you try to manoeuvre the ball into a crosswind this way, be aware that a left-to-right shot won't go as far or slice as much.

Weather and Par:

When I think about winning my first British Open (at Carnoustie in 1975) I credit adjusting my target score because of changing weather conditions. On a windy fourth day I went to say hello to Byron Nelson, who was working for ABC. I asked him if he had a word of advice. He said, "Tom, this course is different today. If you shoot 72, you're going to be right there." I focused on that thought going to the tee. And the course did play the way he'd predicted. I shot even-par 72 to get into an 18-hole playoff with Jack Newton the next day. Before you play, consider the weather and adjust your target score accordingly.

Sweep Long Irons:

The best full shot I have ever hit was a 2-iron on the last hole at the 1983 British Open. I faced a 213-yard second shot into the wind on the longest par 4 at Royal Birkdale. All I was thinking on that 2-iron shot was smooth rhythm. And it worked. I've always tried to sweep my long irons (like Jack Nicklaus and Byron Nelson did) rather than take much of a divot. To do that you must position the ball slightly forward of center in your stance. Then the swing arc must be shallow, not steep. Practice this sweeping swing without a ball. Hit the turf just forward of the center at the bottom of your arc. Do it enough times to become consistent. Remember: sweep, don't dig.

 

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