Weekly Golf Tip as seen in The Winnipeg Sun --

July 31st, 2007

Make Solid Contact For A Choke-Proof Chip

When you are on the fringe or just off the green -- I see way too many players trying to chip the ball with their sand wedge or lob wedge.

As a result, they do not make solid contact with the ball or misjudge the shot. Do not make it any harder than it has to be. If you can putt the ball, remember the old saying -- your worst putt will be better than your best chip.

Another great way to play this shot is with a hybrid or lofted fairway wood. Notice in photo 1, I have selected my hybrid and the ball is on the fringe and up against the collar of rough, making it even more challenging.

You can also see I have the shaft leaning forward slightly and a little more weight on my target leg (left leg for right handed golfers). This will allow me to hit down on the ball and get it off the ground for about two feet before it starts to roll like a putt.

In photo 2, you can see I have the ball positioned off my left heel and in photo 3, I have hit down slightly and the ball is in the air for a few feet.

In photo 4, you can see I am much closer to the ball than a full shot -- my set up is very similar to my putting stance. My eyes are almost over the target line or golf ball to help me see the line of the shot better. To achieve this, I have to be much more upright in my set up.

In photos 5-7 you can see that the hybrid is moving pretty much straight back and through down my target line, arching just a little. Again, very similar to a putt.

Getting the feel for the distance is the key with this shot, so take a few practice strokes focusing your eyes on the target. Your eyes will tell your body how hard to hit the shot. Also, as always, spend a few minutes practising this shot around the practice green to gain the necessary confidence to use it when the "chips are down".

I love this shot because it is so easy to make great contact and even your bad shots will turn out good. Take a page out the touring pros' book, when the chips are down -- bench your sand wedge on the fringe and either putt it or use your hybrid for best results.

- Derek Ingram