Harry Cooper, also known as Lighthorse, was a professional golfer in the 1920’s and 30’s! Throughout his years on the tour he was considered one of the unluckiest golfers on tour. Winning 31 tournaments in his career he was never able to get a major under his belt while being ahead of Lee Trevino, Tom Watson and Gary Player in the PGA Tour Career Rankings. He’s now a member of the World Golf Hall of Fame and the Professional Golfers Association Hall of Fame.
Tom Stickney gives us his rendition of what Harry Cooper was doing (and teaching) back in the 30’s. Check out how this golf lesson can help you today with your golf swing!
Cooper’s Advice
Cooper’s advice is simple: make a level hip and shoulder turn and move to the top. The mistake that most amateurs make is they make that same level shoulder and hip turn all the way down. This promotes an out in swing path, which can lead to club base backing up and high proof balls.
To maximize power, Cooper recommends making the same level shoulder and hip turn to the top and then gently bumping the hips into right field. This will allow the club to drop under and create a whip-like effect, resulting in maximum distance.
It’s important to note that Cooper is talking about a slight bump, not a full-fledged slide. There should be gentle pressure on the left toe, not a bowing of the left knee and weight going into the outside of the left foot.
