How to play a tight lie is one of the most challenging shots in golf. Proper execution is undoubtedly important, but selecting the proper shot is really the key to success! Do you putt the ball, chip it or flop it are just some of the things that go through your head as you look over the situation. I came across the picture below and thought I would get your advice on how you would play it.

How would you play this golf shot?

This shot happened a few years ago at a scramble golf tournament. My three playing partners and I were lying 2 on a par 5. As we surveyed the shot, each of us played it differently. Here is what happened:

• The first player tried putt the ball and you can see the results in the picture.
• The second player hit a bump and run. He tried to hit the ball short and hoped it would bounce up to the pin. His shot was short and the player picked up.
• The third player flopped the ball, it landed on the fringe and the ball rolled up about 8 inches from the pin. It was an easy tap in for birdie.
• I tried to flop the ball to the pin with the hopes of the ball landing just short and slowly rolling into the hole. I was unable to put a spin on the ball, so my ball released 4 feet past the hole.

As you can see, we tried a different shots to make the up and down. The success of the third player made my shot easier and thus I was more aggressive than normal. How I would play the shot is really not important; what is important is how you would play the shot!

How would you approach this shot?

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