In the culinary world, it is said that cooking is an art and baking is a science. In the past decade or so some chefs have achieved levels of rock star status by letting their creative side run wild whereas any chance for a baker to be successful they primarily have to rely on precise measurements and formula-like recipes. Shifting this notion over to the golf world, would we consider golfers more like artists or scientists?
I believe the answer falls right in the middle. A great golfer has the ability to find a balance between both worlds. A long time ago, I met an older gentleman who owned/ran a driving range and gave lessons as well. He always stressed the importance of balance in golf and that has stuck with me throughout my years of hacking up fairways. Granted, while my balance has had some rather unspectacular moments, I do recognize the importance of it.
So what about the art/science thing? Pro tour players are some of the best examples to look at. Let’s take one of my personal favorites – good ol’ lefty! Phil Mickelson is known to be pretty crafty with his wedges yet he is also one for keeping with tradition and playing it where it lies as seen in his recent unsuccessful beer tent to bunker shot. He could have easily listened to the logical right side of his brain and took the drop but hey…a true artist understands risk-reward.
As with everything, the balance between art and science in a golf sense is relative. Although our intuition might lead us to believe 50-50 when we think balance but actually the ratio varies drastically from golfer to golfer. Looking at players like Vijay, Rory, Phil or Tiger, we can see the calculated scientific approach to their shot making. It’s just when the ball doesn’t end up where they intended that the transition to creative shot maker kicks in and a true master piece is painted. Those tricky little devils…
Hit’em long…yell FORE!!!
