How to play a par-3 over water
Do you struggle when it comes to how to play a par-3 over water?
One of the first things you need to consider is starting to understand where the dangers are. When you come to that conclusion you can then try and eliminate in your head what parts of the green and surrounding areas are a no go zone.
Secondly you need to be aiming for the fat of the green. When conditions are tough and you have a long shot there are no time for heroics. Let’s be sure you don’t bring any danger into play.
How to play a par-3 over water: Main points
You also need to understand the length of the green. When you understand this you can then divide the green into sections so you can be aiming for a particular part if you know there is a bit of danger near one of the zones.
Finally, playing to the conditions is so important. If you can judge the conditions you can then decide what shot shape to play. If the wind is hard off the right, try and play a draw to hold against the wind.
Watch the full video at the top of the page for more tips on how to play a par-3 over water…
How to control your ball in the wind
How to play from an elevated tee
When you should play a low pitch shot
Dan Whittaker is an elite golf swing and performance coach based at High Legh. For more information, visit his website or click here for more advice.
Tom Irwin
Tom is a lifetime golfer, now over 30 years playing the game. 2023 marks 10 years in golf publishing and he is still holding down a + handicap at Alwoodley in Leeds. He has played over 600 golf courses, and has been a member of at least four including his first love Louth, in Lincolnshire. Tom likes unbranded clothing, natural fibres, and pencil bags. Seacroft in Lincolnshire is where it starts and ends.