The Flop Shot:

Adding another shot to your short game arsenal.  The flop shot can come in very handy with a pin cut close to the edge or just over a bunker.  The flop shot is very similar to the sand shot.  You must use a high lofted club like a lob wedge usually 58 to 60 degrees to gain the proper height on the ball, and have it land softly and stop quickly. 

Align your body well open to the target for a right-handed golfer this means pulling your left foot away from the ball.  Open the clubface keeping aligned at the target.  This will add more loft to the club.  Take the club away from the ball down your bodyline, which is outside the target line.  The backswing should be fairly long to create enough club head speed to compensate for the height the ball will travel.  Swing the club through the ball down your bodyline cutting across the ball and keeping the left wrist firm not to turn the club over.  Be sure to stay aggressive with the shot, as deceleration is the tendency of the shot leaving it short of the target. (Remember getting the ball on the green and a chance at par is the most important part of recovery.)  The extra loft on the club will cause the ball to go higher in the air, but not travel as far.   Leaving you with a soft shot that should not roll to far from your target.  Practice this shot prior to using it on the course to gain a feel of swing speed and the distance the ball travels.

For help with this shot or any other please contact your golf professional staff.

Matt Payne, PGA

Head Golf Professional

Victoria Hills Golf Club

300 Spalding Way

DeLand, FL 32724

Phone (386) 738-6006

Fax (386) 738-6025