Essential Golf Tips for Tackling Windy Courses Like Kapalua Plantation

The Sentry golf tournament is just around the corner, kicking off from January 2-5, 2025, at the stunning Plantation Course at Kapalua Resort in Maui, Hawaii. This prestigious event will feature a field of 60 top-notch players, including the crème de la crème from the 2024 FedExCup standings and winners from the previous year on the PGA TOUR. With a whopping $20 million purse up for grabs, the competition is sure to be fierce and the main challenge will surely be the weather. But how? Well, what sets this course apart is its notorious windy conditions, and that’s exactly what we’re going to tackle today.

Playing golf in windy conditions can be a real challenge, but you can turn those gusts into an advantage with the right techniques and mindset. First things first, it’s essential to gauge the wind speed and direction before you start playing. Take some time to practice on the range, and get a feel for how the wind affects your shots. Once you’re on the course, be prepared to adjust your club selection and swing accordingly.

A good rule of thumb is to take more clubs and make smaller swings when playing in the wind. This will help you generate less speed and spin, making your shot less susceptible to the wind’s influence. On the other hand, when playing downwind, you can take fewer clubs and make a fuller swing. Remember to keep your weight forward and follow through shorter to maintain control.

When it comes to chipping and pitching, it’s often better to opt for lower shots that run along the ground rather than high-arcing shots that can get caught in the wind. And when it comes to putting, be aware that the wind can affect the speed and break off your putts, especially on faster greens. To combat this, focus on making a smoother, more controlled stroke, and pay attention to the wind’s direction and speed.

With practice and patience, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a master of windy golf courses. So, the next time you step onto the green and the wind starts to howl, don’t let it intimidate you – use these tips to tame the gusts and come out on top!

Tom Watson’s guide to play golf in windy conditions

Been a while since we all heard that name right? Well, Tom Watson was kind of a legend back in the day. With 39 PGA tour wins under his belt, six PGA Player of the Year awards, and five leading money winner titles, Watson’s got the credentials to prove it. And even in his 50s, he was still dominating on the Champions Tour, racking up 14 more wins, including six PGA TOUR Champions major tournaments.

So, what’s Watson’s secret to hitting a low shot in windy conditions? Well, it’s all about control and finesse. As mentioned by Watson in the Golf Secrets channel, he keeps his shoulders level, with his right shoulder slightly higher, which gives him the ability to dictate the trajectory of his shot. He moves the ball back in his stance, which helps him maintain a consistent swing plane. And as he swings, he keeps his left shoulder low and his right shoulder higher, ensuring a smooth, controlled motion. The result? A low-flying shot that cuts through the wind like a hot knife through butter. It’s a technique that’s served Watson well over the years and one that can help the players at the Kapalua Plantation improve their game, too!

The Sentry will be teeing off its 1st round soon, don’t miss the action and tune into the channels during its coverage. Who do you think will lift the title this year? Let us know below!