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Bag your wedge from these tricky greenside spots
TL;DR
Learn how to effectively use a 5-iron bump-and-run shot from tricky greenside spots at TPC Sawgrass. This method can be more reliable than using a wedge or putting.
Key points
- TPC Sawgrass has challenging run-off areas around greens
- A 5-iron bump-and-run is a reliable shot from tricky spots
- Using a 5-iron can help the ball reach the hole more easily
Mentioned in this story
TPC Sawgrass
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JD Cuban
Many holes at TPC Sawgrass, where I teach, have run-off areas around the greens. Miss your target by just a few yards or catch an unlucky hop, and you can easily find yourself with a delicate little uphill chip from one of these collection areas. Now, you could grab your wedge or even putt the ball, but I find the easiest, most reliable method to be a 5-iron bump-and-run. Itâs essentially a putt, but because thereâs more heft to the club and loft on the face, the ball has an easier time getting to the hole. Hereâs how to play this shot.
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JD Cuban
At address, play the ball in the middle of your stance with your weight favoring your front foot. Grip down to the metal on the shaft and lift the heel of the clubhead off the ground so that only the toe is contacting the turf (above). This makes your 5-iron play at a similar length to your putter, enhancing your control, and also raises the shaft angle so the club can swing straighter back and through, like your putter, and not on a rounded arc.
From there, simply imagine you're putting. Ask yourself: How hard would I have to hit a putt of the same distance to get the ball to the hole? Make a few practice strokes to the side of the ball trying to match the length of the stroke to that distance. Then, once youâre ready, repeat the same stroke in real time (top). The ball will have a little extra giddyup to it and should roll like a putt once it reaches the green surface. Donât worry about coming up short; just get your putter and go knock in the next one to save your par.
Q&A
What is a 5-iron bump-and-run shot in golf?
A 5-iron bump-and-run shot is a technique where the golfer uses a 5-iron to play a low, rolling shot towards the hole, making it easier to navigate tricky greenside areas.
Why is the bump-and-run shot preferred over using a wedge?
The bump-and-run shot is preferred because it provides more control and reliability, especially from collection areas around the greens, compared to using a wedge.
Where is TPC Sawgrass located and why is it significant for golfers?
TPC Sawgrass is located in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, and is significant for golfers as it hosts the prestigious Players Championship and features challenging course designs.
