Sand Distance Control…. Club Selection…

By Tom Ream, PGA Head Instructor at the Pinewild Golf Academy in Pinehurst, NC.

Many players attempt all of their bunker shots with just the sand wedge and have to rely solely on their physical skills to hit the ball the correct distance.  I have a system that will take the guesswork out of controlling distances in the bunker.

Most players today carry at least 3 wedges (pitching, sand & lob) while others are carrying four (pitching, gap, sand & lob).  To control your distances more effectively simply make the same golf swing and choose a different wedge based on distance to the pin.

In figuring out what club to use, compare your shot in relation to the green and the location of the pin. 

3 Wedge System

Pin located in the Front ⅓ of green = LW

Pin located in the Middle ⅓ of green = SW

Pin located in the Back ⅓ of green = PW

4 Wedge System

Front ¼ of green =  LW

Middle ¼ of green =GW

Middle ¼ of green = SW

Back ¼ of green = PW

For information on sand play, golf schools and lesson plans available with Tom Ream please call or email at 910-235-9191 or academy@pinewildcc.com