Use the firm fairways to your advantage by rolling the ball toward the target and avoid high shots that are more susceptible to wind. Opt for lower, more controlled trajectories.
Adapt to Greens
Links greens are usually hard and fast, making it difficult to stop the ball quickly. Consider running the ball onto the green instead of flying it all the way.
Navigate Pot Bunkers Wisely
Pot bunkers are small, deep, and strategically placed hazards unique to links courses. To avoid costly mistakes:
Prioritize avoiding bunkers over an aggressive approach shot. A single pot bunker can add multiple strokes.
If you find yourself in a pot bunker, play conservatively. Often, the best option is to take your medicine and play out sideways or backwards.
Be Ready for Variable Weather
Links golf courses are often exposed to the elements, with changing weather conditions adding to the challenge:
Coastal weather can shift quickly from sunshine to rain. A windproof jacket and waterproof gear are essential.
Protect yourself from the elements, whether it’s strong winds or a sudden downpour. Accept that conditions might be less than ideal. Embracing the challenge is part of the links golf experience.
Think Strategically
Links golf rewards careful planning and creativity. Instead of relying on brute force, concentrate on placing your ball in favourable positions for the next shot, even if it means sacrificing distance.
Study the layout, including undulations, hazards, and wind directions. Knowledge of the course can save strokes. Each links course is unique, so be ready to adjust your strategy as you learn its quirks.
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