This week’s blog topic is about ‘Controlling Your Ball Flight In The Wind’

As players head overseas to play in The Scottish Open and make final preparations for The Open at Royal Portrush, I feel like it’s the PERFECT time to explore playing in the wind. Playing in windy conditions is the ultimate test of your ball striking. Crisp, clean contact is a must for playing your best in the wind.

However, there are a few principles about how your ball will behave in the wind that can have a huge effect on your club and shot selection, understanding these can help you avoid making big errors and big scores in the wind. Here’s a deeper look at how to navigate the 3 that will help you make better decisions out in the wind.

HITTING INTO THE WIND HURTS MORE THAN HITTING WITH THE WIND HELPS

Ex: Hitting from 140 yards in a 20mph wind Hitting with the wind = 12 yds gain of carry Hitting into the wind = 28 yds loss of carry! KEY TAKEAWAY : Take more club than you think when hitting into wind.

HITTING INTO THE WIND MAKES THE BALL CURVE MORE

Whatever your usual shot shape, when playing into the wind you can expect to see that shot shape exaggerated. The opposite effect is also true, when hitting downwind you can expect to see your ball curve less. KEY TAKEAWAY : Allow more space for the ball to curve when hitting into the wind.

DOWNWIND = BIGGER BOUNCE & MORE ROLL/HEADWIND = SMALLER BOUNCES & LESS ROLL

When hitting downwind, the ball will land at a shallower angle than usual meaning a bigger forward bounce and more roll. On the flip side, hitting into the wind usually means the ball lands on a steeper angle into the ground meaning a smaller first bounce and less roll. KEY TAKEAWAY : Downwind = Play for bigger bounce and more roll. Headwind = Play for smaller bounce and less roll.

Have A Great Week Everyone!

– Coach Tim