Read'em Like A Pro

BETTER PUTTING STARTS WITH UNDERSTANDING WHERE THE BALL IS GOING TO GO.

- Luke Donald

MY PRE-PUTT ROUTINE is probably not unlike most out here on the better putting starts PGA Tour. I start behind the ball, trying to get a general feel for break and speed. I then go around to the other side of the hole, while constantly with understanding looking at the line from the side as I walk. After looking at the putt from behind the hole, I then walk around the other side, focusing more on the where the ball is going to go severity of the slope. Once I replace the ball, I take one more look and focus on an exact point left or right of the hole depending on the break. Finally, by Luke Donald, my focus goes to the cup to get a feel for the speed. After a practice stroke, I lock into the line I want to start the ball on with my eyes and hit the putt. Of course, it drops in the middle every time. Joking aside, reading most putts thoroughly is important if you want to lower your scores. Here are some things to look for as you read a green. —WITH RON KASPRISKE