February 1, 2025 7:21 am

The most reliable marker of how you played a game of golf will always be the ultimate score you shot. But sometimes it can be fun and a little more flattering to use other KPI’s of success or failure. One that I like to reflect on is: what was the shortest iron that I missed the green with?

Like most factors, this one will depend a little on your handicap. You should amend your expectations accordingly. In my case, if I miss the green with one of my approach wedges, then I am miffed to say the least. I hit a pitching wedge around 100 yards. At this distance, with my experience, I would hope to be fairly accurate.

Adjust the target as the club gets longer

The 9 iron comes out from about 120 yards, and I would still expect to be using my putter for the next shot. With an 8 iron I am now moving to around 130 yards. At this distance if I miss the green it is disappointing, but not a catastrophe. The 7 iron at 145 yards now offers me some excuses for errant approach shots. When the 6 iron is in my hands from 160 yards I am more hopeful than expectant of landing on the dance floor. The 5 iron is around 175 yards and to be honest there is a little fist pump if that finds the short grass. The 4 iron at 190 yards is the point where I expect to fail more than 50% of the time.

Try this for yourself after your next game. It can be an enlightening way of reflecting on how well you played. If you are a beginner, be gentle with yourself. Landing 50% of your wedge shots on the green may be a great target to begin with.

By Jon Woodroffe – Master Professional, World of Golf London

Categorised in: Tip of the month, World of Golf London