Fine-Tuning the Approach Shot in Golf

Based in Northern California, Clifford Bernard Malone Jr. is retired from a career as an attorney and legal consultant. Having been active with Diablo Country Club for many years, past lawyer Clifford Bernard Malone Jr. enjoys tennis and golf in his free time.

One aspect of golf that requires careful calibration is the approach shot. In many cases, sand traps and water hazards need to be navigated in order to get the ball on the green. While some shots are within chipping distance, the average approach shot is about 100 to 200 feet from the hole.

One tip is not to worry too much about getting the ball at exactly the right position on the green. It’s far more important to avoid hazards, as one would likely prefer facing a long putt or two than be stuck hacking the ball out of sand on an incline. When in doubt, pick a higher number iron and go a little longer than you otherwise would, as overshooting the target is not the worst result.

Sometimes shorter shots can be the trickiest, as you need to hold back and add backspin if possible. When the distance is within 85 to 120 feet, try combining a regular iron with an easy or shortened swing. At about 30 feet, a sand wedge may come into play.