(Qschool) ( Tips from the Pros Surefi re Shot Selection Make the right decision for the best type of shot around the green. By Mike Barge, Hazeltine National GC Photos by Matt Seefeldt T he decisions we make on the golf course can dictate what we shoot as much as our shot execution. This becomes more apparent as we get closer to the green. The great short game players have always had wonderful imaginations and used multiple ways to save shots around the green. We emphasize to our students that they should use the best, safest shot that their skill level allows them to use and develop confi dence with that shot. In most situations, putting from a couple feet off the green is the best, safest shot. Some players always prefer chipping regardless of how close they are to the green, but putting gives you less room for error. This can change simply by how the ball is sitting and by reading the terrain between the ball and green. 10 MINNESOTAGOLFER Summer 2010 s )F THE BALL IS SITTING UP IN THE GRASS AND THE TERRAIN IS smooth between the ball and green, a normal putting stroke will do. Rest the putter head on top of the grass to prevent catching the grass on the backswing. s )F YOU DECIDE TO CHIP YOU MUST PICK THE RIGHT CLUB so that the ball will fl y a short distance and then roll to the hole. This can vary between a lob wedge and a six iron. Regardless of the shot you choose, it's very important to be 100 percent committed. The best, safest shot for you may be different from your playing partners, but the bottom line is score. Get in the hole quickly the best way you know how. Mike Barge is the Director of Instruction at Hazeltine National GC and a Class A Member of the PGA of America. www.mngolf.orghttp://www.mngolf.org