Greetings, fellow golf addicts! It’s Linda, your favorite San Diego slice machine, here to talk about the holy grail of golf shots: the draw. You know, that beautiful right-to-left ball flight (for righties) that makes you look like you actually know what you’re doing? Yeah, that one.
What Is A Draw, Anyway?
Before we dive into the “how,” let’s tackle the “what.” A draw is a controlled shot that starts right of your target (for right-handed golfers) and curves back to the left. It’s the opposite of a slice, which is what I typically hit when I’m aiming for a draw. Go figure.
Think of it like this: if your normal shot is as straight as your path home from the 19th hole, a draw is more like your meandering route to the bathroom after one too many “swing lubricants.”
Why Would Anyone Want To Hit A Draw?
Good question! Here are a few reasons:
- Distance: A draw can add yards to your shots. More yards = more bragging rights.
- Control: It can help you navigate doglegs and avoid hazards. Or, in my case, find new and exciting hazards.
- Style points: Nothing says “I’m a serious golfer” like a nice, controlled draw. Even if you’re still shooting in the 100s.
- Impressing the beer cart girl: Results may vary.
The Linda Method: How To Hit A Draw (Or At Least Try)
Alright, here’s where I’m supposed to give you some technical advice. But let’s be real – if you want proper instruction, you should probably talk to a pro. Or at least someone who doesn’t consider breaking 90 a major life achievement. But since you’re here, let’s give it a shot!
Step 1: The Setup
- Aim your clubface at the target. Yes, the actual target, not the trees on the right where your ball usually ends up.
- Align your body (feet, hips, shoulders) to the right of the target. Think of it as aiming at the spot where you’d normally slice it.
- Ball position: Play the ball slightly back in your stance. Not so far back that you’re standing on it, mind you.
Step 2: The Swing
- Take the club back slightly more inside on your backswing. Imagine you’re trying to hide the club from your playing partners who are judging your terrible form.
- On the downswing, try to swing out to the right, following the path of your body alignment. It’s like you’re swinging towards that slice spot, but with good intentions this time.
- Here’s the key: close the clubface slightly at impact. Not fully closed, unless you’re going for that wicked snap hook into the adjacent fairway.
Step 3: The Follow-Through
- After impact, your hands should be rotating over, like you’re pouring out the last drops of your favorite post-round beverage.
- Finish high and balanced. Or, in my case, finish in whatever way doesn’t result in falling over.
My Draw Disaster: A Cautionary Tale
Now, let me regale you with the tale of my first (and possibly last) successful draw. Picture this: I’m standing on the 10th tee at Torrey Pines North, feeling confident after a front nine that only included two lost balls and one near-death experience with a sand trap.
I decide it’s time to put my draw practice to use. I set up just like I described above, take a deep breath, and let it rip. The ball takes off, starting right just like it should. It’s curving! It’s drawing! It’s… going way too far left!
My beautiful draw turned into a magnificent hook, sailing majestically over the fairway, over the rough, and directly into the backyard of one of those lucky (and probably now angry) La Jolla residents whose homes border the course.
As I trudged down to drop another ball (goodbye, sweet Kirkland golf ball, I hardly knew ye), I couldn’t help but laugh. I’d finally hit a draw! Sure, it was more “Captain Hook” than “Tour Pro,” but hey, progress is progress.
The Draw Dilemma: To Curve or Not to Curve?
Here’s the thing about trying to hit a draw: it’s a double-edged sword. When it works, you feel like a golfing god. When it doesn’t, well, let’s just say it’s a good thing I always pack extra balls (and a sense of humor).
But here’s my advice: give it a shot! Try it out on the range first, where the only thing you’ll hurt is your pride (and maybe a few range balls). Once you’ve got it somewhat under control, take it to the course. Just maybe not on that tight par 4 with OB all down the left side.
And remember, if all else fails, you can always go back to your trusty slice. At least then you know which side of the fairway to aim for!
The 19th Hole Wisdom
At the end of the day, whether you’re hitting draws, fades, or shots that defy the laws of physics, the most important thing is that you’re out there having fun. Golf is a journey, not a destination. Although, if that journey could involve fewer lost balls and more fairways hit, that’d be great.
So, next time you’re on the course:
- Give that draw a try (maybe not on the first tee in front of everyone)
- Don’t forget to enjoy the good shots and laugh at the bad ones
- Keep an extra sleeve of balls handy (might I suggest some Kirkland golf balls? They’re great for practicing draws… and slices… and hooks…)
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a date with the driving range. Those draws aren’t going to hook themselves!
Remember, keep it fun, keep it light, and may your drives be long and your bar tabs be short!