COMMUNITY JOURNALISM: Golf tip

Editor's note: Steve Charters is in his 10th year as a pro at Twin Pines Golf Course. Born and raised in Cedar Rapids, Charters competed at Central College in Pella and has been a pro for 17 years in Dubuque and Cedar Rapids.

Ever take a swing at a ball and have it go straight right - or left for a left handed golfer?

Not exactly a good feeling.

Alas, the dreaded shank has reared its ugly head. Here are some things to check if Mr. Shank has come home to roost:

- When setting up to the ball, make sure you're not to close or have your weight on your heels. As a rule of thumb, you should be able to fit two fists between the butt end of the club and your body. Your weight should feel like it's in the middle of your feet almost a little toward the balls of your feet.

- Secondly, let your arms just go with your shoulder turn, don't feel like you need to push the club out and away from you in your backswing.

-  Finally, in your backswing and forward swing pay attention to your balance. If you lean toward the ball during either sequence you can shove the hosel of the club straight into the ball.

While the shanks can be the ugliest and worst feeling shot in golf, it's by no means a death sentence and can be an easier fix than you may think.