Mastering Golf in Extreme Wind: Tips from a Senior Major Winner

Playing golf in unfavorable weather conditions, such as freezing cold, rain, and most notably, strong winds, can be a challenge for any golfer. However, Jerry Kelly, a two-time major winner on the PGA Tour Champions, shares some valuable insights on how to overcome these difficult conditions and still achieve success on the course.

The Impact of Extreme Wind

When the wind is zipping and the course becomes increasingly challenging, it’s easy to feel defeated before even starting your round. But Jerry Kelly reassures golfers that they can perform their best even in such circumstances. In a video posted on the PGA Tour Champions Instagram account, Kelly demonstrates valuable tips for playing in 35-mph winds. Not only is the video entertaining, but it also provides helpful advice on how to combat extreme wind during a round.

What stands out in the video is Kelly’s ability to maintain solid contact with the ball despite the high wind speeds. However, he humorously mentions that the distance of the shot was less than desired, jokingly commenting that he might have caught the ball with a step forward. This highlights the need to adapt and find alternative strategies to counter the wind’s effects.

Adapting to Extreme Wind

Kelly emphasizes that the key to dealing with extreme wind is not to directly fight against it. Instead, he recommends golfers to understand how the wind affects ball distance and to adjust their shots accordingly. One crucial aspect he mentions is varying ball positions. By experimenting with different ball positions, players can better control ball flight and achieve more consistent results.

It’s not just about ball position, though. Kelly also suggests varying club choices depending on the wind conditions. For shorter distances, he advises using a 9-iron, while for longer shots, he often decides between a 5-iron and a 7-iron. By adjusting the club selection, golfers can either keep the ball low to avoid the wind or launch it higher to utilize the wind to their advantage.

In terms of setup, Kelly mentions the importance of maintaining a shorter follow-through and aiming for a lower ball flight. This technique helps combat the strong winds by reducing the ball’s exposure to the elements and minimizing the potential for erratic shots.

Tracking Distances and Instilling Confidence

Playing golf in extreme wind conditions introduces uncertainty and unpredictability. To navigate these challenges, Kelly advises golfers to experiment with ball position and club choice to better understand the relative distances they can achieve in varying wind conditions. By tracking these distances, golfers can develop a sense of confidence and adjust their strategies accordingly.

It’s important to note that adverse weather conditions should not ruin the enjoyment of the game. By following the tips provided by Jerry Kelly and learning to adapt to extreme wind, golfers can face these challenging conditions with more confidence and still strive for success on the course.

Frequently Asked Questions

What advice does Jerry Kelly offer for playing golf in extreme wind?

Jerry Kelly recommends adapting to the wind conditions instead of fighting against them. He suggests varying ball positions and club choices, maintaining a shorter follow-through, and experimenting to track distances relative to the wind conditions.

How does ball position affect gameplay in windy conditions?

Varying ball positions can help golfers control the flight of their shots and achieve more consistent results. Adjusting the ball position allows players to compensate for the wind’s effects, minimizing the impact on the ball’s trajectory.

What clubs does Jerry Kelly recommend using in extreme wind?

Jerry Kelly advises using a 9-iron for shorter distances and choosing between a 5-iron and a 7-iron for longer shots. By selecting the appropriate club, golfers can adjust the ball flight to either keep it low or make use of the wind to their advantage.

How can tracking distances help in playing golf in extreme wind?

Tracking distances in relation to the wind conditions allows golfers to develop a better understanding of the adjustments needed to achieve desired shot outcomes. This added knowledge instills confidence and helps players adapt their strategies to the prevailing weather conditions.