Easily control your distance from the bunker with this tip

At a recent LPGA Tour event, while working with one of my players, Caley McGinty, we spent some time in the short game area. As is often the case when players and coaches wander out there, we began to explore some of the tricky situations we all face.

Such a shot it was short sided bunker shotone of the most difficult shots in all of golf. Let’s face it, when you hit it here, with only six to 10 feet between the edge of the bunker and the hole, you hit it in the wrong place. When you find yourself in these situations, it’s important to know how to remove it – and maybe even how to close it.

There are many methods people try in this situation: adding too much spin, taking it ultra-subtle, or barely moving the ball at all. However, for most players, these approaches can lead to disaster, and then they have to try to hit the same shot again.

After some tinkering with Kyle, we discovered a method that worked for him time after time. And it’s something that can work for recreational players as well.

To get started, set it up as usual a bunchr shot. Next, make your typical bunker shot, remembering to stay aggressive with speed at impact. As you make your drive, stop the clubhead from pointing to the green where you want the ball to land (ie, a short finish).

Think of it this way: for a long bunker shot, you make a full finish. For a short time, simply shorten your finish, pointing the clubhead toward your intended landing spot, whether it’s just on or slightly short of the green.

In the photo above, you’ll see how Caley controls her finish so the clubhead stops where the ball stack rests just short of the green. This particular shot landed about two inches past her and went to a spot where she had an easy putt to save the value.

When you’re short-sided in a bunker, this method allows you to keep your natural, aggressive swing without complicating things. All you have to do is stay aggressive and finish your swing pointing exactly where you want the ball to land. If you can do that, I guarantee you that bunker shots on the short side won’t be so scary anymore.

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