#15 Toughest Shot In Golf

In this issue we continue the countdown to  #15 of the 20 Toughest Shots In Golf. There is a corresponding drill afterwards.

Toughest Shot #15 – Bunker Blast On An Upslope

No one wants to land in a greenside bunker. But even a good approach shot can end up there.  To salvage any chance of making par, you must get out in one. Since many weekend golfers don’t get much of a chance to practice bunker shots, getting out in one can be daunting. If the ball is in soft sand hanging on an upslope just under the bunker’s lip, getting out in one just got that much tougher.

 Here are six keys to hitting this shot:

1.      Play the ball in the center

2.      Dig your feet in a little deeper

3.      Address the ball with a square clubface

4.      Angle your shoulders to match the slope

5.      Aim for a spot 4 inches behind the ball

6.      Swing hard up the slope

Play the ball in the center of your stance and dig both feet into the sand a little deeper than normal. Digging your feet creates a solid foundation for your swing. If your left foot is out of the sand, plant it firmly on the ground.

Address the ball with an open clubface and choke down a bit on the club. This will give you a firm grasp of the club when swinging. Open the clubface first then choke down. You also want to tilt your shoulders and upper body to match the bunker’s slope.

Pick a spot about 4 inches behind the ball. Swing hard into the sand at that spot. A hard swing drives the ball out on a cushion of sand with little roll. Keeping your weight back on the ball of your right foot helps.

If the slope is less severe, stand square to the ball. Pick a spot about 2-3 inches behind the ball and aim for it. Then swing up the slope with your arms and shoulders.  The key here is to prevent the clubface from digging into the sand after impact.