Something for the Weekend: Try chipping with a 3-wood

For those who get the jitters when it comes to that little chip shot around the green, perhaps it’s time to pull out the 3-wood. Australian Tour pro Nikki Garret explains...

“One problem I see with amateurs is they lack creativity around the greens. After all, we don’t paint pictures on the scorecard - only numbers.

“Using a sand wedge or lob wedge on every greenside shot is not always a low-risk strategy for getting the ball up and down.

“Here's a situation where the ball has landed short of the green on a par-5. The lie is good, but a little too good. It is sitting tight on the surface so attempting a precise nip off the top of the grass with a sand iron threatens a potential duff.

“Use a 3-wood. It gets the ball running and when played properly, will result in an easy up-and-down. This shot lets you take a shorter, slower and therefore more controlled putting stroke with a Choke down grip.

“Address the ball between your forward heel and middle of your stance, stand a little more upright slightly open with a narrow stance.

“Make a level pendulum by moving your arms and shoulders without movement in your wrists. Your follow-through should be similar to a putting stroke and will help determine the length of your shot to keep the ball running at the hole.

“Remember, though, the spring-effect on the clubface will make the ball come off a little more hot than a putt.”

Want more?

Head to our Something for the Weekend index. Remember to let us know how you get on and share your own tips with us in the forum and on our Facebook page. You can also tweet us @Golfmagic.

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