If you are looking for tips on improving your wedge game and hitting your wedges closer to the pin, look no further than 2003 Masters champion Mike Weir. In a story published in GOLF Magazine in July 2003, Weir shared some of his keys for sticking wedges close, and we are here to highlight those tips for you in this article.
Your wedges are your scoring clubs on the golf course, and when you have them in your hands, you should be thinking birdie. They can also be instrumental in getting you out of trouble and helping you save par. Therefore, turning your wedges into weapons can be a great way to shave strokes off your handicap and improve your overall game.
One of the best things you can learn from Mike Weir’s wedge game is the three-quarter shot. In this shot, it is important to position the ball just ahead of center, distribute your weight evenly over both feet, and have a narrow stance. By gripping down on the handle for added control and standing closer to the ball, you can achieve a “tall” feeling in your chest at address, allowing for a more controlled swing.
When hitting to a back pin, play the ball farther back in your stance to angle the shaft forward and deloft the clubface for a lower trajectory. Open your stance slightly to match the swing arc with the new ball position at impact and focus on finishing with your hands and arms lower for a lower shot. For a front pin, preset the club’s full loft by placing the ball forward in your stance, allowing for a higher ball flight and maximizing loft with the club’s bounce.
Another key aspect of Mike Weir’s wedge game is his unique pre-shot routine known as the Weir waggle. This mini-rehearsal move was originally a drill prescribed by his swing coach to straighten his takeaway, but it became a permanent part of his routine. By paying attention to the club’s path during the waggle and confirming it is on the correct path at waist height, Weir sets himself up for a successful shot.
In conclusion, improving your wedge game can have a significant impact on your overall golf performance and help you lower your scores. By following the tips and techniques shared by Mike Weir, such as the three-quarter shot and the Weir waggle, you can develop a more consistent and effective wedge game. So next time you are on the course, channel your inner Mike Weir and watch as your wedges get closer to the pin.
