Fairway Bunkers
Fairway bunker shots can be successful if you have the correct set-up and fundamentals. Since players do not get this shot very often, it is a good idea to find a location where you can practice it. That way, when you do have the shot, you are prepared to execute it. (1) Take a moderately wider stance than normal, lean slightly into your lead leg, and do not bury your feet into the sand. The deeper your feet are buried, the deeper the club will go into the sand, and you want to take very little sand with this shot. (2) Position the ball slightly forward in your stance with your hands just ahead of the ball. (3) Swing forward to a balanced finish, trying to take very little sand with the ball. (4) Keep your tempo smooth throughout the shot. Make your club selection only after you have examined your lie and determined how high the front lip of the bunker is, as well as how much distance the ball has to travel. Take at least one more club to hit fairway bunker shots. Remember to play the high percentage shot depending on your lie.