- The pitch shot is basically a miniature full swing with some variations
- Usually a pitching, gap, sand or lob wedge is the club used for this shot
- The ball should be positioned slightly forward of centre in the stance for a normal lie
- The handle of the club is situated slightly ahead of the clubhead in the address position
- The hands and arms should be inert (‘dead’)
- The ball should be hit with a descending blow.
- A ball’s proximity to a firm surface affects how much spin can be applied.
- The body should be allowed to move gracefully and weight will shift as required. Contrary to earlier teaching methodologies, it is unnecessary to keep the lower body perfectly still during the pitch shot.
- Altering the ball position can change the trajectory of the shot. To elevate the ball (trajectory), elevate the stance (move the ball forward in the stance).
- There should be some wrist action. Pitching is referred to as a ‘two-lever stroke’.
Each pitching situation is unique. The same stroke with different wedges from different ‘lies’ (types and lengths of grass) will produce varying flight to roll ratios. The best way to determine which club to select is by experimenting with different wedges from different lies. The shorter the grass under the ball, the more likely the ball will ‘check’ (slow down as a result of extra backspin on the ball). The longer the grass under the ball, the less likely the ball will have any backspin. Therefore, there will be more ‘release’ (continuing to roll forward).
Modern misconception: The ball will go further with a driver than any other club. Not true. Until the golfer is swinging at a higher swing speed and making contact with the centre of the clubface, extra loft (5 and 7woods) will produce higher, straighter, longer golf shots. See for yourself. Hit 10 orange balls with a driver and 10 white balls with a higher lofted wood. You might be amazed.
