by Lori Randle

We have been very lucky over the last months as far as the weather in concerned, and even though I haven't had to break out the winter fleece it is time to talk about winter golf. The winter season can be good for your game because it is the perfect time to address any swing changes you have been putting off. Most of us have trouble sticking with new swing thoughts when we are playing a lot. In the winter we don’t typically play as much so we are far more likely to stick with new ideas. It is for this reason that a lot of golfers spend November thru March working on their swing changes so they can hit the fairways running come spring. It is also a good time for you to take advantage of the winter discounts for lessons and coaching programs.

For those of you who insist on playing all year round and in all conditions, here are some hints for improving your performance and increasing your enjoyment during the wet season that is approaching.

1. Stay warm. I don't know of any activity that is fun when you are cold. Dressing in layers is the best way to stay warm without having to put on a thick, cumbersome sweater or jacket. Probably the best winter wear is a nice warm vest. It will keep your trunk warm while leaving you mobility with your arms. You will probably want to invest in good rain gear and good waterproof footwear. If you willingly tee-off in the rain and play all day in the rain, buy yourself a top quality Gore-Tex rain suit. A top quality suit will keep you dry and block the wind. Both musts for winter golf in BC. Good shoes will keep your feet dry and warm.

2. Probably the two most important things to ensure on cold and/or rainy days are to keep your hands warm and to keep your grips dry. A good golf bag that doesn't leak and an abundance of towels will help. If you can take two or more towels with you to the course, pack one or more of them inside your bag where they will remain dry. When everything else is soaking wet it's great to have a new, dry towel to use. Hanging a towel in the supports of your umbrella is the best way to keep the towel you are using, dry. It makes the umbrella a little heavy but it's well worth it if you can protect your towel. You can also purchase covers for your bag and rain hoods to help keep the moisture out. To help keep you hands nice and toasty you can buy little packets of powder that heat up when you shake them to keep in your pocket for your hands or a good pair of waterproof mittens is also very effective.

3. Here are a couple of things to keep in mind when you are actually playing your shots. First off, accept the fact that the air is colder and heavier and the ball will not go as far. Take at least on more club than you usually would (if you generally hit your 7-wood 150 yards, choose your 5-wood instead). Secondly, you should do whatever you can to maintain your balance with the wet conditions. Widening you stance and swinging very smoothly are two ways to stabilize your body during the swing. This will also make taking more club necessary.

4. When you are on or around the greens, try to accept that the greens will be bumpy and some good shots and putts will bounce of line or act funny. As far as the putts go, on slower, bumpy greens you should aim more for the middle of the hole and give the putt a firm stroke. Slow, wet greens to not break anywhere near as much as dry, fast ones so aim for the middle of the hole and be firm with your pace.