Q: Under what circumstances is it better to leave the flag in? When off the green? Up hill or down hill? Or, not at all?

Thank you, Joe P.

A: There is no right or wrong answer to this question, it's more of a personal preference.

I feel that if you’re off the green and you are faced with a down hill chip, I would leave the flag in.

When the golf ball gets on the green and starts rolling down the hill and picking up speed, one can only hope that something gets in the way, and that's the flagstick, and hopefully the bottom of the cup.

If you are coming uphill I would take the flagstick out. You can be a little bit more aggressive with the flagstick out. This leaves more room for your golf ball to go in.

When you have a side hill lie, you have to determine if it's a downhill break or an uphill break.

This will determine your decision on whether to leave the flagstick in or take it out.

I have seen many shots hit the flagstick and go in, and I've seen them hit the flagstick and stay out.

The most important factor is, do what makes you comfortable with your shot and don't second guess your decision.

Have fun and enjoy the game.

Daril’s credentials

