PROBLEM: When the clubface hits too high on the ball.
This can be caused by swaying or letting the clubhead pass the hands through impact.
It can also be caused by trying to swing too hard, which produces premature leg and body action and delays the release of the clubhead.
To correct, work on tempo, keeping head still, keeping arms fully extended through impact and swinging with 80% of power.
To cure topping, place the ball on a penny and hit the penny out from underneath the ball. If you can hit the penny with regularity, your hands are well trained. If you can not hit the penny consistently, you must learn to aim the club head into the bottom of the ball as a tradesman learns to hammer a nail. You must hit the bottom of the ball to utilize the club’s loft. Start out with a very lofted club making small chip swings and gradually increase the length of your swings as you get better. Practice with just a penny and no ball at times. Even practicing penny chip shots off the welcome mat if you cannot get to the driving range has helped many students. Training the hands to aim the club head is a high priority as the chances are that you did not lift your head or the 100 other things you may have worked on. You simply missed. Practice this until you do not miss anymore.
Geoff Murtha, P.G.A Professional
