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There’s not much for Kevin Strellman to complain about after his first round at the Wells Fargo Championship. As of this later time Streelman is tied for second at five-under, proving quite comfortable navigating Quail Hollow.
While Streelman put up a full round on Thursday — which included a terrific hole from a bunker on the 16th hole (see below) — he wasn’t ready to beat his back just yet.
Instead, the 15-year PGA Tour vet talks about how he’s managed to improve his game so far this year, first discussing how his short game became an asset to him after working with longtime friend (and Euro Tour player), Brett. rumford.
“he [Rumford] He was always eccentric with the wedges, probably the best I’ve ever seen, more than expert. Tiger stuff, elephant stuff, but Rummy’s right there.
“He actually came over from Australia for five days with me last December, and only that [gave] Some simple ideas and philosophies. “But I kind of took these things too seriously,” Strellman said. “For a 44-year-old to really turn into a match shortstop, it’s not an easy thing to do, but I really own this year. It’s been very rewarding and rewarding.”
While Streelman credits his friend for helping revive his short game this year, he got more technical when asked specifically about his swing adjustments.
As Streelman responded, he went into great detail about always being a “leg driver,” which he admitted can “cause some backsliding on some chunky shots.”
This is why he really worked to keep his pelvis and legs from sticking out – and explained what he was able to do to help correct the problem.
“The simple way is to keep the A block on top of the B block as you go, and try to stay more linear while turning left. I’ve been driving too hard, shooting, and getting some neck pain; and it’s been frustrating.
“Looking at some old videos, talking to some, Dr. Suttie, who I grew up with, and his student, Jake Thurm,” adds Streelman. “Maybe I tend to look a lot at YouTube or Instagram videos, all these perfect swing posts and stuff. But I love it, too. I love looking, as I think a lot of us golfers do.”
Streelman was looking for more clarity with his swing. In his experience – and the lesson he tells young players – is to stick to the basics.
“I think it’s important to know your basics, your inclinations, [and] write them down. As I tell the kids as I talk to them, like, know what makes you a person, what makes you great. When you’re not great, what do you need to get back to?
“That’s kind of a process that I’ve been through, is just going back to some of the things that have worked well for me in the past. He’s starting to hit the iron a little bit better, which makes golf a little easier.”
Interesting to hear Streelman talk candidly about his new approach this year. With three top-30 finishes to date – and a stellar start in the Wells Fargo Championship – it looks like he’s heading in the right direction. And it’s a good reminder for amateurs to see just how smooth the game of golf can be – even for the pros. It takes work, practice, and constant adjustments to get the feel that works best for you.
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