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Your Ultimate Guide to Bunker Shots | SUN LAKES LIFESTYLES | APRIL 2024 | 27 Hitting bunker shots in golf can be a challenging aspect of the game, but mastering this skill can significantly improve your overall performance and experience. Bunker shots require a unique approach, blending technique, finesse, and confidence. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to enhance your bunker play and escape those sandy challenges with ease. Selecting the Right Club: The first step in successful bunker play is choosing the appropriate club. Opt for a sand wedge or lob wedge with a higher loft, typically ranging from 54 to 60 degrees. The extra loft helps to lift the ball out of the sand more efficiently. Stance and Ball Position: Position yourself with an open stance, aligning your body slightly left of the target (for right-handed golfers). Your feet should be shoulder-width apart. Place the golf ball slightly forward in your stance, toward the front foot. This setup encourages a steeper swing path, allowing the club to slide under the ball. Digging Your Feet In: Before taking your swing, dig your feet into the sand for stability. This helps prevent slipping and provides a solid base, essential for executing a clean bunker shot. Ensure your weight is evenly distributed between both feet. Open Clubface: Open the clubface slightly, aiming it to the right of the target. The open face adds loft and promotes a higher trajectory, assisting the ball in clearing the lip of the bunker. Maintain this open face throughout the swing. Swing Technique: Adopt a shallower swing plane than your usual full swing. Focus on making a controlled, smooth backswing with a slight wrist hinge. Keep your lower body relatively quiet during the backswing to maintain stability. Accelerate Through Impact: As you transition into the downswing, accelerate smoothly through the sand. Aim to hit the sand approximately two inches behind the ball, allowing the club to slide under the ball and lift it out of the bunker. Avoid decelerating, as this can lead to a lack of power and a poor shot. Follow Through: Complete your swing with a high finish, ensuring the clubhead points toward the sky. This follow-through helps propel the sand forward, and the ball will ride the cushion of sand created by the club. Practice: Consistent practice is key to mastering bunker shots. Head to the practice bunker and work on various lies and distances. Experiment with different swing lengths and ball positions to develop a feel for how the sand affects the ball's trajectory. Reading the Lie: Assess the lie of your ball in the bunker. A buried lie may require a more aggressive swing, while a ball sitting on top of the sand may need a softer touch. Adapt your technique based on the conditions. Mental Approach: Approach bunker shots with confidence. Visualize a successful shot, trust your technique, and maintain a positive mindset. Bunker play is as much about mental composure as it is about physical execution. By incorporating these tips into your game and dedicating time to bunker shot practice, you'll enhance your ability to navigate these sandy hazards successfully. Remember, patience and persistence are crucial when refining your bunker play, so stay committed to improvement on the practice grounds and watch your scores improve on the course. Play well! ~ Daniel Miller

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