"Terrifying Testament of Golf: Mastering the Most Unnerving Shot"
Brace yourself for one of golf's scariest shots - the chip towards water. Chills run down my spine just thinking about it!
This nerve-wracking shot can bring a whopping number on your scorecard if you time it wrong. But fear not, amateur golfer. With a bit of mind control and a well-thought-out strategy, you can conquer this terrifying shot and save those pars more often than not.
Master the Scariest Shot in Golf - Chipping Towards Water
Neil Plimmer, Top 50 Coach and PGA professional, provides a winning formula for the weekends warriors out there. With over 20 years of experience under his belt, Neil has helped golfers of all abilities achieve improved swing, short game, and putting skill.
For most golfers, the mere thought of hitting a delicate chip towards water can induce a panic attack. But it doesn't have to be that way. With the right mindset and approach, you can turn this fear-inducing nightmare into a manageable challenge.
Map Out Your Shot
This shot is all about precision, so take a moment to plan it out. Head to the opposite side of the hole, take out the flag, and get a feel for the ground you need to cover. From this vantage point, you should also be able to find a safe, flat spot to aim at on the green that gives you a realistic chance of making your par.
Remember to factor in the wind, as it can have a significant impact on the ball's flight when pitching or chipping into the green.
Choose the Right Club
When chipping, amateurs often default to a wedge, but you have 14 clubs at your disposal. When there's nothing to carry between you and the green, consider using a hybrid club. Think of it as a long putt—a percentage play that will help you avoid disaster while still holding out hope for par.
Acknowledge the Water
Ignoring the water won't help; it's there, and your brain knows it! Mentally, it plays a significant role in this shot, so acknowledge the danger and then focus on a safe target. Commit yourself to the shot, pick a spot to aim for that keeps your ball away from the water, and visualize your ball landing there.
This positive visualization will help you maintain a calm, focused mind as you execute your swing. So, focus on your form, and you'll have every chance of hitting a trouble-free shot that lets you breathe easy and move on to the next hole.
Harness the power of a hybrid club for a manageable swing when chipping towards water, as it offers more control and makes it easier to avoid the hazard.
Visualize a safe target on the green, keeping your ball away from the water, and use this positive mental image to keep calm and focused as you execute your golf swing, aiming for a more successful and less stressful outcome.