Blog

Tony Finau’s Rarely Used Secret Weapon

Published

3 years ago

November 18, 2021

The relationship between distance and ball speed can vary slightly, but it’s safe to assume that every mile per hour increase in ball speed will net roughly 2 yards of additional carry. Taking those numbers into account, Tony Finau is leaving roughly 52 yards in the tank whenever he tees it up on the PGA Tour.

If math wasn’t your strength in school — join the club — that comes out to 26 mph of ball speed. Ball speed. It’s a number that sounds absolutely preposterous, especially when you consider Finau ranked 28th on Tour last season in ball speed at 177.91 mph. Compared to ball speed leader Cameron Champ (190.94 mph), he’s more than 13 yards off the pace.

While the ball speed average only takes into account valid radar measurements on par 4s and par 5s, it’s safe to say Finau is fast — but he isn’t that fast. Or at least that’s what the numbers say.

According to Ping Tour rep Kenton Oates, Finau has a gear that he rarely if ever shows in competition. While speaking to GOLF’s Fully Equipped podcast, Oates recalled a recent conversation with Finau at the Houston Open about a speed training session he’d gone through recently that netted him a ball speed number few on the planet can produce.

“I was talking with him on the range [in Houston] and he was hitting a [Ping G425 LST] with 180 mph ball speed,” said Oates. “Then he tells me he was at a speed training session in Utah and got 206 mph ball speed on his 12th ball. It’s insane.

“When he told me he hit 206, I told him, you’re the only guy on tour who leaves 26 mph out there.”

During an interview last year with GOLF’s Subpar, Finau revealed he’d bet on himself in a long drive contest against the likes of Champ, Bryson DeChambeau and Rory McIlroy.

“I do think if you just get us on a driving range and give each of us five golf balls and see who can get it the furthest, I’d have a hard time believing someone can get it further than me,” Finau said.

Of course, the Tour isn’t a long drive contest, and Finau is realistic about what it takes to win at the top rung of professional golf. While distance can give you an edge over the competition — look at Bryson’s incredible transformation — losing accuracy and gaining ball speed in the process feels like a zero-sum game.

“I think the reason he continues to stay at 180 to 185 is that he’s so straight off the tee,” Oates said. “Tony’s always been long. I’ve heard stories of him being even longer as a kid — like 215s in ball speed. For him, he became a really good player when he honed it in. In the back of his mind, he knows if he’s at 180 to 185 and only curving it 2 yards, he’s going to be a really, really good player.

“He doesn’t hit it that far offline [at the higher speeds] compared to a normal golfer, but it’s different in PGA Tour terms.”

As one of the most consistent (and longest) drivers of the golf ball on Tour, Tony Finau isn’t hurting for an edge. But if he ever needs to unleash a gargantuan drive, at least he knows he has it in the tank — and then some.

This article originally appeared on Golf.com.

Blog

Maintenance during the off season

Published

4 days ago

December 17, 2024

Resident PGA Pro

Ever wonder what kind of repairs you can do to keep your clubs in shape during the off season?

Many of us find the grips on our clubs starting to wear down and nothing brings new life into your older clubs like a new set of grips.

Don’t worry, you don’t have to spend a small fortune having someone else do this for you, this handy DIY video by Coach Lockey will show you how to replace your grips at home. Click below and have a watch. Then see some of our suggestions for new grips you can buy today.

Blog

Last-Minute Gift Ideas for Golfers

Published

5 days ago

December 16, 2024

The BLOG MAN

Hey there, golf fans and last-minute shoppers! Can you believe it? We’re down to just 9 days until Christmas, and this year, Hanukkah also starts on the 25th, too! If you’ve got a golfer in your life, the clock is ticking to grab that perfect gift. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with some amazing last-minute ideas that will arrive in time, thanks to Amazon’s super-fast shipping.

So, skip the stress and check out these top picks that will make any golfer light up like the holiday tree or menorah this year. Let’s dive in!

1. Callaway Supersoft Golf Balls

Golfers can never have too many golf balls, and Callaway’s Supersoft is one of the best around. Known for its soft feel and incredible distance, it’s perfect for players of all skill levels. Plus, it’s an easy, no-brainer gift that any golfer will appreciate.

Why it’s great:

Affordable and high-quality
Available in fun colors like yellow and matte pink
Ready to ship and arrive before the holidays

👉 Buy Callaway Supersoft Golf Balls on Amazon

2. PuttOut Pressure Putt Trainer

Help the golfer in your life sharpen their short game with this ingenious training tool. The PuttOut Pressure Putt Trainer is compact, effective, and ideal for indoor practice—perfect for winter days away from the course.

Why it’s great:

Builds confidence in putting
Lightweight and portable
A hit among golfers of all levels

👉 Buy PuttOut Pressure Putt Trainer on Amazon

3. Golf Trunk Organizer

This gift is a game-changer for staying organized. The Samsonite Golf Trunk Organizer is perfect for stashing shoes, gloves, tees, and other golf gear in one tidy place. It’s functional, practical, and will earn you big points for thoughtfulness.

Why it’s great:

Keeps gear neat and ready for action
Fits easily in any car trunk
Arrives quickly with Prime shipping

👉 Buy Samsonite Golf Trunk Organizer on Amazon

4. Titleist Players Golf Glove

A good golf glove can make all the difference in grip and comfort, and Titleist is a trusted brand. This premium glove is a simple yet thoughtful gift that will see plenty of use on the course.

Why it’s great:

High-quality construction
Comfortable fit and feel
Available for fast shipping

👉 Buy Titleist Players Golf Glove on Amazon

5. Garmin Approach G12 GPS Rangefinder

For the tech-savvy golfer, the Garmin Approach G12 is a small but mighty gadget that provides distances to the green, hazards, and more. It clips onto a bag or belt, making it easy to use during a round.

Why it’s great:

Compact and accurate
Preloaded with 42,000 courses
Ships in time for the holidays

👉 Buy Garmin Approach G12 on Amazon

6. Funny Golf T-Shirts

Every golfer loves a little humor on the course. A witty golf-themed T-shirt is a fun, budget-friendly option that’s sure to get laughs and compliments.

Why it’s great:

Tons of designs to choose from
Budget-friendly and personal
Many options with next-day delivery

👉 Browse Funny Golf T-Shirts on Amazon

7. Practice Golf Net

A home practice net is a dream for golfers who want to perfect their swing without leaving the house. It’s the gift of endless practice, even in the off-season.

Why it’s great:

Easy to set up in a backyard or garage
Perfect for winter training
Many available for fast delivery

👉 Buy Practice Golf Net on Amazon

Don’t Wait—Act Now!

Time is running out, and the holidays are almost here! These gifts are perfect for golfers and will make it to your doorstep in time, but only if you act fast. Stock is limited, and the closer we get to the big day, the tighter the shipping windows get. Click those links, fill your cart, and cross those gifts off your list today.

Blog

The Golfer’s Gift Guide

Unique Ideas for Dad This Christmas

Published

2 weeks ago

December 6, 2024

The Bogeyman "Boo"

Is your dad a golf nut? Christmas is the perfect time to show him how much you care with a gift that’s right up his fairway. Whether he’s a seasoned pro or just starting out, there’s a perfect gift out there for every golfer. Let’s take a look at some ideas that will have him swinging with joy all year long.