The 2026 “Mid-Range Swing” Challenge
Every new year brings that familiar golf itch, doesn’t it? For me, 2026 is about playing smarter, not harder. As a golfer pushing 60 with a bad back and limited flexibility, I’ve realized my goals aren’t about smashing 300-yard drives or getting a new golf swing.
I’m focusing on my Mid-Range Swing philosophy: a way to get results without blowing out my spine. My mission? Moving my scoring average from 98 to 92. Currently, my scoring average is 98.4 and my handicap is 25.2.
Here is my 2026 roadmap for better senior golf
⛳ Goal 1: Lower My Scoring Average (The “Breaking 95” Quest)
This isn’t about one lucky round: it’s about sustained improvement. To shave six strokes off my average, I’m targeting three “score-killer” areas:
- Penalty Avoidance: Less time in the trees and fewer lost balls means fewer penalty strokes. My “Fairway Finder” routine with the driver will be key here.
- Wedge Wizardry: Getting my wedges dialed in for predictable distances around the green will eliminate wasted chips and pitches.
- Putting Prowess: My goal is to eliminate three-putts. In senior golf, the flat stick is the great equalizer!
⛳ Goal 2: The “30-Round” Consistency Rule
Consistency is the most underrated ingredient in golf. From April through October, I am committing to at least one purposeful round per week. That’s 30 rounds to master:
- Course Management: Punching out and laying up more than playing “Hero Golf”.
- The Mental Game: Staying calm after a bad shot (which, let’s face it, happens more often at 58 than it did at 28!).
⛳ Goal 3: Better Iron Play and Putting (150 Yards and in)
My driver isn’t my strongest club in my bag. This year I plan to focus more on those 150 yards and in shots. I look to hit more greens from 100 yards and in while trying to eliminate those heartbreaking 3 putts.
⛳ Goal 4: Master Carry vs. Total Distance
Stop guessing! I am mapping every club in my bag for its precise carry number. This is essential for clearing hazards and selecting the right club into greens. Knowing my “real” numbers allows me to play a disciplined game that fits my current physical range.
Join the 2026 Journey!
I’m sharing my progress, my struggles, and my “bad back” fixes right here on my blog, my podcast and on my YouTube channel. Let’s hold each other accountable! I’d love to have you along for the ride.
Subscribe to my blog and YouTube Channel and leave a comment below – let’s stop fighting our bodies and start playing smarter golf.
Tell me in the comments: I’ve put my numbers out there—now it’s your turn. What is the one ‘score-killer’ you’re determined to fix in 2026? Drop your goal in the comments so we can hold each other accountable this season!
Listen to My Full 2026 Goals Podcast Here:
Connect with the Journey:
🏌️YouTube
🎙️Podcast
Leave a Reply