This is a quandary for all golfers regardless of your skill level.  You are on fringe within in 5 feet of the green.  You have a decision to make whether to leave the pin in or to take it out. It is really tough to determine the best course of action…..it could mean the tournament!   Okay a little mellow dramatic, but I think you get my point.  What do you do?

Dave Pelx from Golf .com conducted a scientific study to determine the answer.  He says leave the flag in as the rules allow.  Speed is the most important factor and the flag is your best friend when putting aggressively to the hole.

Don Trahan from Swingsurgeon.com has a completely different view.  He says the pin is only in the way, and whenever possible take it out.  He states that the pin reduces your margin of error and that removing it allows for a greater result.

Well there you have it.  The answer is depends.  There are so many variables regarding chipping, that there is on right answer….or so it seems.  The right answer is which ever you chose while making the shot.

I, for example, try to remove the flag as often as possible.  I believe that it does get in the way and if removed, it allows for a greater chance of the ball going in.  You know what they say – Pull the Pin, Its Going In!

What say you?