Tip From the Archives

Shoot the Ball Out of the Water

Problem

The ball is sitting in shallow water and you cannot afford adding on a stroke due to an unplayable lie.

Cure

You can play a ball that is in the water as long as you can see at least one quarter of the ball. If the ball is not sticking up that much, this shot will be extremely risky to attempt due to the light refraction in the water. A pitching wedge is an ideal club for this shot due to the sharp leading edge to help slice through the water. Due to the fact that the water is considered a hazard, you are not allowed to ground your club before attempting this shot; your club cannot enter the water until you actually swing.

Therapy

Stand with the ball placed slightly behind the center of your stance. It is, however, equally important to have stable footing in order to maintain balance. Use a slightly open club face, cock your wrist early with a steep backswing and keep your hands ahead of the ball throughout the entire swing. Contact will actually be under the water and not directly with the ball, so you will need to hit down behind the ball very hard. Keep your head down until you have completed your follow through and be prepared for a large splash in the face.

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