Tried to answer some questions from the comments…

Q. Sort of funny when, you shoot 10 under the last round and just a couple of days earlier, you wrote that you didn´t think such scores were possible on Oceânico Victoria Golf Course.

Could it be the mental part of the game? If they can, then why shouldn´t?

A. I think as soon as someone shoots a crazy number, all other players know it is possible and aim for that. Before play starts, everybody imagines how the scores will be and if someone shows us you can score really low we change our minds about scoring. I thought, around 18 under would win and when somebody opens with 9 under you understand it’s going to be lower and you change your attitude towards the course.

Q. Hi Alex, great playing so far this year!! Just wondered your thoughts on practicing. I am a pro and find my self practicing 5,6,7 hrs a day on all aspects of the game. I prob only play twice a week or so. Should I be playing on the course most days do you think??

A. I believe there has to be a balance. Golf is all about scoring low. To do that, your technique has to be good but you also have to be good at playing the game. Not hitting separate shots. You have to be able to manage your way around a course. I have started playing more and more lately and find it very helpful for my game. There are so many good playing exercises that will improve your strategy and toughness on the course. Although, too much playing and not enough practcing is not good either. Try different things and you will find out what works for you. I usually practice 2, 5 hours and play 18 holes a day during my training weeks. Then some technique work at home and gym at night. 

Q. Do you have a gym exercise that’s specially good for golfers?

A. Since I started doing non-golfing exercises in the gym, my game has improved and I’m not injured. So, I think an overall good physique is the best. Do a lot of different exercies and make sure you stay fit.

Q. Do you know if there is any videos of the HIO or the 4 iron on the 16th the last day?

A. I played too early for the camera guys to show up. Sorry, next time I’ll try to play better during the start of the week as well!:)

Q. I got two questions for you: First, do you have anyone helping you with travel bookings and such things? Second, when I hit my wedges, my club gets in a very steep position. Do you have any exercises that will help me get it more ”on-plane”?

A. First question: Yeah, I do. My management company helps me out and it’s great. I could book myself before tournaments, but when things change during a tournament with times and so on, it’s nice when they can change flights when I’m out playing. They are a big help. Also, I’m not a big fan of a lot of administrative work, I rather work on new shots. 
Second question: Try to put balls down in an arc like I showed in the video I posted in the previous blog. That will help you understand the swing plane and the path the club should take. It gives you a good image. Just have the balls there every time you parctice and your palne will get better without you thinking about it.

Q. Awesome blog you’ve got! Both fun and interesting reading, and great videos too. I was just wondering a little about that flop shot. I’ve been practicing a lot on it but I just can’t get it right. Do you have any good tip so I can impress my friends with it next summer? That would be cool!

A. Haha, I love trying that shot too! It makes you understand how the club should work. I have tried a lot of different things. The last thing I tried works the best no question. I open the blade a lot as you can see. Then I try to ”cup” my left wrist during the back swing which will increase the loft even more. Then on the down swing I try to scoop underneath the ball to make it pop straight up. You need to get the club on the right plane so it the ball spins straight. It’s hard if you cut it, it will never go as fast up. It will just slide to the right. Try and see:)