Using The Chip And Run Shot
Some things to remember

More and more golfers are making the "chip and run" a regular part of their game. Even if you've not tried it, you've doubtless seen it on the golf course. The chip and run shot is much like a putt, except that the shot is played from just off the green, instead from on the green. In the chip and run, your club selection is vital for success, just like with any other shot, really. In this case, as tempting as the putter might be, you will want to use your irons.

The chip and run shot should be taken with your legs close together, and the golf ball in a line with your back foot. Hold the club firmly in your hands, and ahead of the ball. This technique will make the shot fly through the air on a flatter, more desirable and predictable trajectory.

Just like you'd do when taking a strong putt when on the green, you should only engage your arms to play the chip and run shot. It's a short shot, and this will aid in control and consistency.

If you are chipping up a hill, be sure that you very carefully consider your club selection. Remember that you will need a club that can keep the ball low, which will help it to roll "up" onto the green. Too low, and you'll hit the edge slope of the green and maybe even roll backwards.

Downhill is just the opposite of uphill (duh!). When you're chipping downhill, you will want a club that can generate a lot of backspin on the golf ball. The backspin will aid substantially in stopping the ball from rolling down the hill too far, thus causing you to gain unwanted strokes.

Make a mental note of your technique and club selection for future use. The chip and run shot is something you won't do too much of, so mental notes are important, and can help knock strokes off your score. And as with all shots, remember to let that wonderful club do most of the work.

The chip and run shot can make or break your green position, and determine the challenge of the subsequent putt(s). Learn to get this shot right, and you'll consistently, confidently stroll up to the ball on the green and drop that 'gimme' putt. Hit this shot wrong, and you may be looking at a very tricky, long putt, or maybe even another chip and run shot.

Some courses don't mind if you practice your chip and run shots. If you play golf in Tucson at one of the places that allows this, it's a good idea to practice – practice – practice! And by the way, few shots impress (and intimidate) players quite so much as a well played chip and run. Good golfing to you!

For a complete listing of Tucson Arizona golf courses, including course information, championship rating and slope click here

For a complete listing of golf courses in the area surrounding Tucson Arizona, including course information, championship rating and slope click here

Golf Sites and Forums that offer more information:

http://forums.golfreview.com/
http://www.obesityhelp.com/forums/golf/
http://boards.rivals.net/default.asp?sid=1398&p=16
http://www.iznadgolf.com/golfforum.html
http://www.lowprogolf.com/cfbb/
http://www.oilcontrol.it/dg/dgindexe.shtml
http://www.network54.com/Forum/403301
http://www.torontogolfnuts.com/
http://golf.about.com/mpboards.htm
http://forum.ottawagolf.com