Smarter targets, lower scores

I wanted to share some insights on the importance of target selection in our game. It’s a common misconception that our golf shots are precise like a rifle's aim, but in reality, they're more like a shotgun's spread, dispersing around our intended target.

For right-handed players, there's a typical miss pattern of long left and short right, forming an oval-shaped dispersion (see the attached graphic). Even PGA Tour players have a 7% miss rate, which translates to a 7-yard deviation from the hole on a 100-yard shot.

Opting for the center of the green instead of directly at the flag allows for a wider margin of error, reducing the risk of hazards and difficult positions. This isn’t about playing cautiously, but playing wisely.

By avoiding high-risk shots and targeting smarter areas, we decrease the likelihood of major errors and keep our scores lower.

While aiming straight for the hole is tempting, a more considered approach often leads to better outcomes. Let's focus on smart, achievable targets the next time we hit the course. It could be the key to improving our game.