Other than the driver, the most intimidating club in your bag is
probably your lob/sand wedge
Other than the driver, the most intimidating club in your bag is probably your lob/sand wedge. Because we watch a lot of golf on TV, we think it’s the club we need to use around the greens on every shot. But remember, the guys and gals on TV are very skilled and can hit those shots very well. The average player should often leave that club in the bag and use a more forgiving, lower-lofted club around the greens.
Now there are occasions when you have no choice. But when there is nothing in front of you, and you have the ability to bounce a shot onto the green, pick a different club.
A lot of players get into trouble when the grass around the green is very thin and tightly mown. Trying to hit a high-lofted wedge from that lie is a recipe for disaster. Use a pitching wedge or 9-iron because the design of the club is not so rounded. You’ll have a better chance of hitting it solid and not digging or skulling your shot.
Don DeLorenzo is a PGA-certified instructor at Gilroy Golf Course. To schedule a lesson with Don, call Gilroy GC at (408) 848-0490.
