Original Issue

Big Play with John Elliott

Author:
Jim Gorant

WHO: David Toms

WHAT: 234-yard five-wood to within two feet

WHERE: Par-5 11th, La Costa

WHEN: Semifinals of the Accenture Match Play

WHY

The most impressive aspect of David Toms's win at the Match Play was how he maintained his sweet, smooth swing tempo throughout the week. The length, pace and plane of his swing were the same on almost every shot, including the five-wood that set up his second straight eagle during the semifinals.

JOHN'S TIP

My Spin on Perfect Tempo

Hold a club parallel to the ground with the toe pointing down (top). Spin the club counterclockwise 180 degrees so that the toe points straight up (bottom). Pause. Spin the club another 180 degrees so the toe points straight down. Practice this until you can stop the toe straight up and down every time. Then address the ball with the toe pointing down and hit shots by spinning the clubhead back to normal at the top of the backswing.

John Elliott teaches at the Golden Ocala (Fla.) Golf & Equestrian Club and is a Golf Magazine Top 100 Teacher.

... AND ANOTHER THING

"How come the U.S. gets blitzed in the Ryder Cup, yet two Americans reach the final of the Match Play? Last week they were playing for themselves and the money."