As you get within 40
yards or so, consider using your pitching wedge, 9- or even 8-iron and blasting your ball like a greenside bunker shot.
THE EXECUTION To play a long blast, there should at least be a little sand beneath the ball. If you’re feeling like you’re sitting on a firm lie, it’s best to stick with a straightfor- ward shot. To blast it, take your
pitching wedge, 9- or 8-iron and open the face a little. Keep in mind, opening the face on any club adds a little
“bounce,” regulating how much the club can dig into the sand. Although un- conventional, this concept works for clubs other than your sand wedge. Place your ball a little
forward of center and aim a little left of the target. The longer the shot, the more left you might want to align yourself. Make a confident, upbeat swing that strikes the sand a little behind the ball, and away you go. This is a super cool shot. If executed properly, you’ll surely get a few claps from your foursome!
3. Safe Escape
THE BRIEF There’s an old adage that states, “Trying to do in one shot, which requires two, will often end up in taking three.” While chasing down the course record, keep these words of wisdom in mind as you play shots from tough places.
THE WEAPONS Choose a club that will easily allow you to advance the ball a short distance back to a more favorable playing area.
THE EXECUTION Remember, if you’re going to punch out, you’ve made the decision to play safe. Don’t start cutting corners by bringing other obstacles such as trees or more waste areas into play. This shot is all about strategy. Make a confident swing to a conser- vative target and you’ll be in prime position to keep that hot round going.
By Cole Handley Poppy Hills PGA Class A Head Golf Professional
Safe
Not Safe Safe Escape: Escape shots are about strategy. Make a confident swing to a conservative target and you’ll be in prime position to keep that hot round going. SPRING 2014 /
NCGA.ORG / 73
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