Nicklaus

[rprevost]

Both SD and NHA reference Nicklaus as a model. Did Nicklaus combine the backswing of NHA with the down- and through- swing of SD? That is not a pattern that i have seen discussed. I understand the Soft Fade pattern is a SD backswing with a NHA down- and through-swing.

 

[GPM1985]

My understanding is that Nicklaus was pretty much straight-up SD with the exception of his grip, which was slightly weaker than what the pattern calls for.

 

[Shot Limit]

I like this thread, was just about to do a search for related material.

 

[Kevin Shields]

Both SD and NHA reference Nicklaus as a model. Did Nicklaus combine the backswing of NHA with the down- and through- swing of SD? That is not a pattern that i have seen discussed. I understand the Soft Fade pattern is a SD backswing with a NHA down- and through-swing.

Soft fade has a steeper shoulder turn and a flatter arm swing than SD

 

[rprevost]

In NHA, I thought BM said that Nicklaus went "up the wall" on his backswing.

 

[jenhaoyen]

OT
Was Nicklaus a long hitter? How was his distance?

 

[jpvegas1]

Early in his career Nicklaus was very long - probably 10 to 20 yards longer than the pros that preceded him.

 

[rprevost]

My understanding is that Nicklaus was pretty much straight-up SD with the exception of his grip, which was slightly weaker than what the pattern calls for.

I went back to Golf My Way. It sure looks like a NHA backswing, rather than a SD one. It would be helpful to have a more extensive description of how Nicklaus fits into these two patterns from those who have the expertise to do so.

 

[DCgolf]

OT
Was Nicklaus a long hitter? How was his distance?

Nicklaus long? He pretty much invented power golf. Read Herb Wind's "Story of American Golf" (the best history from the most articulate author) Chapter titled "The Golden Hours of the Golden Bear". He describes Jack's 64 round on Saturday in the 1965 Masters. Just read the clubs he hit into the greens. The first to drive 17 at Oakmont, first to hit the 14th at Pebble in two, and on and on. In Wind's words, "he hit the ball with a kick of a mule". I'd love to a 28 year old Jack right now with the new equipment. Hit one 341 (persimmon and balata) once in the PGA Tour driving contest.