SOMETIMES it’s the simple things we forget in golf. Here are five different tips for five distinct departments of the game that are often overlooked.
Driver
Too often players have the ball too far back in their stance and feel the need to hit up on the ball. With the driver, the ball should be positioned in line with your left heel (for right-handers). Let the ball be farther forward and make your normal swing, continuing through to a full finish position.
Approach shot from 50 metres
Pitch shots from this distance can be the downfall of a good round and it is a shot that needs to be practised with a variety of clubs. You will need to assess the lie, the distance and the ideal trajectory and then select the club that will produce the shot required.
Chipping
Tilt your spine slightly left (for right-handers), which will level out your shoulders. This will produce a more consistent path and create a more descending blow, resulting in solid contact.
Greenside bunker
When approaching a greenside bunker shot, you need to assess the sand, the height of the bunker lip and the distance of the shot. These three things will determine which wedge you should use: gap, sand or lob wedge. The bounce and loft on these clubs will give you different flights and distance. Knowing which one to use and when could shave shots off your score.
Ball position for putting
When you have a straight putt, position the ball in line with your left cheek. This will give you correct alignment with the putterface and put your eyes directly over the ball.
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