Unleash the Power of the High Draw: Conquer the Course with this Pro Shot

Dreaming of bombing drives that gracefully curve left, adding distance and accuracy to your game? The high draw is a coveted shot in golf, allowing you to shape your shots around obstacles and maximize distance. While it might seem daunting, mastering this technique is within reach with the right approach and practice. This guide breaks down the key components of hitting a high draw, offering actionable tips to help you add this powerful weapon to your golfing arsenal.

Understanding the Mechanics of the High Draw

The high draw isn’t just about brute force; it’s about a precise combination of club path, face angle, and grip. A draw happens when the club path moves from outside-to-in (relative to the target line) while the clubface is slightly closed (pointed left of the target for a right-handed golfer). The upward trajectory of the high draw comes from a slightly steeper swing plane.

Setting Up for Success: Grip, Stance, and Posture

Grip:

Strengthen your grip slightly by rotating your hands clockwise a few degrees on the club. This helps close the clubface at impact.

Stance:

Align your stance slightly to the right of your target line. This encourages an outside-to-in swing path.

Posture:

Maintain a balanced and athletic posture, allowing for a free-flowing swing.

Swinging for the High Draw

The key to a successful high draw lies in the synchronization of your body and club. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

• Takeaway: Start your swing smoothly, keeping your wrists relaxed and allowing the club to move naturally along the intended path.
• Backswing: Maintain a wide swing arc, ensuring your left arm (for right-handed golfers) stays relatively straight.
• Downswing: Initiate the downswing with your lower body, shifting your weight towards your front foot. This helps create lag and generate power.
• Impact: Focus on compressing the ball with a slightly closed clubface while swinging along the outside-to-in path. Imagine swinging out towards right field (for a right-handed golfer).
• Follow-Through: Finish your swing with a balanced follow-through, ensuring your chest is facing the target.

Practicing and Refining Your Draw

Mastering the high draw takes practice and patience. Here are some helpful drills:

• Alignment Sticks: Use alignment sticks to visualize your stance and swing path. Place one stick along your target line and another along your intended swing path.
• Ball Position: Experiment with slightly forward ball position to encourage a higher launch.
• Gradual Adjustments: Don’t try to force the draw. Make small adjustments to your grip, stance, and swing path until you achieve the desired ball flight.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Game with the High Draw

The high draw is a powerful shot that can dramatically improve your game. By understanding the mechanics, implementing the correct setup, and practicing diligently, you can add this valuable tool to your golfing repertoire. So, get out on the range, experiment with these techniques, and watch as your drives soar with increased distance and accuracy. Remember to be patient with yourself and celebrate those beautifully curved shots as you conquer the course with the impressive high draw!