After the rain, we are back on the links, and how beautiful it was today. Clear sunny skies, 63 degree weather.

I had fun and good results helping three ladies on the North course today. We worked on the ‘course or shot strategy’, especially the short shots around the green. Learning to use the correct loft and roll are so important to understand. Know when and where to make the best shot selection increases your chances of getting the ball close to the hole. If the pin is cut close to the front of the green and minimum rolling room is available, you should select a high flying shot that stops quickly. Select your most lofted club, sand or lob wedge. This shot looks dramatic but is a lower percentage shot (unless your name is Phil and you like to ‘flop’).

As a rule of thumb get the ball on the green and lower to the ground whenever you can, and increase your percentages to knock the ball close. If the pin is cut in the middle or the rear part of the green you have more room to roll the ball. Take a lower lofted club, pitching wedge or 9 iron and fly the ball to the front part of the green allowing the ball to run toward the pin. Play the ball in the middle of your stance and lean the shaft an inch forward to help you nip the bottom of the ball creating a little backspin to help the ball brake.