Eric Pick presents tips for successful chip and run shot

Posted July 25, 2011 11:00 pm

Lisa Haring

Golf Center Des Plaines hosted the second of four “Tips From a Pro” Clinics on Tuesday, July 26. PGA golf instructor, Eric Pick, presented tips and techniques for mastering a successful chip and run shot. According to Pick, the objective of the chip and run is to get the ball close to the hole by hitting a low trajectory shot, with minimum airtime and maximum ground time. The shot is best played with a six, seven, eight, or nine iron, so long as there are no obstructions between the lie of the ball and the pin.

Pick's secret is to command loft through the impact of the club head and ball, but to resist the “hit.” He recommended a five-step routine: 1. Square the clubface to the target. 2. Align feet to the left of the target. 3. Lean left with spine, transferring weight to the left leg. 4. Choke down on the handle. and, 5. Execute the shot with limited wrist hinge.

Golfers had plenty of one-on-one time for questions about their specific clubs and game, as well as time to practice the chip and run. A complete lesson wrap-up was also e-mailed to the participants after the clinic.

The clinics are free with the purchase of a $6 Short Game Pass, that allows unlimited play, with in and out privileges, all day. The next clinic will be on July 28; GolfTEC instructors will present Sand Shots from noon to 1 p.m. The Aug. 4 clinic will cover Pitching and Chipping Tips. Golfers of all ages and skill level are invited.

Golf Center Des Plaines has a lighted, Rick Jacobson designed, nine-hole golf course, a three-tiered, 80 bay, lighted range, with an automated tee-up system and over 300 yards of outdoor landing area, a grass tee practice area, golfTEC lessons, a pro shop, and a sports bar and restaurant.

On Monday, range balls are .06 each, and golfers receive an extra $5 in range balls with every $50 purchase. Golf Center Des Plaines is located at 353 N. River Road, one block north of Golf Road in Des Plaines. For information, lessons, and leagues call (847) 803-GOLF, or visit www.DPParks.org

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