Thanks GTO

I came across GTO through a Google search while attempting to understand why I had developed a demonic, tension-filled iron swing, hitting the ball off the toe with disastrous results. I was ready to give up the game, but I loved it too much to put the clubs aside. Little is sweeter in sports than a purely struck golf ball!

Thanks to GTO posts, particularly by Graham, pnearn, Neil18, and Mariner (I'm sure I've left someone out), I came to realize that I was drawing my arms in to my body on my backswing and then kind of up. There was no way I was going to make good contact with the ball.

I started to visualize the swing as around my spine angle, back and to, with my arms basically lifting the club and my shoulders bringing the club around the body. Less tension, slower swing, much better result. I am now striking the ball with my irons much better, nice and straight with good loft. Distance needs to improve---my 8i is only about 120 yards. Still, it beats 50 yards forward and 40 yards to the right.

So, thanks to those who take time to post, and to post with grace and patience. You are helping me love the game again.

Bill

I'll second that. It is a great place to ask questions and receive quality
answers.