Gary Player was well-known for his exceptional bunker play skills during his prime. In his career, he stood out as an elite bunker player, showcasing a fearless attitude and exquisite technique that set him apart from others. While recreational players often dread bunkers as scorecard killers, Player embraced the challenge and excelled in sand play. His success in bunkers can be attributed to his fearless approach and dedicated practice. In this article, we delve into some of Gary Player’s best bunker secrets from the March 1989 issue of GOLF Magazine.
Player’s confidence and mastery of bunker play have earned him recognition as one of the greatest bunker players in history. He credits his fearlessness and unwavering practice regimen for his success in sand play. His list of sand geniuses includes well-known players such as Bobby Locke, Sam Snead, and Seve Ballesteros, as well as lesser-known but equally skilled masters of sand. Player emphasizes the importance of practice and experimentation to build a repertoire of bunker shots for any situation.
To excel in bunker play, it is essential to understand the basics of using a sand wedge, a club specifically designed for bunkers. The bounce angle of the sand wedge allows the club to slide into the sand, pushing it up and propelling the ball out. The key concept to grasp is that the club does not hit the ball in bunkers; it hits the sand, which moves the ball. Confidence is crucial in bunker play, and approaching every shot with the belief that you can hole it will enhance your performance.
The setup in a greenside bunker requires an open stance with the clubface open to facilitate entry into the sand. This positioning encourages a cut-spin on the ball, resulting in a left-to-right flight. Adjusting your stance and clubface for different shots will dictate the trajectory and distance of your bunker shots. Player advises practicing different setups and swings to develop a versatile bunker game that can handle any lie or situation.
The swing technique in bunkers varies depending on the lie of the ball. For a clean lie, a shallow, almost U-shaped swing is recommended, with a focus on using primarily your arms for the swing. In buried lies, an up-and-down, V-shaped swing is effective, with the clubface square, weight on the left foot, and wrists cocked early in the backswing. Experimenting with ball position and swing technique can help you control the trajectory and distance of your bunker shots.
In fairway bunkers, Player offers tips on club selection, clean ball striking, and focus on the front of the ball when hitting fairway woods. By utilizing lofted clubs to clear the lip of the bunker, focusing on clean contact with the ball, and adopting a sweeping hit with fairway woods, players can navigate fairway bunkers effectively. Practice and confidence building in bunkers will not only enhance your sand play but also improve your overall game on the golf course. By following Gary Player’s bunker secrets and dedicating time to practice, players can elevate their bunker play skills and approach sand shots with confidence and skill.
