It’s April 1st, 2026. In the UK, the clocks have just gone forward — which means longer evenings and the return of after-work golf. For me, that marks the real start of the Golf season.
I’ve only managed a handful of 9-hole rounds so far… but it hasn’t taken long to spot a familiar pattern.
The Reality Right Now
I’m making the same mistakes I make every year:
- Scoring is down — playing more like a 16 handicap than 10.9
- Putting is poor — 3 x three-putts in my last 9-hole round… ouch!
- Chipping is inconsistent — not terrible, but I did duff into a short sided bunker, god damn 🤦
- Slow starts — my last four opening holes: Par, Treble, Double, Double
- Course management is off
- Decision-making feels rushed and sloppy
It’s not disastrous… but it feels frustrating.
What I’ve Learned (So Far)
Despite the scores, there are some positives — and a few clear lessons:
- Winter swing changes are working (sort of)
My longer clubs feel easier, and the hook has gone. The miss now is a push — which feels like part of the adjustment. - Distance control is off
Winter golf messes with your yardages. I’m still playing “winter numbers.”
Example: I hit a 9i instead of an easy PW… flew the green, tricky chip, then a three-putt. Classic. - Strategy is the biggest issue
Poor decisions are stacking up. One bad choice leads to another — and suddenly it’s double bogey. It’s something I’ve learned the hard way, avoiding risky decisions is key (see Breaking 80). - Pitching needs attention
This was a strength last year. Right now, it’s not. Getting this back could steady everything else. - Scoring isn’t actually that bad — at least in comparison to years gone by. My new bad, isn’t as bad. Yay for me!
Where I Go From Here
I’ve no doubt my handicap might creep up early season — and that’s fine. I’m very use to that patters and It reflects where my game is right now 🤷. Interestingly, my data over the last 6 years shows this happens almost every season, which is captured here.
For now, if I can:
- sharpen my decision-making
- dial in distances
- rebuild confidence in my pitching
- Get some time on the practice green: 3ft putt drill + distance putts for feel, chipping.
…then hopefully I can steady things before the season really gets going.
That’s my early-season reality check as the golf season gets underway.
If you’re in the same boat, you’re not alone.
Enjoy the start of your season, wherever you are… and enjoy The Masters.
Your Editor-In-Chief & Average Golfer 💚🏌️♂️
Bradley Jemmett-Smith
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