Seve Ballesteros: Chip to save par, Royal Lytham & St Annes

Last updated:

The 1988 Open Championship at Royal Lytham & St Annes saw the first ever Monday finish after heavy rain storms on the Saturday forced the tournament into an extra day. Spaniard Seve Ballesteros, returning to the course where he captured his first Open title at the age of 22 nine years previously, started the final round two shots back of Nick Price. But a stunning six-under par 65 saw him claim a two-stroke victory over the Zimbabwean.

After missing the green long and left on the 18th, Seve was under pressure to save his par. But like on so many previous occasions, a majestic recovery chip from a fluffy lie in the thick rough landed just on the edge of the green, released down to the flag and lipped-out, leaving him a tap-in for his third Open Championship title.
The key to playing these treachourous chip shots from thick rough is to keep loft on the club and stay committed into your downswing to ensure the clubhead accelerates through impact.

Now you can get up and down like the great Seve with these simple tips…

NOW PLAY THE SHOT

Get a sharper short game with these simple tips…

BACKSWING

MAINTAIN THE CLUB’S LOFT
After gripping down the club for more control, your goal should be to keep loft on the club throughout the shot. The toe should point skywards in the backswing.

STRATEGY

FOCUS AWAY FROM THE PIN
Your main focus should be on where you want to land the ball, not your finishing target which is obviously the hole. Be sure to visualise the flight in your mind.

THROUGH-SWING

GET STEEP ON IT
Use the leading edge a bit more through impact by adopting a steeper angle of attack to ensure you miss the grass before the ball for more control.
- Just so you know, we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website - read why you should trust us.