As we approach Open week, it is a great time to review the key tips for successful play in the windy hard conditions of British links golf.

It is often described as the biggest challenge in golf. We review how to perfect your game plan and shoot better scores…

Ball Flight

Many parkland players struggle with the concept of adjusting to a lower ball flight when it comes to playing successfully on the links. Adjust your footwork and close and move your hands forward in the swing for a reduced trajectory. This creates a snap on impact and drives through the wind giving more control.

Perfecting the punch by reducing the follow through is also a potent weapon on a links course.

Many of the games greats have succeeded on links by sticking to a ridged and forgiving game plan. Tom Watson and Nick Faldo are great examples; finding the heart of the green with approaches and not taking on too much from far back. Greens are less likely to take spin than traditional courses so stay patient and play to larger margins.

The final point to consider when playing links golf is that it is better to be short then long. Find fairways with a three wood as oppose to the thick heather with the driver. Patience is the key to finding the best score and take your medicine when required.