Understanding the mechanics of chipping immediately puts many golfers to sleep. The hear a ‘blah blah blah’ as someone drones on about the plethora of chipping topics. I have to admit that sometimes I also lose interest if I am watching a video and the instructor does not quickly get to the point. In the past, I have talked about how to successfully execute shots around the green. Forward press, open stance, clubface path, etc are some of the topics that can be gleaned from my articles. The one topic I have yet to discuss is the trajectory of the ball. I wonder why?

Lee Trevino offers a very simple explanation about how to adjust the trajectory of your golf ball while chipping. It is simple, something that I understand, and easy to practice. When I watched the video, it was easy to see what he was talking about and it lends to how I already play. It is interesting how sometimes my golf game evolves without conscious effort an this is one of those cases.

For the most part, the flip of my wrists is something I do not do often. I do not like the high flop shot, however it is a shot in my bag. When I am practicing before a round, I do try a few of these shots to ensure that I aware of what my hands and body must do to execute this difficult shot. Again, it is not my shot of choice when playing.

The lower trajectory shots are my favourite. I find that my up and down percentage is greatly improved when I hit the ball lower. I am able to control this shot better than the high trajectory shots. Additionally, I find that I have a greater club selection that using a high lofted club for a flop shot. For my game, it is about having options and enough confidence to pull off the shot. Using Trevino’s advice, I understand that there are times when I must use the more difficult shot and watching the butt of the club move as a guide is helpful.

The number of shots available when chipping around the green are numerous. Understanding how to swing the club for any specific shot expands the selection. For me, Trevino added another piece to by golfing puzzle and hopefully I can build a stronger game because my golf knowledge has expanded.

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