More golf strokes are needlessly wasted around the green than anywhere else on the course. Many times you’ll be sitting just a few yards off the green and require what seems to be a simple enough short shot to get the ball on the green.
If you’re tempted to grab for the putter or have a habit of sending the ball screaming across the green, have we got the tip for you!
The shot you are trying to execute for this situation is called a Bump and Run shot. This shot does not get in the air very high but rather is used to get the ball over the rough stuff and onto the green rolling like a putt. Therefore, depending on your distance and other course situations, you’re best bet is going to be a 7, 8, or 9 iron and possibly a pitching wedge.
In order to successfully perform this shot you must begin with a good setup for the shot.
- Feet close together
- Choke down half way on the handle of the club
- Ball back in your stance
- Weight on your front foot
- Hands ahead of the ball. (See Pictures)
As for the actual stroke, it is the hitting down on the ball with your hands ahead of the clubhead that is the real key to proper contact and consistent shots. The Bump and Run shot is a firm, short, downward strike that pops the ball into the air and then rolls (“runs”) towards your target. You should never attempt to help the ball in the air or help it forward.
Use practice time to experiment with various clubs so you can get a feel for both the trajectory and distance each provides so you can better select the club to “bump” with when it really counts.
And just for kicks… Right before you hit your next “Bump and Run” shot on the course, turn to your partner and say, “Hey, did you know former Texas Rangers second baseman, Bump Wills’ real name was Elliott?” True fact!
View previous tip: #4 Recover in one.
© The Villages, 2007
posted by ChelseaLad
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