May Avid Golfer - Pitching/Sand Play

The pitching and sand motions are very similar.  Both require the bounce of the club to hit the ground at impact.  One shot you make contact with the ball and one you don't.  Ball position varies slightly between the two shots.
Attached is a link to my most recent article in Avid Golfer Magazine.  Check it out for a more detailed description at improving these two shots.

Avid Golfer - May issue

Chunky Shots

Nothing is worse than to have a short chip, around the green, and chunk it.  Obviously, you hit the ground first when this occurs.  Here's a few things to focus on to avoid this embarrassing shot.

1.  Make sure the ball isn't too far forward.
2.  Create some wristcock in the backswing and retain it in the downswing.
3.  Have the club swinging down the plane not underneath it.
4.  Allow your lower body to turn through the shot as the club swings through.
5.  Lead with the left arm and hand.

Watch this short video for a more complete explanation on curing the chunks.

Chunk Shots

Playing in the Wind

Spring time in Texas means golf in the wind.  To be successful you must adjust a few things.  First, don't fight the wind.  You can't win that battle.  Adjust for it.  Take more club, make a smaller swing, turn your left hand down at impact and focus on solid contact.
The attached video will walk you through the recipe for a successful wind shot.

Playing in the Wind