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Written by Bryan Spitzer
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Tuesday, 01 April 2008 |
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This week we take a look at bunker play and how to not spend "valuable" shots in the traps. The weekend golfer has a particular anxiety about getting up and out of green-side, as well as, fairway bunkers. While these type of shots appear difficult they are actually of the most fundamentally easy to execute. When approaching bunker play, i believe the first mistake many amateurs make is to try and emulate professionals. many people will lay open the blade, swing with a big arc, strike down at the ball, all the while praying they do not skull, chuck or blade the shot and most often they will do one of the three, just mentioned.
Moreover, not knowing why they were laying the blade open, swinging
with that big arc or striking down at the ball and what the
consequences or benefit gained by doing each of those things is. The
way most players should approach the bunker is very similar to the way
one might approach a chip from around the green.
Taking a look at the courses you typically find yourself playing are
you a) hitting from bunkers with steep faces where often times the
slope of the green runs away from you or are you b) finding yourself in a bunker
with a lip no more than a couple of feet or one that gently slopes at
and around the face.
 
If the answer is generally b) then trying to emulate the pros is not
going to be the most consistent option and the one that minimizes your
mistakes.
When faced with a bunker shot follow these simple steps to get up, out, and on the green.
- square the face.
- Neutral grip (prevent from coming across the shot on the downswing and follow through.
- feet slightly open in relation to the target (promotes a full swing).
- Solid contact somewhere 1-3 inches behind the ball (depending on the situation).
- Do not allow the right forearm and hand to roll over the left through impact
- full follow through to at least shoulder hieght.
Using this sequence is sure to minimize your mistakes and make you a more consistent bunker player , ultimately shaving strokes from your handicap and increasing your opportunities for saves.
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Last Updated ( Tuesday, 22 April 2008 )
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