Tip From the Archives

Contact with the Sand

Problem

You normally make a good swing in the sand but you noticed on a new course that the flange does not move into the sand at the correct point, resulting in a flubbed sand shot.

Cure

Sand bunkers can vary greatly at different courses, so you need to be able to adjust your swing accordingly. For many people, allowing the bottom of the sandwedge to move into the sand about three inches behind the ball is ideal but it may not suit your swing or that particular sand type. You need to practice in a sand bunker to help analyze your ideal entry point for that sandpit. Just remember, it is better to hit too far behind the ball than too close because you never want to hit the ball first when it is lying in the sand.

Therapy

If at all possible when playing a new course, try to practice your sand shots to help gain an accurate swing based on their sand. Draw a line in the sand about 6 inches ahead of the ball and another line 6 inches behind the ball. Now swing several times to see how the ball flies and where contact occurs when the clubhead is able to pass under the ball and exit on the other side. If your wrists are cocked properly, you should see contact and exit somewhere between the first six inches from the ball.

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