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Coming out of Short Bunker

Posted by @pgabsec Presiden Column 8:06 PM

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During the latest matchplay, my partner, Haji Ahoi asked me how to get out of the bunkers. Please find the steps to have the right mechanics for getting out of bunkers. Once you've read these steps, practice them and get used to hitting out of bunkers, and they will become just as natural as a regular short game shot.

The steps hereunder apply to a normal pasir bunker. Not wet or hard pasir.

1. Choke down on the golf club (Have your right index finger about an inch from the bottom of the grip). Choking down gives you control of the club and allows you to "feel" the shot rather than hitting it.

2. Narrow your stance a little and play the ball a few inches forward in your stance. This will also aid in controlling the shot, and it will contribute to higher ball flight.

3. Dig into the pasir with your feet a little and get comfortable.

4. Keep your body completely still throughout (no twisting hips).

5. Start your swing with your arms and keep your swing vertical. The end of the grip butt should be pointed at the ball at the top of your backswing. (Don't bring the club straight back, remember steep is better here!)

6. Your left arm should be parallel to the ground and fully extended at the top of your swing.

7. Then start your downswing at the pasir focusing to hit 1 inch behind the ball. Don't focus on hitting the ball, hit the pasir an inch behind and the ball will get out every time!

8. Your arms and body follow the ball as it leaves the sand.

9. Remember - a steep angle into the sand is key here. You don't have to swing too hard; we are not blasting the ball out, we are advancing it.