This week is The Open Championship at Royal Troon Golf Club and it has been a good one! Higher winds and strategically placed bunkers make it a priority to control the golf ball off the tee and into the green. “The Stinger”, which was popularized by Tiger Woods, is a glorified punch shot that will be a shot used at this week’s last major of the year.
What is a Stinger? The stinger or punch shot is a type of golf shot characterized by its low trajectory and penetrating ball flight. Unlike the typical high and soft landing shots, the stinger stays close to the ground, making it less susceptible to wind and other conditions. This shot is particularly useful in windy environments, on tight fairways, or when a player needs to control the distance and roll of the ball with greater accuracy.
How do you hit this shot? There is a combination of technique, control and confidence in this shot to execute it properly. Being able to physically get into the positions, creating and controlling speed, and controlling the club face dynamics are a must.
- Club Selection: Typically, a long iron (2-iron, 3-iron, or 4-iron) or a fairway wood is used for hitting a stinger. These clubs offer the necessary loft and control.
- Ball Position: The ball is positioned usually slightly back of center in the stance, closer to the trailing foot. This will help create a downward strike on the ball, promoting a lower launch angle.
- Setup and Stance: The stance is slightly narrower than usual, with more weight placed on the front foot. This setup encourages a steeper angle of attack.
- Swing Length: The swing for this shot is more controlled and abbreviated. The backswing is shorter, and the follow-through chest height or under the shoulders to ensure the ball stays low. The hands lead the clubhead through impact making sure the loft of the club face is low.
This shot it’s an indication of a player’s ability to control and manipulate the ball under various conditions. Tiger Woods’ mastery of the stinger has inspired countless golfers to add this shot to their game. With practice and understanding, the stinger can become a reliable and impressive shot, offering control and confidence in even the most challenging situations.
