In golf, the terms “short side” and “long side” refer to the positioning of the golf ball in relation to the hole and the surrounding hazards or obstacles, especially when approaching the green. Understanding these terms and their implications can help a golfer make strategic decisions that potentially impact their score.
- Short Side: When a golfer misses the green and their ball lands on the side of the green with the least amount of green between the ball and the hole, it is referred to as a “short side” miss. This situation is often more challenging because the golfer has less green to work with when making their next shot, making it harder to control the ball and get it close to the hole. Short side misses typically demand a higher level of skill in executing recovery shots, such as flop shots or delicate chips, to save par.
- Long Side: Conversely, a “long side” miss is when the ball is on the side of the green where there is more green between the ball and the hole. This provides a golfer with more room to work with for their next shot, potentially making it easier to get the ball closer to the hole. With more green to work with, the golfer can use a variety of shots with different trajectories and spins to control the ball’s roll towards the hole.
Impact on One’s Score:
- Short Side Misses: These misses can significantly impact a golfer’s score due to the difficulty of the next shot. A poorly executed recovery shot from the short side can lead to bogeys or worse, especially if the golfer struggles with their short game. The key challenge is controlling the distance and spin to ensure the ball stops near the hole, which is difficult with limited green space.
- Long Side Misses: While still not ideal, long side misses offer a better chance to save par or limit the damage to a bogey. With more green to use, golfers have a greater margin for error in their shot choice and execution. Successfully managing a long side miss often involves selecting the right club and shot type to utilize the available green effectively, potentially leading to a closer putt.
Understanding and managing short side and long side misses are crucial aspects of golf strategy, especially in courses with challenging green complexes. Golfers must weigh the risks and benefits of aiming for certain parts of the green, considering their own strengths and weaknesses in the short game. Efficiently handling these situations can make a significant difference in maintaining a competitive score.
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