Q: Joe:
Dear PGA Professional,

I hit my 7-iron around 120 yards, short but high and straight if my launch angle is around 28-29 degrees. If the launch angle increases to 30 degrees or more with my 7-iron, then the distance drops by 10 to 20 yards. How do I instill consistency in keeping my launch angle below 30 degrees with my 7-iron? Is it in the ball positioning at address? Joe

A: John Pallot (South Florida Section):
Joe, sounds like your hands are not forward enough at impact. You also need weight on your left foot at impact. Hit some punch shots(abbreviated follow through. If you can hit ball then divot, your launch angle should be below 30 degrees. You may also check your left wrist at impact and post impact. It must stay inline with your forearm. Hit shots with a pen under your wristwatch. This keeps the wrist flat.You may try to position the ball back. This encourages a hands forward strike.

Q: maria impang:
My son is 37 yearsold can he join the PGA tour school. He has been playing since he was 17. What should he do to qualify .

A: John Pallot (South Florida Section):
Maria, I believe anyone can enter the PGA Tour Qualifying School.The cost is $5000.The entry forms are available on www.pgatour.com.He will have to wait until next fall. The school has already been played for the 2009 season.

Q: gary winship:
Started to sway this past summer, 7 iron distance has gone from 155 to about 120. Cannot get back on track. Ball flight is weak right.

Thanks

A: John Pallot (South Florida Section):
Gary, check your grip pressure.You must feel the weight of the club-head.Check to see two knuckles with your left hand grip. Hit some balls next to a shoebox(place box 4 inches above ball).This will promote an inside approach and the club-face closing after impact. Weak right means club-face is not closing.Also check your impact position in slow motion. The club-shaft must be well forward of ball. This de-lofts the club-face.If your hands are forward you'll hit the ball then take a divot.

Q: al:
what off-season drill can i perform that will help me not start my swing from the top, but rather with my lower body.

A: Todd A. Sammons (South Florida Section):
The first move on the downswing should be a drop of the hands and arms then the firing of the hips and lower body. I would suggest dry swings in front of a mirror or sliding glass door. Start out with slow swings and progress to faster swings. Hope this helps!

Q: Dave:
I hit my driver b/w 220 and 260 yrds while my 7 iron goes around 150 yrds. I'm hoping to add some distance to my game and I want try and defer releasing the club until the last possible second. Do you have any suggestion or drills I should try?

A: Todd A. Sammons (South Florida Section):
A delayed release can inhibit distance, try to release earlier. Also, do you stretch ro do any strength training? I would consult a fitness instructor and your local PGA Professional!