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Second Shot on Blue 7: The Par 5 Decision

The second shot on a par 5 is the most interesting decision in golf — and Blue 7 at Dandridge serves up a classic version of it. This video shows that moment: ball in the fairway, green in the distance, and a choice to make. Go for it or lay up? The answer is not about courage; it is about math.

Do the Real Math

Forget what the aggressive play feels like and calculate: how far to carry the trouble, how far to the green, and what club gives you that number with a comfortable swing? If the answer is a flushed 3-wood over water to a shallow green, the smart play is usually the layup. Tour players lay up on par 5s far more often than highlight reels suggest — because they know a wedge from 85 yards is a better birdie chance than a 40-yard pitch from the hazard.

Lay Up With Intent

A layup is not giving up; it is a scoring play. Pick a specific yardage — your favorite full wedge number — and hit the layup like it matters, because it does. A perfect layup leaves a full, committed wedge; a lazy one leaves an awkward half-shot. The golfers who “always lay up and never birdie” are laying up badly.

On Blue 7, let the situation decide, not the ego. When the numbers say go, go with commitment. When they say wait, lay up to a number and wedge it stiff. Either way, par 5s should be scoring holes — play them like it.

⛳️ Want more raw, unfiltered golf? Browse the full Shankers Blog — every shot, every round, no fluff.

The Classic 60-Yard Eagle Putt: Golf’s Most Fun Impossible Shot

Sixty yards. With a putter. For eagle. The video above is pure golf joy — the kind of audacious, why-not moment that reminds you why this game is fun. And believe it or not, there’s real technique behind the madness.

When to Actually Putt From 60 Yards

This isn’t as crazy as it looks. From a tight, closely mown lie with a clear run to the green, the putter is often the highest-percentage club — no chunk risk, no skull risk, just a long lag. Tour players do it from the fringe regularly; sixty yards is just the extreme version of a smart play.

The key conditions: flat-ish terrain, short grass all the way, and no trouble between you and the green. If the grass grabs or the ground rolls, grab a wedge instead.

Lagging It Close From Downtown

Forget the hole — your target is a three-foot circle around it. Take the putter back long and smooth, keep your head still, and let the length of the stroke create the pace. The biggest mistake is decelerating; commit to the hit and let it roll.

Most of the time you’ll two-putt from there and smile. But every once in a while, it tracks… and drops… and you’ve got a story for life.

Want to be ready when your moment comes? Spend five minutes on the practice green rolling 40, 50, and 60-foot putts before your round. You won’t hole many, but you’ll calibrate your touch — and the day you face a real 60-yarder for eagle, you’ll step up knowing exactly what that stroke feels like.

⛳️ Want more raw, unfiltered golf? Browse the full Shankers Blog — every shot, every round, no fluff.

The Most Played Golf Club Brands at the Masters

The Masters Tournament, held annually at the prestigious Augusta National Golf Club, is not only a showcase of the world’s best golfers but also a fascinating look at the equipment they trust. While official, comprehensive data on club usage at the 2025 Masters isn’t fully compiled yet, we can analyze available information and trends to identify the most popular golf club brands among the field.

Early Insights and Top Contenders:

Based on reports and observations from the Masters, Titleist appears to have maintained its strong presence as the most played brand across multiple club categories.

• Drivers: Titleist drivers were reportedly used by the highest number of players in the field. Models like the Titleist GT2, GT3, and TSR2 were prominent choices. This continues a multi-year trend of Titleist drivers being favored at Augusta.
• Irons: Titleist irons also saw significant usage, with models like the T100 being a popular selection among both tour veterans and amateurs in the field.
• Wedges: Vokey Design wedges, a Titleist brand, continue their dominance as the most played wedges at the Masters. Their reputation for versatility and spin control around Augusta’s challenging greens makes them a trusted choice.
• Putters: Scotty Cameron putters, another brand under the Titleist umbrella, were also highly prevalent on the greens of Augusta National. Various blade and mallet designs were used, reflecting individual player preferences.

Other Notable Brands:

While Titleist seems to lead in overall usage, other major brands also had a strong presence at the 2025 Masters:

• Ping: Ping drivers, particularly the G430 LST and G440 LST models, were used by a significant number of players. Ping’s reputation for forgiveness and stability off the tee makes them a popular choice.
• TaylorMade: TaylorMade drivers, including the newer Qi10 and Qi35 models, were also visible in the bags of several top players, including Rory McIlroy and Scottie Scheffler. TaylorMade’s irons and wedges also had representation.
• Callaway: Callaway’s latest offerings, such as the Paradym Ai Smoke drivers and various iron models, were used by a number of competitors. Their wedges also remain a popular option for many.
• Srixon: Srixon drivers and irons, particularly models used by players like Hideki Matsuyama, were also in play.
• Cobra: Cobra clubs, including drivers and irons, were used by a few players in the field.

Factors Influencing Club Choice at the Masters:

The unique demands of Augusta National often influence players’ equipment choices:

• Driving Accuracy and Distance Control: The tight fairways and strategic bunkering place a premium on accurate driving and the ability to control distance.
• Approach Play Precision: Hitting greens in regulation on Augusta’s undulating surfaces requires precise iron play and the ability to control spin and trajectory.
• Short Game Versatility: The diverse lies around the greens and the need for delicate chip shots and high, soft landings make versatile wedges crucial.
• Putting Feel and Speed Control: The fast and contoured greens of Augusta demand exceptional putting feel and precise speed control.

Conclusion:

While a definitive count of club usage at the Masters is still emerging, early reports indicate that Titleist was likely the most played brand across key equipment categories. Ping, TaylorMade, and Callaway also had significant representation, reflecting the trust and performance these brands offer to the world’s best golfers in the challenging environment of Augusta National. The specific models used often highlight the players’ focus on accuracy, distance control, and short game versatility, all critical for success at this iconic tournament.

The Most Used Golf Ball Brands at the Masters

While specific data from the Masters is not always available, we can analyze trends from the broader PGA Tour season and recent major tournaments to provide an insightful overview of the most popular golf ball brands among the pros.

General Trends for Golf Balls

• Titleist Dominance: Titleist has consistently been the most popular golf ball brand on the PGA Tour. Throughout the golf season, a significant majority of players, often around 70%, have teed off using either the Titleist Pro V1 or the Titleist Pro V1x.

  • The Pro V1 is favored for its balanced performance, offering a soft feel, consistent flight, and a blend of distance and spin control. Players like Scottie Scheffler have relied on its consistency.
  • The Pro V1x tends to have a firmer feel, higher flight, and more spin, making it a preferred choice for players seeking maximum stopping power and height, such as Ludvig Åberg and Wyndham Clark.

• TaylorMade as a Strong Contender: TaylorMade golf balls, particularly the TP5 and TP5x models, hold a strong presence on the tour.

  • The TP5 is known for its soft feel and high spin around the greens while still providing competitive distance off the tee. Rory McIlroy has made this his ball of choice.
  • The TP5x offers a firmer feel, higher launch, and is often favored in windy conditions due to its penetrating flight.

• Callaway Gaining Popularity: Callaway’s Chrome Tour and Chrome Tour X golf balls have been increasingly adopted by tour professionals.

  • The Chrome Tour aims for a balance of soft feel and distance, appealing to players like Xander Schauffele.
  • The Chrome Tour X is engineered for more distance and lower spin on longer shots, preferred by players such as Min Woo Lee.

• Srixon and Bridgestone: These brands also have representation on the PGA Tour, with models like the Srixon Z-Star XV (used by Hideki Matsuyama) and Bridgestone’s Tour B series finding their way into the bags of some top players.

What This Means for the [Tournament Name]:

Based on these overarching trends, it’s highly probable that Titleist golf balls were the most used at the 2024 [Tournament Name]. You would likely see a significant number of players opting for the Pro V1 and Pro V1x. Following Titleist, TaylorMade and Callaway would likely be the next most popular choices, with a smaller but still notable number of players using Srixon and Bridgestone balls.

Why These Brands Dominate:

• Performance: These brands invest heavily in research and development to create golf balls that offer optimal performance characteristics for the highly skilled players on tour, including distance, spin control, feel, and stability in various conditions.
• Consistency: Tour professionals demand consistency in their equipment. These leading brands are known for producing golf balls with tight manufacturing tolerances, ensuring predictable performance from one ball to the next.
• Trust and Reputation: These brands have built a long-standing reputation for quality and performance on the highest level of competitive golf. Players trust these brands to deliver when it matters most.
• Player Endorsements: While correlation doesn’t equal causation, the fact that many top players choose to play these brands further reinforces their popularity and desirability among other professionals.

In Conclusion:

While we await the official statistics for the Masters, the trends throughout the PGA Tour season strongly suggest that Titleist was the most used golf ball brand. TaylorMade and Callaway would likely follow as strong contenders, with Srixon and Bridgestone also having a presence in the field. The performance, consistency, and reputation of these brands make them the top choices for the world’s best golfers.

Fueling Your Swing: Nutrition Tips for Golfers

Golf is a sport that demands focus, precision, and endurance. While technique and practice are crucial, proper nutrition plays a vital role in optimizing performance on the course. What you eat and drink before, during, and after a round can significantly impact your energy levels, concentration, and overall game.

Pre-Round Power-Up

• Carbohydrates are Key: Think of carbs as your primary fuel source. Opt for complex carbohydrates like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to provide sustained energy throughout your round. A breakfast of oatmeal with berries or a whole-wheat sandwich a couple of hours before tee-off is a great start.
• Protein for Stamina: Include a moderate amount of protein to help with muscle function and endurance. Greek yogurt, a handful of nuts, or a lean protein bar are good options.
• Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Dehydration can lead to fatigue and decreased performance. Start hydrating well before your round with water or electrolyte drinks.

Mid-Round Maintenance

• Sustained Energy: Pack easily digestible snacks to maintain energy levels. Fruit (bananas, apples), energy bars, or trail mix are convenient choices.
• Electrolyte Balance: As you sweat, you lose electrolytes. Replenish them with sports drinks or electrolyte tablets to prevent cramping and fatigue.
• Consistent Hydration: Continue to drink water or electrolyte drinks throughout your round, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

Post-Round Recovery

• Refuel and Repair: Within an hour after your round, consume a combination of carbohydrates and protein to replenish glycogen stores and aid muscle recovery. A protein shake with fruit or a turkey sandwich are good options.
• Rehydrate: Continue to drink fluids to replace what you’ve lost through sweat.
• Don’t Forget Healthy Fats: Include healthy fats like avocado or nuts in your post-round meal to support overall health and recovery.

Unlock Your Potential: The Undeniable Value of Taking a Golf Lesson

Are you tired of inconsistent shots? Frustrated with your handicap? Or perhaps you’re brand new to the game and feeling overwhelmed? No matter your skill level, investing in a playing golf lesson can be one of the most impactful decisions you make for your game. It’s not just about fixing a swing flaw; it’s about unlocking your true potential and enjoying the sport to its fullest.

This blog post will delve into the multifaceted value of taking a golf lesson, highlighting why it’s a worthwhile investment for any golfer looking to improve and enhance their experience on the course.

Beyond the Basics: What a Playing Lesson Truly Offers

While range lessons focusing on swing mechanics are crucial, a playing golf lesson takes your development a step further by applying those mechanics in real-game scenarios. Here’s what makes it so valuable:

• Real-Course Application: The driving range is a controlled environment. A playing lesson allows your instructor to observe your swing, decision-making, and course management skills in the actual context of a round. This provides invaluable insights that a static range session simply can’t offer.
• Strategic Course Management: Golf isn’t just about hitting good shots; it’s about playing the course intelligently. A playing lesson will teach you how to analyze each hole, choose the right club for the situation, and develop a strategic approach to navigate hazards and score effectively.
• Troubleshooting Real-Game Scenarios: Ever find yourself in awkward lies, uneven terrain, or tricky bunker shots on the course? A playing lesson provides the opportunity to learn how to handle these situations under the guidance of a professional. They can offer specific techniques and strategies to recover effectively and minimize damage to your score.
• Personalized Feedback in Context: Your instructor can provide immediate feedback on your swing and decision-making as you play each shot. This contextual learning is far more impactful than receiving generalized advice on the range. They can pinpoint how your swing flaws manifest on the course and tailor their instruction accordingly.
• Developing Pre-Shot Routines: Consistency is key in golf. A playing lesson can help you establish and refine effective pre-shot routines for various situations, promoting focus and improving the consistency of your shots.
• Understanding Course Conditions: Experienced instructors can offer insights into how to play different course conditions, such as wind, elevation changes, and varying turf types, giving you a significant advantage.
• Boosting Confidence and Enjoyment: As you gain a better understanding of your game and develop effective strategies for playing the course, your confidence will naturally increase. This leads to a more enjoyable and less frustrating experience on the links.

Who Can Benefit from a Playing Golf Lesson?

The beauty of a playing lesson is its applicability to golfers of all levels:

• Beginners: Learn the fundamentals in a real-game setting, develop good habits from the start, and gain confidence navigating the course.
• High Handicappers: Identify and address specific on-course challenges, improve course management skills, and develop strategies to lower their scores.
• Mid Handicappers: Fine-tune their game under pressure, learn advanced course management techniques, and work on consistency in real-game situations.
• Low Handicappers: Gain a competitive edge by strategizing effectively, mastering challenging lies, and optimizing their decision-making on every shot.

Investing in Your Game: The Long-Term Benefits

Taking a playing golf lesson is an investment in your long-term enjoyment and improvement in the game. The skills and knowledge you gain will translate to lower scores, increased confidence, and a more fulfilling experience every time you step onto the course.

Ready to Unlock Your Golfing Potential?

Don’t let frustration hold you back. Schedule a playing golf lesson with a qualified PGA professional today and experience the tangible difference it can make to your game. It’s time to move beyond the range and conquer the course!

The 19th Hole Starts Early: The Best Beers to Drink on the Golf Course 

The sun is shining, the birds are chirping (or maybe it’s just your errant shot hitting a tree), and you’re striding down the fairway. What could make this picture even better? A refreshing, perfectly chilled beer. But with so many options, which brew is the ideal caddy companion?

This Golflic curated list will guide you through the best beers to enjoy on the golf course, considering factors like portability, refreshment, and responsible enjoyment.

Top Picks for On-Course Refreshment:

1. Light Lagers: The undisputed champion for many golfers. Light lagers are crisp, clean, and incredibly refreshing without being too heavy or filling. Their lower alcohol content also makes them a responsible choice for a long day on the links.

   • Examples: Bud Light, Coors Light, Miller Lite, Michelob Ultra (often marketed towards active lifestyles), Corona Light.

2. Pilsners: Offering a bit more flavor complexity than light lagers, Pilsners are still light-bodied and highly drinkable. Their crisp bitterness and clean finish make them incredibly satisfying on a warm day.

   • Examples: Stella Artois, Victory Prima Pils, Firestone Walker Pivo Pils, North Coast Scrimshaw Pilsner.

3. Wheat Beers (Witbiers & Hefeweizens): These offer a slightly more complex flavor profile with notes of citrus and spice (Witbiers) or banana and clove (Hefeweizens). They are still relatively light and refreshing, making them a good choice for those wanting a bit more character.

   • Examples: Blue Moon (Witbier), Allagash White (Witbier), Weihenstephaner Hefeweissbier (Hefeweizen), Paulaner Hefe-Weissbier (Hefeweizen).

4. Session IPAs: For the hop-loving golfer who wants to enjoy a beer with more pronounced hop aroma and flavor without a high alcohol content, Session IPAs are the perfect compromise. They offer the hoppy goodness without being overly intense.

   • Examples: Founders All Day IPA, Stone Go To IPA, Lagunitas Little Sumpin’ Sumpin’ Ale (though some might find it slightly higher ABV, it’s still sessionable for many).

5. Hard Seltzers & Light Flavored Malt Beverages: While not technically beer, these have become incredibly popular on the golf course due to their low calorie and carbohydrate counts, along with their refreshing fruity flavors.

   • Examples: White Claw, Truly, High Noon Sun Sips (vodka-based), Bud Light Seltzer.

Important Considerations for On-Course Beer Consumption:

• Alcohol Content (ABV): Opting for beers with lower ABV will help you stay hydrated and maintain focus throughout your round. Remember, golf requires concentration and coordination.
• Portability: Canned beers are generally the most convenient option for carrying in your golf bag or cooler. Avoid glass bottles for safety reasons.
• Temperature: Keep your beers well-chilled in a cooler with ice packs to maximize refreshment, especially on hot days.
• Regulations: Be aware of the golf course’s policies regarding alcohol consumption. Some courses may have restrictions or require you to purchase beverages from their facilities.
• Hydration: Beer can be dehydrating. Be sure to also drink plenty of water throughout your round to stay properly hydrated.
• Responsibility: Always drink responsibly and never operate a golf cart or drive under the influence of alcohol.

The Takeaway:

The best beer to drink on the golf course ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, light lagers, Pilsners, wheat beers, and session IPAs offer a great balance of refreshment, flavor, and responsible alcohol content. Don’t forget the rising popularity of hard seltzers and light flavored malt beverages as well. So, pack your cooler responsibly, respect the course rules, and enjoy a cold one (or two) on your next round!

Beyond the Standard Scorecard: Spice Up Your Round with These Golf Betting Games

Tired of the same old stroke play? Looking to add a little friendly competition and excitement to your regular golf outings? Then it’s time to explore the world of golf betting games! These fun and engaging formats can inject a new level of thrill into your rounds, regardless of your skill level.

This blog post will dive into some of the most popular and entertaining golf betting games you can play on the course, providing you with the rules and strategies to make your next round a memorable one.

Classic Head-to-Head Battles:

• Match Play: The most traditional form of golf betting. Each hole is a separate contest, and the player with the lowest score on that hole wins the “match” for that hole. The overall winner is the player who wins more holes than their opponent. This can be played as singles (one-on-one) or as team matches (e.g., best ball match play).

• Nassau: A three-part match play game. Bets are placed on the front nine, the back nine, and the overall 18-hole match. This offers three opportunities to win (or lose!) and keeps things interesting even if someone has a bad start.

Points-Based Fun:

• Stableford: A scoring system where players earn points based on their score relative to par on each hole (e.g., Birdie = 2 points, Par = 1 point, Bogey = 0 points, Double Bogey or worse = -1 point). The player with the most points at the end of the round wins. This format rewards aggressive play and allows players to recover from bad holes more easily.

• Chicago: A variation of Stableford where each player starts with a certain number of points (based on their handicap). Points are then added or subtracted based on their score relative to par. This creates a dynamic and often close competition.

Unique and Engaging Games:

• Skins: Each hole has a “skin” or a set amount of money or points attached to it. The player with the lowest score on a hole wins the skin. If two or more players tie for the low score, the skin “carries over” to the next hole, increasing its value. This can create intense pressure on later holes.

• Wolf: One player in the group is designated the “Wolf” on each hole (usually rotating). The Wolf tees off first and then has the option to either play the hole alone against the other players or to choose a partner after seeing their tee shots. Different scoring rules apply depending on the Wolf’s decision.
• Bingo Bango Bongo: Points are awarded for three achievements on each hole: being the first to hit the green, being the closest to the pin (once all players are on the green), and being the first to hole out. This game rewards different aspects of good play and keeps everyone involved.
• Sandies and Greenies: Side bets that can be incorporated into any round. A “Sandy” is awarded to a player who gets their ball in a bunker and still makes par or better. A “Greenie” is awarded to the player whose tee shot on a par-3 lands on the green and is the closest to the hole.

Tips for Successful Golf Betting Games:

• Establish Clear Rules and Stakes: Before teeing off, ensure everyone understands the rules of the game and the amount of money or points being wagered.
• Consider Handicaps: To make the games fairer, especially in match play or points-based systems, consider using handicaps to level the playing field.
• Keep it Friendly: The primary goal is to have fun! Maintain a good spirit and avoid getting too serious about the betting.
• Manage Your Bets: Only bet what you’re comfortable losing. Golf should be enjoyable, not a source of financial stress.

Elevate Your Next Round:

Adding a golf betting game to your next round is a fantastic way to increase the engagement, excitement, and camaraderie among your playing partners. So, choose a game that suits your group’s preferences and skill levels, establish the rules, and get ready for a more thrilling experience on the course!

Teeing Off Right: The Best Golf Balls for a New Golfer 

Stepping onto the golf course for the first time is exciting, but choosing the right equipment can feel overwhelming. When it comes to golf balls, new players need options that offer forgiveness, distance, and durability without breaking the bank. This list highlights the best golf balls for beginners, helping you make the right choice to enjoy your early rounds.

Key Considerations for New Golfers:

• Forgiveness: Balls that minimize the impact of mishits, helping your shots fly straighter and further even when you don’t strike the center of the clubface.
• Distance: Balls designed to maximize distance off the tee and fairway woods, helping you reach the green in fewer strokes.
• Soft Feel: A softer feel can provide better feedback on impact and more control around the greens, which can be beneficial as you develop your short game.
• Durability: New golfers tend to have more off-center hits, increasing the chances of scuffing or cutting the ball. Durable covers will help your golf balls last longer.
• Value: As a beginner, you might lose a few balls along the way. Opting for value-oriented options makes the learning process less expensive.

Top Golf Ball Recommendations for Beginners:

1. Callaway Warbird: A long-standing favorite for beginners, the Callaway Warbird is specifically engineered for maximum distance. Its high energy core and aerodynamic design help the ball fly further, even on mishits. It also offers decent durability.

2. Top Flite XL Distance: As the name suggests, the Top Flite XL Distance is another excellent choice for maximizing distance. These balls are designed with a focus on straight flight and offer good durability at a very affordable price point.

3. TaylorMade Distance+: The TaylorMade Distance+ aims to provide a balance of distance and soft feel. Its REACT™ core is designed for easy compression and long carry, while the soft cover offers better feel on shorter shots and around the green.

4. Srixon Soft Feel: For beginners prioritizing a softer feel for better feedback and control, the Srixon Soft Feel is a great option. Despite its soft cover, it still offers good distance off the tee and is known for its straight flight.

5. Bridgestone e6: The Bridgestone e6 is designed to help reduce sidespin, leading to straighter shots. This forgiveness is particularly beneficial for beginners who are still developing a consistent swing. It also offers a soft feel and good distance.

6. Wilson Staff Duo Soft: The Wilson Staff Duo Soft is one of the softest golf balls on the market, providing excellent feel around the greens. It also offers good distance for its category and is a great value option for beginners.

Tips for Choosing Your First Golf Balls:

• Don’t Overthink It: As a beginner, the subtle differences between premium tour-level balls won’t significantly impact your game. Focus on value and forgiveness.
• Buy in Bulk (If Budget Allows): You’re likely to lose a few balls as you learn. Buying in larger quantities can save you money in the long run.
• Consider a Variety Pack: Some brands offer variety packs that allow you to try different types of balls to see what feels best for your game.
• Focus on Feel: As you progress, pay attention to how the ball feels coming off the clubface. This feedback can help you develop better control.

The Takeaway:

Choosing the right golf ball as a beginner doesn’t need to be complicated. Focus on balls that offer forgiveness, good distance, a decent feel, and are reasonably priced. The Callaway Warbird, Top Flite XL Distance, TaylorMade Distance+, Srixon Soft Feel, Bridgestone e6, and Wilson Staff Duo Soft are all excellent starting points that will help you enjoy your early rounds and develop your game without breaking the bank. Now get out there and start swinging!