Golf is the one time that “going to the beach” isn’t necessarily enjoyable, especially when the bunker is in the middle of the fairway! Even the pros have difficulty with this shot. The true object here is to get your ball safely out and in good position for the next shot.

Let’s say you’re in the bunker and far away from the green. Your primary goal is to get out, secondary is to advance the ball down the fairway as far as possible. After assessing the situation, it is recommended to take one or possibly two more clubs than normal for the distance you have chosen to traverse.

Hold down on the club and move your hands slightly forward of the ball at address. Balance your weight equally between both feet and use a body center ball position. Keep your knees flexed. Pay very close attention to the lie of the ball. If your ball is buried, even partially, simply choose to get the ball back to the fairway and don’t worry about creating distance.

If the ball lies well, on top of the sand, use a level approach angle to the ball so you have the best chance of striking “all ball” and no sand. If the approach angle becomes too steep, you risk catching sand before the ball, sacrificing distance. Remember, a little thin is better than a little fat from fairway sand.