Golf Tip – August 2012
This is a useful shot from 5 to 100 yards from the green.
Your desired trajectory will be determined by club selection and ball position. A lower trajectory is less risky providing you have sufficient green to work with. High trajectory shots should be used when you have limited green to work with or forced carries. E.g. Shots over hazards to short pins.
Move the ball more forward in your stance with a more lofted club for these higher shots that will stop sooner. Your hands should be slightly ahead of the ball at address to avoid scooping the ball. The backswing begins with a one piece takeaway while turning our chest away from the target. Allow the wrists to hinge letting the club stand vertically. L position. Next allow the hands to drop while rotating the body to the finish position. Your belt buckle should finish pointed to the target, ensures that the large muscles have been more active in this shot.
The hands should be high on the finish for the high trajectory shot, hands lower will allow the ball to run further with a lower trajectory. A downward strike on the ball is the key to getting the ball airborne for the pitch shot. Be sure to keep the head still and watching the strike are very important to the successful pitch. The length of the backswing will dictate the length of shot desired.
Think of a clock on the back swing to hit shots of different distances. Hands go to 7 o’clock, 9 o’clock or 11 o’clock. Emphasis is on the shoulders and legs will keep the tempo smooth on this shot.
Try these techniques during your next practice session to dial in those approach shots and start saving par and making birdies!
Email, phone or stop by the Academy to have one of our experienced CPGA professionals help your game!
Scott McClain, PGA of Canada Teaching Professional
Copper Point Golf Club/The Ridge at Copper Point
Academy 250-341-3393
