Every golf has to make a recovery shot to try and lower their golf score. Generally, it happens a few times a round and recovering from the cabbage is something that is part of our game. Sometimes, hitting back in play to save strokes has a bit more at stake as this recovery shot did by Corey Pavin. As I watched Pavin extricate his ball from an impossible lie (at least for me), I was awed at how cool he actually played the shot.

Before I dive into my thoughts, take a look at what I think is one of the greatest recovery shots of all time. I realize this is a big claim, but I think you will see what I mean after the video:

First, I would have thought about hitting this shot left handed because it was the only option. I would have immediately disregarded this shot because the difficulty of just hitting left handed (let alone from that crazy lie) makes this risk/reward shot far to risky for my skills.

Second, Pavin was leading the tournament and taking a drop would have likely challenged his chances to win. Being a gritty competitor, Pavin decided that this shot was worth the risk. It makes sense that playing it safe an option, but not if your sole goal is winning. Hence, Pavin went for it!

Third, after the amazing shot, to then step up coolly to sink the 5 foot putt to save par was icing on the cake or so I thought.

Lastly, Pavin went on to win his first Champions Tour event. His chances to win was set up by this amazing par 3, out of the cabbage, pressure putt, save.

When we combine all the factors contributing to the amount of pressure this left handed shot, I have to say that it is likely on of the greatest recovery shots I have ever seen. It was truly amazing!

What do you think? Or do you have a better example?

I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!