In regards to Gary Woodland’s improvement, clearly he was always a premiere ball striker but as his stats showed he struggled with his short game. What I was really struck by is how Gary Woodland’s coach Butch Harmon graciously showed a genuine interest in the improvement of his pupil’s game by suggesting that he should pay a visit to the great UK teacher Pete Cowen to focus mainly on the short game.. As you are well aware Pete Cowen instructs Henrik Stenson and many other European stars. I have always looked upon Cowen as the “Butch Harmon” of Europe. Not only did Woodland seek out Cowen he also started working with the UK putting guru Phil Kenyon. This dynamic teaching trio of Harmon, Cowen and Kenyon mixed with Woodland’s immense talent created a perfect blend for success which was so beautifully displayed at Pebble.
As a teacher it was wonderful to see a legendary instructor like Butch Harmon put his ego aside by making a suggestion that would ultimately change Gary Woodland’s career and life forever.