pitch shot
The pitch shot is the high approach shot from a short distance that lands steeply and stops with little roll.
The pitch shot fills the gap between the full swing and the chip. It is usually played with a wedge or short iron from ten to sixty metres. The ball flies most of the distance through the air, lands softly and rolls out only a little. That distinguishes it from the chip, which comes in flat and rolls. The high flight comes from the loft of the clubface, a longer swing and some backspin.
In practice, the pitch is the answer to obstacles in front of the flag. An example: your ball lies thirty metres from the green, a bunker covers the direct line and the pin sits behind it. The rolling chip is not an option. You play the pitch high over the bunker, the ball lands on the green and stops within putting distance. Swing length is decisive: the rhythm stays the same; you control the distance through the length of backswing and follow-through.
The typical mistake is slowing down at impact out of fear of the distance. This causes fat shots and topped balls. Trust the loft and swing through; the loft provides the height. Also popular: the pitch where a chip would do. With clear ground in front of you, the flat, rolling chip is the safer shot. Anyone who masters both solves almost every situation around the green — the basics for this are provided by the term short game.
FAQ
When do I play a pitch instead of a chip?
The pitch is the right choice when an obstacle lies between you and the flag or when you have to land the ball softly. With clear ground ahead and plenty of green in front of you, the flat, rolling chip is the safer shot. Rule of thumb: fly when you must — roll when you can.
Why do I top or fat my pitches so often?
The most common cause is slowing down at impact out of fear of hitting the ball too far. The club then arrives at the ball too slowly or too steeply. Trust the loft of your wedge and swing smoothly through — the height comes by itself if you do not brake the swing.
How do I control the distance on a pitch?
Through the length of backswing and follow-through, not through the tempo. The rhythm always stays the same; a half swing carries shorter, a three-quarter swing further. Practise on the practice green with two or three fixed swing lengths to different targets; then you will have reliable distances in your feel on the course.