Epson Tour professional Natalie Sheary (New Britain, Connecticut) returns with Episode 11 of her weekly instructional series, “Staying Sharp with Sheary.” The Wake Forest University alumna and past Epson Tour champion at the W.B. Mason Championship in 2016, gives advice and drills to keep your game sharp—both physically and mentally—while at home and in practice at the course.
This week, Sheary gives a breakdown of the 50-yard pitch shot. It all begins with the club choice. Using a high-lofted club, such as a sand wedge, allows one to swing freely and gives the ball enough lift. Sheary also provides reassurance that taking a healthy divot is fine, but the main goal is to brush the grass ever so slightly behind the ball.
“Choosing a wedge allows the club to do the work in bringing the ball up,” said Sheary.— Natalie Sheary (@NatSheary) June 24, 2020
Limiting movement and staying level, maintaining a narrow stance with good balance and having proper body control throughout the swing are other key elements for this approach. These tips are helpful for shots anywhere within 100 yards of the hole. Sheary does mention the further from the pin, the longer the swing needed, to keep up acceleration and add distance.
“The 50-yard pitch shot does not entail a fast-paced, full swing. Instead, it is important to keep a nice, controlled tempo,” Sheary added. “Shots from 100 yards and in need a certain level of finesse. Distance control is what we’re after and accelerating through the ball is an absolute must. You can’t do that with a full strike at the ball.”