Tip of the Month – Chip and Run Shot

Golf Tips – How to Chip a Shot in Golf

If you are getting started in golf, the chip and run is the first shot you should learn to play from around the green. This is probably the shot you will turn to most often, although it will depend somewhat on the style of courses you play. A chip and run is a shot that flies in the air for only a short distance before getting back on the ground and rolling the rest of the way to the hole.

To play a chip and run shot, the first thing you need to do is assess the situation in front of you to decide if this is the right option. After all, if you decide to play a chip and run when it really isn’t called for, you will most likely end up with a poor result. To use this shot, you are going to need plenty of room to work with between your ball and the hole, so look for a reasonable amount of green between your ball and the hole and make sure the green isn’t sloping away from you too severely.

 So when you feel the situation is right to play a chip and run, here is some simple steps to follow:

1. Select a relatively low lofted club to use for the shot. While the exact club you want to use will vary based on the distance of the shot and the shape of the green, something between a six iron and a pitching wedge should work well. During your practice sessions, work on shots with a variety of clubs so you are well prepared on the course.
2. Before taking your stance, you should read this shot in much the same way you would read a putt. Get a good idea of the slope that is going to be in play on the green and adjust your line accordingly. Since the ball is going to be on the ground most of the time it is in motion, you need to make sure you get a good read.
3. As you set up to the shot, grip down the shaft a couple of inches and use a stance that is similar to the one you use for putting. Place the ball in the middle of your stance or slightly back and spread your feet wide enough to build a good base. When you take your stance you should make sure you are leaning towards the target at address.
4. Now that you are all set, you are basically going to use a putting stroke motion to hit the shot. Rock your shoulders back and through and allow the club to catch the ball cleanly just prior to taking a small divot from the grass. On longer shots, it is okay to use a bit of wrist hinge to add power, but this is a shot that should mostly be hit with your shoulder action.

Not only is the chip and run one of the most useful shots in golf, it is also one of the easiest to hit. With a little bit of practice and a good understanding of the basics, you should be able to get comfortable with the chip and run in no time at all.

Check out our monthly golf tips from our Thornleigh Golf Professionals.