Gary's 15-Second Tip of the Week: Bunker Play

It happens to all golfers – sometimes we end up in the bunker! When the ball does not land where you want it to, do you know how to get it out? If not, our own golf professional, Gary Miller, is offering a 15 second tip about how to play in the dreaded bunker! Being able to master bunker play is vital to your golf game.

When your ball is stuck in the sand, the first thing you should do is position the ball close to your back foot while taking an open stance towards the green. Shuffling your feet a little into the sand will give you a solid stance as you prepare to make your shot. Be sure to pick your spot on the sand where you want your club to hit before you make the swing. Typically this spot will be about two inches behind your ball.

After preparing for the shot, make an aggressive, stable swing that will hit down and through the ball. The sand will prevent the ball from going too far out. Bunker play is tricky because the goal is to hit the sand underneath your ball, rather than your ball itself.

Bunker play techniques are essential to every golfer’s game. Getting out of the bunker with as few shots as possible could save your score at the end of the match. If you do find yourself stuck in the sand, be sure to remember that resting your golf club on the sand, while waiting to play, is a two-stroke penalty. If you want to see a bunker play in action, watch our 15 second bunker play tip!