Did a "Tiger Day" today. Not too long ago a Tiger Day was very clear: dusk to dawn focused practice. But now it could also mean you're banging cocktail waitresses. Unfortunately, I only practiced today.
Was at the range hitting balls at 8AM trying to break-in and get the feel for my new 420 R9 driver. Went with the 420 R9 for a few reasons
- Wanted a smaller head. Sick of these 460cc monster heads.
- Wanted a shorter shaft. The 420cc R9 is 45.25" versus my Burner's 46.5". Even when I hit the Burner dead straight I just feel out of control.
- Wanted a driver with an adjustable head.
- Wanted a lower launching shaft.
Was pretty worried because after 45 minutes I couldn't really hit the R9 at all. Maybe I should have gotten the 460 model, which is more forgiving and aimed at the higher handicapper. Or maybe I should have just not bought a new driver.
But on the course it was great. Think I missed 1 fairway on the front. I liked that it launched lower than the Burner, felt I was losing too much distance from the Burner's high trajectory. They say you get more distance with a high trajectory, but mine was too high. The 420cc head might be less forgiving but since I felt more in control I think overall I made better contact.
Despite a good driving day my overall round was awful. Think I've focused so much on the tee shot I've completely forgotten how to chip. Livid with frustration. In the fairway all day and I can't score because my chipping and bunker play sucked ass. Luckily my putting is still decent.
So I went home, ate, rested for bit, then headed to Mariner's Point to work on the short game. Did that for about 2 hours. Think I got the feel/touch back. Finished the day with a small bucket, focusing on making sure I get my left shoulder under my head during the back swing and slowing down my down swing.
8AM-8PM, nothing but golf. Such a frustrating yet addictive game.
