The Quarry One Minute Clinic #8

Prepare yourself for windy fall conditions with the “knock-down shot”

Fall is certainly in the air this week and after Tuesday’s north-wind cold front, you might be wondering how to battle windy fall and winter conditions.

Here is a quick lesson on how to execute the lower trajectory wind shot, otherwise known as a “knock-down shot” or “punch shot.”

This shot is a favorite and a necessity among golfers wishing to score well on a windy day. The basic premise of this shot is to intentionally lower the trajectory of the ball flight in order to reduce the amount the ball spins and lifts into the breeze.

Adding this useful shot to your repertoire can save you valuable strokes in your game as it offers two things most golfers struggle with

·        solid contact and

·        control of the ball

The basic technique is as follows:

First, move the ball back in your stance. It is best to experiment with different clubs and ball positions to get the desired effect, but generally in the center of your stance is a good place to start.

Next, select one or two lower-lofted clubs than what you would actually need for the yardage (for example, choose a 7-iron instead of a 9-iron).

Lastly, the shape of the swing will be slightly shorter, as to reduce the spin here as well. Making this abbreviated backswing and follow-through helps you control the height of the shot as well as the direction.

Making these simple adjustments will help the golfer gain better control of the ball in the wind and will help to navigate those blustery autumn days.

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Thank you Sean Etheredge for this one minute clinic.