Play Tour Technique
by justin thomas
’m hitting my sand shots closer now than in years past. Before the break, I was leaving them inside seven feet on average— and I was converting more, too. I think the improvement comes from the way I work on these shots, and my approach to club selection and technique. ▶ I’ve found it super useful to randomise practice. One ball, one shot—then move on to another situation. It really makes you focus and simulates what you face on the course. ▶ As far as club selection, I know most amateurs use only one club in the sand. But depending on my lie and how far I need to hit it, I’ll use anything from a lob wedge down to a pitching wedge. For shorter shots from fluffy lies, a wedge with a lot of bounce (at least 10 degrees) is the play. For packed sand or to carry longer distances, a wedge with less loft and bounce makes sense.
14 golfdigestme.com | july 2020
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cliff hawkins/getty images
Stronger Sand Play A few simple changes can help