Here is a great putting lesson / golf lesson for your golf game.

I was watching the Memorial this afternoon after work and Jack Nicklaus was in the booth with the commentators. One of the players on the course was hitting a long lag putt and Kelly asked Mr. Nicklaus, “Any tips on lag putting?” What a good question to the greatest that ever played and a guy who rarely 3 putted.

Read on for his answer?

He said his goal was always to die the putt at the hole which is contrary to what some people teach on putting. Jack said even if he left a long putt a couple feet short, he was ok with it because he avoided the 3 putt.

Although it is true that putts left short never go in, there is also some wisdom in working to avoid 3 putts. Especially for most golfers who are simply looking for consistency in shooting better scores. For the average player, the best way to consistently shoot better numbers is to eliminate double bogeys. I’ve never tracked this stat but I would imagine many doubles have a 3 putt attached to them.

Take a little advice from a guy who certainly knew how to putt and look to die the longer ones at the hole. It’s amazing how a great putting lesson can be picked up free of charge simply by paying attention when the right people speak. And here is a clue; any time Jack Nicklaus makes a comment, pay close attention!

Thanks for stopping by. Check back again soon.

Mike

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