Stop the ball dead

[as_golfer]

Hi There

I have just registered and I can say so far I am really happy I have done so !! . I would like to ask a question if anyone couls answer?

I would like to know how to get the golf ball to stop and stick when I hit into the green with say a sand wedge or a pitching wedge? When I usually hit my wedges into the green the so stop but still have a tendancy to roll a little past the flag which leaves a longer putt.

I also have been wondering when people in my local club tell me to hit down on the ball to create backspin but when i try this i sometimes hit the ball thin ( maybe because i am increasing my through swing)

Any advise please tell !!

Cheers

Alan

[gord962]

Re: Stop the ball dead

To get the ball to hit and stop, the same technique is needed as it is to spin the ball back, just not as much clubhead speed. When hitting down on the ball you must hit the ball first, then the ground. Pinching the ball between the ground and your clubface will increase the spin rate, creating more backspin. When taking a divot, don't make a crator, just a nice sized divot, about 3 inches long and 1/4 inch deep. Also ensure that the ball and clubface are clean. If you are in the rough where you can't get the clubface clean on the ball (grass is in between your club and the ball at impact) then there will not be as much spin on the ball, creating more roll.

[pgmetcalf]

Re: Stop the ball dead

One more thing, the pros playing in the open this week would like to fly evey approach shot to the pin and get it to stop suddenly but unfortunately it isn't going to happen. Despite the quality of the professionals' shots factors such as slope and green firmness will lessen the affect of backspin.

[Simon Woo]

Re: Stop the ball dead

If you are near enough you can try to hit a lob shot - hitting is really high and steep? Naturally when it comes down it wouldn't roll that much...