You have probably heard the term ‘risk reward’ used many times to describe a hole in golf. Basically, a risk reward hole is one where the golfer is presented with a strategic choice. The risky option, which could include a shot over water for example, will lead to the green in one shot and present the opportunity of an eagle. The alternative shot on this hole will cut out the need to hit the shot over the water but result in an extra shot being taken, before the ball will reach the green. Therefore, by taking the second option, you lose the opportunity to play for an eagle but can play your shot safe in the knowledge, the water will not come into play.
So, when playing a risk/reward hole, how should you approach it? Should you take the risk or should you play it safe?
The answer to this depends much on your own ability and confidence in playing the risky shot. For example, there are many drivable par-4 holes appearing in the game and this presents the opportunity to reach the green in one but usually there is an obstacle in the way, such as water. Many of these holes are 300 yards long and the distance is what will help you to decide whether to take on the risky shot or go for the safer play.
You should know how far you can hit the golf ball with each club. If the maximum you can hit the ball with the ball with your longest club is 250 yards, why are you going to take on the risky shot? To reach the green you are going to have to hit the ball further than you have ever done before and the likelihood that’s going to happen is very slim. Instead, the ball is probably go to land flush in the water. Therefore, it does not make sense for you to take on the shot and you would be better off selecting a different club and laying up in-front of the water and using the second shot to get close to the hole and attempt a birdie.
One of the problems when playing golf with friends, is that if the other golfers in your group are long hitters and are going to attack the green, you can feel pressured in doing the same. However, you need to concentrate on your own game and not allow yourself to be distracted by what the other players in your group are doing. In fact, if you choose to lay up, it’s a sign you know your own game very well and have a great understanding of how far you can hit with each club and that’s a huge bonus when on the golf course. Managing your own game, regardless of what other players are doing is very important.
If you believe you can reach the green, there is something else to consider, before playing the shot. You must check where the pin is located on the green. If it is near the front of the green, tight to the edge of the water hazard, how are you going to get the ball to stop near the hole? With a club like a driver, this will be impossible and you are likely see your ball bounce off the green into whatever is waiting behind. There is no value in playing the risky shot in this situation. So, even though you know you can reach the green, the location of the pin makes the shot impossible, so why take it on?
When playing risk/reward holes, always play the shot you are most comfortable with and take note of where the pin is located on the green. If you do that, you should be fine.
