Hitting a Golf Ball Straight

1. Hitting a Golf Ball Straight
By: Scott G. Sink

2. Hitting a Golf Ball Straight
An experienced executive in the insurance industry, Scott G. Sink manages the energy and marine
division of McGriff, Seibels & Williams, Inc. Outside of work, Scott G. Sink spends some of his free
time golfing at two country clubs in Birmingham, Alabama.

3. Hitting a Golf Ball Straight
Hitting the golf ball straight is one of the most challenging parts of mastering the game of golf.
Hitting straight requires that golfers hit the ball squarely with the face of the club. When this does
not occur, the ball spins to the side in a slice, hook, or a fade.

4. Hitting a Golf Ball Straight
When attempting to hit the ball straight, players must pay close attention to their set up. Gripping
the club with a neutral grip has the thumb of the lead hand to the right and down from the center.

5. Hitting a Golf Ball Straight
The non-lead hand goes along the side of the grip. Once set, the index finger and thumb should
make a V-shape pointing toward the non-lead shoulder.

6. Hitting a Golf Ball Straight
Players can then set up their club position. To hit the ball straight, the clubhead and ball must be
aligned with the target.

7. Hitting a Golf Ball Straight
Lay another golf club on the ground pointing from the target to just outside the ball’s path. When
the club is properly aligned, the head is perpendicular to the club on the ground. As long as the
club positioning is good, players can use any comfortable stance.

8. Hitting a Golf Ball Straight
When swinging the club, players must be sure that their forearms and wrists are relaxed since any
tension in these areas prevents the club from swinging straight.