May 2021 | Page 11

ASK THE PRO

Question :
From : Cynthia What does the A and U stand for on an iron ? Is the loft the same on an A and a U iron ?
Answer :
An “ A ” or “ U ” are types of wedges in your set of irons . The letter represents “ Approach ” or “ Utility ”. In a set of irons , most golfers know of the pitching wedge and sand wedge , with the pitching wedge being the bigger of the two clubs ( goes further ). The “ A ” or “ U ” fits inbetween the pitching wedge and sand wedge . Different manufacturers use either of these letters depending on the manufacturer ’ s preference . Although the loft may vary a degree or two depending on the manufacturer ’ s preference as well , the loft on these clubs is very similar . Some manufactures even refer to this wedge as a “ Gap ” wedge .
Question :
From : Jim What is the best way to hit a chip shot a few yards off the green ?
Answer :
When you say “ chip shot ” I would define that as a short shot around the green that rolls out to the green / flagstick . This shot is typically used when the golfer doesn ’ t have to go over something around the green like a bunker .
In the Tee It Up Front 9 class , we cover the technique in hitting a good chip shot . A simple way to think of this would be to understand if I wanted the ball to roll out when it hits the green , don ’ t used a club with lots of loft . Put the ball back on your stance , use a 9 iron or 8 iron and making a stroke like a putting stroke .
Question :
From : Michelle What ’ s the best way to practice for the 50-yard distance to the hole ? Thinking about whether I should use a 7 iron to hit a low grounder toward the hole or maybe a half swing with a pitching wedge ? What would you suggest ?
Answer :
Great question ! It can be very difficult and ineffective to use a 7 iron to chip the ball ( low grounder ). I would try a PW and different size swings until you feel comfortable with a certain size swing that creates 50-yards .
May Newsletter | 11