Has your golf got bottle?

The next time you have time to practise your chipping don’t forget to bring some water bottles with you. Although it’s generally a good idea to keep reasonably hydrated in sport you can also use the plastic bottles to check the line of your chipping.

Place 4 empty or nearly bottles either side of the ball as illustrated.

The key with small chips just off the green is to get the feeling you are swinging the club straight back and through, although the reality is you will have a slight curve to your arc it should only be minimal.

You could always use one bottle on the range with full shots if you are having excessive problems with the path of your club through impact.

If you’re a golfer who slices the ball, your swing path will be out to in (in relation to the target line illustrated by the white stick) place the bottle on the outside of the ball but before the ball. This way the only way you can hit the ball and not the bottle is not swinging out to in.

If you’re a golfer who hooks the ball (swing path in to out in relation to the target line illustrated by the white stick) place the bottle on the outside of the ball but after the ball. This way the only way you can hit the ball and not the bottle is by not swinging in to out.

Appointments with Paul for golf lessons in Wicklow 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.