I’m Playing Torrey Pines! – Pre Round Strategy Tips

YES, that’s right – I get to play one of the most storied courses in the USA, Torrey Pines South Course in La Jolla, San Diego. Home to the annual Farmers Insurance Open, the 2008 US Open (won by Tiger), and the 2021 US Open (won by Jon Rahm), Torrey consistently poses an immense challenge for the best in the world.

In the spirit of getting ready to take on one of the bigger golf challenges I have faced, I wanted to go over how I approach getting ready for a round. One of the primary things I like to do is strategize for the course. This includes reviewing an aerial view, hole by hole, and picking out where I want to try and hit my shots (https://www.bluegolf.com/, its a great resource!). Based on what kind of game I have at the time, I try to make sure I pick shots that I am confident in as well as places on the course that aren’t punishing.

What I also love about BlueGolf is that you can actually zoom in using the “Plus” button at the top left to view the green. This gives you an idea of how big the green really is and what kind of danger you might face on approach. You can easily drag the yellow line in the image to see yards from specific spots and plan your way around the course. Taking even 20 minutes to look through a course the night before and devise a plan can help you gain confidence when you step up to the tee, knowing you have a shot in mind you want to hit. I think it is a no brainer if you want to play well. I even went out and got the StrackLine Book for this round, no excuses!

Warming up, like planning, I think is a non-negotiable. On top of regular fitness activities (strength training, cardio, mobility, etc.), I think pre round stretching and warm ups are essential for a good round of golf. I start every morning with 10 minutes of stretching, focusing on all the major muscle groups. Before a round, I really like to make sure my hips are opened up and my spine feels pliable. Split stance rotation exercises are also great before a round, I think it helps get your balance in check while being in a golf mindset. I plan to go in-depth for one of my future plans with this site – FITNESS.

On the practice range, I like to go through a lot – if not all – of my bag. Starting with some pitch shots with my 56, then full shots, then really going through the bag as much as I can in the time I have. Typically, I like to get to the course about an hour early, getting about 30-45 minutes on the range and then around 15-20 hitting some putts. Hit only a few drivers, you don’t want to use them all during the warm-up!

I’ll be back with a round review after I play Torrey, as I haven’t quite this excited to play a round in a while. Have to practice up on my knockdown shots!