Look, I've covered golf for twelve years now, and I thought I'd seen everything.
Then Bryson DeChambeau decided to prepare for defending his US Open title by hitting golf balls off the White House lawn, getting behind the wheel of an Indy 500 car, and taking helicopter rides to collect... salt. Yeah, you read that right. Salt.
When Your "Practice Round" Includes 180mph and Presidential Putting
Most golfers spend their pre-major weeks grinding on the range, maybe playing a few practice rounds. DeChambeau? The guy literally called up President Trump (because apparently they're golf buddies now) and convinced him to let him hit balls on the south lawn. After playing 18 holes at Trump's Virginia course, of course.
But here's the thing that got me - he actually took his clubs to the Indianapolis 500 racetrack. And I'm not talking about some cute photo op. This maniac smashed a drive 738 yards down the back stretch after getting driven around by Kyle Kirkwood at speeds that would make my insurance company weep.
My editor texted me: "This sounds made up." I wish it was.
Salt Flats and Side Quests
The helicopter trip to Utah's Bonneville Salt Flats was what DeChambeau calls a "fun side quest." He played 18 holes with a new sponsor out there, because why wouldn't you? The man treats life like a video game where every detour unlocks bonus content.
I spent three hours watching his YouTube channel (he's got 2 million subscribers, which honestly makes me question my career choices). The confidence radiating from this guy is either inspiring or terrifying. Haven't decided which.
Going for Golf History While Everyone Else Plays It Safe
Here's where it gets interesting though. Only seven golfers have ever won back-to-back US Opens. The last guy to win three straight? Willie Anderson - and that was 120 years ago.
DeChambeau's already thinking about it. "Three in a row would be an even better accomplishment," he told me during our chat. "That thought is in the back of my head."
The audacity is breathtaking.
Trump's Brutal Honesty About Getting Outdriven
President Trump shared some pretty funny banter about their golf sessions: "My wife says, 'Are you as long as Bryson?' I say, 'Yeah, sorta, pretty close'. It's not close."
At least he's honest about it. Poor guy probably feels like he's playing with a human launch system.
But Wait - Is He Actually Ready for Oakmont?
Despite all the circus acts, DeChambeau did squeeze in a practice round at Oakmont last week. He called it "the toughest golf course in the world," which... yeah, that tracks. The rough is five inches deep in places, and the greens are basically concrete with a putting surface painted on top.
Back in 2016, a much smaller version of DeChambeau (before he became golf's Incredible Hulk) finished in the top twenty there. Now he's 40 pounds heavier and hits it about 50 yards longer.
His game plan? "Hitting the fairways, and not three-putting. That's going to be a big deal." Revolutionary stuff there, Bryson.
The Numbers Don't Lie
Here's what's actually impressive: in his last six majors, DeChambeau missed the cut exactly once (Royal Troon last year). Otherwise? Two runner-up finishes and that Pinehurst victory where Rory McIlroy basically handed him the trophy with those final-hole putting disasters.
That's Brooks Koepka-level consistency. And Koepka was the last guy to successfully defend a US Open title back in 2018.
Brooks' reaction if Bryson matches his achievement? Let's just say it wouldn't be suitable for family newspapers.
The Method Behind teh Madness
Look, I initially thought all this helicopter-and-racecar nonsense was just content creation run amok. But watching DeChambeau navigate these "side quests" with the same analytical approach he brings to golf... maybe there's something to it.
The guy thrives on unconventional preparation. While everyone else is grinding away at the same practice routines, he's out there experiencing different types of pressure, different environments, different challenges.
Will it work at Oakmont this week? We'll find out Thursday morning.
But honestly? I'm kind of rooting for the chaos.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type golf ball should an amateur use?
Beginners need to select a ball which is durable, offers good distance and has a balance between control and distance. Beginners are recommended to use two-piece golf ball due to the solid core and hard outer layer. This makes them more durable, less expensive and can travel longer distances. These balls are also less spinny and therefore offer better control. As a players' skills improve, they can experiment with different types balls.
How can I care for and maintain my golf clubs properly?
Care for your golf clubs will help them last longer and perform better. To keep your club heads free of dirt, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and soapy warm water after every round. To remove debris from the shafts, wipe them down with a damp rag. Also, check grips to see if they need to be replaced. Store your clubs in an area that is cool and dry, since extreme temperatures or moisture can cause them to be damaged. To protect your woods and putsters from dings or scratches, use headcovers.
What golf clubs do beginners need?
A basic set of clubs will be more than enough for beginners. Standard sets usually include a driver, two woods (such as a 3-wood or 5-wood), an iron set ranging from 4-9, a pitching wedge and a putter. Sand wedges are also beneficial for players who play in bunkers. The maximum number of clubs that professionals are allowed to carry is 14. Beginners, however, should only focus on mastering the clubs they already have before adding more. If you are just beginning, focus on clubs that feel comfortable and easy to swing.
What are the rules of golf on the course?
The rules of golf are important but understanding golf etiquette can be just as crucial. Recognizing the pace of game play means being ready for your shot at your turn, and walking quickly in between shots. When someone is about swing, remain still and silent to show respect for the other players. Safety is equally important. Do not take a shot unless the group ahead has moved out of range. Restore the course's appearance by repairing divots on the greens, raking out bunkers, or fixing ball marks. Dressing appropriately for the dress codes of the courses you play is also polite.
Can I play alone or do I require a partner to play?
Solo golf is a great way to practice and enjoy the game. Solo play can help you focus on your game and improve it. However, golf is also a social sport, and playing with partners can enhance the golfing experience - providing competition, camaraderie, and the opportunity to learn from others. Golf courses are generally open to individual play during slower times. Some may even pair single players up with groups in peak times.
Do men and women have different golf equipment?
Yes, men's equipment and women's equipment are different. The main reason for this is the physicality of each gender and their swing speed. Women's club shafts are usually more flexible and lighter to accommodate the softer swings of women compared to men. Club heads often have a high launch angle that helps women golfers hit the ball farther. Additionally, grips are usually smaller to suit smaller hands, and the aesthetic design may differ. The right equipment for any golfer is determined more by personal preference, individual ability and physical attributes than by gender.
How can I find out my handicap in Golf?
A golf score is a numerical measurement of a golfer’s potential ability. This allows golfers of different levels of skill to compete on an equal basis. You must submit your scores for a certain number of rounds to the handicap committee at your club or to a handicap service in order to establish a golf handicap. These scores are adjusted for the difficulty of the course and the tee from which you played, using a specific calculation method that averages the best differential scores from the rounds submitted. You can find out how handicaps are calculated by contacting your local golf club or national golf association.
Statistics
- About 85% of golf instructors recommend that new players focus on short game skills as an effective way to reduce their scores.
- Nearly half of all beginners cite social interaction as a primary reason for continuing to play golf after their initial introduction to the sport.
- Junior golf programs have seen an increase in participation by approximately 20% over the past decade, indicating growing interest among younger players.
- Golfers who take lessons improve their game twice as fast as those who choose to learn through trial and error.
- It is estimated that over 90% of dedicated golfers maintain their equipment regularly, which aids in performance consistency.
- Golfers who use a golf-specific fitness program can increase their drive distance by an average of 15 yards, benefitting their overall game.
- The average golfer spends about $500 on initial equipment when committing to learn the game.
External Links
How To
How To Implement Effective Golf Practice Routines
Set goals for each golf session. Allocate time for different shots - long drives, iron play, chipping, and putting. Use practice drills that target areas of weakness. Start with a warmup to prevent injury. Use different lies and targets to simulate actual course conditions. To get the best results, focus on each shot and treat it as though you were actually playing. Practice shots that are comfortable with. This will help you end your session on a good note.
Did you miss our previous article...
https://sportingexcitement.com/golf/rorys-driver-drama-when-golfs-dirty-laundry-gets-aired-out
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