NEXT time you are confronted with a tricky shot into the wind, remember that usually a lower shot will beat the wind better than a high one that could be buffeted by the elements and perhaps leave you coming up short in a bunker.

The old phrase of ‘when it’s breezy, swing it easy’ is definitely true in this instance, the main issue being that the harder you hit the ball, the more spin you will exert on the ball.

This provides lift and makes the ball go higher, increasing the chances of getting affected by the wind.

So the slower you swing, the lower the spin rate will be and the lower your shot will be.

If you need a little extra help keeping your shot down in the wind, try the following: Place the ball more centrally in your stance, this will help you to hit down and launch the ball low.

Take one more club than you would normally for the distance so that you can swing easy.

Try not to use your wrist too much as that can add loft through the shot, and feel your swing is wooden.

  • Give Golf A Go sessions with Simon started at Bowood this month. Clubs provided. Email s.shanks@bowood.org or call 01249 823881

MORE SPORTS NEWS, PICTURES AND REACTION IN THIS THURSDAY'S GAZETTE AND HERALD. FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @gazsport