How a Tiny 9-Hole Course Shaped Collin Morikawa’s Precision Iron Game
Growing up on a demanding track with narrow fairways and tiny greens forced Morikawa to master accuracy, shot shaping, and strategic thinking from an early age
Key Points
- Chevy Chase Country Club in Glendale, CA is a tight, 9-hole course with narrow fairways, tiny greens, and heavy bunkering—demanding precision over power.
- Required Control & Creativity:
Players growing up here are forced to develop elite shot shaping, ball flight control, and strategic thinking from a young age. - Colin's Iron Game Strength:
The tight conditions helped shape Morikawa’s legendary iron accuracy—matching wedge-like precision even with long irons. - Distance vs. Precision:
Unlike modern trends of hitting as far as possible, this course emphasized control, feel, and dispersion—core to Colin’s success on tour. - Course Design Forces Focus:
The natural constraints of the course help players develop deeper focus, especially on tight or recovery shots. - Early Environment Matters:
Growing up with demanding course conditions instilled discipline, precision, and creativity—key traits in Colin’s pro game today.
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