Golfing In Ireland

When playing a links courses it is actually very rare to encounter a level lie.  This can be a most frustrating experience if you do not know how to play these shots.

There are three general rules playing from a sloping lie.

1) Align your body with the slope.

Basically make sure that your shoulders and hips are parallel to the slope. This can be hard to do if the slope is severe. But at the very least make sure that your shoulders are aligned with the slope and that you have good balance.

2) Swing within yourself.

Balance is the priority when swinging on a slope. If you don't have it, you will hit the ball fat or top it.  They key is the take a 3/4 (or less) swing and select the appropriate club.  

3) Aim according to the slope.

Remember the ball flight will follow the slope i.e. for an uphill lie the ball will fly higher and shorter. For downhill the opposite will happen, the shot will be lower with more run. 

If  above your feet, the ball should be played further back.  Also it will tend to draw. So aim right. If below your feet, the ball should  be played further forward.  Make sure to aim left as the ball tends to fade.

Just remember that in order to play from a sloping lie you must have balance throughout your swing. Aim, make a smooth stroke, with the correct club, and all your problems will be solved.