This is the only shot in golf where the golfer purposely aims to strike the sand first not the ball. Maintaining the correct set up position is the key to escaping the sand.
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Note the width of stance when playing the greenside bunker shot is wider than normal- this helps to stay stable
Ball position is forward in stance
Feet aim left of target
Clubface is open and pointing down target line
Weight is slightly leaning towards the leading leg
Hold the club above the sand at a point approximately 2 inches behind the ball
Make a controlled backswing only half to three quarter backswing is needed in greenside bunker shots
Commit to your follow through
Remember to hold the club above the sand before you make your swing. Touching the sand before you swing back is a 2 stroke penalty