Multi-tiered greens are no picnic—especially if the ball is two or three feet off the green. They can be difficult for any level player but especially for weekend golfers. Many weekend golfers have a limited short game repertoire. Some only are limited to a high chip shot. Add to this the fact that you can attack the hole in a number of ways and you can see how this situation can create anxiety in weekend golfers. It can also cost them shots.
Here are five keys to the chip shot:
• Use a low-lofted club like a 6 or 7 iron
• Survey the green closely
• Target the last incline on the green
• Take a short crisp swing
• Use topspin on the shot
The secret to making this chip shot is attacking the pin at the right place on the green. Using a low-lofted club is critical, too.
A low, running shot is the shot of choice here—especially for weekend golfers. It’s a higher percentage shot that’s easier to hit than a high chip shot. It’s also easier to control. Use a low-lofted club, like 6-iron or a 7-iron for the shot.
Target an area a few feet in front of the incline of the last tier. Take a short crisp swing with your club, as if you were putting the ball. This will ensure that your shot has topspin on it, so it will hit and continue to roll after the first bounce.
Make sure when you hit this shot hard enough to get it up and over the last incline. There’s nothing worse than having your shot roll back after taking the shot.
If you aren’t used to chipping with low-lofted clubs, practice with them when you have a chance. Work on creating topspin when you hit the shot.
