Age is only a number, or so we are led to believe. I’m certainly shooting some of the best scores of my life in my forties. How many of you fall into what I call the super seniors (over 70s) category? According to England Golf you become a senior at 50 and can start competing on the national and international circuit. But what do you realistically have to aim for two decades on? Surely competing against someone 20 years younger than you is quite a feat? Well, how about taking on the course.
In my opinion you have the most amazing opportunity to genuinely beat your age at this time in your life. I’ve suggested the challenge to many spritely seventy-somethings over the years who have laughed the idea off. But what if you could genuinely shoot a score in the seventies in your seventies? It is most definitely possible, and I’ve seen it done.
(Image credit: Carly Frost)
Ex-Curtis Cup player Jean Bisgood and former club president at my home club, Parkstone in Dorset, would regularly shoot in the seventies at this age. With impeccable course management, she demonstrated an amazing ability to navigate the golf ball around the course, avoiding trouble and had a sensational short game that always saved her score. My mum turns 70 next summer and I’m certain she can do this if she puts her mind to it.
Modern golf equipment is undoubtedly helping us roll back the years, extending our longevity and enjoyment of the game. The big-headed driver, the speed-core aerodynamic ball, the forgiving iron, the easy-to-hit hybrid…these are all clubs that give seniors a serious helping hand.
In my view there are 10 factors of golfing decline that come with age. But rather than looking at these as impossible hurdles to leap, how about addressing them and find ways to improve. Do that and you’ll shoot the best scores of your life.
Factor 1: Swing Mechanics Falter
The older you get, the worse your swing becomes as your body starts to decline. Your range of movement (body turn) gets shorter because you lose muscle elasticity and freedom of movement in your joints. You also have less proprioception – that’s the sense of spatial awareness, movement or pattern.
The Fix:
The solution is to find a decent coach, somebody with a proven track record, not just chosen through popularity or status by association. A good coach will assess you and understand your goals and requirements, creating a sophisticated plan that will make you accountable. What I’m trying to say is you don’t…
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