IN soft and wet conditions it is sometimes tough to get the ball up to the hole on long chip shots. But there is a technique that fires the ball out low and hot, with minimal backspin – a combination that helps the ball run out to the pin. It is a rather unusual technique that will have the club’s butt pointing at your right hip at set-up. And with a little practice, you will find this a low-risk, useful shot.‘Punch’ the club
The correct feeling through impact is of ‘punching’ the clubhead through the ball. Avoid getting the hands to lead – it will only create a ‘choppy’ strike and a ‘checking’ ball. Instead, aim to return the shaft to vertical at impact.Straight faced
Rely on that back ball position to give you clean contact and the straight face you are using to keep the ball low and ‘running’.
1. Back foot, shaft vertical
You can play this shot with anything from a 6-iron to a wood. Close your stance and position the ball opposite your rail foot. Avoid any forward shaft lean – it creates a downward strike that adds backspin. Instead, let the shaft run vertically up, towards your right hip. This set-up promotes an early, shallow strike, allowing clean contact with minimal spin.
2. Shoulders control motion
Think of it more as a long putt than a chip. Keep your hands and wrists quiet and let the bigger muscles in your body and shoulders control the movement. They create a wider arc to your action and a shallower strike through impact.
