Doc’s Pro Lesson: Debunking Fairway Bunkers

This week’s lesson comes from PGA Professional Wayne O’Callaghan at his academy in Fernhill Golf Club, Carrigaline Cork. info@wayneocallaghangolf.com, www.fernhillcountryclub.com.

Did you happen to catch David Higgins fairway bunker shot on the last hole at the Italian Open a couple of weeks back? He hit it to 15 feet from the hole and held the birdie putt and in the process almost secure his tour card for 2014. A fairway bunker shot is routine for a top class professional; but its a shot that many amateurs struggle with.  This week I will explain how to play fairway bunker shots successfully.

photo 1

Firstly be sure the club you're using can hit the ball high enough to clear the lip of the bunker. When practising, set some alignment rods at the angle required to clear the lip with ease. Too many amateur golfers look at the yardage and try to hit the club they would normally use; they don’t account for the height of the lip, only realizing this as the ball hits the lip and rolls back down to their feet.

photo 2Second dig your feet in to the sand to create a stable base. Also grip down on your club slightly to compensate for digging in.

Thirdly play the ball slightly further back in the stance than normal, positioning your weight more on the left foot at address. Try to remain centered in your backswing as too much weight shift may cause you to catch the sand behind the ball.

Finally commit fully to the shot and make sure you hit the ball first.

With a little practice those fairway bunker shots will become a whole lot more manageable.

 

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