The bunker shot

The main thing with a bunker shot is to make sure you get the ball out, if it goes too far so be it. But at least it’s out! So what we need to do is make sure we fully commit to hitting through the shot.

It is important to realise that this is not a chip shot or even similar to one.

Once you have the correct basics have some practice swings without the ball in the bunker, ensuring that the club is accelerating and taking a good amount of sand, don’t have any hesitation.

Do this numerous times to get the feeling for hitting hard through the sand. Once you feel comfortable hit some shots trying to replicate the practice swings previously made.

Basic set up:
Establish a firm footing
Grip down the club about 1 inch
Stance shoulder width apart
Ball position left of centre
Weight distribution 60 per cent on left side
Swing back sufficient amount to generate enough power
Ideally hit the sand 2” before the ball (3” or 4” room for error)
Don’t go too deep into the sand
Accelerate through impact finishing high on left side
Do not try to lift or scoop the ball out

Establishing a firm footing is not only important for stability and balance but also enables the club to slide under the ball more easily as your feet are in effect below the ball.

Gripping down the club gives us more control and the weight distribution creates a descending angle of attack through impact.

The back-swing determines how fast the club travels trough impact so it is vital the back-swing is long enough.

Finally make sure full commitment is present through to a high finish, hold the finish as if you’re having your photo taken!