I’ve had numerous inquiries on how to play from uneven lies because of the nature of terrain in our area. As golf facilities don’t have these slopes to practice on, most golfers are at a loss when faced with these situations. The key on these shots – whether from uphill, downhill or sidehill lies – is to start in the correct position so balance is maintained throughout the swing.
On uphill and downhill slopes, set your shoulders parallel to the slope. This insures that you’ll swing the club along the slope. Ball position should be toward your higher foot, so take a practice swing to see where your club contacts the ground. Use your normal grip and posture for both.
On uphill lies for right-handers, the ball will curve left and go higher so take more club and a shorter, more controlled swing to maintain your balance.
On downhill lies, reverse the above because the ball will curve right and come out lower, so take less club to allow for more roll. Make sure your finish is low and down the slope.
A good teaching aid to simulate these lies is to place a range bucket under your left foot for uphill lies and right foot for downhill ones. Make sure to finish with your forearms together on both swings.
Kati Biszantz, LPGA, is a former touring professional and the head instructor at Seven Hills Course in Hemet. She can be reached at (951) 304-0422.
