Let go of that pesky slice

Short Takes

John Lucas

I have previously talked about the importance of allowing the arms and club to go left after impact. This is a vital fundamental as it keeps the symmetry in the swing. Rotation is key in the golf swing to creating and maintaining centrifugal force. Here are a few things you can do to incorporate this in your swing.

Take the right hand off after impact. Start by removing it near the finish of your swing, then gradually remove it sooner until you can do it about a foot after impact. The momentum will pull you effortlessly to the finish. Take care not to remove it before impact as you may have to jam your shoulder back in its socket. And if you rotate the left arm to the left while doing this, you will NOT slice. The result will be a slight draw (a ball flight curving slightly left).

Put a handkerchief (or the like) under your left armpit. Start by hitting half pitch shots without letting the object under your arm fall out. I was at Sahalle Country Club a few years back for the NEC championships. I sat in the bleachers behind the practice tee and watched the best in the world work on their craft. Vijay Sing did this drill for hours, even full swings, as did Stuart Appleby. So if the best in the world think this is important, it might be a good idea for us all.

Tie a belt across your chest and over your arm. Again start by hitting half shots, even chipping. Soon you will get the feeling of connection that is a vital ingredient of a sound swing.

And remember to lean the shaft forward at impact is vital!

I realize I have written many things in these articles, so if I ever write anything you are not clear on, just e-mail me or call me at 683-6804. No charge. I even may meet you for a few minutes at our driving range, again at no charge.

Rules Teaser:

In stroke play, a player who is in the process of marking his ball on the putting green, drops his marker. It strikes his ball causing it to move. Ruling?

John Lucas is the professional at Sky Ridge Golf Course and can be reached at john98382@olypen.com.