Bunker Rake Drill

John McMullen, Head Golf Professional Sonoma Golf Club, 17700 Arnold Drive Sonoma, CA 95476 • Voice 707-939-4115

This drill will help you create a more upright swing that is necessary to hit proper bunker shots.

Have your coach hold a rake about 2 1/2 feet behind the ball and at a 45 to 60 degree angle. Try to swing the club up the handle of the rake. This will help you create a more V shaped swing and will allow you to get the club head to the ball in the correct manner, thus using the flange correctly.

Take several practice swings without hitting the ball to get a feel for the new swing shape. When you can make a practice swing and miss the rake completely, then go ahead and hit some balls while your coach holds the rake. You should be hitting high soft shots in no time.