Written by Adam SchwartzThe most unique yet intimidating shot that most amateur golfers would agree with is the bunker shot. Bunkers are generally designed as hazards located around the green and strategically placed on sides of fairways where a player’s tee shot typically lands. Green-side bunkers are distinct features that include steep faces, soft sand, and are relatively small compared to fairway bunkers.
The defining characteristic of fairway bunkers is they tend to be much bigger in size both in length and width.
In order to be an effective bunker player one must mentally prepare themselves to swing much harder than they would for any normal short-game pitch or chip shot. Green-side bunker shots require a player to choose one of his or her wedges. The choice of which wedge to pick depends on two variables: the yardage required to carry the ball onto the green and the amount of elevation needed to get the ball out of the bunker. The shorter the shot, the more lofted wedge is necessary and vice versa. Deciding to change the club instead of the swing in the bunker builds confidence and lessens the variables associated with changing the swing. Top priority is to get out of the bunker the easiest way possible.
The green-side bunker shot is the only shot in golf where a player’s club will not hit the ball when executed correctly. A player’s wedge will dig in the sand approximately 1-2 inches behind the ball to inhibit the sand to lift and move the ball forward out of the bunker. To be consistently effective with this shot, here are a few setup tips that will help create a consistent and effect result:
1) Width of stance is wider than shoulder width apart
2) Dig feet into sand to maintain stability
3) Point both knees inward where they are both pointed at the ball
4) Choke down on club
5) Situate ball center to left-center of stance
6) Place club at approximate point where you want to hit sand, not directly behind the ball
The swing itself is much like a normal swing; however, during the backswing a player’s lower body will remain relatively quiet with a little or no rotation. Keeping the knees bent and stable throughout the backswing will allow the club to stay under the ball longer to lift as much sand possible.
Fairway bunker shots are far different from a green-side bunker shot. Setup and swing is much like a regular approach shot except that it will be important to choke down on the club to control the clubface through impact. Club selection is the important factor in terms of maintaining a reasonable score on the hole. Choosing an iron with considerable loft is a much higher percentage option than hitting a fairway wood or long iron. Exercising course management is vital to avoiding big scores and saving your round of golf. Do not try to be a hero out of a fairway bunker.
By rule, the bunker is a hazard so be careful never to let the club touch any part of the bunker unless you are intending to swing at the ball. Enjoy the beauty and warmth of springtime golf in southwest Utah and Mesquite!
