Jason Whitehill
Q. If my ball is on dry land but when taking my stance, my feet are in casual water, do I get a free lift?
A. Yes. However you can elect to play the shot as well. There are times that a free lift may result in a drop that puts your ball in the rough or in a position that isn’t as good as the original spot. The same rule goes for cart paths. If it is a good lie and you can make a decent swing without slipping, hit it!
Q. I am a right-handed golfer and have been told that my left arm bends too much. What can I do to correct this problem?
A. This is a common problem and usually results in a backswing that is too long. Many golfers feel that they gain more power by wrapping the arms around themselves and do it by bending the left arm rather than turning their shoulders. Keep in mind that the arm isn’t rigid at the top of the backswing but it should be extended and in control. Take a few swings in front of a mirror and while turning your left shoulder under your chin and try to position it over your right foot. This will result in the club being parallel to the ground – if it is past parallel, you are usually bending the arm. You will at first feel like it is a very short backswing but repeated practice with a firmer arm will result in more consistent shot making.
Q. My putting has been very inconsistent and I am having trouble hitting the ball in the center of the putter. What is a good drill?
A. Check your alignment by placing a club across your heels, as they should be parallel to your target line. Then take two thick elastic bands and wrap them around the putter so they “frame” the impact zone on the face of the putter. (They will be approximately two inches apart). Now, practice your stroke and if you hit the ball slightly off center, the elastics will give you instant feedback. Remember that on putts that are five feet and less, the location of impact contributes more to holed putts than does the face angle.