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Distance Wedges  
The articles in the last two newsletters have been about proper wedge techniques. To take the proper wedge swing a step further lets discuss distance control. No one better to ask this question to than PGA tour Professional and client of mine Tom Pernice. He is one of the best wedge players on tour. He uses the clock system. This system can be used with three or four wedges depending on how many wedges you carry. Each wedge will have three yardages. This can be done on the short iron range on the back of the range. Record how for the ball flies not how far it rolls.
Pernice 7:30 swing Position 1 is the 7:30 position. Each of these positions refers to the position of the left arm and where it points on the clock. Take a pitching wedge first and make a 7:30 backswing and a full follow through. Record the number with a sharpie marker below the grip on the shaft so you remember the number. Do this with the rest of your wedges.
Pernice 9:00 Position 2 is the 9:00 position. Take the pitching wedge again and make a backswing until your left arm points to 9:00 and make a full follow through. Record this number on the club shaft. Continue this process with the other wedges in you bag. You now have two distances with each club.
Pernice 10:30 Position 3 is the 10:30 position. Take your pitching wedge again and make a backswing where your left arm points to 10:30 and make a full follow through record the number below the other two. You now have three distances for your wedge. Complete this process with your other wedges. My distances wedge chart looks as follows. All measurements in yards.
  7:30 9:00 10:30
Pitching Wedge 60 95 120
Sand Wedge 40 70 100
Lob Wedge 30 60 85
This system is the best way to become a very good wedge player. If you take the time to implement this system I promise you will be rewarded with lower scores.