A common question among golfers concerns the optimal club selection for specific distances and shot types. A club offering high launch and soft landing, similar to a 9 wood, can be effectively replaced by a hybrid. Typically, a hybrid with a loft angle in the range of 23 to 25 degrees will produce comparable results to a 9 wood, allowing for both distance and control from various lies.
The appeal of utilizing this alternative lies in its enhanced versatility and forgiveness. Hybrids, due to their design, generally offer a more playable option from the rough and are easier to control than fairway woods for many golfers. Historically, fairway woods were the primary choice for long approach shots, but the development of hybrid clubs offered a more manageable solution, blending the distance of a wood with the accuracy of an iron.
To fully understand the suitability of a hybrid as a substitute, it is necessary to consider factors such as swing speed, desired ball flight, and the specific course conditions. Individual testing and professional club fitting are recommended to determine the ideal loft and shaft combination to achieve desired performance characteristics, mirroring the capabilities of a high-lofted fairway wood.
1. Loft Angle
The loft angle of a golf club significantly influences ball flight, distance, and trajectory. When considering a hybrid as an equivalent to a 9 wood, understanding the correlation between loft and performance becomes crucial for optimal club selection.
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Determining Equivalent Loft
A 9 wood typically possesses a loft angle between 24 and 27 degrees. To find a comparable hybrid, the loft should fall within a similar range. This direct correlation aims to replicate the high launch angle and soft landing characteristics associated with a 9 wood.
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Impact on Ball Flight
The loft angle dictates the trajectory of the golf ball. A higher loft, such as that found in a 9 wood or its hybrid equivalent, results in a higher ball flight. This is beneficial for carrying obstacles and achieving a steeper descent angle, which is vital for holding the green.
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Distance Considerations
While loft angle contributes to ball flight, it also affects distance. Matching the loft angle between a hybrid and a 9 wood helps approximate the distance achieved with each club. Factors such as swing speed and clubhead speed, however, play a critical role in actual distance attained.
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Influence on Landing Angle
A higher loft angle promotes a steeper landing angle. This is particularly important for approach shots to the green, as it minimizes roll and allows the ball to stop quickly. Selecting a hybrid with a loft angle similar to a 9 wood ensures comparable stopping power on the green.
In summary, the loft angle serves as a primary factor in determining the equivalency between a hybrid and a 9 wood. Careful consideration of loft angle, combined with an understanding of its effects on ball flight, distance, and landing angle, enables golfers to make informed decisions regarding club selection and improve their overall performance. The objective is to replicate the benefits of a 9 wood high launch and soft landing with the enhanced playability of a hybrid.
2. Ball Flight
Ball flight constitutes a primary consideration when determining a hybrid’s equivalency to a 9 wood. The trajectory and apex of the ball’s flight path are critical for achieving desired distance and landing characteristics, directly impacting club selection.
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Launch Angle and Trajectory
The initial launch angle determines the overall trajectory. A higher launch angle, typically associated with a 9 wood, facilitates a steeper descent. A hybrid intended as a substitute must replicate this high launch to achieve comparable carry distance and green-holding capability. Factors influencing launch angle include club loft, shaft flex, and the golfer’s swing mechanics. For example, a hybrid with a similar loft angle but a stiffer shaft might produce a lower launch, rendering it less similar to a 9 wood in terms of trajectory.
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Apex Height and Carry Distance
Apex height refers to the highest point of the ball’s trajectory during flight. A higher apex height generally correlates with increased carry distance, especially when combined with an optimal launch angle. The design of the hybrid, including its center of gravity and face technology, plays a significant role in achieving the desired apex height. If a hybrid produces a significantly lower apex compared to a 9 wood, it may compromise carry distance and the ability to clear obstacles on the course.
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Descent Angle and Stopping Power
The descent angle, or the angle at which the ball lands on the green, is crucial for controlling roll. A steeper descent angle promotes greater stopping power, allowing the ball to hold its position upon landing. A hybrid designed to emulate a 9 wood must exhibit a descent angle sufficient to ensure predictable and controlled roll. Variables such as spin rate and course conditions further influence stopping power. If the hybrid generates less spin, the descent angle becomes even more critical for achieving desired control.
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Spin Rate and Ball Flight Characteristics
Spin rate contributes significantly to overall ball flight characteristics. Higher spin rates generally lead to a more elevated trajectory and increased stopping power, while lower spin rates may result in a flatter trajectory and greater roll. A hybrid intended as an equivalent to a 9 wood should produce a spin rate conducive to replicating the ball flight associated with the wood. Variations in spin rate can stem from the club’s face material, groove design, and the golfer’s impact conditions. Matching the spin rate helps ensure similar performance characteristics between the hybrid and the 9 wood.
The interplay of launch angle, apex height, descent angle, and spin rate collectively shapes the ball flight. Selecting a hybrid with characteristics aligning with those of a 9 wood is essential for golfers seeking a comparable club. Careful consideration of these variables, combined with appropriate club fitting, allows for achieving optimal ball flight and enhanced on-course performance.
3. Distance Control
Achieving precise distance control is paramount when substituting a hybrid for a 9 wood. The primary objective of using a 9 wood is to consistently reach a specific distance with a predictable trajectory. A suitable hybrid must replicate this capability. Variations in swing speed, impact location on the clubface, and prevailing wind conditions can significantly influence distance. For example, a golfer aiming for a 150-yard shot with a 9 wood needs a hybrid that, under similar conditions, will produce a comparable result, minimizing over- or under-shooting the target.
Distance control directly impacts course management and scoring. Inaccurate distance estimation leads to missed greens, resulting in additional strokes. A hybrid that provides consistent distance allows golfers to execute approach shots with greater confidence. This entails selecting a hybrid with the appropriate loft and shaft characteristics to match the golfer’s swing profile. Professional club fittings are often recommended to determine the ideal combination. Imagine a scenario where a player consistently misjudges distances with a new hybrid; this would necessitate adjustments in swing mechanics or, ultimately, a reevaluation of the club selection itself.
In summary, the correlation between a hybrid and a 9 wood hinges significantly on maintaining predictable distance control. Without this control, the benefit of substituting the 9 wood diminishes. Golfers should prioritize consistent distance output from the hybrid, mirroring the performance of the 9 wood, to optimize their on-course strategy and enhance scoring potential. Overcoming challenges in distance control typically involves adjusting swing techniques, ensuring proper club fitting, and adapting to environmental factors.
4. Playability
Playability represents a critical factor when assessing the suitability of a hybrid as an alternative to a 9 wood. It encompasses the ease with which a golfer can effectively utilize a club from a variety of lies and under diverse conditions. High playability translates to increased confidence and improved shot execution.
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Forgiveness on Off-Center Hits
One facet of playability is the club’s ability to maintain distance and direction even when the ball is not struck in the center of the clubface. A hybrid that offers greater forgiveness minimizes the negative impact of mishits, providing more consistent results compared to a less forgiving club. This is particularly valuable for golfers who may struggle with consistent contact.
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Versatility from Different Lies
Playability is also defined by the club’s performance from various lies, including the fairway, rough, and even challenging conditions like divots. A highly playable hybrid allows a golfer to execute shots effectively regardless of the lie, providing a consistent launch and trajectory. The design of the sole and the clubface contribute significantly to this versatility.
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Ease of Launch and Trajectory Control
A playable hybrid is one that facilitates easy launch and allows the golfer to control the trajectory of the ball. The design of the clubhead and the distribution of weight contribute to the launch characteristics, while the shaft properties influence trajectory control. A hybrid that launches the ball easily and allows for consistent trajectory control enhances a golfer’s ability to manage shot distance and accuracy.
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Confidence at Address
Playability also involves the psychological aspect of confidence a golfer feels when standing over the ball. A hybrid that looks appealing and inspires confidence at address can positively impact the golfer’s swing and shot execution. Factors such as clubhead shape, size, and finish contribute to this sense of confidence, thereby improving overall playability.
Ultimately, the objective when determining a suitable hybrid to replace a 9 wood revolves around maintaining, and ideally enhancing, playability. The hybrid must not only replicate the distance and trajectory of the 9 wood but also offer improved forgiveness, versatility, and ease of use. The optimal choice balances performance characteristics with the golfer’s individual skill level and preferences.
5. Forgiveness
Forgiveness plays a pivotal role in determining the suitability of a hybrid as an equivalent to a 9 wood. It represents the club’s capacity to minimize the adverse effects of off-center hits on distance and accuracy, thereby enhancing consistency. When selecting a hybrid, the degree of forgiveness it offers directly impacts a golfer’s ability to achieve desired outcomes, especially on less-than-perfect swings.
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Moment of Inertia (MOI) and Stability
Moment of Inertia (MOI) is a measure of a club’s resistance to twisting upon impact. Hybrids with higher MOI values exhibit greater stability, minimizing the loss of distance and directional control on off-center strikes. A 9 wood equivalent should possess a high MOI to ensure that mishits still result in acceptable ball flight and distance. For instance, a hybrid with a low MOI might twist significantly on an off-center hit, causing the ball to veer offline and lose substantial distance, whereas a high-MOI hybrid would maintain a straighter path and retain more distance.
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Clubface Technology and Sweet Spot Size
The size and design of the clubface’s sweet spot significantly influence forgiveness. Hybrids featuring larger sweet spots offer a broader area where optimal impact can occur, reducing the penalty for slight mishits. Manufacturers employ various technologies, such as variable face thickness and optimized weighting, to expand the sweet spot. A hybrid replicating a 9 wood should incorporate technologies that maximize the effective hitting area. A smaller sweet spot necessitates more precise contact, whereas a larger sweet spot provides more leeway for imperfect swings, contributing to overall forgiveness.
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Internal Weighting and Center of Gravity (CG)
Internal weighting distribution and the location of the Center of Gravity (CG) directly impact a club’s forgiveness characteristics. Hybrids with a low and deep CG tend to launch the ball higher and are more resistant to twisting. Weight positioned strategically within the clubhead can stabilize the face at impact, minimizing the effects of off-center hits. For a hybrid to effectively substitute a 9 wood, it should feature internal weighting that promotes both forgiveness and a launch similar to that of a 9 wood. Misplaced weighting can lead to inconsistent results, undermining the hybrid’s overall performance in mimicking the 9 wood’s forgiving nature.
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Sole Design and Turf Interaction
The design of the sole influences how the club interacts with the turf, especially from less-than-ideal lies. Hybrids with wider soles or specifically contoured soles can glide through the turf more easily, reducing the likelihood of digging or getting stuck. This contributes to forgiveness by minimizing the impact of poor turf conditions on the quality of the strike. A hybrid intended as a 9 wood equivalent should feature a sole design that promotes clean contact even from difficult lies. Poor turf interaction can result in mishits, significantly reducing distance and accuracy, thereby negating the forgiveness benefits the hybrid is intended to provide.
In summary, the level of forgiveness offered by a hybrid club is a critical determinant of its suitability as a replacement for a 9 wood. Factors such as MOI, clubface technology, internal weighting, and sole design collectively influence the club’s ability to maintain performance on off-center hits. Golfers seeking to substitute a 9 wood with a hybrid should prioritize clubs that exhibit high levels of forgiveness to ensure consistent results and enhance their overall playability.
6. Swing Speed
Swing speed exerts a considerable influence on determining a suitable hybrid equivalent to a 9 wood. A golfer’s swing speed directly affects the distance, trajectory, and spin rate achieved with any given club, including hybrids and fairway woods. Slower swing speeds typically necessitate a more forgiving club design with a higher loft to generate adequate launch and carry distance. Conversely, faster swing speeds may require a lower loft and a stiffer shaft to maintain control and prevent excessive spin. The correlation between swing speed and club performance is therefore fundamental in selecting a hybrid that effectively replicates the characteristics of a 9 wood for a specific individual. For example, a golfer with a swing speed averaging 80 mph might find a 24-degree hybrid to be a suitable replacement, whereas a golfer with a swing speed of 95 mph might require a 21-degree hybrid to achieve similar results in terms of distance and ball flight.
The impact of swing speed extends beyond loft selection to encompass shaft flex and clubhead weight. A golfer with a slower swing speed generally benefits from a lighter clubhead and a more flexible shaft to maximize clubhead speed at impact. This combination promotes higher launch angles and increased carry distance, compensating for the reduced power generated during the swing. In contrast, a golfer with a faster swing speed typically requires a heavier clubhead and a stiffer shaft to maintain stability and prevent the club from lagging behind during the downswing. The interplay of these factors underscores the importance of custom club fitting to ensure that the hybrid’s specifications align with the golfer’s individual swing characteristics. Failing to account for swing speed can lead to suboptimal performance, such as a ball flight that is too low, too high, or prone to excessive hooking or slicing.
In summary, swing speed serves as a crucial determinant in identifying a hybrid that effectively substitutes a 9 wood. The optimal loft, shaft flex, and clubhead weight are all contingent upon the golfer’s swing speed. Accurate swing speed measurement, coupled with professional club fitting, is essential for maximizing distance, accuracy, and overall performance. Neglecting this aspect may result in a mismatched club that fails to deliver the desired results, highlighting the practical significance of understanding the relationship between swing speed and club selection. Therefore, players should not only look at the loft of the club when comparing it to a 9 wood, but they must also understand how swing speed will affect the performance of the club.
7. Course conditions
Course conditions exert a significant influence on the selection of a hybrid club as an equivalent to a 9 wood. Firm fairways promote greater roll after landing, potentially requiring a lower-lofted hybrid to achieve a desired total distance. Conversely, softer conditions necessitate a higher-lofted hybrid to maximize carry and ensure adequate stopping power on approach shots. The texture and density of the rough also factor into club selection; thicker rough may demand a hybrid with greater launch capabilities to extricate the ball effectively. The presence of hazards, such as water or bunkers, further dictates the ideal trajectory and landing angle required, which in turn affects the choice of hybrid. For example, a player facing a long approach over water onto a soft green would likely favor a higher-lofted hybrid to clear the hazard and ensure the ball stops quickly upon landing.
Prevailing weather conditions also play a crucial role. Windy conditions necessitate adjustments in club selection to compensate for wind resistance. A headwind requires a lower trajectory to minimize the wind’s effect on ball flight, potentially leading to a slightly lower-lofted hybrid choice. Conversely, a tailwind may allow for a higher-lofted hybrid, maximizing carry distance. Furthermore, temperature and humidity levels can impact ball flight; warmer temperatures generally lead to increased distance, while higher humidity can reduce distance. Professional golfers often make club adjustments based on detailed weather forecasts, highlighting the practical significance of considering these variables. The slope of the fairway or green further influences the necessary trajectory and distance control, impacting the selection between a 9 wood or its hybrid counterpart.
In conclusion, course conditions are integral to selecting the appropriate hybrid as an alternative to a 9 wood. Factors such as fairway firmness, rough density, hazards, weather patterns, and slope all necessitate adjustments in loft, shaft characteristics, and overall club design to optimize performance. Failing to account for these variables can lead to suboptimal shot execution and increased scoring. Therefore, a thorough assessment of course conditions is essential for informed club selection and effective course management, ensuring the chosen hybrid functions effectively as a substitute for a 9 wood.
8. Shaft characteristics
The properties of a golf club shaft exert a profound influence on overall performance, directly impacting the suitability of a hybrid as an equivalent to a 9 wood. Shaft weight, flex, torque, and material composition collectively determine launch angle, ball speed, spin rate, and directional control. Selecting a shaft that aligns with a golfer’s swing characteristics is critical for replicating the performance profile of a 9 wood. For instance, a shaft that is too stiff can result in a lower launch angle and reduced distance, while a shaft that is too flexible may lead to inconsistent ball flight and a loss of control. Therefore, understanding the nuances of shaft characteristics is paramount in achieving the desired outcome when substituting a hybrid for a 9 wood.
Consider a golfer who traditionally uses a 9 wood to achieve a high launch and soft landing on approach shots. To replicate this performance with a hybrid, attention must be given to the shaft’s flex and kick point. A shaft with a mid to high kick point, combined with a moderate flex, often promotes a higher trajectory, mimicking the launch characteristics of a 9 wood. Furthermore, shaft weight influences swing speed and overall feel; a lighter shaft can increase swing speed for golfers with slower tempos, while a heavier shaft may provide more stability for players with faster swings. In professional club fittings, shaft selection is meticulously tailored to individual swing data, emphasizing the practical significance of this component. Differences in shaft material, such as graphite versus steel, also impact vibration dampening and feel, further influencing a golfer’s perception and performance with the club.
In summary, the connection between shaft characteristics and the suitability of a hybrid as a 9 wood equivalent is undeniable. Shaft weight, flex, torque, and material composition collectively determine a club’s performance characteristics, directly impacting launch angle, distance, and control. Selecting a shaft that complements a golfer’s swing is essential for replicating the desired ball flight and achieving consistent results. Overlooking the importance of shaft characteristics can lead to suboptimal performance, underscoring the need for professional club fitting to ensure the hybrid effectively substitutes the 9 wood.
9. Landing angle
The landing angle of a golf shot significantly influences its subsequent behavior on the green. When assessing which hybrid club effectively replaces a 9 wood, the ability to replicate the 9 wood’s characteristic landing angle is of paramount importance. A steeper landing angle promotes quicker stopping power, minimizing roll and allowing the ball to hold its position on the green more predictably. A hybrid that produces a shallower landing angle, even if it matches the 9 wood’s distance, may not be a suitable substitute due to its compromised ability to control the ball’s final resting point. For instance, on a par-3 approach, a 9 wood might produce a landing angle of 45 degrees, resulting in minimal roll, while a poorly chosen hybrid could yield a 30-degree landing angle and excessive roll, potentially carrying the ball off the back of the green.
Achieving a comparable landing angle involves careful consideration of several factors, including the hybrid’s loft angle, spin rate, and shaft properties. A higher loft angle generally promotes a steeper descent, while increased spin also aids in creating greater stopping power. The shaft’s flex and kick point can further influence the trajectory and, consequently, the landing angle. A softer shaft with a higher kick point can contribute to a higher ball flight and a steeper descent, mirroring the performance of a 9 wood. Conversely, a stiffer shaft with a lower kick point may produce a flatter trajectory and a shallower landing angle. Therefore, a comprehensive analysis of these interconnected variables is essential for selecting a hybrid that replicates the desired landing angle.
In summary, the landing angle is a critical component when evaluating a hybrid’s suitability as a replacement for a 9 wood. The ability to consistently achieve a steep landing angle, promoting quick stopping power and precise control, is essential for effective course management. Factors such as loft, spin, and shaft characteristics must be carefully considered to optimize the landing angle and ensure the hybrid functions as a true equivalent of the 9 wood. Failing to adequately address the landing angle can compromise the shot’s effectiveness, ultimately impacting the golfer’s overall scoring potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding hybrid clubs suitable as replacements for a 9 wood, offering clarity and informed guidance.
Question 1: What loft angle should a hybrid possess to effectively substitute a 9 wood?
A hybrid designed to replace a 9 wood typically requires a loft angle ranging from 23 to 25 degrees. This range approximates the launch and trajectory characteristics associated with a 9 wood.
Question 2: How does swing speed influence the selection of a hybrid as a 9 wood replacement?
Swing speed significantly impacts club selection. Slower swing speeds benefit from lighter shafts and higher lofts, while faster swing speeds necessitate stiffer shafts and potentially lower lofts to maintain control and optimize distance.
Question 3: What role does forgiveness play when choosing a hybrid equivalent to a 9 wood?
Forgiveness is crucial. A hybrid with a high Moment of Inertia (MOI) minimizes the impact of off-center hits, ensuring consistent distance and direction, mirroring the forgiving nature of a 9 wood.
Question 4: How do course conditions affect the determination of a suitable hybrid?
Course conditions necessitate adjustments. Firm fairways may warrant a lower-lofted hybrid for roll, while softer conditions benefit from a higher loft for increased carry and stopping power.
Question 5: Why are shaft characteristics important in the selection process?
Shaft weight, flex, and torque influence ball flight and control. A shaft tailored to the golfer’s swing promotes optimal launch, spin, and accuracy, ensuring the hybrid replicates the performance of a 9 wood.
Question 6: What is the significance of the landing angle when substituting a hybrid for a 9 wood?
The landing angle is crucial for controlling roll. A steeper landing angle promotes quicker stopping power. The hybrid must replicate the 9 wood’s landing angle to ensure predictable ball behavior on the green.
In summary, selecting a hybrid as a replacement for a 9 wood requires careful consideration of loft angle, swing speed, forgiveness, course conditions, shaft characteristics, and landing angle. A comprehensive evaluation ensures optimal performance and enhanced course management.
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Optimizing Hybrid Selection
Selecting an appropriate hybrid to substitute a 9 wood necessitates a strategic approach, considering multiple factors to ensure comparable performance. The following tips provide guidance for making informed decisions.
Tip 1: Evaluate Swing Speed Accurately: Conduct a swing speed analysis using a launch monitor or professional fitting service. Precise measurement allows for informed decisions regarding shaft flex and clubhead weight, crucial for maximizing distance and control.
Tip 2: Prioritize a Forgiving Clubhead Design: Seek hybrid models featuring a high Moment of Inertia (MOI). This characteristic minimizes the negative effects of off-center hits, ensuring greater consistency in distance and direction.
Tip 3: Consider Course Conditions Strategically: Assess typical course conditions, including fairway firmness and rough density. Adjust loft selection accordingly; higher lofts are generally preferable on softer courses, while lower lofts are suitable for firmer surfaces.
Tip 4: Fine-Tune Shaft Selection: Consult with a qualified club fitter to determine the optimal shaft weight, flex, and kick point for the golfer’s unique swing profile. This customization ensures proper launch and trajectory control.
Tip 5: Test Landing Angle Performance: Utilize a launch monitor or on-course testing to evaluate the landing angle of potential hybrid candidates. Aim for a landing angle similar to that achieved with a 9 wood, typically in the range of 40 to 45 degrees, for optimal stopping power.
Tip 6: Assess Versatility from Various Lies: Evaluate the hybrid’s performance from different lies, including the fairway, rough, and uneven surfaces. Ensure the clubhead design facilitates clean contact and consistent launch regardless of the lie.
Tip 7: Focus on Distance Gapping: Ensure the hybrid fills a specific distance gap in the golfer’s club set. The selected hybrid should consistently deliver a distance that bridges the gap between longer irons and fairway woods.
These tips collectively emphasize the importance of data-driven decision-making and professional guidance when choosing a hybrid that effectively replicates the performance of a 9 wood. Informed selection enhances consistency, improves course management, and ultimately contributes to lower scores.
The next section will provide a concise conclusion, summarizing the key considerations when determining what club offers equivalent performance to the specified fairway wood alternative.
Determining Hybrid Equivalence
The exploration has emphasized that identifying a hybrid mirroring a 9 wood’s performance necessitates a nuanced understanding of numerous factors. Loft angle, swing speed, forgiveness, course conditions, shaft characteristics, and landing angle each play a pivotal role in achieving comparable results. Optimal club selection hinges on aligning these parameters to match individual swing mechanics and playing environment.
Ultimately, the pursuit of an equivalent club demands a commitment to informed decision-making. Golfers should leverage professional club fitting services to ensure precise calibration. This approach facilitates enhanced on-course performance and underscores the enduring significance of optimizing equipment to individual needs. The judicious application of these principles will yield discernible improvements in accuracy and distance control.
