Lee Trevino, the six-time major champion, known for his lightning-fast play and incredible skills on the golf course, celebrates his 84th birthday by sharing some valuable insights on how playing fast helps him avoid the yips.
In the late 1960s and 1970s, Trevino was one of the fastest players in professional golf. His rapid pace of play often caught the attention of television cameras, and at times, even the audience missed witnessing his winning putts during major championship victories. The 1971 Open Championship stands as a testament to his lightning speed. Trevino recalls that he would start taking the putter back before his eyes even returned to the ball. By looking at the hole, initiating a forward press, and synchronizing his head movement with the putter swing, Trevino achieved a seamless stroke that left his opponents astonished.
In the historic final hole at Royal Birkdale, Trevino faced a showdown with Lu Liang-Huan. While Liang-Huan struggled with an errant shot into the crowd, Trevino managed to land his second shot on the green. A two-putt birdie secured his victory and showcased his exceptional composure under pressure.
Fast play was not merely a one-time occurrence in Trevino’s career; it appeared again at the 1974 PGA Championship held at Tanglewood Park in North Carolina. In a memorable twist, Trevino took his final putt out of turn, before the legendary Jack Nicklaus, ultimately securing his triumph. Although Trevino admits to choking under pressure, he credits Nicklaus for giving him the opportunity to regain his composure.
“I was choking so bad that I had so much cotton in my mouth that I could have knitted a sweater,” Trevino humorously recalls. “But you know, Jack actually gave me a break there.”
Trevino’s fast play not only highlights his unique approach to the game but also sheds light on how it aids his putting performance. According to Trevino, the yips often arise when golfers fixate on the putter and its alignment lines. He openly expresses his dislike for putters with lines, believing that they distract players from the fluidity of their strokes. Trevino’s secret lies in his ability to keep his focus on the hole. By visually connecting his head with the putter head, he ensures that his stroke flows effortlessly. As his head returns to the ball, his putter has already completed its path, eliminating any hesitation or opportunity for the yips to take hold.
Lee Trevino’s advice is clear: when faced with a pressure putt on the 18th green, don’t hesitate—embrace the fast-paced approach and confidently sink it like he does.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Lee Trevino’s fast play influence his success?
Lee Trevino’s rapid pace of play helped him maintain a level of momentum and rhythm throughout his rounds, enhancing his performance and allowing him to stay focused and composed under pressure.
What role did Jack Nicklaus play in Lee Trevino’s victory at the 1974 PGA Championship?
During the 1974 PGA Championship, Lee Trevino was choking under pressure but received a break from Jack Nicklaus. Nicklaus allowed Trevino to putt before him, providing him with an opportunity to regain his composure and secure his victory.
How does Lee Trevino’s approach to putting differ from conventional methods?
Unlike conventional approaches to putting, Lee Trevino emphasizes focusing on the hole rather than fixating on the putter and its alignment lines. This frees golfers from the mental burden of overthinking their stroke and helps prevent the yips.
Why does Lee Trevino dislike putters with lines?
Lee Trevino believes that putters with lines distract golfers, leading to hesitation and potentially causing the yips. By removing the visual interference of alignment lines, Trevino ensures the smooth flow of his stroke, enabling him to putt more confidently.
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