Golf is a game of opposites, where one hits down to make the ball rise and oftentimes finds enhanced distance by swinging softer.
While many players can drive the ball 250 yards a few times a round, how many golfers can consistently stick it within five feet of the cup from within 100 yards?
Wedge play is the key to scoring. The vast majority of players can count on one gloved finger the number of times they have shot within gimme’ range with the pin clearly in sight and a lofted club in hand while on the course.
Do you swing with aggression? Do you use touch? Feel? Where should the ball be in relation to your stance? What’s the best club to use and how should you angle that clubface?
All these queries confront most mid-handicappers, including many who rarely practice a shot that can turn a handful of bogeys into a handful of pars.
To assist with those testy 60-yard shots from both the turf and sand, Mike Ellis, senior instructor at the Marriott Golf Academy at Shadow Ridge Golf Club in Palm Desert, has some helpful tips.
Marriott Golf Academy at Marriott’s Shadow Ridge Golf Club, 9002 Shadow Ridge Road, Palm Desert, 760-674-2700; www.marriottgolfacademy.com and www.golfshadowridge.com
VIDEO: Professional golf instructor Mike Ellis demonstrates how to shave strokes off your game with these helpful tips on using a wedge club.