They say “drive for show, putt for dough,” but we all know where the real magic happens in that crucial 30-yard zone around the green. Whether you’re looking to save par or simply avoid the dreaded snowman, a sharp short game is the fastest way to lower your handicap.
To help you sharpen your skills before your next round, here is a quick guide to the four essential shots every golfer should have in their bag.
1. The Bump and Run (The High-Percentage Play)
When you have plenty of green to work with and no hazards in the way, keep the ball on the ground. It’s much easier to control a rolling ball than a flying one.
- The Club: 7-iron to Gap Wedge.
- The Setup: Narrow stance, weight 60% on your lead foot, and hands slightly ahead of the ball.
- The Feel: A simple putting stroke. Minimum air time, maximum roll.
2. The Sand Shot (Embrace the Splash)
The biggest mistake in the bunker is trying to “pick” the ball clean. To get out consistently, you have to hit the sand, not the ball.
- The Setup: Open your clubface before you grip the club. Aim to strike the sand about two inches behind the ball.
- The Key: Commit to the swing! Acceleration is your best friend. Imagine “splashing” a dollar bill’s worth of sand onto the green.
3. The Flop Shot (For the Brave)
Use this only when you need to go over an obstacle and stop the ball immediately. It’s high-risk, high-reward.
- The Setup: Wide stance, ball positioned forward, and the clubface wide open (like a pancake).
- The Swing: Swing along the line of your feet with a full, soft follow-through. Let the loft of the club do the work—never try to “lift” it with your wrists.
4.General Scrambling (The Golden Rule)
- The secret to “getting up and down” isn’t always a perfect swing; it’s smart landing spots.
- Before you pull a club, walk onto the green and pick the exact spot where you want the ball to land.
- Always favor the shot that gets the ball rolling as soon as possible.
Practice Makes Permanent
The practice chipping green is often the most underutilized area of our facility. We encourage you to spend 20 minutes there before your next tee time—your scorecard will thank you.
If you’d like a personalized look at your technique, our pro shop staff is always available for a quick lesson or a series of lessons to better your game.
See you on the links,
Bart Cook, PGA
Director of Golf
