[Kim Maengnyeong's Golf English Conversation] Putting Expert "Observes Even the Grain of the Green"

Before putting, always check the grain of the green by its color.

"Understanding the grain of the green."

This is about the 'putting master.' The Sony Open of the PGA Tour, which concluded on the 18th, was held at the Waialae Golf Club in Honolulu, Hawaii, USA. Located along the South Pacific coast, the green's condition varies greatly in speed depending on whether the grain is with or against the direction. Similar conditions can be found at Pebble Beach Golf Links on the US West Coast, Mangilao Golf Club in Guam, Saipan, Jungmun Golf Club in Jeju Island, and Pine Beach in Haenam.

In putting, it is very important to understand the condition and grain of the green. Various variables occur in the ball’s roll. On the putting green, 'fast' means the ball rolls faster and farther with the same force at impact. Conversely, 'slow' means the ball rolls slower and less far. Coastal courses are typical examples. Speed varies greatly depending on the grain of the green.

With the grain, the green looks shiny and light green. The grass lies in the direction the ball rolls, offering less resistance and making it faster. Therefore, when putting with the grain, be careful not to hit the putt too hard. When the grass grain lies against the direction, the green looks dark gray or black. Against the grain means the roll is slower.

You must stroke a little harder than normal. Golfers usually focus on the distance to the hole and the break line before putting, but it is important to check the direction of the grass grain by the green’s color. Paying attention to reading the grain regularly greatly helps prevent three-putting.

Golfer A: Which way is the grass grain?

Pro B: If the green looks shiny and light, the putt will be with the grain.

Golfer C: Which way is the grain in my putting line?

Pro B: Toward you (against the grain).

Text & Photo by Kim Maengnyeong, Golf Columnist