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Simplicity first

Divide (the ground to be covered). Conquer.

By KELLIE DIXON, Times Staff Writer
Published December 19, 2007

Occasionally local pros offer a glimpse into improving their game. This week, Chris Kelly, the golf professional at Lexington Oaks Golf Club in Wesley Chapel, focuses on chipping. His standpoint is to keep it simple.

Here is his advice, as told to Times staff writer Kellie Dixon:

The general rule of thumb for instructors is to get your ball on the green and rolling as soon as possible. Select the simplest shot available.

Here's how it works.

The first option is to putt. If you are on the apron and down grain, this is usually the best option but when you are too far off the surface or into the grain, you should chip.

Don't confuse chipping with pitching the golf ball. Even the announcers on television confuse the shots. Chipping is similar to putting and is a low rolling shot. Pitching requires more loft and in essence is a miniature version of your full swing.

Now, divide the ground you have to cover into thirds. If your first third lands on the green, go ahead and chip it. For short chips, use a 9 iron; medium chips use a 7 iron; long chips use a 5 iron.

Pick a spot around your first third and land the ball there and watch the ball roll out the remaining distance. The rule here is lifting the ball one-third of the way will result in two-thirds roll.

Use the exact same setup and tempo for all three lengths. Use your putting stroke with a steeper angle of attack.

Place the ball middle/back of your stance with a narrow open position. Keep your shoulders square. Hands are forward with weight on left side. Eliminate your wrists and swing the handle with a pendulum tempo pocket to pocket. Use the same timing for all three lengths.

Be careful: The biggest mistake people make is flipping the club at the bottom with the right hand. Consistent solidness of contact is the key here for distance control. Remember to swing the handle, not the clubhead.

About Chris Kelly

Kelly, the golf professional at Lexington Oaks Golf Club, has been a Class A-1 PGA member since 1984 and has 23 years of teaching experience.

Why he enjoys golf: "The fact that it's very competitive," Kelly said. "It's you against the golf course, and really it's a game of a lifetime."

Kelly added that his dad, who lives in Tampa, is 90 and can still break his age.

For his instruction rates, visit www.lexoaks.com.

[Last modified December 18, 2007, 20:24:42]