Mastering the Most Difficult Bunker Shot in Golf: Can You Successfully Emerge from the Sand?
Demystifying the Toughest Bunker Shot in Golf:
Navigating a plugged lie near the bunker's face is a headache for even the seasoned golfer. In this guide, learn from Golf Monthly Top 50 Coach Clive Tucker, a former pro and elite coach, on how to play this vexing shot.
Mastering the Notorious Plugged Lie Shot
For the uninitiated, a plugged or semi-plugged lie near a steep face can be an intimidating challenge. The conventional approach of closing the face and hitting hard to launch the ball over the face won't suffice here, as it won't generate the necessary loft.
Time for a Setup overhaul!
Tackling a plugged lie in the bunker, especially near the face, demands new flexibility. But what changes should we embrace? Firstly, don't violate the clubface by closing it. Utilize a setup akin to a standard bunker shot but with two crucial bellwether bunker setup alterations.
- Hand Position: Cradle the club a bit lower in your grip, and assume a posture as if ready to sit down slightly. This arrangement fosters a swift wrist-cock, prompting an almost vertical ascension.
Pro Tip: Find a position that feels comfortable and allows you to maintain control over the club.
No Follow-Through, Just Pop it out!
Regardless, you must drive the clubhead forcefully onto the ball to generate speed. However, your objectives change significantly here. Instead of an extended follow-through, aim to halt virtually at impact without losing momentum.
This stride should enable you to catapult the ball skyward, granting sufficient altitude to surmount the face. Aim for less spin and a trajectory that won't veer dramatically off course. Your utmost priority is getting the ball airborne!
Amateur Golfers' Success Rate from the Bunker:
On average, amateur golfers find themselves stranded on the bunker's welcome mat only about half the time. To increase your likelihood of escaping and reduce costly errors, master the tricky plugged lie shots.
Additional Resources:
- Improve your bunker play with tips on bunker setup and techniques from GolfDigest.
- Discover how to improve ball control in the sand with advice from GolfTipsMag.
- Explore detailed bunker play drills to develop your bunker mastery from Golf.com.
With committed practice and a focus on elevation and control, you can transform your bunker game from a minefield into a sandy stepping stone towards golfing success!
To conquer a challenging plugged lie in a golf bunker, take a setup similar to a standard one but modify it with two adjustments: lower hand position and a posture like a sitting position.
When faced with a plugged lie, avoid an extended follow-through; instead, forcefully hit the ball, halt at impact, and generate sufficient altitude to surmount the bunker's face.
