On unfamiliar courses overseas, the smartest target isn't always the pin. Wind, firm turf and deep bunkers can make a small miss very costly. The key is choosing targets that account for your tendencies.
Most golfers pick a target based on the shot they hope to hit. On windy links courses, especially in Ireland and Scotland, that can turn a small miss into a big number.
Better players plan around their normal shot pattern and the trouble surrounding the green. Here's how to think like they do.
Pay attention to where your shots actually finish. Your normal miss should influence the target you choose.
If the wind or a hazard is punishing one side of the green, shift your target farther toward safety. Give your shot pattern room to breathe instead of aiming at the perfect result.
Ask yourself: "If I miss this, where leaves the easiest next one?" A longer putt is often far better than short-sided rough, a bunker or a penalty stroke.
Play your miss, not your perfect shot.
Before every approach, look at the trouble first and decide where you can afford to miss.
A safe 25-foot putt is usually the better playKnow your tendencies, read the wind and choose a target that keeps your normal miss in play.
Especially on links golf, the goal is to make sure one imperfect swing doesn't become a double bogey.