Wedge it close

Wedge it close

 

To be honest good players are generally competent in all areas of the game and they tend to work on all areas whether they see them as strengths or weaknesses. The stats may tell them where they are in relation to the other players on tour but in general terms they see all areas of the game as important parts to be proficient in.

However if there is an area that there is still quite a bit of a difference in between tour players and reasonably good amateurs it is the wedge game.

Playing reliable wedge shots not only comes from practice but also from a technique that allows for the efficient delivery of the clubhead to the ball both in terms of strike and speed control. This sort of technique is best achieved from a good connection with torso, arms and hand action.

A good way to think about this or indeed actually to try the exercise is what I call the beach ball drill. If you take a normal size beach ball and only inflate it about two thirds it will squash very nicely between the upper part of your arms and rest against your chest. The only way you can really play wedge shots is by moving your torso, arms and hands in unison with other. This upper half connection gives more consistency in the delivery of the clubhead to the ball once you have got over the slightly strange and restricted feeling you may have to begin with.

 PTwedge 2 PT wedge 1 PT wedge 3

Paul Thompson has been the Fellow PGA Professional at Powerscourt Golf Club in Wicklow since 1995. In addition to providing coaching on-site he also is a coach with The Golfing Union of Ireland. Appointments with Paul can be booked via Powerscourt Golf Club Reception: Tel (01) 204 6033 or the Golf Shop Tel (01) 204 6031. Read more about lessons from Paul Thompson by visiting the Powerscourt Golf Club Website.

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