By Graham Stewart
The slice for a right-hander curves from left to right and finishes right of the target.
The ball slices to the right because the club imparts a side spin on the ball. In fact, it is backspin on a tilted axis.
There are many issues which can cause a slice and I will list some of them here. Then I will give you a good practice drill to help change your shot shape.
The axis will be tilted if the path and face don’t match. So a square face and a square path equal a straight shot. This could also be straight left, a pull or straight right, a push.So if either the path is left or the face is pointing right then the ball will slice.
Impact spot: The ball must be hit in the middle of the club. A strike towards the heel will impart a slice spin.Use some tape or a dry wipe marker on the face and see where you are hitting the face.
Face control issues come from poor grip, too weak. Too much grip pressure and club face aimed to the right.
Path control issues are poor body alignment, poor body rotation and incorrect weight shift. Swinging too hard can cause a poor path.
The best practice is to take a 6 iron. Tee three balls up as shown and play the middle one without hitting the others. Just make half swings and slowly build up. If you don’t hit the other balls then your path is ok, you need to work on the clubface. Adjust your left hand more to the right on the grip with less grip pressure than normal. With half swing try to draw the ball by missing the guide balls and letting the face close.
If you still have a slice, go and see your PGA pro who will be able to help you.
Ask the pro: send your questions to Graham Stewart at algarvegraham@gmail.com. Published letters win a free golf lesson.
|| FREE golf assessment
Readers of the Algarve Resident are entitled to a FREE golf assessment. Contact Graham Stewart at Vila Sol for more details.
|| features@algarveresident.com
Graham Stewart is a British PGA professional with over 30 years’ experience. Based at Pestana Vila Sol, he is available for golf instruction for players of all levels, from complete beginners to tour winners.
www.facebook.com/vilasolgolfacademy
Twitter: algarvegraham|917 825 519
