What is a greenside bunker?

A greenside bunker is a type of sand trap in golf, located near the green. Greenside bunkers are designed to challenge golfers by adding an obstacle to their approach shot. They are typically shallow and have steep faces, making it difficult to escape with a clean shot.

Purpose of Greenside Bunkers

Greenside bunkers serve several purposes:

• Strategic Challenge: They force golfers to consider their approach shot carefully, as a poorly executed shot can lead to a difficult recovery.
• Course Design: They add variety and interest to the course, creating different challenges for players with varying skill levels.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Greenside bunkers can enhance the visual appeal of a golf course, adding definition and texture to the landscape.

Characteristics of Greenside Bunkers

Greenside bunkers are typically characterized by the following features:

• Location: Located near the green, usually within a short distance of the putting surface.
• Size: Generally smaller than fairway bunkers, but can vary in size and shape.
• Depth: Shallow compared to fairway bunkers, but can be deep enough to make it difficult to escape.
• Sand: Typically composed of fine-grained sand, providing a consistent surface for shots.
• Faces: Steep and often vertical, making it difficult to hit a clean shot out of the bunker.

Playing from a Greenside Bunker

Playing from a greenside bunker requires careful technique and strategy. Key considerations include:

• Club Selection: Choose a club with a loft that will allow you to launch the ball high enough to clear the lip of the bunker.
• Stance: Position your feet close together and slightly open your stance to create a more upright swing.
• Swing: Use a smooth, controlled swing, focusing on hitting the ball first and then the sand.
• Target: Aim for a spot on the green that will allow you to roll the ball towards the hole.

Famous Greenside Bunkers

Some of the most famous greenside bunkers in golf include:

• The Road Bunker (17th hole, St Andrews): A notorious bunker that has claimed many victims over the years.
• The Green Mile (18th hole, Augusta National): A long, narrow bunker that runs along the right side of the green.
• The "Redan" Bunker (14th hole, Royal St George's): A unique bunker with a steep, sloping face that requires a precise shot to escape.

Conclusion

Greenside bunkers are an integral part of golf course design, adding challenge and variety to the game. By understanding their characteristics and developing the appropriate techniques, golfers can improve their chances of escaping these treacherous hazards and achieving a successful score.