Everyone has been new to golf at some point, and I'm sure we all got bogged down with chasing long drives off the tee and seeing how far we could smash the ball down the fairway. But it definitely pays to work on that short game as a rookie, as that is where you will start to seriously improve your scorecard.
The short game - which includes chipping, pitching, bunker play and putting - makes a huge chunk of your strokes during a round. As a matter of fact, it's said that the short game accounts for almost two-thirds of a golfer's score. So, rookies, are you ready to save strokes and build some confidence around the green? Without further ado, let's hit the fairway!
Practise At The Putting Greens
The most important point to note: don't overthink it. The goal with chipping and pitching is straightforward - get the ball on the green rolling toward the hole. Aim fro solid contact with the ball and a consistent tempo instead of using fancy techniques. Needless to say, use more lofted clubs, such as the pitching wedge or the sand wedge, get nice and low to the ball, and focus on a small and controlled swing.
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Learn The Bump And Run
Not all chip shot needs to soar into the air. Often the smartest play is to keep the ball low and let it roll out like a putt, also known as the "bump and run".
Grab a 7- or 8-iron, take a putt-like motion and aim for a landing spot just onto the green - then let the ball role to the hole.
Master Putting Fundamentals
Putting can feel tough to start, but keeping it simple is crucial. The keys are:
- A steady stance and quiet hands
- Eyes directly over the ball
- A short, smooth stroke
N.B. Spend more time practising lag putting (getting long putts close) than obsessing over making every short one.
Don't Fear The Sand
Bunkers seem scary, but rest assured, they are not as frightening as one might think.
Focus on hitting the sand behind the ball, and not the ball itself. Open your clubface a bit, aim a couple inches behind the ball, and hit through the sand.
Feel Over Mechanics
When near the green, feel matters just as much as technique. Practise different lies, slopes, and distances to develop a sense of how hard or soft to swing. Follow your instincts, and don't focus too much trying to make a "perfect" motion every time.
If you're serious about improving your golf game, mastering the short game is the fastest way to making your scorecards look even better, and most importantly, help you to have more fun on the course. Note: you do not have to be flawless - just good enough around the greens to save yourself a couple shots per round. Your scorecard will thank you!
Thanks for reading and, as always, keep it in the short grass! 🏌️