Putting well at any age

Anyone can achieve great putting even into their later years. In fact, I didn’t begin putting well until I retired.

Putting was never my strong suit in golf. Great putting was something I just didn’t consider attainable.

Then I went on vacation and rented a set of clubs. Random clubs nothing special.

I couldn’t get on the course by myself and had to wait for at least another two people to play.

So, I grabbed a lemonade and started putting next to the first tee. After a few minutes, I stood back and thought, holy cow, I’m making 10 footers. What the heck was happening?

When I got back home, I went to the local golf shop and tried all their putters until I found one just like the one I rented. I started making six footers at the store. I bought that one right away. When I retired, I bought a second one just like it for a second set.

It turned out I found the right putter after 40 years of playing golf. When I started I had a $10 putter from the local sporting goods store and used it right through high school. Then I bought a couple trying them out with little success.

Becoming a better putter

Just because I found a putter that fit me perfectly didn’t mean I became a great putter. After I retired, I focused on it.

Even though I was a fair player at a young age and into my thirties, I really wasn’t sharp at the short game or putting.

I relied on hitting approach shots close to the hole. That’s not a bad thing, but having a well rounded game is better.

Now, I practice putting almost every day at home and weekly on the practice green. I probably practice putting at least 3-4 hours a week. Even that is not a lot.

However, it’s better than showing up for golf league and practicing for 10 minutes a couple times a week.

The result is that I’m about a 10 handicap putting. Which I think is pretty good for an old guy.

Is that great putting? Maybe… maybe not. It sure makes the game more enjoyable.

This year I’m focusing on approach shots and short game. It’s hard to take a 30 year break from playing golf at a pretty high level and then pick it up again.

If you are going all in with your career choice, golf isn’t an option regularly.

Now, the good thing is that being retired I have the time for practice and yes… taking lessons.

See our article on Printable Drills for more practice ideas.