How to hit mudballs—the important basics

Mudballs are golf's version of rolling the dice. The ball could go uncontrollably sideways if you're not careful. There's definitely luck involved, but there are ways to shift the odds of a good shot in your favor. Here's how. — Nick Bova, one of Golf Digest's Best Teachers in New Jersey

  • What side of the ball is the mud on?
  • The ball will fly in the opposite direction of the mud.
  • The ball will also tend to fly lower than usual.
  • Take more club than usual
  • Swing softer than usual
  • The combination will produce less backspin for more mudball control
  • Move the ball position slightly back in your stance.
  • This will lower the ball flight for further control.
  • As you move ball back, lean shaft slightly forward.
  • When the mus is on the side, the distance loss is about 20 yards.
  • The ball will travel about 25 yards to the opposide side of the mud.
  • Remember these numbers, and pick your target accordingly.