Grand Slam Notebook
Breed on Bermuda: Michael Breed of the Golf Channel was at Port Royal yesterday for a special segment that will air on the Golf Fix tonight at 8pm. Masters champion Bubba Watson showed off his driving prowess on the ninth hole, while US Open champion Webb Simpson, defending Grand Slam champion Keegan Bradley and two-time Major champion Padraig Harrington joined Breed on the signature 16th hole for tips on putting, chipping and wedge play.Play it forward Paddy: Ranked second on the PGA Tour from inside 120 yards, Harrington actually plays the ball forward in his stance, unlike most players, while using higher loft to control his trajectory. After dropping about five shots in a row next to the pin on the par three 16th green, it’s easy to see why he’s one of the best in the game at wedge play.Bubba Bombs: Watson showed off his awe-inspiring driving distance, telling Breed that he typically bounces up and down once he’s over the ball to get pumped up for his drive. While his caddy often tries to calm him down, he doesn’t always listen and bombs it away.Catching up with Keegan: When chipping into a hilly green, rather than hit it into the grain, Keegan flies it over the hill and into the down grain, using a 58 degree wedge. He incorporates a narrow stance and plays the ball forward using his upper body to main control. And control he did, chipping near the pin on five straight shots.Webb and flow: Simpson uses the same set-up for his belly putter that he would use for a standard length putter, letting his arms hang down and using a crossover grip. When asked how he controls his emotions when putting out for a victory, Webb said many emotions go through his mind and nervousness often sets in. However, whether he’s putting for a US Open Championship, or an amateur is putting out to win five bucks off a friend, Webb said it’s vital to block out the emotions and think about what the putt does, rather than what it means.