[Kim Maengnyeong's Golf English Conversation] "Chip Shot Has High Cost-Effectiveness"

Imirim is attempting a 'chip-in eagle' on the 18th hole of the final day at the ANA Inspiration.

"A miracle chip shot."

Imi Rim (30, NH Investment & Securities) created a dramatic moment last week at the LPGA Tour major ANA Inspiration. On the final 18th hole (par 5), she successfully made an eagle chip shot with a 58-degree wedge and, after a playoff battle, finally became the 'Major Queen.' Since this victory, interest in chip shots has been rising among both amateur golfers and tour players. Many say, "I want to chip like Imi Rim."

Bobby Jones (USA) said, "The chip is the greatest economist in golf," meaning there is nothing better for improving your score than a chip shot. When making a chip shot, it is important to carefully decide the initial landing spot of the ball depending on the club and accurately calculate the distance it will roll toward the hole (The purpose of the chip shot is to land the ball on the green and make it roll toward the cup).

Lesson pro Martin Hall (USA) shared a tip: "Use the 7-iron for longer chip shots around the green." With a lower loft, you don’t need a big swing, and less backspin allows the ball to roll in the desired direction. Know the carry-to-roll ratio for each club and choose the appropriate one for the situation. For reference, the sand wedge is about 1:1, and the pitching wedge is about 1:2.

The 9-iron is roughly 1:3, 8-iron 1:4, 7-iron 1:5, and 6-iron about 1:6. It is advantageous to leave the flagstick in the hole, as the ball is more likely to hit it and go in, and sometimes it acts as a shield. Imi Rim’s downhill chip shot on the 18th hole hit the flagstick and went in. Amateur golfers’ mishits usually happen when they intentionally try to scoop the ball, causing fat or topped shots. This often occurs when they lift their heads and try to manipulate the shot with their wrists or hands.

A: The chip shot is effective when the ball is just a short distance off the green.

B: Which club should I use?

A: Use a 7-iron for longer chip shots, and a 9-iron or pitching wedge for shorter chip shots.

B: Are there any other tips?

A: Choke down an inch or two on the club for better control.

B: Thanks for your advice.

Written by Kim Maengnyeong, Golf Columnist