Improving your golf game is a constant battle that requires focus and dedication to see results. One area that many golfers struggle with is hitting greenside bunker shots efficiently. In a recent Member-Guest tournament, it became clear to me that this was an area of weakness in my game, leading me to seek out advice from professional golfer Michael Campbell, the 2005 U.S. Open champion. Campbell shared some important setup tips that can help golfers see more success when hitting from greenside bunkers.
Campbell emphasizes the importance of focusing on the setup first when trying to improve greenside bunker shots. Many amateurs neglect practicing bunker shots, but by following Campbell’s advice, golfers can build a consistent setup that will set the foundation for success. Campbell suggests starting with the clubface angle and weight distribution, with the face open to the target and the weight heavily favoring the lead side. This setup allows the club to glide through the sand and helps maintain stability throughout the swing.
In addition to clubface angle and weight distribution, Campbell shares tips on where to aim and how to maintain body control during the swing. He advises aiming slightly left of the target and keeping the center of gravity more towards the sand. It’s important to avoid leaning back and trying to scoop the ball out of the bunker, as this can lead to inconsistent shots. Campbell stresses the importance of keeping the weight moving forward throughout the swing and visualizing where the club should hit the sand before the ball.
One common mistake that amateur golfers make when hitting greenside bunker shots is trying to scoop the ball out of the sand by leaning back. Campbell’s tips focus on maintaining a stable setup and swing motion to achieve consistent results. By visualizing the desired impact point in the sand, widening the front side, and keeping the weight forward, golfers can improve their success rate on greenside bunker shots. This structured approach to bunker shots sets a solid foundation for building consistency in this challenging aspect of the game.
To further enhance your practice and feedback on your golf swing, consider investing in tools like the Divot Board. This portable device provides real-time data on ball flight and helps golfers improve their technique by analyzing divots. With instant feedback and swing correction capabilities, the Divot Board is a valuable tool for golfers looking to elevate their game. Regardless of skill level, golfers can benefit from using technology and tools like the Divot Board to enhance their practice and performance on the course.
