T-Time Podcast // Ep. 64: Two Different Ways Tournament Prep Can ACTUALLY Look Like with Kim & Michael
Join Kim Eaton and Tori as they sit down with Michael Leonard, the Wicked Smart Golf Podcast host, for a deep dive into tournament preparation strategies. From Kim's recent victory at the Colorado Senior Women’s Match Play Championship to Michael's impressive 65 tournament days a year, they reveal their secrets to success. Kim meticulously plans her schedule a year in advance, while Michael seizes opportunities as soon as they arise. Energy-wise, Michael's sleep regimen is his key, while Kim swears by an hour's head start, armed with Diet Coke and Slim Jims! Michael's pre-shot routine and nutrition-packed cooler complete his game plan. Tune in as they dissect yardages, map tee-to-green strategies, and share their unique pre-game rituals for the ultimate tournament readiness.
Kim & Michael’s Golf Updates
Kim Eaton's outstanding golfing prowess shone at the Colorado Senior Women's Match Play Championship, culminating in a hard-fought victory. In a tense 19-hole match against Janet Moore, a Colorado Golf Hall of Famer, Kim's determination prevailed despite the sweltering 95-degree weather. Her strategic approach, informed by thorough preparation and practice rounds, proved pivotal in overcoming course challenges. This win underscores Kim's exceptional talent and serves as a motivating example for fellow golfers striving for excellence.
Michael Leonard's recent golf journey has been impressive. He secured a strong fifth place in the Arizona Open qualifier, a great achievement after years of hard work. Michael displayed his strategic prowess with solid early play, including birdies and an eagle. Facing back-to-back tournaments within 12 days, he showed adaptability and determination as he anticipates future competitions, like one on his birthday at Mesa Country Club. Michael's dedication and improving performance bode well for his golfing path.
Mastering Tournament Schedules: Early Season Prep and Prioritization
Mastering the tournament schedule involves early preparation. Michael's strategy is signing up for various events, including AGA, USGA qualifiers, and fall mini-tours. He's refined his energy management, averaging 65 tournaments yearly, prioritizing sleep and nutrition. For pre-event practice, Michael limits swing changes about two weeks before, focusing on short-game skills. He employs Google Earth to map holes, making strategic decisions meticulously. By analyzing fairways and green widths, he selects optimal targets, enhancing his confidence in the course, especially in challenging desert settings. Early preparation, strategic planning, and optimal energy management are Michael's keys to tournament success.
Perfecting Approach Shots
Perfecting approach shots is a numbers game for Michael. He measures the green width and employs Decade math to decide whether to aim at the flag or the middle. It's about avoiding short-siding, playing to his misses, and maximizing room for error. Inspired by Tiger Woods, this strategic approach minimizes double bogeys and enhances opportunities for easier chip shots. Michael also considers troublesome bunkers, elevation changes, and runoffs, aiming to place his misses smartly. He understands that hitting only a few perfect shots per round is realistic, so he plans his approach to navigate trouble and ensure optimal outcomes.
Green Yardage
Michael's practical approach to green yardage involves early schedule planning and a collection of yardage books. For putting, he highlights a helpful putt map tool, urging focus during play. He identifies ridges and two-tier greens, using yardage books for reading. Trusting your eyes initially is vital, but he cautions against over-reliance on the book to prevent slowing down and indecision. A balanced approach between resources and instincts is crucial.
Optimizing Yardage Book Notes for Play
Prioritizing target zones is crucial for focused shots, particularly on par threes. During practice rounds, Michael opts for the driver on par fours and fives, gaining insights into performance that guide his tournament strategy. This practice minimizes indecision. Consistent driver use provides essential landing area data, enhancing strategic understanding and boosting his confidence in swift decisions during tournaments. Additionally, he maintains detailed notes on pin placements and course tendencies, such as Gila's putt breaks. These notes serve as a valuable resource for crafting data-driven strategies. In summary, merging targeted practice shot selection with comprehensive notes equips me with a well-rounded tournament approach.
Pre-Tournnament Prep
Kim's preparation involves arriving at the golf course about an hour ahead, not necessarily for intense practice, but for socializing and some warm-up shots. While hitting wedges, irons, and drivers, she considers that a flawless range session might not translate to the course. Similarly, a productive putting session might not guarantee success on the greens during the tournament. Kim believes in going with her gut and trusting her game plan.
On the other hand, Michael's routine is more methodical. The night before, he prepares his essentials, including PB&Js, bananas, protein bars, shakes, and a cooler filled with water and energy drinks. He prefers having extra caffeine in the back nine for a mental boost. Arriving approximately 75 minutes early, Michael blends social interaction with focused practice. He spends time on the putting green, varying putts of different lengths, and chips and pitches. His routine on the range is consistent, focusing on seven specific clubs. Michael concludes his preparation with a final putting routine about 10 minutes before teeing off.
Conclusion
In golf, getting ready is the key to doing well. Kim and Michael's tips about getting set for tournaments show how being physically and mentally ready matters. Kim's focus on aiming, flexible practice, and notes show how to plan each shot. Michael's careful routine, like planning food and practicing different shots, helps him stay in top shape. Both agree that a personal approach, mixing practice and playing, is key. Their experiences teach us that tournament success comes from being prepared, flexible, and finding your own style.
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