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Thinking about managing course always critical
STORY TOOLS 
More from Golf TipsBefore you hit one shot, there are things to consider that will allow you to save strokes each round by using proper course management.
For instance, before teeing off, determine which way the wind is blowing. That will allow you to tee the ball low when teeing off into the wind and high when playing with the wind.
Look at the scorecard and see how long each hole is and what obstacles each hole contains.
Figure out what the best way is to minimize risk on each hole. If the hole is shorter, consider hitting less club to lower the risk of getting in trouble.
If you notice there is trouble on one side of the fairway, take steps to play away from it. If there is a lake on the left, you want the feeling of hitting away from it. So tee the ball up on the left side of the tee box and hit toward the open side. You may be surprised at how eye-appealing this can be and make you more comfortable at address.
If there are obstacles on both sides, pick a club you are comfortable you can keep in play.
Work hard on taking negative thoughts out of your mind before hitting a shot. As you approach the shot, tell yourself, "I will not go left toward the water and not go right out of bounds, I am going right down the middle."
The positive thought should always be the last thought.
Using these and other course-management tips (which will be discussed in a future article) can help golfers score better and enjoy their rounds more.
— Bob E. Smith is a PGA professional at Olivas Links Golf Course and the men's golf coach at Ventura College. He can be reached at 444-0333.
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