The game of golf, like many others, evolves as players age. This is especially noticeable when comparing the performance of senior men and women to their younger selves. One of the most evident differences lies in the drive distance. A young male golfer frequently averages between 250-260 yard drives; however, as a senior man, this average may drop significantly. Due to physiological changes that come with aging like decreased muscle strength and flexibility, this could diminish to approximately 180-200 yards on average.
Similarly, senior women also experience a drop in their average drive distance. As per research from the PGA, an adult female golfer commonly hits drives between 140 and 180 yards. With aging, her drives could decrease by around 20%-30%, resulting in a range of approximately 100-130 yards.
As for fairway play, seniors often emphasize accuracy over distance due to diminished physical capabilities. You might notice both senior men and women investing more time on club selection and strategic plays rather than focusing on raw power.
Approach play also changes significantly among seniors. Younger players often use long irons or even woods for their approach shots but as flexibility diminishes with age, hybrids and higher lofts become favored for their forgiving nature and ease of use.
Put simply, putting is an art that favors those with years of experience over those with youthful stamina. That said, it doesn’t mean seniors don’t face challenges. They might deal with declining vision or shaky hands which could affect precision and control over the putter’s speed.
In terms of golf scores, it largely depends on how frequently they played in their younger years and whether they kept up with practice later in life. However, many senior golfers fall into the category where they used to play when they were younger but took a long break before picking up clubs again—like I did at age 76 after stopping at about age 40 when I was a 14 handicap.
In such cases, it is reasonable to expect an increase in their handicap. On average, a senior golfer who was a 14 handicap might be around a 20 handicap or more because of the physical limitations and changes that come with age. However, golf is not just about low scores but enjoying the game, so while the numbers might change, the love for the sport remains unwavering.
But the biggest thing I experienced, and still do is the, “I used to hit this over the trees and have a 15-20 yard approach shot on this par 4.” Used to being the key words here! I used to be 20 years old too. But I still stand there and think “I used to hit this within 15- 20 yards of the green. Then I think I can still do it. BUT I CAN’T !!!!!