Yet another tale as old as time.
Decent speed on the drive, but it just keeps leaking right. I find myself among a few trees with no clear shot in the direction I want to go.
There is certainly a shot, just not a clear one. One I would have been tempted to try even just a year prior. That try would have more often than not put me in a worse position than before, forced to be a hero yet again.
So I take a long iron, get my feet out in front of the ball just enough, and give it a little chop, sending it low and straight back into the fairway.
I still pick up about 120 yards of distance.
What you may come to find is that a relaxed, no pressure punch out may put you in a position even more optimal than had you been unobstructed by the tree in the first place.
There’s a false freedom that comes with a clear shot to the pin.
Unless you’re a darn good golfer, there’s always a chance the ball departs from the path you intended for it.
So think about that when you have get to punch out. You’re just about guaranteed to inch a little closer, and of course… there’s always the next shot.
As I’ve learned from the laws of course management, the low punch has become a staple.
Learn to love it.
Cheers,Luke Mangan