Links golf is the oldest form of the game, played on coastal land where grass grows thin over sandy soil and wind never stops. If you learned on parkland courses, links will challenge every assumption.
02 · The TurfThe Turf
Links turf is firm and fast. A 150-yard carry might run another 30-40 yards. You cannot fly the ball to the flag and expect it to stop. Land short and let it release to the target.
03 · Ground GameGround Game
Low running shots are your friend. Bump-and-run with 7 or 8 iron that lands 20 yards short and rolls up is smarter than a high wedge caught by wind. Practice the knock-down: ball back, hands forward, abbreviated follow-through.
04 · WindWind
Coastal wind can gust 20-40 mph. Into the wind: take 2-3 extra clubs and swing easy. A smooth 6-iron holds its line better than a hard 8 that balloons. Downwind: aim for front of greens since the ball runs even farther. Crosswinds: aim off-target and let wind bring the ball back.
05 · BunkersBunkers
Links bunkers are often deep pot bunkers with steep faces. Sometimes the only play is sideways or backward. Accept the penalty shot and move on. Do not try heroic shots over high lips.
06 · PuttingPutting
Links greens are large, undulating, and fast. Grain follows prevailing wind. Putts break dramatically. Focus on lag putting and distance control. Getting speed right matters more than reading break precisely. Three-putts are easy from 40 feet.
07 · Club SelectionClub Selection
Carry extra fairway woods and hybrids, fewer wedges. Links rewards low running shots over high spinning approaches. A driving iron or 2-hybrid is often more useful than a lob wedge.
08 · Mental GameMental Game
Links humbles everyone. Accept that wind costs strokes. A perfectly struck shot can kick off a hidden slope. Best links golfers maintain patience and play the course as it presents itself. Bogeys are par in difficult wind. Play within yourself.