The Art of Curve: Mastering the Fade at Eagle Ridge
As I stood on the tee box at Eagle Ridge Golf Club, the wind was howling, and the fairway seemed to stretch endlessly into the distance. I knew that a straight shot wouldn’t be enough – I needed to shape my shot, to make it dance through the air like a ballerina on a stage. That’s when I remembered the fade, a shot that had eluded me for years, but one that I was determined to conquer.
The Fade Defined
The fade is a golf shot where the ball starts to the right of the target (for a right-handed golfer) and gently curves back towards the target line [1]. This controlled draw-back is the result of a slightly open clubface at impact, combined with a swing path that is slightly to the right of the target line.
“Fading the ball can be a game-changer,” says Eagle Ridge’s head golf pro, Sarah Summers. “It allows you to navigate around obstacles, control your distance, and add an extra layer of precision to your game.” [8]
The Setup
The key to a successful fade starts with your setup. As Rory McIlroy explains, “You want to make sure you’re aiming right of your target, and have the clubface a little left of where you’re swinging the path of the club.” [4] This subtle adjustment in your stance and club alignment will encourage the ball to start right and curve back towards the target.
It’s also important to maintain a consistent hand position, regardless of whether you’re hitting a draw or a fade. “At no point am I thinking that my hands have to be ahead or behind,” McIlroy adds. “I’d say my hand position for both shots is pretty consistent.” [4]
The Swing
Once you’ve set up properly, it’s time to swing. The motion itself is not dramatically different from a standard shot, but there are a few key adjustments to keep in mind.
“You want to have a slightly steeper descent angle, with a more vertical club path,” explains Summers. “This will help you control the trajectory and ensure the ball doesn’t climb too high in the air.” [8]
Additionally, you’ll want to focus on a smooth, controlled tempo. “The fade is all about precision, not power,” Summers cautions. “If you try to swing too hard, you’ll lose control and the ball will start to balloon.”
Mastering the Fade
Like any golf skill, mastering the fade takes practice. But the benefits are well worth the effort. A well-executed fade can help you navigate tight fairways, avoid hazards, and add valuable distance control to your game.
“I used to struggle with the fade, but once I got the hang of it, it became a go-to shot for me,” says local golfer, John Doe. “Now, when I’m faced with a tricky tee shot, I know I can rely on that gentle left-to-right curve to get me where I need to be.” [8]
So, the next time you’re faced with a challenging shot at Eagle Ridge, don’t be afraid to reach for your fade. With a little practice and the guidance of our expert staff, you’ll be shaping shots like a pro in no time.
Fade Shot Fundamentals
Clubface Alignment
The clubface is the key to controlling the shape of your shot. For a fade, you’ll want to set the clubface slightly open (to the right of your target line) at address.
Swing Path
Your swing path should be slightly to the right of your target line. This, combined with the open clubface, will create the left-to-right ball flight.
Weight Shift
Maintain a balanced weight shift throughout your swing. Avoid excessive lateral movement, as this can throw off your accuracy.
Tempo
A smooth, controlled tempo is essential for consistent fades. Avoid the temptation to swing too hard, as this can cause the ball to balloon up in the air.
Visualization
Picture the ball starting right of your target and gently curving back towards the flag. This visual cue can help you execute the shot with confidence.
Fade Shot Drills
Alignment Stick Drill
Set up an alignment stick parallel to your target line. Practice swinging with the clubface slightly open and the path slightly right of the stick. This will help ingrain the proper setup and swing mechanics.
Offset Tee Drill
Place a tee slightly to the right of your normal ball position. This will encourage you to set up with an open clubface and swing path. Hit shots, focusing on maintaining balance and tempo.
Trajectory Control Drill
Hit a series of fades, gradually increasing the amount of curve. Pay attention to the height and distance of each shot, adjusting your swing as needed to optimize trajectory and control.
Fade Shot Scenarios
Navigating Doglegs
The fade is an invaluable tool for navigating doglegs at Eagle Ridge. By shaping your shot around the corner, you can take advantage of the generous fairways and avoid trouble.
Windy Conditions
When the wind is howling, the fade can be your best friend. By keeping the ball lower and controlling the curve, you can fight the elements and find the short grass.
Tight Fairways
On holes with narrow fairways, the fade can help you thread the needle. By starting the ball right and drawing it back, you can find the safety of the short grass.
So, whether you’re tackling the challenging doglegs, battling the wind, or navigating tight fairways, the fade shot is a weapon in your arsenal that can help you conquer the course at Eagle Ridge Golf Club.
