BUSH TELEGRAPH
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PGA PRO TIP OF THE MONTH<br />
RIDING THE<br />
WIND<br />
I don’t know of any caddie-player team on<br />
the PGA Tour that competes without knowing<br />
two things: (1) The prevailing wind direction<br />
for the round and (2) the wind direction at<br />
any given moment. It’s against the rules to<br />
use a compass during a round, but you can<br />
use a weather app on your phone to find out<br />
the wind speed and direction. Don’t underestimate<br />
the importance of this in determining<br />
club selection and shot shape.<br />
Although you might know what to do into the<br />
wind—take more club and swing easier—<br />
downwind shots tend to cause players fits,<br />
because the ball often reacts counter to what<br />
you might expect. Unless you hit a shot on a<br />
fairly high trajectory, it won’t ride the wind.<br />
Instead, it will get knocked down because<br />
of a reduction in backspin, and the expected<br />
distance gains won’t materialize. To take advantage<br />
of a breeze at your back, first set up<br />
to hit a higher shot: Address the ball farther<br />
forward, and let your spine tilt away from the<br />
target a little (right). Have the ball setup opposite<br />
the left heel (pic) with your shoulders<br />
at more of an angle (see pic)<br />
Next thing to do is watch your ball fly high<br />
and far.<br />
Yours in Golf, Kyle Caitano,<br />
PGA Golf Professional<br />
Zimbali Country Club,<br />
079 507 4675<br />
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