This week on Locally on the Links, host Rich Roth caught up with Marty Chandler, the Director of Golf at London Downs. The episode focuses on adapting to fall and winter golf, discussing necessary gear, course strategy, and new trends in the sport, including YouTube golf and putter technology.

Chandler noted that winter play is often dictated by the temperature and wind, suggesting golfers should manage performance expectations as the ball won’t carry as far and layers can restrict the swing. Recommended gear for the cold includes winter gloves, hand warmers, and electric jackets/vests.

For course strategy, Chandler encourages golfers to play for fun and consider moving up to age-appropriate or handicap-based tees. The discussion also covered YouTube Golf’s increasing popularity, especially among the 25 and under demographic. They highlighted Hole 15 at London Downs, known as the “treacherous island green,” where a recent dredging found approximately 6,000 lost golf balls. Finally, the episode covered the evolution of Putter Technology, specifically the rise of LAB (Lie Angle Balanced) Putters, with major manufacturers now offering their own versions.