Lesson Notes: The High-Loft Pitch Shot
The Goal: To clear an obstacle (like a bunker) and stop the ball quickly when the pin is tucked close to the edge of the hazard.
Club Selection for Short-Sided Shots:
The Problem with Low Loft: Using a pitching wedge or gap wedge for these shots often results in too much “roll-out,” making it impossible to get close to a tight pin.
The Lob Wedge Advantage: Selecting a 60-degree lob wedge allows you to keep the shaft more vertical at impact.
The Result: High loft creates a higher launch angle and increased backspin, which helps the ball “sit” quickly once it hits the green.
Executing the Shot:
Vertical Shaft: Focus on keeping the shaft relatively vertical rather than leaning it too far forward. Lean creates a lower flight and more roll.
Commitment: Trust the loft of the club to do the work of getting the ball over the hazard.
FAQ
Q: Why is it called a “short-sided” shot?
A: This refers to a situation where the flag is positioned very close to the side of the green you are playing from, leaving you very little “real estate” or green to work with once the ball lands.
Q: Should I open the clubface for this shot?
A: While opening the face adds even more loft, Alison emphasizes that simply choosing the 60-degree wedge provides enough natural loft to get the job done with a standard pitch motion.
Q: What if I don’t carry a 60-degree lob wedge?
A: Use the highest lofted club in your bag (usually a 56-degree sand wedge). You may need to slightly open the face to mimic the loft of a 60-degree club, but your primary goal is still creating height over roll.
Q: Does the height of the grass matter for this shot?
A: Yes. A lob wedge works best when the ball is sitting reasonably well. If the lie is very tight or bare, you must be very precise with your contact to avoid “thinning” the ball into the hazard. In these situations the safe option may be to go sideways so you can chip normally without the bunker between you and the pin.
