LESSONS FROM LEFTY Vol. 1

As a competitor, 5-time major champion Phil Mickelson’s playing style is described by many as “aggressive.” His strategy toward difficult shots (bad lies, obstructions) would tend to be considered risky

Mickelson’s excellent short game draws the most positive reviews, however, most of all his daring “Phil flop” shot in which a big swing with a high-lofted wedge against a tight lie flies a ball high into the air for a short distance.  Here Lefty takes the time to go over the delicate art of chipping:

GOLDEN REWIND

FLOPPED AND SCREWED

A remix of Lefty’s shot made famous over the years

“We were between scenes, standing around, and someone came up with a bet. There was this really tall pine tree, and someone said to Phil Mickelson, “I bet you can’t put your shoulder against the tree, drop a ball and hit it over the tree.” The shot basically had to go straight up. Everybody threw in a hundred bucks. I think there was $1,200 in the pot. And he did it! When the ball was still in the air, Mickelson bent over, picked up the money, and put it in his pocket.”

–Cheech Marin (On the Set of Tin Cup)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, PHIL!!!

Lefty celebrated his Golden Anniversary on June 16th

At the ripe age of 50, Mickelson is attempting to become the first tour player to win a PGA event since Davis Love III won in 2015 at age 51 (Wyndham Championship).  Sam Snead is the oldest to win at age 52, in 1965