Solid set-up
In windy conditions, like we often find on links courses in Scotland, it is important to control the trajectory of your shots, otherwise you are not really in control of your ball. Learning how to do this can also be fun.
The fairway wood stinger is a great shot to have in your armoury if you are playing a long, tight hole into the wind - but you want both distance and accuracy.
By making a few simple set-up changes it will allow you to change your impact conditions sufficiently enough to change your ball flight.
Here’s what to do; grip down the club slightly, place the ball slightly further back in your stance and position your weight slightly in favour of your front foot.
Grip down
Grip down the club by an inch or two to gain more control over the clubhead. The closer your hands are to the clubhead, the more control you will have.
Remember this shot is not all about power - it’s also about control and placement.
Lead with your hands
Through impact, try to feel that your hands lead the clubhead (see featured image).
This will help you to reduce the loft presented to ball at impact (this is referred to as ‘dynamic loft’). The changes in your set-up to your ball position and weight distribution will help you to achieve this feeling.
These changes will also help to promote a slightly more downward strike at impact, which will help you to achieve that awesome looking stinger from the tee.
Remember to practice this shot to help rehearse the right feelings.
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Gavin Abson is the Head PGA professional at The Carrick. For lessons, call Gavin on 07967 206266. Follow him on Twitter @GavinAbson.
