Golf Tip
Long Bunker Shots
Once in a while we all will face a longer than usual bunker shot from a greenside bunker where we are faced with a shot of twenty yards or more. With the sand wedge, it is a risky shot to attempt to carry the ball all the way to the hole with a lot of spin. One simple solution is to execute this shot with a pitching wedge or 9 iron instead.
Using a less lofted club will allow the ball to come out on a lower trajectory so it can run all the way to the hole, which is a much safer shot under most circumstances than the high spinner. Play the shot similarly to a regular bunker shot by opening the face slightly, establish an aim point of 1-2” behind the ball and swing as if you were playing a standard explosion. With a little practice, this will become an invaluable shot in your arsenal when the situation presents itself.
Long Bunker Shots
Once in a while we all will face a longer than usual bunker shot from a greenside bunker where we are faced with a shot of twenty yards or more. With the sand wedge, it is a risky shot to attempt to carry the ball all the way to the hole with a lot of spin. One simple solution is to execute this shot with a pitching wedge or 9 iron instead.
Using a less lofted club will allow the ball to come out on a lower trajectory so it can run all the way to the hole, which is a much safer shot under most circumstances than the high spinner. Play the shot similarly to a regular bunker shot by opening the face slightly, establish an aim point of 1-2” behind the ball and swing as if you were playing a standard explosion. With a little practice, this will become an invaluable shot in your arsenal when the situation presents itself.
