In a previous tip, we have discussed how to play a good chip shot and the techniques involved in perfecting this difficult little shot on the golf course. However, today we are going to look at the chip shot in more detail, specifically the downhill chip shot.
During the summer months, when the greens are dry and firm, pitching the ball onto a green which is sloping away from you, can be very tricky. Hit to the ball too firmly and pitch it in the wrong place and it will race away from the hole, hit it too short and the ball will finish above the hole, neither being good positions for a putt. Here are some great tips, which will help when playing a downhill chip shot.
Firstly, you know the ball, when it lands on the green, is going to roll away from you. Therefore, you need to pitch the ball in a place which is going to allow for this additional roll. Take the time to assess the green and see where the optimum landing zone is for your shot, which will give it the best chance to reach the hole but not race too far beyond it. Make it a zone and not a specific point, as this will make it easier to hit.
If the greens are playing very fast, do not be afraid to use a lob wedge, as this will generate more backswing and will help check the ball when it comes into contact with the green, before rolling on. You can also strike the ball firmer with a lob wedge and this inspires more confidence in the shot.
Do not waste your practice swing. The practice swing, prior to a delicate shot can be difficult but it is vital to get a real feel for the mechanics and power you are going to use in the actual shot. Imagine striking the ball and picture it pitching in the landing zone you have created.
If the greens are playing fast and the shot is to a steep downhill green, imagine the pin is a few feet closer to you than it actually is and judge the landing zone based on this new pin position. By doing this, if the ball does happen to get away from you a little bit when landing on the green, it will not race away, too far beyond the hole.
Next time you are faced with a tough looking downhill chip shot, use these tips and play the shot with confidence.
