Dan Brown made the world of golf sit upright and take notice last summer, when he produced a stunning sequence of golf on one of the most revered and feared courses on the British isles.
Brown stamped his place at Royal Troon for the 152nd Open, as the world’s best went toe-to-toe to compete for the oldest and arguably most prestigious trophy in the sport.
The 30-year-old turned up in Ayrshire firmly as one of the outside bets for the tournament, with many fans expecting the Englishman to face a tough task merely to make the cut and remain involved over the Saturday and Sunday of play.
But what unfolded was something straight out of the tales of folklore, as Brown carded one remarkable round after another, placing himself firmly in contention to win the claret jug even as the torrid Scottish weather began to batter the famous links.
Brown would ultimately finish in T10, following a difficult final round of three-over-par, but his performances at Troon made the golfing world take serious note.
Now, as Brown prepares for the upcoming PGA Tour campaign and another crack at the Open in July, he is doing his bit to help the everyday man and woman get involved in golf.
Brown, a lead ambassador of American Golf, is hoping to help an array of people not only get into golf, but to embark on a journey of improvement from the get-go.
The Yorkshireman has taken time out of his schedule this week to answer some of the most burning questions that amateurs have, including how to break the mythical 100-mark.
Most first-time golfers will go around courses comfortably in three figures, but Brown feels there are ways to quickly go about working on this.
When asked by American Golf for his best advice, Brown responded: “Breaking 100 is a significant milestone for many golfers and it all starts with keeping the ball in play.
“Focus on consistency rather than trying to hit the ball harder. A steady, controlled approach will help you avoid big mistakes and penalties.
“The key to breaking 100 is working on your short game – this is where most strokes are gained or lost. Spend time practising your chipping, putting and wedge shots, this way you’ll see big improvements in your overall score.”
Brown also feels most amateurs and first-time golfers need to quickly get to grips with the gripping of the golf club itself!
Providing professional input on what feels like a simple yet highly overlooked part of the game, Brown added: “Getting your grip right is essential – it’s the foundation of your swing.
“For right-handed golfers, start by placing your left hand on the club, ensuring the handle rests in the fingers, not the palm. Then wrap your fingers around the club and position your thumb to create a ‘V’ pointing toward your right shoulder. Your right hand should then cover your left, with your thumb running along the left hand’s grip.
“I always tell beginners to hold the club like they’re shaking hands with it: firm, but not too tight. A relaxed grip will give you more control and flexibility in your wrists.”
“For left-hand golfers, just reverse this process – there are golf clubs made specifically for left-handed players.”
