Grooved Golf Swing Series - How To Deal With Difficult Lies

Sometimes your ball will come to a stop on top of pine
needles or leaves. There is no firm ground immediately
beneath the ball and if you ground your club behind the
ball there is a big danger of causing the ball to move.

This of course is a penalty and you have to add one more
stroke to your score. Similarly when you have a piece of
twig beneath the ball or touching the ball. Don't try to
move it because you may move your ball. Now back to the
leaves or pine needles.

When you take your stance, make sure you do not ground your
club. Doing so may move the delicate surface on which the
ball lies and cause your ball to move. Take your stance
with the club head held above the surface and make your
swing.
Sweep the ball off the surface, hitting down on the
ball less than usual.

Because you are making such a swing,
you will cause the ball to fly lower than usual and so it
will fly and run further. You have to allow for this.

Now what about if you have to pitch the ball out of the
leafy or pine needle lie. How do you do that? How many
times have you duffed your ball or seen others do this from
such a lie?
The way to play your ball from this lie when
you need to get your ball up fast is to play an explosion
shot. Play it as though you are in a bunker.

Use the same club you would use if your ball were in a bunker
here instead of on leaves, and hit down and through the ball
using an open club face.
As in sand the ball will need to be hit a little harder than for
a normal shot to attain the desired distance.

Now you are in a fairway bunker miles from the green.

There is an easy way to play this shot and a not so easy way.
In both instances you have the hit the ball first.

If you hit the sand behind the ball you will not succeed.
One way is to try to pick the ball off the surface of the sand.
Some can do this - sometimes - and many try and fail.

The easy way is to play your ball off your right foot
(right handers) and keeping your head still and watching
the ball, take a normal swing and hit down on the ball.

It is much easier to hit the ball first - before the sand - if
you use this method.
Because you have hit the ball first,
it is compressed enough between club and sand to achieve
the desired effect, and the ball will fly a long way. Give
it a try. You will surprise yourself and be very pleased.

One thing though. Because you are playing your ball well
back, you will reduce the loft of the club you are using.
Therefore you will need a club with a bit more loft if you
have a high lip in front of you.

Bill Maitland is a thinking, inventive golf guru. He thought out and developed simple techniques and tips which enabled him to lower his handicap from 25 to 18, then from 18 to 15, and finally from 15 to 12. He is a passionate golfer, and delights in helping others with their game should they want his help. To receive a valuable weekly golf tip go to his web site http://www.onlinegolfershandbook.com and subscribe to his free Hole In One News Letter. You will be so glad that you did.

Author of On Line Golfers' Hand Book. An e-Book that takes you step by step to being the best golfer that you can possibly be. The basics in great detail. To learn about his tips and simple techniques and order his book, visit his web site

http://www.onlinegolfershandbook.com

sign up for his free news letter and receive a wealth of great tips every time. He really tries to tell you everything and leaves nothing out as so often happens. When you sign up, receive his free chapter from his book on bunker play.

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Finding NYC Tee Times

If you are seeking significant discounts on new york city golf tee times, you'll be glad to know that most of the golf courses in and around the Big Apple maintain websites through which you can book new york city golf tee times in advance at substantial savings.

The discounts on new york city golf tee times can vary, particularly in terms of what is available. Usually, you are able to reserve an approximate tee time only (these are usually timed to begin every five to ten minutes).

When you book new york city golf tee times over the World Wide Web, the course or country club may offer various extras that include a sleeve of golf balls. A golf cart is not usually included in the greens fee (although it may be). In any event, when you reserve new york city golf tee times online in advance, you'll need to print out a copy of your reservation and present it at the pro shop when you arrive for your game.

Be aware that like any commodity, new york city golf tee times are subject to market forces; how much you'll pay is determined by how much demand there is for a particular time slot. Such reservations are granted on a "first come first served" basis, and some new york city golf tee times are in more demand than others. Saturday mornings are extremely popular, and may command greens fees that are twice those charged for a Tuesday afternoon, for example.

The other issue to be aware of is the fact that new york city golf tee times cannot usually be canceled, and any fees you may have paid in advance are usually non-refundable. The exception is if inclement weather prevents play, in which case you'll need to contact the course or country club by telephone. If you cannot get a refund, you can at least have your new york city golf tee times changed.

You'll also want to do some comparison shopping when booking new york city golf tee times. These times vary from one location to another. Some courses and clubs offer more extras than others, and the fees themselves also vary - sometimes dramatically - from one course to another.

A number of these websites also require a credit card for confirmation of your reservation, although others accept payment at the time of arrival for the game.

Those who are planning a vacation or business trip in the NYC area and hope to play a few rounds may also wish to look into package deals that offer discounted lodging near golfing facilities.

Jonathan Blocker loves to play golf. He plays all around the country, and some of his favorite courses are in New York

Golf Channel and Equipment Reviews

Become A Better Golfer By Quickly Improving Your Golf Swing By Going Back To The Basics

If you look around, it's easy to find dozens of tricks, some of them quite ridiculous, for improving your swing. In fact the best way to improve your swing is to go back to basics. So let's review some of those.

Stance and Ball Position

As a general rule of thumb, your feet should be about the same width apart as your shoulders. If you're using a short iron, move them a little closer together, for long irons and wedges, slightly further apart. Imagine a line between your position and the target, and aim the club along that line, sometimes called the target line. You need to position your body parallel to the target line, and the line between your shoulders must be perpendicular to the clubface. The ball is teed correctly when you're driving if the top of the ball is slightly above the head of the club. When putting, the putter's face should also be perpendicular to the target line.

Grip and Wrists

Make sure your grip is firm, but still relaxed. Control is more important than strength. If you want to create maximum impact at the proper angle, then it's essential to get your wrist position correct. That will do more to achieve distance than sheer brute strength. It's very easy to allow the lead wrist to collapse on impact, so you need to firm up your wrists. You can do this by taking a club and raising it just using your wrist, holding your arm at your side. Hold the club with the toe parallel to the ground and keep it there for at least five seconds. It's a lot harder than it sounds! Repeat the exercise until you can feel that you've been using your forearm, but don't persist if it hurts. Change arms and do it again. It can also be helpful to take some swing with only one hand and arm. It might feel a bit strange, and it won't necessarily improve your swing as it's such a different movement, but it can do a lot to help you develop control.

Position You Body Correctly

Stand in the normal stance and position you use before swinging (often called your normal address). Place a club across your shoulders, then pretend to make a back swing in your normal manner. Have someone watching, and check to make sure your club ends up pointing four feet or more beyond the ball.

Golf Swing Drills

The basis of any good swing is a type of rotational movement. What you're aiming to do is keep in the same plan on the downswing and you're in during the back swing. Imagine a big circle balancing on top of the ball and in line with the target line. Your club needs to follow the same arc as the bottom half of that circle throughout the entire swing.

Spend some time practicing your back swing to downswing movement, stopping your club at the point of impact to make sure the clubface is in the correct position, which is perpendicular to the target line. If you find the clubface is open, your right forearm has rotated too much (the left if you're left handed).

Place a line of tees in the ground, and practice swinging at each one, before moving forward to the next. With some practice, you should find you're consistently clipping the middle of the tee and still remaining in the correct swing plane.

Rhythm and Balance

The final things you need for a good swing is rhythm and balance. If you've watched a great golfer, then you probably know exactly what I'm talking about, because all the greats have beautiful rhythm. It's essential for a consistently good swing. However good rhythm can't happen without good balance and vice-versa.

The easiest place to start is with the static elements of your swing - proper positioning and stance. Balance is linked in to all the dynamic elements of the swing, and rhythm and balance need to be maintained through the entire swing.

Take your time and make sure you're not rushing through the swing. Your weight should be evenly distributed between your right and left feet, and the spine tilted away from the target at address. Once you're ready, take a smooth pull back and easy swing down.

It can be helpful to have a friend practice with you. As you take a few swings, your friend should gently push you, first between the shoulder blades, then the lower back, one shoulder then the other. You should feel the pressure but still be able to remain upright. The whole motion of the swing should remain smooth, and once you've done some practice, your back swing and downswing should feel as effortless as a well-oiled machine.

Quickly improve your golf game by visiting Golf-Swing-Improvement.com where you will find plenty of helpful tips and information on golf swing aids, golf swing instruction and golf putting tips.

Golf Channel and Equipment Reviews

Quick Golf Instructions Tips

Playing golf is not much different from playing other sports. You need to learn basic golf instructions concerning regulations, techniques, customs and golf equipment. Besides practicing, learning golf instructions will help you along the path to be a professional golfer.

Golfers in the United States are free to enroll in training centers or educational classes approved by the US Golf Teacher's Federation as well as the Professional Golfers Association.

Here are some essential golf instructions tips for golfer who want to learn more information about this game.

1. Golf instructions were established in the medieval period

During the early 1350's, lessons were made public to the society. Early golfers created the fundamental concept of allowing other golfers to swing the following unbroken shot.

2. Learning can be expensive

Prior to the creation of the gutta-percha ball, simply learning about this game can be rather expensive then. It is deemed an exorbitant skill set whereby only the elite from Edinburgh are qualified to play the game.

3. Golf instructions featuring "Show-and-tell"

"Show-and-tell" sort of instructions were first established in 1848 which is also the same year that the "guttie" ball was created.

It was after this time that this game gradually became more affordable and accessible to everyone. Soon enough, this sport was slowly introduced to other parts of the globe.

4. The inaugural instructional book

The inaugural instructional book was first written in the year 1857. Entitled "A Keen Hand", it was penned by H.B. Farnie and covers ample lessons specifically on strategies and methods in the game.

5. Important elements in golf instructions

Do note that the vital terminologies you should learn are alignment and positions, correct posture, grip and swing. These elements are the main concern of each golfer as they play an important part in improving a golfer's shots.

6. Lessons in golf shots

Each golfer should discover golf instructions that will direct them on the various traditional shots such as the fairway shots, approaches, chipping, sand-shots, putting as well as driving.

For intermediate golfers, more advanced lessons are taught concerning controlling the loft, problematic shots as well as managing the shape of your shots.

In summary, a golfer will learn the art of the game easily via golf instructions so do heed the lessons and in no time your game will significantly improve!

The Fastest and Easiest Way To Go From Fumbling Rookie To RESPECTED GOLFER, without paying for a single private lesson...Simply following Proven and Effective Golf Playing Tips. Learn the best golf swing lessons at http://www.golfplayingtips.net/golf-swing-lessons-do-you-know-your-golf-swing-basics.html

callaway putters

Ceann Sibeal Golf Links

The Ceann Sibeal was founded in the year 1924 and is located at Europe's third largest island. Its popularly known as Europe's most westerly golf course. It is one of the more spectacular course designs of Eddie Hackett and Chris O'Connor Jr. The course abounds with great natural beauty of rolling dune terrains and steep, cliffs jutting out into the Atlantic. All around are some of Ireland's tallest mountains including the magnificent Mount Brandon. If you are looking for a great golf holiday package in Ireland, the Ceann Sibeal Golf Course should be number one on your list.
The 6,696 yards, par 72 Golf Course is full of exciting challenges for the golfer. The Course challenges include fast winds, dune grasses and even a river running right through it. Many a seasoned golfer has wrested with these challenges and enjoyed the test.

En route to the Golf Course, you will pass picturesque locales with breathtaking scenery. As you take in the beautiful scenery all around you, your day is made and you suddenly realize that you have selected the right golf holiday package.

The course has itself been shaped from the vast rocky landscape of Ireland. Each hole promises to be different. The golfer will even find a fishing village hidden in a corner and a magnificent view of the Blasket Islands in the Atlantic Ocean. It has been truly said that Ceann Sibeal Golf Course offers you the splendor of both the land and the sea. While Ireland offers you a many golf courses, there are none to rival the beauty of the Ceann Sibeal and the place is a must on your golf holiday package.

Beside the golf course, there is other nearby entertainment options for your whole family. The whole family will enjoy the once in a life time experience. Accommodation isn't a problem as there are many good hotels nearby.

As you descend from Conor Pass which is Ireland's highest mountain pass, you will arrive at the bustling town of Dingle. This town with its array of eclectic eateries, and pubs gives you a memorable golf holiday package. Besides pubs, other great outings for your family are fishing and pottery.

Pubs -The Irish have traditionally been fond of music. One thing is for sure - you will always fondly recall your pub outings, the great sea food, the traditional music and the general ambience of the place. Among the popular pubs are The Dingle Pub and the Small Bridge.

Fishing - Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck at deep sea fishing off the Dingle Bay aboard licensed and fully equipped angling boats. Bon Voyage!

Pottery - The Louis Mulcahy Pottery at Ballyferriter is a popular tourist spot. The workshop produces some of Ireland's finest pottery. What is more, visitors get to try their hand at real clay as well. The best part is that you get to keep your creations for free. All this makes for a great golf holiday package.

Anireju Atie is a prolific writer and the author of a various golf articles, for golf ebooks, golf auctions, golf books and golf videos visit http://www.thesuperworldofgolf.com

Golf Channel and Equipment Reviews

Dunlop Golf MRH Loco Gloves

The Dunlop LoCo Golf Glove gives you optimum comfort, no matter what the weather. Made of 100-percent premium leather, this glove dries fast and stays soft even after repeated usage. Its custom fit and breathability make it a pleasure to wear. Features:

100% Premium Cabretta Leather

Soft Feel

Comfortable Fit

Superior Quality

If any of your friends or family are golfers, you may wonder what kind of present you could give them. It can be hard to choose, but, if you know how interested the player is, and how experienced they are, then you can make the selection process a little easier.

There are some golf gifts that any golfer will appreciate. If you can get someone vouchers for a round at their favorite course, then they will most certainly enjoy that. Usually, vouchers are good for a round of 18 holes, but many courses will allow them to be used in batches of 9, making them ideal gifts for even casual golfers. If you are buying vouchers, make sure that you buy them at the right rate if your friend qualifies for a certain discount, often vouchers will be available at that rate too.

Another great gift for golf lovers are golf balls. Golf Balls are another of the many golf gifts that most players will enjoy. Bear in mind that the recipient may be partial to a specific brand ball. Nevertheless, if you give someone the gift of golf balls, there is an excellent chance they will appreciate them and use them. You should know that there are different compression ratings for golf balls and they are used in different weather, but these details may not be crucial for your weekend hobby golfer. Just make sure that you don't buy your male friends what may be considered to be women's golf balls.

Let Them Choose

If you are thinking of buying golf clubs, then perhaps you should reconsider. They are a very personal choice, and most golfers would prefer to test out the clubs themselves, and select them based on their own preferences. A gift certificate for a sports store would be much better than spending money on clubs that are unlikely to get used. Either ask them what set of clubs they would like, or give them a gift certificate, and let them choose their own.

Another golf gift that would be most welcome would be a towel that hangs on their bag to wipe their hands or club heads. A ball retriever would also be generally acceptable by everyone. They can be very handy and are used when fishing balls from water hazards. And for youngsters who may want to surprise Dad with a golf gift, a bag of wood tees would always be welcomed by any golfer.

You could also think about getting them a range finder, a stroke counter, or some other score keeping device, or some golf clothing such as gloves or a cap. There are lots of great golf gifts out there, you just need to find out what they already have, and what they may be interested in. The fact that you have chosen to take an interest in their hobby and selected an interesting gift for them will stand for itself, and they are sure to appreciate whatever you pick out for them.

Visit http://vacation.every1loves2travel.com for great golf vacation destinations, and helpful articles and tips about golf holidays.

Golf Channel and Equipment Reviews

Dunlop Sport 408 DI

Dunlop Sport 408 DI Golf Balls : Dunlop Sport 409 DI Golf Balls have a low dimple pattern that offers better feel and deters excessive spin, which is perfect for preventing hooks and slices.

The F1 season with all its glitz and glamour might have started in earnest recently, with the running of the Australian Grand Prix; but for many motor-sports enthusiasts, the real thrills of motor-racing can be found much closer to home with the British Touring Car Championship (or BTCC), due to get underway at the end of March.

It's well known that F1 is a millionaire's sport - the cars are the result of millions of pounds of technical research; the drivers are paid a king's ransom, and both the teams and drivers are subject to multi-million pounds sponsorship deals by global corporations. Money talks in F1 and purists argue that the sport isn't competitive anymore, as races are now won and lost in the pit-lane, rather than on the track, while the larger teams such as McLaren and Ferrari spend the kind of money that the smaller teams such as Super Aguri can only dream about.

Recent years has seen the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) flourish in terms of both competing teams and spectator numbers. The sport itself operates on a fraction of the budget afforded to the F1 world; yet what it lacks in glamour, it more than makes up for in thrills! The BTCC season comprises of ten rounds - beginning and ending at Brands Hatch - held between March and September, and visiting nine different circuits. Each round consists of three races, making a thirty round competition.

The teams which compete in the BTCC are a mixture of manufacturers' works teams (currently SEAT and Vauxhall are the only manufacturer teams) and independent teams such as Team Halfords and Team RAC. The independent teams usually comprise of ex-works cars which have been purchased from manufacturer teams when they update their own cars' chassis. While this then might appear to give the 'new' cars an edge, as works teams can provide expert motoring advice about new developments surrounding their entries; there are in fact strict limits to modifications that can be made to any competing car in order to keep costs down and elicit an element of fairness in the sport. For example, all competing cars have to use the same tyre - called a 'control tyre' - which currently is supplied by Dunlop. Cars can also be modified to use different fuel types, with recent cars having run on liquefied petroleum gas, bio-ethanol fuel and even diesel, which made its first appearance in a BTCC race in 2007.

Races in the BTCC calendar are normally run over a weekend. Saturday comprises of two practice sessions, followed by a half-hour qualifying session which determines the first race grid for the Sunday. Like F1, the grid is sorted by time with the fastest driver lining up in pole position. Depending on the length of the racing circuit, each race will normally consist of between 16 and 25 laps, and the race result then determines the grid order for the next race with the drivers lining up according to their finishing position for race two.

For race three, starting positions are determined by a 'draw' which sees part of the grid reversed. This means that depending on the draw, drivers who finished in the minor placings could start in pole position. For example, if position 6 was drawn, the driver who finished in 6th place would be given pole position, with 5th place in second position and so on. Drivers who finished above the 'draw' result would occupy the position where they finished race two.

Also, at the end of the first and second races, the cars which finish in the major placings are handicapped by having additional weight - known as ballast - added to them for the next race at the meeting. Drivers' standings after the third race of each meeting also determine the amount of ballast to be carried in the first race of the following meeting.

There are some aspects of BTCC which are shared with F1; for example the safety car and pit lane speed limits. However, unlike F1, spare cars cannot be used, and teams can only use a maximum of 4 engines per season per driver. If additional engines are used, teams are subject to point deductions.

All this adds up to some fantastic thrills on the racetrack as the rules make racing much more competitive and open, with cars' technological advantages negated by additional weight or luck of the draw. Collisions are commonplace in BTCC as drivers push their cars - and themselves - to the limit throughout each race; it isn't uncommon to witness high-speed collisions involving multiple cars, while the attempts to equalise the cars means overtaking manoeuvres can occur anywhere throughout the race - even on the tightest of corners!

So, while the F1 world buys its thrills, motor-sports enthusiasts can rest easy; safe in the knowledge that BTCC thrills come free with the package.

Matthew Pressman is a freelance writer and frequent flyer. When not travelling, he enjoys golf and fishing.

Golf Channel and Equipment Reviews