Spencer Lanoue

Spencer has been playing golf since he was a kid and has spent a lifetime chasing improvement. With over a decade of experience building successful tech products, he combined his love for golf and startups to create Caddie AI - the world's best AI golf app. Giving everyone an expert level coach in your pocket, available 24/7. Caddie's mission is simple: make world-class golf advice accessible to everyone, anytime.

Latest articles

What Is a Rider in Golf?

Ever been standing over a critical shot and heard someone in your group gleefully declare they’re using a rider? If you’ve only ever played by the strict Rules of Golf, this term might leave you scratching your head. A rider is one of golf’s a popular, informal rules that can make a friendly round or a charity tournament much more enjoyable. This guide will walk you through exactly what a rider is, when to use it, and how to use it strategically to your advantage.

What Are the Most Common Penalties in Golf?

Penalty strokes are part of golf, but they shouldn't be a source of confusion or ruin your round. Understanding why they happen and how to proceed correctly can save you shots and, more importantly, a lot of stress on the course. This guide will walk you through the most common penalties you'll likely face, explaining how to handle each situation like a seasoned player.

What Does the Right Hand Do in a Golf Swing?

The right hand in a golf swing is often misunderstood, seen only as a source of brute power that leads to topped shots and that dreaded slice. The truth is, your right hand (for a right-handed golfer) is more of a supporter and a speedboat than a bully. Mastering its role is about adding finesse, speed, and control at the exact right moments. This guide will walk you through what your right hand should be doing in every phase of the swing, transforming it from a liability into one of your greatest assets.

What Is the Valley Effect in Golf?

That seemingly simple 15-foot putt with a big sweeping dip in the middle is one of the most misunderstood shots in golf. We've all been there: you read a ton of break, aim a few cups outside the hole to account for the slope, and give it a confident rap. Then, you watch in frustration as the ball hangs high, refusing to break, and sails past on the pro side. This common putting headache is a classic case of the Valley Effect, a perceptual trick that costs golfers countless strokes. This article breaks down exactly what the Valley Effect is, why it fools our eyes and our brains, and gives you a practical, step-by-step strategy to finally own these tricky putts.

What Does "On the Bag" Mean in Golf?

Ever hear a golf announcer say a player's parent or partner is on the bag for a big tournament and wonder what that really means? It’s a classic piece of golf slang that’s simple on the surface but packed with meaning. This article will break down exactly what it means to be on the bag, moving beyond the stereotypes to cover the real responsibilities of a caddie and even how you can be a great one for a friend.

What Is a 10 O'Clock Shot in Golf?

A golf swing shouldn’t feel like you're trying to launch a cannon on every shot. For those a-little-too-close-for-a-full-swing but too-far-for-a-simple-chip distances, there's a beautifully simple system that can save you strokes and eliminate guesswork: the 10 o'clock shot. This article will break down exactly what the 10 o'clock shot is, why it's a game-changer for your scoring, and how you can add it to your arsenal starting today. We'll go through the setup, the swing itself, and how to practice it so you can hit your wedges with confidence.

What Does UDI Stand For in Golf?

The term UDI in your golf bag stands for <strong>Utility Driving Iron</strong>. It's a long iron replacement designed for a unique blend of distance, workability, and control, especially favored by golfers who prefer the look and feel of an iron over a hybrid or fairway wood. This article will break down exactly what a UDI is, how it differs from other clubs, and how to know if one is right for your game - including specific tips on how to hit it well.

What Is Short-Sided in Golf?

Missing the green on the same side as the pin - that’s short-siding yourself, and it’s one of the most frustrating, score-wrecking mistakes in golf. You're left with an incredibly demanding shot that offers almost no margin for error. This article will show you exactly what getting short-sided means, why it’s so damaging to your score, and most importantly, give you a smart new strategy to avoid it and a simple plan to escape it when you don't.

What Are the Two Dominant Cover Materials in Golf Balls Today?

The thin layer covering a golf ball has a massive influence on how it flies, how it feels, and how it reacts when it lands. Today, choosing your ideal golf ball comes down to two dominant cover materials: Surlyn and urethane. Understanding how each one works is the first step to picking a ball that complements your game and helps you play better.

What Is Jordan Spieth's World Ranking in Golf?

While Jordan Spieth's specific spot on the Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) changes week to week, he typically sits comfortably inside the top 30 in the world. This article will not only give you the details on his current standing but, more importantly, will walk you through the fascinating story behind that number - his incredible climb to number one, the challenging slump that followed, and the inspiring comeback that showcases the perseverance all golfers can learn from.

What Is an Eagle 3 in Golf?

Hearing a playing partner shout I made an eagle three! is one of the most exciting moments you can experience on a golf course. But what does it actually mean? An Eagle 3 is a score of three on a par-5 hole, a rare and thrilling feat that combines power, precision, and strategy. This article will break down exactly what an eagle is, why it's such a big deal, and provide a clear, step-by-step guide to help you chase down your very own.

What to Look for in Golf Lessons

Investing in golf lessons is one of the fastest and most effective ways to lower your scores and get more enjoyment out of the game. But not all lessons - or instructors - are created equal. Finding the right coach for your unique swing, goals, and learning style is the difference between a great investment and a frustrating waste of time. This guide will walk you through exactly what to look for when you're ready to find professional instruction, helping you Caddie AI a coach who can genuinely help you play better golf.

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