GOLF TALK

Welcome to the Freeman’s Journal’s newest column dedicated to providing the perfect prescription for golfing ailments of any kind—Doctor Golf.

Written by Tom Hovey and Richard Daley, this column will focus on common golfing issues and address any golfing concerns of its readers.

Tom Hovey has been a golf instructor for the Hamilton College Golf Team (both men’s and women’s) for the past 15 years. He was a competitor in tournaments such as the NCAA championship, the National Public Links championship and the Canadian Open championship. Achieving low amateur status in numerous open tournaments, Hovey held seven course records during his career and was published in “Golf Magazine.” In addition, he was the winner of the Greater Utica Amateur Championship (open and senior divisions) and a member of the Greater Utica Sports Hall of Fame.

Richard Daley has provided golf instruction for the past 15 years including serving as the high school golf coach for Cherry Valley-Springfield Central School. A master club-maker and club repairer, he currently is the Director of Golf at Meadow Links Golf Course in Richfield Springs.

Both Hovey and Daley offer individual and group instruction.

More Distance for the Older Golfer

The progressive loss of distance is a concern to many older golfers.

At age 45, the drive of 230 yards was standard. Now at age 65, the drive of 195 yards or less is standard.

There is a corresponding proportional distance loss with the other clubs in the bag.

Lighter weight clubs with more flexible shafts can be of some help. However, the results are limited and not very satisfying to the player.

The following minor swing modification can produce startling results for many older players:

1)  For the right-handed player, on the backswing eliminate or reduce as much as possible lifting the left heel off the ground. For the left-handed player, reduce lifting the right heel.

2)  Lengthen the arm swing as much as comfortable on the backswing (no straining). This results in a more significant shoulder turn.

The combination of these two actions increases the angular differential between the hip and should turn. The overall result is more power for increased distance.

We hope this column will be of help to all readers.

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