Immelman's putt on 11 critical
Twenty-footer sustained Masters lead


The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Published on: 04/13/08

A player must putt well to win the Masters, especially on Sunday when the screws start to tighten. Trevor Immelman made a crucial 20-footer on the 11th hole to maintain his four-shot lead and keep Tiger Woods at bay. Weekend golfers face the same situation every weekend, even if it's only for a $5 Nassau. What is the best game plan for making the 10-15 foot putt when there's money on the line?

Your Turn
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How to hit that shot: The player has to avoid the "under read" and then the "under speed." There is no way to make a putt that breaks under the hole early or doesn't get there. Be confident and be aggressive with a strong read.

— Jeff Paton, PGA professional and director of golf, The Golf Club of Georgia

The mental approach: Be aware that pressure takes its toll physiologically and that tension levels will likely change. Specifically, grip pressure will probably be tighter than normal which will affect both the line and speed of the putt. Therefore, under pressure, the first thought is to lighten the grip pressure. Once that is done, go through the regular pre-shot routine, pick a line and commit to that line.

— Gio Valiante, sports psychologist and author of "Fearless Golf"




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