WE need to chip the ball when we are within a few paces of the green. To stand for a chip shot we need to stand with our feet a little closer together than a full swing, heels around six inches apart.
Holding the club, a pitching wedge in this case, with your arms once again forming a ‘V’ and using the same grip as you learned in part one we are looking to create a pendulum action back and through with the club (Picture 1).
Your shoulders should be in control of the motion and wrist movement should be kept to a minimum.
Just like putting, the distance that the ball travels will be controlled by the swinging of the arms back and through.
For example imagining our clock face, ball down at six o’clock head at 12 o’clock, by swinging back to eight o’clock you should swing through to four o’clock, maintaining a constant tempo (Pictured 2 & 3).
While doing this you should pay attention to the low point of the swing.
This is the point at which you should strike the golf ball.
Different clubs produce different results from the same swing.
For example by using a sand wedge you can expect a shot that will fly 75 per cent of its distance and roll for 25 per cent ideal if the flag is close to the edge of the green.
A pitching wedge produces a shot that will fly and roll 50/50 good for the flag being in the middle of the green.
When confronted with a large amount of green in front of you can use a 7 iron which will produce a shot that predominantly runs a ratio of 25 per cent flight and 75 per cent roll. (Picture 4).
Simon is giving free coaching sessions at Bowood on Saturdays (4-5pm, March 23, 30), Wednesdays (6-7pm, March 27) and Wednesday mornings (ladies only, 11am-12.15pm, March 27). Book on (01249) 823881 or email proshop@bowood.org.
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