Up Against the Rough?

by Jim Mancill, PGA Head Professional, Port Ludlow GC

How many times has this happened to you? You’ve just hit a really nice shot that hits the green, rolls across the green, and stops on the fringe, right up against the rough. Not a great place to be and a predicament that leaves us with quite a few options, none of them easy to pull off.

Putting with Hybrid

First things first, we need to check the lie and make sure we understand our options. In most cases, we are just looking to get it back on the green with the chance of making our putt. There are three basic ways to play this shot, and they all utilize your normal putting stroke. Let’s go in order of safest way to proceed. You’ll notice that none of them are with a wedge, as trying to “chip” from this lie is only asking for trouble.

1. Putter

·      Advantage - if the rough is not too high and you can make solid contact with the ball, this will promote a decent roll.

·      Challenges - tough to judge the distance as we usually get some grass between the putter and the ball.

2. Hybrid/Fairway

·      Advantage - when used like a putter, it will glide through the rough leading to a smoother stroke and better contact.

·      Challenges - without practice, hard to control the speed of the shot. Tends to roll out much easier because of the added loft of the club.

3. Sand Wedge

·      Advantage - ball will roll just like a putt when struck correctly. Club also glides right through the rough.

·      Challenges – the shot needs to be played with a putting stroke using the leading edge of the club striking the ball at its equator; extremely difficult to do without practice, and a lot of it.

As with most things, there is no one right way to get out of this situation, but with a little practice, I’m sure you’ll find the best way for you. Get out there have fun! See you on the trails!