Tip of the Month

November 2004

By John Pallot
Director of Instruction

Traditionally an important element of most everyone's game is chipping. Surprisingly, today on the PGA Tour it's in danger of becoming a lost art. With more and more elevated greens, and roughs deep and thick, plus lightning fast greens, tour players emphasis today is on lofting (pitching) the ball on to the green with spin using 54°, 56°, and 60° wedges. Watching the recent Tour Championship I saw not one chip shot. The last time I saw the pros chipping was the '04 Open Championship (British). For most amateurs chipping is a much easier shot than pitching. Chipping is a rolling short shot. Any club may be used, including a fairway metal, depending upon distance to the hole and terrain.

The key to chipping success is following a few basic fundamentals:

• Position the ball even with your right instep (lefties left instep).
• Weight is on your left foot.
• Stance is slightly open (left foot pulled back 4").
• Hands are well forward of the ball (even with your left thigh) at address and impact.
• Swing is a downward action with your hands staying forward of the ball.
• Left wrist is flat (in line with your forearm) at and after impact.
• Let your body pivot slightly on entire swing.
• Take an 8 o'clock to 4 o'clock swing.
• Let your right heel come off the ground after impact.

Remember, a chip shot is easier to execute than a pitch. It should always be your first option.