Tips from the Pro

Most golfers fear the sand because they don’t know how to get out of it. Sand shots are some of the easiest shots to hit when you have the proper technique. The most important thing to remember when you get in a bunker is to get out on the first shot. Many golfers take two, three and four tries to get out of a bunker. There are a few key components to hitting good bunker shots.

The first component is setting up for the shot. The player needs to align their feet towards 11:00. The swing path will be made at 12:00 (at the target) and the clubface should be pointed to 1:00. Draw an imaginary line in the sand two inches behind the ball. Making an accelerated swing through the ball is very important. The distance of the shot will come from your follow through or finish. The splashing effect of the club entering the sand behind the ball will cause the lift and the force needed for the ball to exit the bunker.

The type of sand is also a key component. If you are playing hard, coarse sand you will need to hit a little closer to the ball (one inch behind the ball) so that the clubface doesn’t bounce and skull the shot. If the sand you are playing is soft, fluffy and deep, you will need to enter two inches behind and accelerate through the shot. The best way to get a feel for the type of sand the course has is to go to the short game area and hit several shots.

The type of sand wedge being used can also make a difference. A bigger flange on the club will allow you to dig through the shot easier. A smaller flange will dig less and slide through a little sharper. The loft on the wedge usually are between 56-60. The longer the bunker shot the less loft you should use. Practice hitting shots with both wedges to see what feels most comfortable to you.

Like all shots in golf you must keep your head position still and behind the ball at impact. This will allow you to hit the shot with the proper trajectory. Have confidence in your bunker swing and picture the perfect shot in your mind before you hit it.

Fairway bunker shots are similar to greenside bunkers. When in a fairway bunker, use one more club than the yardage asks for. Make sure you stand upright and your head remains still throughout the swing. The club should slide through the sand and not dig. Once again visualize the shot you want to hit in your head before you hit. Positive thoughts will create positive results.

Remember the sand is your friend, not your enemy. Good Luck!