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Russell Smith

Monday, 7 July 2008
Neil Tappin
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Russell Smith

Russell Smith is the head professional at Gleneagles

Age: 36

Turned pro: February 1992

Years coaching: 16

Most notable coaching achievement: Taking a 40 year old male 15 handicapper down to handicap 3 (within 3 years) and helping him win the Gleneagles club championship in 2006.

Coaching philosophy: KISS ('Keep It Simple Stupid') and 'self discovery'

Fault fixer

How to stop slicing: Place a marker directly behind and infront of the object ball and feel as though the delivery of the club works from inside the back
marker, collects the object ball and works outside the front marker.

How to prevent fat and thin strikes: Place a tee on the ground approximately an
inch infront of the ball and focus on brushing the tee away to ensure a
more solid contact with the ball.

How to cure the yips: Generally requires the stroke to be "firmed" up. Look at
the grip to ensure the club is pushed into the fleshy part of the left
hand to allow the club to release square, with less clubface
manipulation. Create a gate using two sets of tees just wider than the width of your putter - this will hepp you find a more controlled, compact stroke.

Best course management tip: Only focus on what you have direct control over. Shots from the past need to be forgotten. Club selection; be aware of where the trouble is located for the current
shot. i.e. if there are problems at the back of the green, choose a club that will allow you to get to the flag but not past it.

Buying advice: Ensure that you visit your local PGA Qualified Professional to receive a
professionally administered custom fit, that ensures the equipment
you're buying is suited to you. Above all, make sure that you are
happy/in agreement with the suggestion as you must feel comfortable with
your purchase.

Who to follow on Tour: For pure simplicity of action; Martin Kaymer, who has solid fundamentals that afford him a great base from which to produce a truly repeatable
movement, with superb club/body unity, clubface control & therefore
ultimate dependability.