It's not already splendid? Well then maybe some of these babies can put you back on course

By Ralph Wienbreck

The golf season is in full swing, no time like the present to improve your game. Lessons from a good pro and practise, practise, practise will do wonders to lower your score but they're expensive and take time. Consider supplementing your game this summer with some equipment and gadgets to help you get the ball closer to the hole in fewer strokes.

Here are some of the most popular items going the rounds these days.

CLUBS
Opinion of the importance of clubs varies; some golfers put great stress on them, others don't. The 16 year-old I watched smack the pill a consistent 300 yards at the driving range the other day was using the club that came with his bucket of balls. Oh my, oh my. On the other hand, golf is at least 80% mental so it's worth humouring that part of yourself. If you feel you can smack it a mile, you're more than half way there and a good set of clubs really can help put you in the zone. Callaways aren't for the neophyte but if your game has matured to the point that you're ready to announce to the world that you're serious about the game, you might want to try a set. For one thing they look sexy. Better yet many users suggest they will let you hit longer, straighter and more accurately. On sale at better club houses everywhere. For an update on the latest visit the site at www.callawaygolf.com.

TALKING TEMPO
Tempo is defined as the time it takes to make a complete golf swing. Though it's often one of the last things golfers set their minds to, a consistent swing is the surest way to a consistent game. A new device called Swing-Tempo measures the backswing, topswing and downswing in 1/10th of a second increments. Enthusiastic users say it genuinely helps smooth out their game. Sells for about $150. See www.swing-tempo. This is a neat device and a great site, worth a visit if only for the cool graphics and interesting information about the golf swing. One caveat: don't try it on a phone link ? this is strictly for high-speed DSL users.

WATCH IT, WATCH IT
Wondering exactly what you shot in your final game last season? The Golf Watch comes to the rescue. Stores up to 20 rounds and keeps track of strokes, putts and pars for each hole. Also tells the time of course. >From Dunlop. Price about $75. www.computergear.com/dungolwat.html.

PUTT-PUTT
The Putting Alignment System is a set of two rails with a mirrored surface that allows you to see if you eyes are directly over the ball. The rails are intended to keep your stroke true. It folds up to fit in your bag but it's not something you'd want to pop out during a competitive game. It's nerdy looking. About $70. See c.

For the same price you can pick up a laser guide that clips onto the top of your putter. You might want to use the two in combination if you're in a real putting slump. For more go to: www.theathletesfoot.com/product/index.jsp?productId=1781168.

LINE IT UP
The EyeLine Golf Green Reading Level shows you the exact break of every green. It's based on a construction level and the makers claim that once you use it to scope out your home greens, you'll have a serious advantage over your buddies. About $70. See www.118golf.co.uk/script/prodView.asp?idproduct=362

HOLD IT NOW
With Caddy Stix2 you'll never have to lay another club on the ground. The light-weight rack holds several clubs. Keeps grips dry and at your side ? no more returning to the cart, perfect for cart-path only. Made of ply. There's even a cigar holder on top. About $50. www.caddystix2.com.

COURSE SHOPPING
The Golf Guide hand held device contains information on over 13,000 courses in the US including driving directions, opening times, green fees, cart prices and a course description. Not interested? Okay, then use it to keep scores for a foursome. Price: $75. See www.hsionline.com/products/ecbuilder2/cat471_1.htm.