Palm Beach Illustrated

   The golfing advice continues with our series, “Tips from a Golf Pro.” In the latest installment, Jae Suh, certified golf instructor with the Leadbetter Golf Academy at PGA National Resort & Spa, gives some practical advice on preparing and playing through the heat and humidity of a South Florida summer.

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   Golf is hard enough under ideal situations, but when stifling heat and humidity start to enter the picture, you really have to prepare for the round ahead. Preparation for a hot day of golf starts at home. I make sure I wear light-colored clothing as much as possible in breathable synthetic material. Cotton shirts absorb too much moisture and become extremely heavy as the day goes on. Wide-brimmed hats and sunscreen are a must to avoid overexposure from the sun. One of the most important things I do when I get to the golf course is to make sure I drink enough fluids. Dehydration can happen quickly when it’s 90 degrees-plus with high humidity. Drinking 16 ounces of water every other hole should be a good benchmark. 

   Typical summer weather patterns include rain at some point during the day. This usually keeps the golf course wet, which means the average 6,800-yard layout can be playing much longer. If you find yourself with longer clubs into the greens, don’t be surprised. And expect very little roll this time of year.

   One thing you can do to combat the extra length of the course is to include hybrids in your bag. These clubs range from various lofts to lengths to cover most of your needs. The key benefit is the added height and carry that hybrids give, which is essential in wet conditions.

   Also, if you typically hit your driver low and rely on roll to get your distance, consider a higher lofted driver or the 3 wood as a substitute off the tee. You’ll find that the added loft helps to increase carry distance. And keep in mind that under extreme humidity, the ball will travel less. Water vapor will provide enough resistance so you may need to club up. 

•  If you have a golf question you would like answered by Jae Suh, email the online editor.

About Jae

   A native of Seoul, South Korea, Jae inherited his love for golf from his father, an avid golfer. After a successful junior career and a hiatus from the game during college, Suh returned to golf, trying his luck as a professional golfer. While playing the grueling mini-tour circuit, essentially the PGA Tours’ minor-league, Suh rediscovered the importance of proper golf instruction.

   Suh’s experience on the mini-tour circuit and his meticulous attention to swing mechanics have made him a highly sought-after instructor.