Pat O'Brien
Pat O’Brien is the teaching professional at Lakewood Country Club in Dallas. He’s the short game instructor to 2007 Masters Champion Zach Johnson, as well as PGA Tour players Vaughn Taylor, Colt Knost, Ted Purdy and numerous other professionals and accomplished amateurs. He also enjoys teaching golfers of all levels. Originally from San Francisco, Pat developed his passion for learning and teaching through his friendship with the late Payne Stewart.
Recent Stories by Pat
What is a Neutral Putting Setup?
Nov 2, 2011Renowned Dallas putting and short game instructor Pat O'Brien discusses the importance of a neutral setup
Core Philosophies: They work across all aspects of the game
Nov 26, 2010Pat O'Brien, short game coach to Zack Johnson, provides a tip that is key to his core philosophy about the golf swing.
Want to Putt Like Zach Johnson? Here's How
Jun 3, 2010The whole idea in putting is to return to square at impact without thinking about it. That’s true for everybody, not just Zach Johnson
Play Golf, Not "Golf Swing"
May 29, 2010In an article that crystallizes his teaching philosophy, contributing instructor Pat O'Brien describes a better way to learn (and execute)
One of Zach Johnson's Favorite Drills
Apr 5, 2010To get your speed right on the green, try this drill - you don't need more than an extra club, your putter, and few ballsBunker Play: It's Not Rocket Science
Jan 7, 2010In his latest installment, contributing short game expert Pat O'Brien takes 99.9% of the mystery out of bunker play. We're sure you can get the rest!How to Become a Better Chipper
Oct 1, 2009I had the great fortune of watching Payne Stewart practice his short game many times during my early adulthood, and I tried to pick his brain whenever I could. He had the best hands I have ever seen in person, but mainly he kept it simple. Here are the things that really stand out from being around him.Keys to a Solid Putting Routine
Sep 14, 2009Once you are able to return to the putter to square without thought, you can fully take advantage of a solid pre-putt routine. The routine is highly individual. I would merely like to make some suggestions as to what it is should include.
Proper Posture Is Key To Simplify Putting
Aug 6, 2009If you're struggling with your putting, perhaps understanding the design of the putter will help to free your stroke.
The Importance of a Level Spine
Jan 27, 2009One of the more overlooked things in putting is having too much spine tilt to the right. I see it everyday with my students, and I am certainly as guilty of it as anybody. We are used to tilting to varying degrees when we hit full shots, but it is imperative to lose that tilt when you step onto the putting green.