GOLF TIP by Kristine Callan
LPGA Teaching Professional
Dobson Ranch Golf Course
Mesa, Arizona
(602) 625-7338

"Fake It Till You Make It"

The mental game of golf is an art in itself and takes practice. Years ago my friend and playing partner, Corey Pavin's caddy Eric, turned to me after making a sand shot and said, "You always make par out of the sand trap." Ever since that day whenever I get in a sand trap I know I am going to make par from a sand trap. It occurred to me that I should focus on accomplishing exactly what I want to do on every shot.

Let's take chipping. Do you know that you could get the ball in the hole on every chip shot? Most people never think they could chip the ball in the hole and set up over the ball expecting little or no success. One of my favorite little phrases is "Fake it till you make it!" Pretend that you are going to sink the ball in the hole every time until you know that your are! Chipping from off the green is an extension of the putting stroke. A good chip stroke means that the shoulders, arms and hand (the triangle) work together. My junior golfers say it feels like a robot!

Out of the mouths of babes. Put your hands all the way down on the grip of the club for more control. Aim the clubface to the target. Take your stance with feet very close together putting 70 percent of your weight on the left or target side leg. Maintain a consistent grip pressure and make sure you aren't tight in your shoulders, arms or hands. Keep an even speed in your back swing and follow through. The most common errors come from a slow back swing and a fast jerky through upswing.

Practice in the mirror a few minutes each day to see the smooth speed and consistent swing arc. After you have developed a consistent chipping technique and have success in getting the ball up in the air and on the target line, we can learn to control the distance.