Age: 30
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 235
Driver Specs:
Krank Formula 5 – 3.5* w/ HOF 59 Shaft XXX
Sponsors:
Krank, House of Forged, PURE Grips, Seabest Foods
Special Accomplishments:
3-time LDA Tour winner, 2 Top-8 finishes in the RWLDC, multiple independent event winner
What is your longest drive in competition?
437 yards
What were the conditions of the drive?
Dead calm wind in Mesquite, NV for World Finals
What are the fastest swing speeds you’ve recorded on a Swing Speed Radar and/or Trackman?
152 mph
What lead you to choose your particular equipment specifications?
I knew Krank had a reputation of making some great heads and I was looking for some support from a club company. I called Lance Reader one day and asked if he could take a chance on me. Thankfully he did and I switched to Krank 2 months before the RE/MAX World Long Drive Championships in 2010. I finished 5th that year.
Do you favor a particular shot shape to hit it long?
Yes, I call it the baby bullet draw. I like to keep somewhat low and draw about 5-7 yards so it just takes off and runs when it hits the ground.
Do you use any training aids to work on your speed and power?
I wouldn’t say training aids. I just make sure that I stay in the gym and workout to keep fit. I do some golf specific exercises mainly on the core area but I don’t train with any golf aids. One thing I’ve learned over the years of competing is that long drive is a marathon and not a sprint. You’ve got to be mentally tough as well as physically to compete and win in this sport.
Do you do any other types of training to drive it further?
No, I make sure that when I hit the range I make it worth it. I’m not saying you have hit 10 buckets of balls or anything like that. I just make sure that when I go I get in good quality practicing so that when I leave I’m not leaving with bad swing thoughts. On a competition day I can tell you in 18 swings (3 sets) with the Driver on the range if it’s going to be a good day or a bad day.
Is there any particular bit of advice you would give the regular amateur for him or her to hit the ball longer?
Start with a solid foundation. Meaning make sure that your lower body stays quiet and is not moving around or swaying back and forth. This is one of the biggest losses of power…
Read the rest of what Landon has to say about the Long Drive in the August 2014 Monthly Handicap Improver here:
https://www.swingmangolf.com/register.php