Okay, so the other day I got this idea stuck in my head. I was watching some old golf clips, you know, Masters highlights, and Jose Maria Olazabal just popped up. Man, that guy’s short game was something else. Pure magic around the greens. It got me thinking about what he actually used back in the day.
So, I did what any curious golfer does, started digging around online, looking up “what’s in the bag” for Olazabal. Trying to piece together the tools he used for that incredible touch. It wasn’t super easy, finding consistent info from his peak years, but the main thing that always stood out was his relationship with his wedges. Seemed like he carried specific lofts, maybe brands he really trusted for a long, long time. Not like today where guys change sticks every other week.
Heading to the Range
This got me motivated. I decided my next practice session would be all about trying to channel a bit of that Olazabal feel. Not necessarily copying his exact swing, because, let’s be real, that’s impossible. But focusing on the short game, especially those little pitch and chip shots he made look so easy.
I grabbed my bag, made sure my own wedges were clean, and headed out to the short game area at my local spot. Here’s what I focused on:
- Wedge Setup: I don’t have his exact wedges, obviously. But I looked at my own setup. I carry a 52, 56, and 60 degree. I spent most of my time with the 56 and 60, trying to replicate that versatility he had.
- Variety of Shots: Instead of just hitting the same chip over and over, I forced myself to try different things from the same spot. Little low spinners, softer high shots, bump-and-runs. Olazabal seemed to have every shot imaginable.
- Hands and Feel: Watched some videos again, focusing on his hand action. Looked so soft. I tried to quiet my body down and just use my hands and arms more, really focusing on the feel of the club hitting the ball.
- Imagination: This sounds a bit silly, but I imagined myself in situations he might have faced. Tight lies, awkward stances, needing to get it up and down. It helped make the practice less mechanical.
Honestly, it started out rough. Trying to hit those delicate little shots, my contact was inconsistent. Skulled a few, chunked a few. It’s funny how easy pros make it look. You try it yourself and realize the level of skill is just insane. That touch isn’t something you just pick up in an afternoon.
But I stuck with it. After about an hour, things started to click a little better. I found a decent rhythm with my 56-degree, hitting some crisp little pitches. Didn’t feel quite like Ollie, I’m sure, but it felt controlled. Focusing on keeping my hands soft seemed to be the key for me. It forced me to swing smoother.
Ended the session feeling pretty good. Not because I suddenly gained magical short game powers, but because it was fun to practice with a specific theme in mind, inspired by a legend. It really makes you appreciate just how good guys like Olazabal were, and still are. Definitely gave me some things to keep working on with my own wedges.
