Welcome to Play Smart, a regular GOLF.com game-improvement column that will help you play smarter, better golf.
Lee Trevino is one of the rare golfers who can talk just as well as he can play. Sit and listen to the Merry Mex opine for a while and you’re sure to learn something — especially when it comes to golf.
It makes sense that Trevino has a wealth of knowledge when you look at his resume. Over the course of his career, Trevino won 29 times on the PGA Tour, claimed six majors titles and earned himself a spot in the World Golf Hall of Fame.
One such area Trevino’s whit and expertise shine through is around the greens. And in today’s edition of Play Smart, we’ll hear from the man himself on how to hit crisp chips around the green. Check it out below.
Here is a really good lesson from Lee Trevino on leading with the hands when hitting chip shots. pic.twitter.com/zhNZOdnQ8r
— Tour Pro 🏌️♂️ (@OfficialTourPro) March 26, 2024
Trevino’s chipping tip
If you want to hit crisp chips around the green, you’ve got to make sure you’re creating consistent contact. One of the easiest ways to ensure this contact is by focusing on your hands and their relationship with the club.
According to Trevino, the biggest key is making sure the clubhead does not pass your hands as you come through the impact zone.
“The hands are still in the same position when I finish,” Trevino says. “I’m still in this position.”
By keeping your hands in front of the clubhead, you’re eliminating the wrist-y action that often leads to inconsistent contact. If done correctly, the ball should come out nice and low with very little spin, making it easy to roll it toward the hole.
Simple, easy and efficient. Just what you want when trying to get up and down around the green.
