Introduction
The type of grass—and how the ball sits in it—has a big influence on the quality of contact and how far the ball travels. Some grass types let the ball sit up nicely, while others make it sink down. By understanding each situation, you can better predict the strike, control distance, and choose the right shot.
1. Fairway Grass (Short Grass)
How the Ball Sits
- Usually clean and visible on top of the grass.
- Rarely sinks.
Effect on Contact
- Very clean strikes with solid control.
Effect on Distance
- Normal or full distance, very predictable.
2. First Cut / Light Rough
How the Ball Sits
- Can be sitting up, or slightly down but still playable.
- Some grass around the ball.
Effect on Contact
- Sitting up → almost fairway-like.
- Sitting down → slight grabbing of the club.
Effect on Distance
- Sitting up → normal distance.
- Sitting down → slightly shorter with a lower flight.
Flyer Option (Very Important)
A flyer happens when:
- The ball is sitting up in light or medium rough, and
- A thin layer of grass gets trapped between the club face and the ball.
What it causes:
- Less spin
- Higher launch
- Much longer distance than expected
Why it matters:
- You may hit the ball 10–20% farther than normal.
- It often sails past the target.
3. Deep Rough (Thick, Heavy Grass)
How the Ball Sits
- Often buried or mostly hidden.
- Harder to strike cleanly.
Effect on Contact
- Grass gets between club and ball.
- Club slows down and can twist.
- Contact becomes unpredictable.
Effect on Distance
- Much shorter distance.
- Ball comes out low with very little spin.
4. Sitting Up vs. Sitting Down in Any Grass
Sitting Up
- Cleaner contact
- More speed
- Longer, easier shot
(But in light rough, sitting up increases the chance of a flyer.)
Sitting Down
- Grass blocks the clubface
- Less speed and spin
- Shorter, harder shot
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