Breaking 85 in golf is a significant achievement that many amateur golfers strive towards. While it may not be shooting in the 70s, consistently breaking 85 is a fantastic score that can leave a player proud of their performance on the course. To achieve this goal, golfers must avoid common errors that can add unnecessary strokes to their scorecard. In this article, we will explore the key strategies and tips provided by top golf teacher Mark Durland to help golfers break 85 more consistently and improve their overall game.
One of the primary mistakes that can hinder a golfer’s ability to break 85 is penalty strokes, which often result from errant tee shots. Durland advises golfers to find a club other than a driver that offers both distance and control off the tee. By practicing with fairway woods or hybrids instead of a driver, players can eliminate stressful tee shots and improve their accuracy. Additionally, Durland suggests a strategy for using the driver effectively, including teeing the ball lower, adjusting ball position in the stance, gripping down on the club, and using cruising speed rather than full power to achieve a fairway finder tee shot.
Another crucial aspect of breaking 85 is calibrating carry distance, rather than focusing solely on total distance. Understanding the carry distance with each club in the bag allows golfers to hit more greens in regulation and shorten the distance to the hole, ultimately leading to lower scores. Use of a launch monitor or assistance from a teaching professional can help golfers determine their precise carry distances and improve their approach shots to the green. By mastering carry distances, golfers can increase their chances of consistently breaking 85 and achieving better overall results on the course.
In addition to avoiding penalty strokes and calibrating carry distances, golfers looking to break 85 must focus on making short putts consistently. Durland recommends a practice game where players set up putts from three, four, and five feet, imagining each putt is for par. The goal is to make all three putts, putting the most pressure on the final putt to replicate tournament conditions. Developing the ability to convert short putts under pressure can significantly impact a golfer’s ability to break 85 consistently and improve their overall performance on the greens.
To complement these physical strategies, Durland also emphasizes the importance of mental preparation when aiming to break 85. He suggests breaking the round into six, three-hole challenges and focusing on playing each set of three holes two-over par. This mental approach helps golfers strategize effectively before each shot, leading to more successful outcomes and a greater likelihood of achieving the goal of breaking 85. By combining sound technical advice with a positive mental attitude, golfers can overcome common errors, improve their performance, and consistently break 85 on the course.
In conclusion, breaking 85 in golf requires a combination of technical skill, mental fortitude, and strategic decision-making on the course. By avoiding common errors such as penalty strokes, calibrating carry distances, mastering short putts, and adopting a positive mental approach, golfers can improve their overall game and achieve the goal of breaking 85 consistently. With the expert guidance and actionable tips provided by top golf teacher Mark Durland, golfers at all levels can enhance their performance, shave strokes off their scorecard, and experience the progress they strive for in their golf game.
