June 2024

June 24, 2024June 24, 2024

Backyard Golf: Practical Tips and Tech Solutions

Setting Up a Cost-Effective Golf Practice Area at Home

Where you can find most of Strolan’s blood sweat and tears.

Welcome to another engaging episode of the Holy Duffer Podcast! Today, we’re diving deep into the practicalities and benefits of creating a backyard golf practice area. Hosts Mark and Strolan lay out the essentials for setting up various budget-friendly golf simulators, mats, and nets, including their personal setups, costing from $1,400 to $3,000. Their discussion also highlights useful tech solutions and the importance of tracking metrics to improve your golf game.

Why Build a Backyard Golf Practice Area?

Mark and Strolan kick things off by discussing the fundamental reasons for having a practice area at home. According to Mark, having a space where you can spend even 10-15 minutes practicing daily can significantly enhance your golf skills. He emphasizes that practicing consistently at home with the right setup can provide more value than an hour-long session at the range once a week.

Key Benefits:
– Convenience: Practicing at home provides the flexibility to practice whenever you have a few spare moments.
– Cost-Effectiveness: While initial setup may come with a price, ongoing savings on range fees and travel make it worth the investment.
– Immediate Feedback: With the right tools, you can get immediate feedback on your swing, ball speed, and other crucial metrics.

Basic Components of a Backyard Setup

1. Mat and Net:
For those just starting, a basic setup includes a golf mat and a net. Strolan mentions he bought a $50 used range mat and a $165 holy grail hitting insert to mimic real turf conditions. This allows you to replicate the feel of a real course in your backyard.

2. Launch Monitor:
A crucial element to up your game is a launch monitor. Mark emphasizes that devices like Skytrak or the MLM 2 Pro provide valuable swing data, ball speed, and distance metrics. Even a basic radar monitor like the Swing Caddy, which tracks club speed, ball speed, and estimated carry, can give helpful insights.

Setting Up on Different Budgets

Strolan’s Setup ($1,400):
–Cimarron Masters Golf Net 10 x 10 x 10: A robust net that can handle all kinds of mishits. This system allows Strolan to practice without worrying about damaging the surrounding property, or himself!
– Holy Grail Hitting Strip: Adds realism to practice sessions.
– Rapsodo MLM2 Pro: Provides essential data like swing speed and carry distance, helping track improvement over time.

**Mark’s Setup ($3,000)**:
– **Customized Structure**: Utilizing aluminum tubing covered with a tarp, Mark’s structure is designed to maximize functionality within limited space.
– **Skytrack+ Launch Monitor**: An accurate and space-efficient solution that doesn’t require marked balls, making it convenient and user-friendly.
– **Additional Netting**: To prevent incidents and ensure safety.

The Importance of Technology in Improvement

Both hosts place strong emphasis on the role of technology in improving your golf skills. Launch monitors like Skytrak and MLM 2 Pro offer extensive data, helping you understand and analyze every aspect of your game. These tools allow for:
– Real-Time Feedback: Immediate analysis of each shot helps in making quick adjustments.
– Simulation of Real Courses: Play on simulated versions of famous courses for a varied practice routine.
– Metrics Tracking: Keep track of your club speed, ball speed, carry distance, and other vital statistics.

Mark shares his experience of leveraging a Skytrak monitor to enhance his game by focusing on out-of-position shots and shaping shots effectively. He underlines the benefit of these tech solutions, which give detailed insights that traditional range training often misses.

Avoiding Indoor Swing Syndrome

Practicing indoors or in a confined space can sometimes lead to “indoor swing syndrome,” where golfers alter their swings due to constrained space. Strolan and Mark underline this issue while discussing the need for proper setup to allow free swings without fear. Both hosts emphasize the necessity of a well-constructed enclosure to practice without any mental hindrance effectively.

Conclusion

Establishing a backyard golf setup can be one of the best investments for any golf enthusiast. Regardless of your budget, the initial outlay can lead to long-term improvements and enjoyment. From basic mats and nets to sophisticated launch monitors, technology has made it easier than ever to bring the golf course home. So, grab your gear, set up your backyard practice area, and watch your game improve!

Until next time, Mark, Strolan, and the Holy Duffer Podcast team will see you on the green!

June 16, 2024June 16, 2024

Playing through it to get to it – Lesson’s from Sandpiper

Strolan and Lucas before the 36 hole of the tournament.

Reflections on Breakfast Balls #4 – The Western Invintational @ Sandpiper GC

What a rollercoaster of emotions this tournament at Sandpiper was. This last weekend was something that provided more than just a test of skill—it was a profound journey of personal growth and perspective.

For starters, this tournament taught me a lot about humility. I started off at the 10th hole with a decent drive, securing a bogey. All things considered, I felt pretty good. Then on the 11th hole, I managed a birdie and thought, “Wow, this is going to be a great tournament.” Little did I know, the course had different plans for me. As I reached the 16th hole and scored a brutal 13, my confidence began to wane.

Yet, it wasn’t all about the score. One of the most significant takeaways was how to manage both the highs and lows on the course. Mark and I always stress how crucial it is to embrace both the good and the bad experiences in golf, and this tournament was a shining example of that. I realized that negative thoughts can heavily impact performance. When I let the frustration consume me, I lost focus and ultimately control over my game. It was a harsh but necessary lesson in mental fortitude.

But perhaps the most meaningful aspect of this experience was sharing the journey with my son, Lucas. There’s something profoundly special about having your son by your side, guiding you, and offering support, even when things aren’t going well. Lucas, who was my caddy, provided not just technical advice but emotional support. He was there during my highs and, most importantly, my lowest moments.

I remember on that menacing par-5 13th hole. I was initially reluctant to take the shot Lucas suggested, a 165 yard 6 iron over a forced carry and a bunker protecting the elevated green. From where I stood the green looked as if it was floating out over the Pacific. He encouraged me and, with his guidance, I managed to pull off the shot. Leaving it 12 feet from the pin. We celebrated together, and it felt like a shared victory.

However, the next day, I struggled on the same hole, leading to another big number. My subsequent missteps at the 14th hole further dampened my spirits. If not for Lucas’s unwavering support, there were times I considered walking off the course out of pure embarrassment.

One of the biggest lessons from this round was learning to accept support, especially from family. Lucas’s encouragement and guidance were vital. His presence reminded me of the importance of staying grounded and maintaining perspective, even in challenging circumstances.

Another valuable lesson was resilience. I faced the shanks, yips, and tops—all within the last nine holes. Mentally, I felt drained and defeated. But golf, much like life, demands resilience. It pushes you to pick yourself up after every setback, to reflect on your mistakes, and most importantly, to keep moving forward.

After the tournament, despite my initial disappointment, reflecting on the entire experience offered a new perspective. The scores might not have been in my favor, but the memories and lessons gained were invaluable. Sharing meaningful moments with Lucas, feeling uplifted by his presence, and acknowledging my own emotional and physical limits enhanced my appreciation for the game.

Ultimately, whether it’s golf or life, it’s about the journey, the learning, and the shared experiences. The laughs, the frustrations, the wins, and the losses—all form an intricate tapestry that makes it all worthwhile. I’m eager to embrace my next tournament with renewed wisdom and, of course, the support of my incredible son by my side.

Instagram: @holyduffer

June 10, 2024June 11, 2024

Teeing Up for the Western Invitational: A Journey Through Golf, Family, and the Competitive Spirit

Sandpiper C.C. Santa Barabra, CA. Photo: Courtesy of Lucas Nolan

Join Strolan and Mark on the Holy Duffer Podcast as they dive into the excitement of tournament prep, father-son bonding, and the essence of competitive golf.

Introduction

In the latest episode of the Holy Duffer Podcast, hosts Strolan and Mark take listeners on an engaging journey through the world of competitive golf. The episode, titled “Breakfast Balls Ep. 3 – Western Invitational at Sandpiper Golf Club,” is rich with insights, personal anecdotes, and invaluable tips for both seasoned golfers and newcomers alike.

The Significance of Sandpiper Golf Club

Sandpiper Golf Club holds a special place in Strolan’s heart. Located near his alma mater and where he met his wife, the club is more than just a golfing venue—it’s a canvas painted with memories. As Strolan gears up for the Western Invitational, the anticipation is not just about the game, but also about reconnecting with a significant piece of his past.

Tournament Conditions and Preparations

The Western Invitational is a prestigious two-day event offering double points and the chance to qualify for nationals. Strolan and his son, Lucas, are meticulously preparing for the tournament. From playing Sandpiper’s layout on the simulator to practicing at local courses, their preparation is comprehensive.

Father-Son Bonding

Strolan’s excitement isn’t just limited to the competition. The road trip with his son, Lucas, offers a golden opportunity for father-son bonding. The shared experience of traveling, prepping, and competing brings an irreplaceable dimension to their relationship. Strolan believes that having Lucas as his caddy not only simplifies the game but also deepens their bond, reducing on-course distractions and making pivotal decisions more collaborative.

The Competitive Edge: Learning Through Experience

Strolan’s journey from casual golfer to competitive player on the US Am Tour underscores the transformative power of competitive golf. These pay-to-play, flighted tournaments without handicaps offer a professional tournament experience. With prizes, trophies, and nationwide competitions at stake, the pressure is palpable, but so are the opportunities for growth.

Strolan shares how these tournaments honed his skills, allowing him to play at prestigious country clubs and improve his overall game. He emphasizes the significance of learning through experience, managing nerves, and handling the competitive nature of these tournaments. Mark adds that minimizing distractions and focusing on what truly matters can significantly impact a golfer’s performance.

Managing Expectations and Embracing New Challenges

The hosts don’t shy away from discussing the challenges that come with competitive golf. Mark shares a humorous challenge, promising Strolan $20 if he manages to break 90 in competitive golf—a task easier said than done, especially on unfamiliar courses.

They also touch on the importance of managing expectations and how setting realistic goals can make the sport more enjoyable. This upcoming episode promises to delve deeper into strategies for maintaining composure and staying focused under pressure, a topic that resonates with many competitive golfers.

Reflections on Nervousness and Skill Development

Every golfer has faced the jitters on the first tee. Strolan recounts his initial nervousness during his first tournament, explaining how each experience has gradually helped him manage his nerves better. Mark shares his own story from a charity tournament, emphasizing the universal nature of these feelings.

The hosts conclude by reflecting on the invaluable lessons that competitive golf teaches. Whether it’s managing nerves, learning new skills, or simply enjoying the game with loved ones, the essence of golf lies in the continuous journey of improvement and the joy of the sport.

Conclusion

As Strolan and Lucas prepare for the Western Invitational at Sandpiper Golf Club, the Holy Duffer Podcast captures the essence of competitive golf, father-son bonding, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. For golf enthusiasts and casual listeners alike, this episode offers a treasure trove of insights, inspiring stories, and practical advice. Tune in, and get ready to tee up for a thrilling ride through the world of golf.

And as always – See you on the Green!