Q&A: I have a big golf tournament tomorrow. What are something that will make me do better?

QUESTION:
I am going to be in a big golf tournament tomorrow. I have never played the course, what are some key elements that will help me play better, other than steroids?

ANSWER:

Answer by redmountain23
Do as much research on the course as possible before you go in. Try to pull up a layout on the internet and see what you can find out about the place. Also check with the pro-shop and see if they have yardage books for the course. See if the holes set up for a right to left or left to right ball flight and adjust your game accordingly. Know where the trouble areas are and how far you can hit off the tees before you are in trouble with the rough or bunkers coming into play. It’s kind of like scouting an opponent in basketball or football, you want to know the holes you can take advantage of and go for birdie and also the holes you will need to play a bit more conservatively. Know the speed of the greens also and pay attention to the conditions, like if it has rained within the last 24 hours which will slow down the roll on the fairways and greens.

Get plenty of sleep the night before and try to arrive 2-3 hours before your tee time so you have time to stretch, hit some balls to loosen up and get a feel on the putting green. You’ll also want to eat a good breakfast with some carbs in the morning.

The mental aspect is also a big thing about it, tournament play is mainly about keeping your head int he game, if you hit a couple of bad shots don’t let it get to you and play one hole at a time. Just keep your head on your shoulders and be prepared mentally and also with a strategy for your round and you should be fine!