Tip From the Archives

Long Versus Short Bunker Shots

Problem

You need to learn or improve on how you play from long and short distances from the green when stuck in a sandtrap.

Cure

A key point to remember when facing a short bunker shots with the pin close to the edge of the green is to avoid making a small swing. If your backswing is too short then you will either skull the ball or leave it lying in the sand. When you are a making a sand shot from long distance from the green, you need to take a swing that is similar to what you would use with a three wood.

Therapy

When you have only a short distance to reach the pin from the sand, shorten the length of your follow-through and not the length of your backswing. Hold the clubface open as you finish the shot by preventing the release of the club. This will help the ball fly short and make a soft landing. If you have a long distance before reaching the green when in the bunker, you will need a full follow through. Use a square clubface with the ball a little forward in your stance. Make contact with the sand about an inch behind the ball. Take a shallower swinging arc and make sure you accelerate all the way into a full finish. Open the clubface a little if you use a seven or eight iron to help the ball come out lower and fly further.

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