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Tony Rowe
PGA Professional
Tip 16: Topping & Skying Shots
The tee shot is the key to good golf. But two common mis-hits can ruin your chances for a good score. One is the skied shot, which is caused by a steep downswing. Position the ball forward in your stance, just inside your left heel. Your right elbow should be relaxed and tucked close to your side. Your right shoulder will be lower than the left and your weight slightly on your right side. Start the club back low, slow and slightly to the inside. Now let the club swing around as you turn. Golfers often lift the club up vertically, causing that steep downswing. Finally, as you swing down, keep your right elbow close to your side and sweep the ball upward off the tee. Another frightful shot is the topped shot that does not get airborne. This is usually caused by a poor transfer of your weight. On your backswing, your weight should shift gradually to the right. On the downswing, it must shift back to the left. Your goal should be a balanced finish with your weight on the left side using your right tip toe as a balance point. Try these pointers, and next time you'll find yourself in better position off the tee.
Tony Rowe is a PGA Golf Professional at the Ellington Ridge Country Club, Ellington, CT. To improve your game, visit a Connecticut Section PGA Golf Professional.