Golf Sand Shots - Don't be Afraid of the Bunker

Shots from the Sand Trap on the Golf Course - Don't be afraid of them.

One of the most feared areas for the average golfer is the Sand Trap or Bunker.  Just the name Sand Trap puts negative thought into your mind. 

The word Trap as defined is a device intended to catch an intruder or prey. "Trap" may also refer to the tactic of catching or harming an adversary. Conversely it may also mean a hindrance for change, being caught in a trap.

In the rules of golf Trap or Bunker is defined in USGA Rules and Regulations Section III Definitions:  A “bunker’’ is a hazard consisting of a prepared area of ground, often a hollow, from which turf or soil has been removed and replaced with sand or the like.   The key word in this is hazard which implies that there is trouble. 

With the above definition of bunker or sand trap along with the how it is talked about and described in the game of golf by golfers this is a place that you don't want to be.  Then you have to ask yourself the question, why is it that when watching the PGA Tour the commentators state that the Professional Golfers a lot of times try to hit the green side bunker with their drives on short par fours or second shots on some of the par fives.

I will tell you that it is easier to hit a bunker shot most of the time near the hole or hole out than try to do it from the rough around the green.  You generally have a smooth lie and have more control of distance and stopping ability. 

Now, I will tell you that the professional golfer does practice this shot a lot.  There is a technique to it and if the average golfer would put some practice in it they would loose their fear.  Of course fear of something is not knowing how to deal with it.  So the only way to loose your fear is to work through it and learn all you can about your emissary the bunker shot.

There are many you tube videos and books on the subject, but, I find that Gary Player is the master of the bunker shot.  He has spent countless hours of practice in this field to be able to help any level of golfer.  His booked titled "GARY PLAYER BUNKER PLAY WITH MIKE WADE THE GOLF MASTERS SERIES" is a must read.

I will continue over the next few blogs talking about the various types of bunkers, sand, and shots you can use, along with strategy.



Until then, learn to have the bunker work for you and don't be afraid....