Shot 5: The Chip From The Collar
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The hybrid is perfectly equipped to deal with this frustrating situation. Clean apron in front of the ball allows a shot that hugs the ground, while the thicker grass behind it makes it impossible to predict contact with any loft. While the rounded head brushes through the grass well, it still pays to minimise contact with it. Follow this three- step process:
#1. SET UP TO HIT DOWN
Play the ball off your back instep to encourage a steeper, downward attack angle. Add a little extra weight to your lead foot to further encourage a descending strike.
HANDLE AHEAD
Check you have created a reasonably straight line between your lead shoulder and the clubhead; forward shaft lean (handle forward of head) promotes a squeezing strike. Grip down the handle to boost clubhead control.
#2. BACKSWING: WRIST DRIVE
The short backswing is dominated by the hands and wrists. A sharp hinge creates the steep arc you need for a crisp, downward attack. On shorter shots, your hands will stay on top of the ball.
#3. THROUGH-SWING: GRAVITY FED SYSTEM
A great thought for the downswing is to let the clubface almost fall down on to the back of the ball. This allows you to meter and control acceleration. Keep the hands moving through to the target; never allow the clubhead to overtake them.
