Ep. 133 When Going Low Get's Hard

What happens when you suddenly find yourself four under par after nine holes?

This week Steve and Andy welcome back fan favourite Mick Patterson for an episode that starts with an ordinary competition round before taking an unexpected turn into one of the most fascinating mental game discussions we've had on the show.

Mick shares the story of a practice round where, despite arriving underprepared and without his usual routine, he found himself four under through the front nine. The conversation explores what changes when you're playing better than you've ever played before—and why closing out great rounds is often harder than creating them.

The boys unpack:

• Why trying to hit the ball harder often makes you hit it shorter.
• How tempo and rhythm unlocked Mick's best ball-striking.
• The challenge of staying present when your score starts getting your attention.
• Practical techniques for returning to the moment using breathing, awareness and your senses.
• Why learning to be uncomfortable is part of becoming a better golfer.

Later in the episode, Mick introduces his new golf simulator business, discussing everything from designing the perfect home setup to avoiding costly mistakes when building your own indoor practice space.

To find out more about home golf simulators, contact Mick via 0410721864 or email mick@thesimstudio.com.au

And of course, Golf Rock returns with another original song—this time dedicated to Andy Walker's long-running battle with Kooindah's infamous 13th hole.

If you've ever wondered why your best golf disappears just when it matters most, this episode is for you.

In This Episode

• Thursday's less-than-memorable competition round.
• Mick's remarkable four-under front nine.
• Why tempo beats effort.
• The psychology of protecting a great score.
• Flow state versus analytical thinking.
• Using your senses to stay present.
• Breathing techniques for pressure situations.
• Why experience is the key to learning how to go low.
• Inside Mick Patterson's new golf simulator business.
• Golf Rock: The 13th Owns Me.

Quote of the Week

"Stop thinking and come to your senses."

Pilgrim's Challenge

The next time you feel pressure building during a round, don't fight it.

Instead, bring your attention back to something real:

• Feel your feet on the ground.
• Feel your hands on the club.
• Notice the trees moving.
• Listen to the birds.
• Take one slow, connected breath.

Then simply play the next shot.

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Music credits:

“King Around Here” by Alex Grohl. Free for use under the Pixabay Content License.

“The 13th Owns Me” by The Missing Links Golf Show via Suno.com