Spin doctor

Many amateurs are amazed at how much the pros can spin the ball back with their wedges and would love to emulate this impressive shot on the course.

Before attempting the shot, there are a number of factors that affect how much spin one can create. Having a clean lie with no grass between the face and ball, using a club with enough loft/clean grooves and also a ball with a softer cover all help.

* To apply spin you need to squeeze the ball off the turf, catching the ball first and a small amount of ground after the ball.
* To help, place the ball slightly further back in your stance with your hands in front of the ball.
* Take a steeper backswing than normal.
* Strike ‘down’ on the ball, trying to keep your hands ahead of the club-head at impact.
* Consider taking one less club, so you can hit it firmly enough to apply enough revolutions to the ball.

If you would like to know more about improving your golf game, book a lesson with a Royal Golf Club PGA teaching professional by calling 17750777.

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PLAYERS can get their golf game in order by taking advantage of several new tuition packages available for a limited time only at the Royal Golf Club’s academy.

The three ‘Off-Peak Lesson Package’ costs BD90 per person in total and allows golfers to further develop and improve their skills. Alternatively, a group playing lesson on the Mini Monty course with one of the club’s PGA Professionals will cost BD25.

The two-lesson ‘Shape Your Shots’ option costs from BD70 per person. All three packages are available for purchase until February 28.

For further details, call 17750777.