The Two Keys to Perfect Putting: Line and Pace

Match Pace and Line Putting

This drill focuses on the two non-negotiable aspects of putting: hitting your intended line and applying the proper pace (speed).

PathPal Configuration: Split

Putting

What It Helps With

Improves start line

Proper Pace

How to Set Up the PathPal

Select Your Target: Choose a putt with a slight break (e.g., a gentle right-to-left or left-to-right putt) about 6 to 10 feet away.
Determine the Line: Carefully read the break and identify the precise starting line the ball must travel on to enter the hole.
Place the pathpal (The Gate): Set up your pathpal (or two tee pegs/alignment sticks) on the determined start line, about 1 to 2 feet in front of your ball. Goal: The gap between the pathpal pieces should be just wide enough for your ball to pass through cleanly, defining a narrow "gate."
Position Your Ball: Place your golf ball directly behind the gate, ensuring your putter face is square to the precise starting line.

Step-by-Step Drill Instructions

Focus on the Gate (Line): Your first priority is to stroke the ball through the center of the pathpal gate. This guarantees you are successfully starting the ball on the correct line.
Execute the Putt (Pace): While maintaining your focus on the gate, concentrate on hitting the ball with the proper pace (speed).
The Goal: The speed must be just right to allow the ball to hold its break and drop into the cup. The ideal pace is often described as the speed that would carry the ball 12 to 18 inches past the hole if it missed.
Analyze the Result: Observe where the ball finishes:
If it misses "Low" (short and on the low side of the break): You hit the correct line but did not use enough pace Correction: Increase the backstroke and/or accelerate slightly more through impact.
If it misses "High" (long and above the break): You hit the correct line but used too much pace. The extra speed prevented the break from taking full effect. Correction: Soften your stroke and reduce the speed.
Repeat and Refine: Repeat the drill, adjusting your pace based on the results. Continue until you are successfully hitting the gate and making the putt with the proper pace.

Mike Barge

Director of Instruction

Hazeltine National Golf Club

Chaska, MN

Career Journey

2012: North Dakota Golf Hall of Fame Induction

2019: Minnesota Golf Hall of Fame Induction

1991: Teammate of Payne Stewart at Southern Methodist University

5: Senior Major Golf Championships Played

1989, 1991: Minnesota PGA Teacher of the Year

1986: Started as Director of Instruction at Hazeltine National Golf Club

7: Number of times honored as Golf Digest Best Teachers in Minnesota

What Golfers Are Saying

"The reason I like [the pathpal] is because it's super versatile"

Cody Carter Head of Player Development, Druid Hills Golf Club

"Million different ways to use this to help your golf game. I'm really enjoying using it with my students and I hope you grab one and use it as well."