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 (PHOTO: Eddie Meeks) Since I’ve been playing golf in California, I’ve realized that uneven lies are more common on courses here than in other parts of the country. Many amateurs struggle hitting from these situations, especially downhill lies. I frequently see players position the ball further back in their stance from downhill lies to promote solid contact, but that can be a mistake. Positioning the ball back in the stance leaves the clubface slightly open coming into impact since there’s less time to square the clubface, and the ball isn’t in the same position as it would be for a swing on level ground. Plus, having the ball further back promotes a more inside-out club path, which can compound the consequences of an open clubface. Instead, practice these three tips for hitting off a downhill lie (pictured to the right): 1. Take a wide stance for stability as you lean down the slope, attempting to make your setup match the angle of the terrain — as if the shot were on a level lie. 2. Make sure the ball is positioned straight down from your left ear (use your shirt logo as a reference point), which will help bring the clubface squarely into impact. 3. Focus on chasing the ball down through impact to ensure a compressing blow, imparting backspin on the ball and allowing it to stop on the green even though it will take off lower than normal. Stepping through the finish can help promote this result. You can use these same principles from uphill lies as well, understanding that the result will be a higher-than-normal trajectory. Matthew Hilton is Director of Instruction at the David Leadbetter Golf Academy at Strawberry Farms Golf Club in Irvine. For more information, call (949) 777-6897 or visit davidleadbetter.com. |
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