THE SOUL OF THE GAME
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BOOK
A
TEE
TIME
W
ith its unique links-inspired
layout, one of the ways to play
Royal Links Golf Club is by
keeping the ball low to the ground. This is
where the bump-and-run comes in handy.
A bump-and-run shot is an approach
from near the green where the ball lands
short and runs onto the putting surface. It
is generally safer than hitting a lofted shot
for most golfers, since it is struck with a
straighter-faced club.
The shot is most often utilized on links-
style courses such as Royal Links or when
you are playing in windy conditions. Pic-
ture the bump-and-run like you would a
chip shot — except that chip shots usually
land on the green, while the bump-and-run
shot lands short of the green and runs up.
HOW TO HIT THE SHOT
A bump-and-run can be played with a
variety of clubs, from a 9 iron to a hybrid.
Play the ball in the center to the rear of
your stance. The goal is to hit a very low
shot that has very little backspin.
To accomplish this, it is important that
your ball is struck with a sweeping — not
descending — stroke with your hands well
ahead of the ball.
HOW TO PRACTICE THE SHOT
First, I always recommend variable dis-
tance drills by hitting multiple balls from
different distances to a target.
Then, take multiple rehearsal strokes
with your eyes looking at the target trying
to feel the correct size swing.
Finally, hit each ball toward the target.
Keep in mind that different grasses will
play differently. The bermuda grass at
Royal Links will be quite sticky when you
try to run the ball uphill and much
smoother on downhill shots.
If you spend time practicing the bump-
and-run, you will have added a valuable
tool into your options around the green.
THE BEST APPROACH
Knowing how to hit the bump-and-run shot will serve you well at Royal Links
At Royal Links, you can run
the ball up onto the greens.
BY MIKE DAVIS,
Walters Golf
PGA Director
of Instruction
