Chase the Slope - Downhill Bunker Shots -2

Follow the same rules in the sand

Fear is the biggest problem for most amateurs when faced with this awkward lie in the back of a bunker. But if you practise hitting pitch shots off a down slope, as described above, you will develop both the technique (and confidence) to get the ball safely on the green. Follow exactly the same rules. First, adjust your set-up so that your weight falls on your left side and your spine is perpendicular to the slope. Play the ball just back of centre and open the face of

your sand-iron before finalising your grip. Then, once you are comfortable, focus on creating a fluent swing with your hands, arms and shoulders, keeping the lower body passive. As with the pitch shot, your weight stays where you put it at address and your overriding swing-thought through impact should be to 'chase the ball'. Release your right hand and swipe the clubface through the sand and down the slope as far as you can. At the finish, your body angles should again reflect the fact that this shot has been played off a down slope - i.e. leaning to the target, weight on the left side.