We continue with the 30 yard pitch technique, discussing in this video ways to change the trajectory of the shot without changing the basic swing and striking mechanics. First, in order to lower the trajectory of the shot we simply change clubs. I use two sandwedges, one with 52 degrees of loft and one with 58 degrees of loft, and I encourage my students to do the same, as I believe having only two wedges makes it easier to choose which club to use and allows for more practice time with each. My 52 degree has 8 degrees of bounce, while my 58 is actually a 60 bent down 2 degrees, and since it started with 6 degrees of bounce it ends up with only 4. Obviously, when I am facing a shot that has a bit of green to work with I can land the ball closer to me and let the ball run, which is accomplished easier with the 52 than the 58. I rarely use a pitching wedge to pitch, as my impact produces such a low trajectory that I reserve that shot for large greens or up tiers.
Hitting the ball higher is more problematical, as elevating the ball suggests to most players the need to “get under the ball”. I urge all my students to never “get under the ball”, but rather to always hit the ball before hitting the ground with a downward, trapping blow. It seems almost illogical to hit down on the ball to get it to fly high in the air, but that is exactly what I want you to do. To hit the ball higher while still hitting down on the ball we first open the face more, then we might move the ball a bit more forward in the stance, although this is the more dangerous of the changes. It is important to note that to open the face of the wedge you must first open the club, then take the grip. Just gripping then twisting the face open doesn’t count.
Join the forum discussion on this post