Delo’s Divots: Have you ever hit what you think is a great chip
shot, only to see it run off the edge of the green? What many
players don’t realize is the need to adjust your golf ball with the
condition of the greens.
Have you ever hit what you think is a great chip shot, only to see it run off the edge of the green? What many players don’t realize is the need to adjust your golf ball with the condition of the greens.
I know what a lot of you are thinking:
‘Hogwash. I’m not good enough for the golf ball to make a difference.’
Well, one way to get better is to think like a better player, and that requires having the correct ball for the conditions.
We all like to hit it long off the tee. However, you pay a price for that hard-distance ball when you get around or on the green. The ball won’t spin as much, making it difficult to stop it on firm summer greens when chipping. The same result can happen when putting the ball. Often times the ball will jump off of the putter face quickly and be tough to control.
Below is this week’s San Benito Score, which includes a golf tip from the local Ridgemark pro.
Usually you will only gain a few yards off the tee with the hard-distance ball. However, you will lose much more control when you get around the green. Switching to a softer ball with higher spin can be beneficial for everyone’s game in the summer.
If you are not sure which ball is right for you, check the description on the ball’s box or ask your local pro.
Don DeLorenzo is a PGA-certified instructor at Gilroy Golf Course. To schedule a lesson with Don, call Gilroy GC at (408) 848-0490.
