The Short Bunker Shot

photo credit: bradleypjohnson   Going for a pin that is cut close to the edge of the green usually means there is a bunker on that side of the green to catch errant shots.  If you face this delicate shot use the following tips:

To get this shot close you have to pop it up quickly with a lot of backspin so it will stop quickly.  Take an open stance, open the clubface of your sand wedge and aim slightly left.  Lower your right shoulder and hinge (cock) your wrists early on the backswing.  Execute an outside to inside swing-path.  Use plenty of force on this shot and make sure you complete your follow-through.  This shot relies on clubhead speed to get spin and loft on the ball.