Standing on the 18th tee, gazing at the potential for an eagle finish on that par 5, is a golfer’s dream scenario.
Picture this: a perfect drive that not only sails far but also takes a tantalizing draw, cutting that corner effortlessly. It’s a shot that feels magical, a blend of skill and finesse that can set you apart on the course.
Yet, the question remains – can you truly master the art of hitting a draw?
As someone who has navigated the greens and fairways with passion and purpose, I’m Huw Devonald, and I’m here to share with you the wisdom I’ve gathered on how to master this all important shot.
A Bit About Me
At age 10, I sat mesmerized in front of the television, watching a major championship unfold before my eyes (I’m pretty sure it was Sir Nick Faldo’s first Masters in the playoff against Scott Hoch!)
It was as if a switch had been flipped – from that point on, I knew I had found something that resonated deeply with me. The next day, I found myself with my dad at the local driving range, eagerly swinging away, and the rest, as they say, is history.
My journey was not without its challenges. The unpredictable Scottish weather was both a friend and a foe as I practiced my swing under various conditions. Rain or shine, wind or calm, I persevered.
Every setback, every missed shot, only fueled my determination to improve. I moved from junior competitions from 12-15 years of age to local amateur tournaments from 16 onwards, steadily progressing and building a reputation for my tenacity and commitment to the game.
As the years went by, my dedication paid off. Through countless hours of practice, unyielding dedication, and a healthy dose of self-discovery, I earned the coveted title of scratch golfer at my club, Carnoustie – heard of it?
This journey was a symphony of highs and lows, victories and defeats, and lessons learned from every corner of the course.
Golf, however, wasn’t just a game for me. It became a canvas for personal growth, a platform to inspire others, and a vehicle for positive change.
My journey as a golfer led me to embrace the role of a motivational speaker, sharing not only the technical aspects of the game but also the invaluable life lessons it had taught me.
Today, I find myself fortunate to live a life that intertwines my passions seamlessly. As an entrepreneur, I’ve been able to blend my love for golf with my enthusiasm for people and philanthropy.
Through my speaking engagements, I aim to inspire individuals to not only pursue their golfing dreams but to approach life with the same dedication, resilience, and unwavering belief in themselves.
Setting the Stage for Success
Let’s address the elephant on the fairway – hitting a draw can seem like an enigma, a puzzle that only a select few can solve.
But I’m here to tell you that you’re fully capable of unraveling this mystery.
It starts with understanding the basics. Most golfers struggle to hit a draw because of a pesky over-the-top motion that leads to a frustrating slice.
However, mastering the draw can be the game-changer you’ve been seeking. Trust me, by the time you finish reading this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to make that ball dance from right to left.
Why Embrace the Draw?
Before diving into the nitty-gritty of technique, let’s explore why embracing a draw is a game-changer.
The draw might feel like uncharted territory for many, but it holds the key to unlocking your potential.
Picture this: a golf ball launching off the tee, soaring right, and gracefully curving back to the middle of the fairway or zeroing in on a tucked left pin. It’s a sight to behold, a symphony of power and finesse that sets you apart.
Even the pros, including a fair share of PGA Tour players, favor the draw for its powerful, crisp flight and the glorious hang time it offers.
Now, why should you learn to hit a draw? Let’s break it down.
Hitting a draw, especially with your trusty driver, can add a significant 5-15 yards to your distance, and on those challenging fairways like the British Open, you might even see more roll out.
As that ball carries further and rolls out, you’ll find yourself wielding shorter clubs for approach shots, ultimately leading to lower scores.
But here’s the secret sauce: a draw opens up a treasure trove of options during your round. From escaping trouble by maneuvering around trees with a punch draw to tackling tricky winds, the draw is your versatile ally on the course.
Crafting the Perfect Setup
As with any masterpiece, it all begins with a well-crafted foundation. In this case, it’s your setup. Imagine the canvas as the fairway, waiting for your artistic touch.
Aim for a neutral grip – not too strong or weak – to unlock the versatility you need. This neutral grip paves the way for a shallow club path and an inside swing, all crucial elements for that elusive draw.
PRO TIP
The grip is your gateway to the draw. If your grip is too weak, hitting that majestic draw can feel like chasing a mirage.
Setting Up for a Draw
Now, let’s fine-tune your stance. For a draw, you need a closed clubface at impact, turning the ball from right to left.
Remember, an open club face results in a fade, which is the antithesis of your goal. Here’s where the magic happens – a stance that’s the polar opposite of a fade setup.
And yes, this advice is tailored for the right-handed golfer. For a start, rotate your right hand under the club, strengthening your grip.
This simple adjustment empowers your wrists to work their magic, curving the ball just right. Alternatively, grip the club as usual but apply more pressure to your right hand. This added pressure aids in rolling the club over at impact, orchestrating that perfect draw.
The Dance of the Draw
Visualize this: you’ve perfected your grip, your stance radiates confidence, and now it’s time for the dance of the draw. Closing the curtain on a slice and opening doors to a draw.
But we’re not done yet – close your stance by subtly nudging your right foot back an inch or two. This nuanced adjustment sets the stage for the draw’s grand entrance.
Remember, with a fade, you’d crowd the ball, but for a draw, spaciousness is your ally.
PRO TIP
Step back slightly from the ball at address. Create space, allow for an inside-out swing path, and watch the magic unfold.
Mastering the Draw with Irons
Ah, irons – the precision instruments in your golfing arsenal. They require a different touch, a nuanced approach that I’ve managed to hone.
For irons, slightly move the ball back in your stance, enhancing that all-important impact on the downswing. Aligning the stars for a draw doesn’t end there – focus on your alignment.
PRO TIP
With longer clubs, expect a meatier draw, so align yourself right off the target. For a wood, envision a 10-15 yard draw, for a 5-iron, a 5-7 yard curve, and for a 9-iron, a 3-4 yard dance.
Sculpting Your Swing Thought
As we traverse this journey of mastering the draw, remember that simplicity is your guiding star. Amidst the flurry of technique, a single swing thought can be your North Star.
Embrace a thought that resonates with your style – perhaps it’s a resolute “Think draw,” a rhythmic “Maintain your tempo,” or a focused “Commit to your pre-shot routine.”
Embrace the wisdom of Jack Nicklaus: “I never hit a shot without having a very sharp in-focus picture of it in my mind.” Visualize the draw, feel its curve, and unleash your shot with conviction.
Embracing the Draw’s Symphony
As we round the corner of this guide, let’s reflect on the journey you’ve embarked upon. From grip adjustments to stance tweaks, you’ve unlocked the secrets of the draw. Spend hours on the range, test the waters with different clubs, trajectories, and targets.
Embrace the alignment rods, feel the draw’s path, and recalibrate after each triumphant shot. The draw might take time, but like any worthwhile endeavor, it rewards those who persevere.
PRO TIP
Remember that practice is the forge where mastery is shaped.
The Low Hook: A Hero’s Shot
But wait, there’s more – an ace up your sleeve, the low hook. Imagine a shot that pierces the air, kisses the fairway, and rolls out gracefully.
It’s your lifeline in adversity, a shot that showcases your skill and versatility. Embrace it with humility, knowing that you have a strategy that can turn the tide even in the face of challenge.
PRO TIP
Consider it your secret weapon. When the draw takes an extra leap, and you find yourself flirting with the left-side trouble, unleash the low hook.
In the End, It’s All You
So there you have it, the art of hitting a draw with your irons unveiled. As you step onto the course, armed with the insights I’ve shared, remember that mastery lies within your grasp.
The draw might not appear overnight, but with each shot, each swing, you’re inching closer to the symphony of power and precision.
Embrace the challenge, celebrate the progress, and let your journey with the draw be a testament to the relentless pursuit of excellence.