Date: June 06, 2013
Author: Cameron Smith / GA National Squad Member

Cameron Smith blog: Playing away from home

This month, I have been asked to talk about the difference between playing at home in Australia, and playing around the world. Since I'm in Scotland at the moment, I will talk about that.

I think the main difference is the conditions. Condition of the course, layout of the course and the weather are the three main components. The condition of the course is generally firmer and a lot faster, although the greens are slower.

Every day over here is different from the previous day because of the weather; you have to be prepared to play in the worst conditions you would ever see. Wind, rain and temperature can all change in a heartbeat. And because of all this, different shots such as knock downs, bump and runs and playing literally along the ground are all common and have to be played on demand otherwise chances are you will only be playing two of the four rounds. So when practicing at home, mix it up a bit; play shots that don't necessarily need to be played now but may need to be played in the future.

Finally, how good was Adam Scott's win at the Masters!! So exciting for Australian golf and really looking forward to what it will mean for Australian golf in the future. Hopefully we won't have to wait another 76 years for another green jacket.