Golf Tips - Look Uphill for the Best Read on the Green

Does your putt start in the correct direction? Directional control starts with being able to read the putt correctly. Take the time to walk around your putt and check the line from at least 2 viewpoints, behind the ball and behind the hole. The best view comes from a squatted position approximately 6 to 8 feet behind the ball or hole. If there is a decided slope in the direction of one of those views, always believe the looking up view. With a downhill putt, the best read will be from below the hole looking back to your ball. An uphill putt, the best read will be from behind the ball looking to the hole. If the putt has no elevation change, or multiple elevation changes, be sure to look at it from both views to make your best evaluation. Please be expeditious in gathering your information if you are first to putt. And if you are not first to putt, gather your information while others are preparing to putt. Check your views as the other players check their views. When it's your turn to putt, be ready.

E-mail Larry O. Krupp