Links Golf Strategy: How to Score Well in Wind and on Firm Ground
Links golf is the original form of the game, and it demands a completely different strategic approach to parkland golf. The wind, the firm ground, the unpredictable bounces and the absence of trees all change the way you must think about each shot. Golfers who try to play links courses the same way they play parkland courses will consistently score poorly.
Key Takeaways
- •The ground game is as important as the aerial game on links courses.
- •Take more club and swing easier in headwinds -- do not try to overpower the wind.
- •The bump-and-run is more reliable than a high approach shot in windy conditions.
- •Accept bad bounces and focus on making good decisions, not perfect outcomes.
The fundamental principle of links golf
In links golf, the ground is as important as the air. The firm, fast fairways mean that a ball landing 20 yards short of the green can run onto it. A ball landing on the front edge can run through the back. Understanding how the ball will behave after it lands is as important as controlling where it lands.
Playing in the wind
The most common mistake in windy conditions is trying to overpower the wind. Swinging harder into a headwind increases spin, which increases the wind's effect on the ball. The correct approach is to take more club and swing easier. A smooth 6-iron into a headwind will fly more predictably than a hard 8-iron.
Using the ground game
The bump-and-run is one of the most valuable shots in links golf. Instead of flying the ball to the pin, land it short of the green and let it run up. This approach is far less affected by the wind and is more forgiving of a slightly mis-hit. Practise hitting low, running shots before playing a links course.
Targeting on links courses
On a links course, the safe miss is often different from a parkland course. Greens are often elevated or surrounded by deep pot bunkers. Missing short and left may be far better than missing long and right. Study the hole before you play and identify where the safe miss is.
Mental approach to links golf
Links golf produces more bad bounces and more unpredictable outcomes than parkland golf. The golfer who accepts this and focuses on making good decisions will score better than the golfer who becomes frustrated by bad luck. Accept the conditions, play the percentages and let the course come to you.
Famous links courses and their strategic demands
Royal Birkdale rewards accuracy off the tee and a controlled ball flight. St Andrews rewards a low, running game and the ability to use the ground. Royal Portrush demands precise positioning to avoid the deep rough and pot bunkers. Each links course has its own strategic character, but the principles of wind management and ground game apply to all of them.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best club to use in a strong headwind on a links course?
Take two or three clubs more than you would normally use and swing at 80 percent effort. This produces a lower, more penetrating ball flight that is less affected by the wind.
How do I stop the wind affecting my putting on a links course?
Widen your stance slightly to improve stability, grip the putter more firmly and make a shorter, more controlled stroke. In very strong winds, consider crouching lower to reduce your wind profile.
Is links golf harder than parkland golf?
Links golf is different rather than harder. It rewards different skills: ball flight control, ground game and wind management. Golfers who adapt their strategy to the conditions can score just as well on links courses as on parkland.