During this wet weather period, one of the most frustrating
things is a chip shot that
”
checks up
”
with some backspin, ending up far short of the hole
During this wet weather period, one of the most frustrating things is a chip shot that “checks up” with some backspin, ending up far short of the hole. Normally, a good chip shot has a small amount of back spin. However, even a small amount coupled with soft greens will cause a ball to stop short. The solution to this problem is the “Runyan” method.
Paul Runyan was a short game guru who played on the PGA Tour in the 60s. His method was taught to me early in my golf career, and I use it to this day. It is a perfect way to take backspin off your chip shots, giving you a very consistent, predictable roll to the hole.
This method is generally best when around the green, where a bump-and-run shot would be played. It won’t work on a lob shot or pitch shot over a sand trap, or any other time when you want the ball to bite.
Take a medium-lofted iron such as a 5-, 6-, 7- or 8-iron, depending on how far you need the ball to travel. Choke down and grip the club as you would your putter, even making it similar to your putter’s length. Rest the club on the toe so the heel is off the ground by half to three-quarters of an inch. Address the ball out, toward the toe, and hit the ball using a putting stroke. The ball will come off like a knuckleball, with no spin until it lands. At that time, it will roll just like a putt.
Remember, this is a great solution to wet greens, as well as when you DON’T want the ball to check up. The length of your stroke should equal the length of your shot. And just like putting, DON’T use your wrists. Stroke it just like a putt.
Don DeLorenzo is a PGA-certified instructor at Gilroy Golf Course. To schedule a lesson with Don, call Gilroy GC at (408) 848-0490.
