Q.
Hello, Jack:
Do you have any tips on beating the rough? My shots tend to go left and not very far!
Richard Smyly
A.
Thanks for the question, Richard. First, don’t try to do too much when in the rough. You’re goal is to get the ball back in position on the fairway for your next shot. So you must make solid contact.
Also, use one club more than normal. If you usually hit a 7-iron from that spot, go with a 6-iron instead. Better yet, use a hybrid. It’s a great club to punch out with when in the rough.
If the rough is deep, you must make adjustments: Adopt an open stance, play the ball in the middle, and open the clubface a bit more. Also, pick up your arms quickly when you start your backswing, maintain a little bit of wrist cock, and swing down on the ball. Aim for the grass just behind the ball and keep your follow-through short, which pops the ball up.
Beating the rough tips would include keeping the clubface open. Choking down on the club about an inch helps. So does using a slightly firmer grip. Follow these tips and you’ll have no trouble escaping the rough.