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GOLF RESOURCE GUIDE:
Instruction
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Before deciding whether to chip or putt, you first have to know the difference between the two shots. A chip is a shot that has little air time and more roll. Club selection depends on the location of the hole. A pitch is a shot that has more air time and is typically played with a wedge. Get really good with these clubs. They’re stroke savers. I was fortunate to have Harvey Penick as my teacher throughout my career. He encouraged everyone to practice their short game. Here’s what I learned from him: CHIPPING • Start with a club that will get the ball on the green as soon as possible. • Grip down on the club and flex your knees slightly so you can get down to the ball. • Place the ball in the back-center of your stance. For bad lies, place the ball farther back in your stance. • Keep 75 percent of your weight on your lead leg and tilt the handle of the golf club toward your lead foot. • Make your backswing and follow-through the same length. • Clip the grass at the bottom of the arc. The worst thing you can do is lift up. PITCHING • Place the ball in the center of your stance. • Keep 60 percent of your weight on your lead leg. • Keep your hands ahead of the ball. • Make the length of the backswing and follow-through the same and don’t allow the clubhead to pass your hands, especially at impact. CHIPPING DRILL Practice hitting some chip shots under a table or bench. Focus on not lifting up. If you do, your club will hit the bench. PITCHING DRILL Back up and hit shots over the bench, or lay your golf bag down in front of you and hit shots over the bag. SG Sandra Palmer is director of women’s golf at Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club in Mission Viejo. She won 30 professional tournaments worldwide during her playing career, including three major championships. She can be reached at (949) 305-5100. |
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