Pitching

• The pitch shot is basically a miniature full swing with some variations
• Usually a pitching, gap, sand or lob wedge is the club used for this shot
• The ball should be positioned slightly forward of centre in the stance for a normal lie (see image at right)
• The handle of the club is situated slightly ahead of the clubhead in the address position
• The hands and arms should be inert (‘dead’)
• The ball should be hit with a descending blow


Correct Ball Position

• A ball’s proximity to a firm surface affects how much spin can be applied.
• The body should be allowed to move gracefully and weight will shift as required. Contrary to earlier teaching methodologies, it is unnecessary to keep the lower body perfectly still during the pitch shot.
• Altering the ball position can change the trajectory of the shot. To elevate the ball (trajectory), elevate the stance (move the ball forward in the stance).
• There should be some wrist action. Pitching is referred to as a ‘two-lever stroke’.

Each pitching situation is unique. The same stroke with different wedges from different ‘lies’ (types and lengths of grass) will produce varying flight to roll ratios. The best way to determine which club to select is by experimenting with different wedges from different lies.

The shorter the grass under the ball, the more likely the ball will ‘check’ (slow down as a result of extra backspin on the ball).

The longer the grass under the ball, the less likely the ball will have any backspin. Therefore, there will be more ‘release’ (continuing to roll forward).

Justin Tomasulo is the Assistant Professional at Emerald Hills Golf & Country Club in Toronto. He can be reached at www.jtgolf.ca
Note: The teaching methodology solely reflects the views of the author and may not reflect the views or opinions of the Ontario PGA or GolfScene About the Ontario PGA Established in 1927, the Ontario Professional Golfers’ Association is a non-profit association comprised of approximately 1,300 golf professionals from Belleville to Windsor with a mandate to promote and advance the game of golf, serving the needs of both its membership and the golf public through professional and junior golf development programs and high-calibre competitive events. For more info, visit www.ontariopga.com

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