Chunking wedges is a common issue for amateurs, especially on elevated greens, and GOLF Top 100 Teacher Doug Spencer has a go-to guide to help eliminate this problem. When hitting to a flat green, there is more forgiveness for mishits, but on an elevated green, disaster can strike, with the ball potentially rolling back down the hill. Spencer presents a blueprint that helps golfers avoid frustrating misses and consistently get closer to the hole.
Spencer’s guide includes assessing the lie of the ball, inventorying the slope for stance and green target, considering course conditions like wetness or wind, and confirming if chipping is the best option. He also recommends asking questions like what clubs are most comfortable in the situation and if course conditions dictate the need for more or less loft and bounce. By considering these factors, golfers can choose the right club and technique for the shot at hand.
For successful chip shots, Spencer emphasizes ball-first contact and offers a setup and swing suggestion for hitting to a turtleback green from a muddy fairway lie. He advises a narrow stance, with the right side higher than the left and the bottom of the swing arc in front of the ball. Spencer encourages golfers to practice hitting from different lies to build confidence in executing different shot types. Spending time at the practice area to understand the impact of changes in club, stance, ball position, and club delivery can help eliminate chunking wedge shots.
Overall, Spencer’s guide provides a strategic approach to avoid chunking wedge shots, especially near elevated greens. By considering factors like lie, slope, course conditions, and suitable club usage, golfers can improve their wedge play and chip shots. By practicing and adapting techniques to different situations, golfers can increase their confidence and precision in executing successful chip shots to elevated greens. With the right approach and understanding of these factors, golfers can eliminate chunking wedge shots and improve their short game performance.
