Let's Ban Aim Point - 3:45 Movement

Let's face it - SLOW PLAY is a cancer ruining this great game we all love. It starts at the very top of the professional ranks and filters down to our men's league Wednesday rounds at my club. The biggest culprit to me is Aim Point. Anyone that uses it - uses it to line up every putt. And I mean every putt - no matter if it's a thirty-footer or a three-footer. Lets start the 3:45 movement (play in three hours and forty-five minutes - yes you read that right).

Aim Point, a popular green-reading system, has undoubtedly revolutionized the way golfers approach putting. However, it seems that some players might be over-relying on this tool, causing unnecessary delays in play. When every putt, regardless of its length, requires an Aim Point consultation, it's no wonder that the pace of play slows down.

Don't get me wrong; Aim Point can be a valuable resource when used judiciously. It can help golfers gauge the break of a putt more accurately, leading to more confident strokes and lower scores. But when it becomes a crutch, hindering a golfer's ability to read greens independently and slowing down the game for others, it's time to reevaluate its usage.

To combat this issue, consider setting a personal guideline for when to use Aim Point. For instance, limit its application to putts over a certain length, such as 10 feet, and rely on your intuition and experience for shorter putts. This approach will not only speed up your play but also sharpen your green-reading skills in the long run.

Another factor contributing to slow play is the reluctance to commit to a shot. Golfers often spend too much time second-guessing their club selection, alignment, and swing thought, which can lead to analysis paralysis. Instead, try to embrace a more decisive mindset on the course.

Before each shot, take a moment to visualize your desired outcome and commit to a plan of action. Trust your abilities and resist the urge to overthink. Remember, confidence and quick decision-making are the keys to maintaining a brisk pace of play.

Lastly, consider adopting some practical strategies to streamline your pre-shot routine. For example, leave your rangefinder in your bag when you're within a reasonable distance of the green. Opt for pacing off yardages instead, as this method can be just as accurate and considerably faster.

Additionally, keep your practice swings to a minimum. A couple of light rehearsals should suffice to ingrain the proper feel and motion. Excessive rehearsals can not only slow down play but also introduce unnecessary tension and doubt into your swing.

Ultimately, combating slow play requires a collective effort from all golfers. By adopting a more mindful approach to Aim Point, committing to decisive action, and implementing time-saving strategies, we can all contribute to a faster, more enjoyable round of golf for everyone.