Thick rough is tricky to play from — even for the best golfers in the world. When the grass is thick just off fairways and greens, things can go awry quickly, as we’ll see at the U.S. Open next week.
If it’s tough for the best of the best, then you can imagine how difficult it is for us weekend warriors. I know when I find the deep stuff, my main goal becomes just finding the green rather than sticking it close.
The thing about playing from the deep rough — especially around the greens — is that it takes tons of commitment to hit a solid shot. To get the clubhead through the thick rough, you’ve got to make a big swing. But with most recreational players not even knowing the proper technique for these shots, they end up making an uncommitted pass at the ball that results in a poor shot.
The good news for you is that the technique for hitting these shots is easier than you think. GOLF Teacher to Watch Parker McLachlin, aka the Short Game Chef, explains more below.
How to hit a chip from deep rough
If you want to hit a great chip from thick rough, you’ve got to use the proper technique. And, according to McLachlin, that starts with the correct orientation of the clubface.
“I don’t want you to present less loft,” McLachlin says. “Present more loft at impact. This is going to allow the ball to come out high and soft.”
By opening the clubface up, you’re going to be able to get the face down into the thick stuff and get a club on the ball. And, since you’ve added so much loft, you can take a big swing and pop the ball out high and soft without worrying about the ball rocketing over the green.
“What I don’t want to see is [a chopping] type of motion,” McLachlin says. “I want to see a motion that’s going to allow [it] to come out higher and softer.”
So, next time you’re in thick rough next to the green, don’t make an uncommitted swing. Instead, open the face up and go at the ball with an aggressive motion. When you do, the ball will come out high and soft and (hopefully) settle right next to the pin.
You’ll find much more of McLachlin’s advice at ShortGameChef.com, which provides golfers with a comprehensive resource to improve their short games. Through personalized tips, drills and expert insights, McLachlin helps players of all levels gain more confidence and a deeper understanding of their short game to lower their scores. You can browse membership options here.
