Your number one priority in most short game shots is controlling
your distance. In order for you to control your distance you need
to make solid contact with the ball.
Your number one priority in most short game shots is controlling your distance. In order for you to control your distance you need to make solid contact with the ball.
In chipping a lot of emphasis is put on keeping a firm left hand throughout the stroke. This is true, the only problem is the golfer tends to grip too tight, losing the feel of the club head.
I found in my teaching that the most common mistake is a dominant right hand releasing prematurely, causing the left hand to break down and resulting in hitting behind the ball or topping.
Next time you practice chipping, notice the address position. The ball should be positioned slightly back of center and hands just ahead of the club head.
For the right-handed golfer, notice the cupped angle between the back of your right wrist and forearm. This is the angle you’re trying to maintain throughout the stroke.
Try this drill:
n Take your normal address position with the left hand off the club.
n Make a few short practice strokes with the right hand only.
n After each stroke hold the finish position to check the angle.
n Then try hitting some with just the right hand only.
n Once you start making solid contact, place both hands on the club.
With some practice you will be surprised how solid you hit it. Remember more solid contact, better distance control!
Don Leone is the PGA Director of Instruction at Coyote Creek Golf Club in San Jose
