BUSH TELEGRAPH

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