Break 90: Playing into the wind made easy
A large element of golf is learning the skill to select the right shot at the right time. Here I hope to provide you with an alternative shot to reduce the height of the ball and produce a lower penetrating flight with less likelihood of the ball being blown off line or ballooning. Playing golf in the wind is a chance to test your creativity and patience!
ADDRESS THE SITUATION
- Start off by widening the stance for increased stability during very windy days. This, in addition to the ball positioned slightly further back towards your non-target foot with a forward leaning shaft towards the target, will help to keep the ball lower. To help replicate this position at impact try placing a little extra weight on your target foot.
- The one temptation we have to resist is trying to make up for the loss of distance into the wind, the harder and faster you swing the higher the ball will travel. To counteract this take an extra club and make a smooth 3⁄4 backswing concentrating on the tempo whilst covering the ball with your chest at impact. A slightly lower and curtailed followthrough will help too.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to pay attention and select a ‘smart target’ taking into account the effect crosswinds will have on the flight and play percentage shot. Remember, downwind try taking a 3-wood for additional carry but above all enjoy the challenge, it’s the same for everyone. As the saying goes ‘When it’s breezy, swing it easy’.
Sarah is a PGA Fellow and Head Teaching Professional at Three Rivers Golf & Country Club. She is also the England U18 East Region Head Coach. www.sarahbennettgolf.co.uk