Graeme McDowell's Tips For Success and Lower Handicap

Graeme McDowell
Graeme McDowell spent three years at the University of Alabama and was ranked the top college golfer in America. He won the Scandinavian Masters in Stockholm on only his fourth European tour event. The 24 year-old's victory earned him a two-year tour exemption. Goodbody Stockbrokers concluded a three-year sponsorship agreement with Graeme in August 2002.

December 2003

Graeme McDowell is probably the most exciting golf prospect to emerge from Ireland in recent years.

With a string of successes to his name, Goodbody Stockbrokers are pleased to be associated with Graeme and through this relationship we asked him to share his thoughts on how to be successful in his business and also some tips for the amateur golfer.

I can attribute the success I have had in the golfing world to many factors. To my mind though, the main elements are a desire to improve and a realisation of the necessity for hard work focused on the right things. My family, friends, the Golfing Union of Ireland and my American college coach have all given me great guidance over the years. However, I only felt comfortable turning professional after proving to myself that I could reach the highest level in the amateur game.

I represented Ireland at many levels including senior, winning numerous events in the process. I spent three years at the University of Alabama in Birmingham where I was number one ranked college player in my final year winning six of 13 tournaments. In addition I represented Great Britain and Ireland in the Walker Cup. Winning early in my professional career has vindicated my inner belief that I have worked hard, have the ability to win and can handle pressure.

One the keys that helped me get into the winning habit is a sound and disciplined pre-shot routine. This is a good strategy, which helps block out outside influences. I also practice mental skills I picked up from the books of Dr. Bob Rotella. Handling defeat makes me want to work even harder and drives me to address whatever it is that is causing under-achievement. At these times it helps to have a solid team behind me including family, friends, coach and management. Maintaining physical and mental well-being are also very important.

Asked what tips I would give to an entrepreneur trying to break into new markets, I would encourage them to go the extra mile to gain an edge over competitors. You must also have a firm belief that you have found an arena you belong in and that you can be successful in that arena.

I also believe that a person with strong desire will beat a person with unmotivated talent every day of the week. Personally, I find watching other people enjoying success extremely motivating, but I am also driven by wanting to win over and over again. I also strive for perfection in a game that can never be perfected.

Tips for the amateur golfer

I am often asked by amateurs for tips to improve their game. My advice is to concentrate on the basics of the game. If you have only one lesson a year, then it should be focused on grip, alignment and posture. Without a sound understanding of these three things, consistency at any level can never be achieved. I also think it is important to have a pre-shot routine. Players should be aware that a mental pre-shot routine is as important as their physical routine. I recommend starting directly behind the ball, picking a target and visualising the shot you want to hit. You should also have a disciplined practice swing. You need to address the ball with good grip, alignment and posture. Then you need to have one look at the target before pulling the trigger. And at all times be positive. I would recommend having equipment specially fitted with particular attention to shaft flex and lie angle of head. Too many players use equipment which does not fit them, so go talk to your local PGA professional for more information on what’s right for you.

When practising, devote 50 per cent of your time to chipping and putting, no matter how often you practise. This is the most effective way of sending your handicap plummeting.

I also think handicap amateurs should substitute their 2, 3 and 4 irons with lofted woods or utility type clubs like the Taylormade Rescue. There are many great products on the market today to replace your long irons. These are the cause of much grief for handicap players and even Tour professionals. We carry utility clubs and so should you with the guidance of your PGA professional.