If you play golf regularly in the spring, you’re going to
encounter a day or two when the wind blows. To be a successful
player in wind, you have to play smart and follow some basic rules
of thumb.
If you play golf regularly in the spring, you’re going to encounter a day or two when the wind blows. To be a successful player in wind, you have to play smart and follow some basic rules of thumb.
Remember to calculate the wind into EVERY shot. This means using less club if the wind is behind you. Take more club if the wind is blowing into your face. And if it’s blowing from the side, expect the ball to move in that direction while in the air.
There is no exact science, but a general rule of thumb is a five to 10 mph wind will change your club selection by one club. So, a 25 mph wind is probably going to change your club selection by two to three clubs. In other words, if the wind is in your face, hit a 4-iron when you would normally hit a 6- or 7-iron.
Another good rule to live by: Don’t hit any high-lofted clubs when going into the wind. Eliminate the 5- and 7-wood. Also, don’t use a sand or pitching wedge if going into the wind.
When going with the wind, remember that the wind will not only cause the ball to travel a greater distance, but it will also be more difficult to stop the ball on the green. In this instance, play for the ball to bounce and roll farther. As far as technique is concerned, no adjustment is necessary when playing downwind.
When going against the wind, you will benefit from putting the ball back in your stance and pushing your hands ahead to de-loft your club. This will help keep the trajectory lower, and lower trajectory means lower scores in the wind.
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Don DeLorenzo is a PGA-certified instructor at Gilroy Golf Course. To schedule a lesson with Don, call Gilroy GC at (408) 848-0490.
