Many low handicap and professional players are barely fazed when they hit their ball in the bunker.  In fact, there are times they would rather have a bunker shot instead of a shot from the rough.  The greenside bunker shot is known as one of the most feared shots in golf.  However, when you set up correctly the greenside bunker shot becomes one of the easiest shots in golf.

Many players complicate the bunker shot with an incorrect set up, swing and equipment.  Begin with your feet approximately shoulder width and slightly open to the target line.  The target line is an imaginary line that runs through the golf ball toward the target.  Bend your knees slightly and bend at your waist.  Allow your arms to hang tension free with a relaxed grip.  Position the ball slightly forward of center in your stance.  Take a solid stance by digging your feet into the sand.  This prevents your feet from slipping throughout your swing.

To execute the shot properly, you will use a lofted wedge, somewhere between 54 and 64 degrees. To make the shot easier, use a wedge with more bounce. The bounce or a wider sole will make it easier to explode the ball from the bunker.

Slightly open the clubface to allow the sole of the club to glide through the sand instead of digging into the sand with the leading edge.  Try to maintain the open clubface throughout the swing and follow through.  The swing will be initiated by the arms and club swinging back.  Accelerate through the shot so you hear a “thump” of the club head hitting the sand.  Hit approximately 2-3 inches behind the ball and accelerate through to a finish.

Matthew Keller, PGA

Email: keller@pga.com

FEATURED AUTHOR: Matt Keller is a PGA Golf Professional with over 15 years of experience. Throughout his career he has worked at courses in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Florida and Delaware. Matt has conducted thousands of golf lessons to players of all ages and ability levels. Currently, he is a PGA Professional at Cripple Creek Golf and Country Club located near Bethany Beach, DE