[Kim Maengnyeong's Golf English Conversation] "This Is How to Play a Pride Bunker Shot"

If a wedge shot becomes a 'bunker fried egg,' you only focus on escaping.

'Fried Bunker Shot.'

A shot played with a pitching wedge or sand wedge around the green usually has a high trajectory, causing the ball to often embed itself in the sand if it lands in a bunker. The ball looks like it is deeply nestled in the sand, resembling a fried egg viewed from the side, hence the name 'Fried Egg.' Another term for this is 'Buried Lie.' The challenging shot to escape this trouble is called the 'Fried Bunker Shot.'

This shot is truly a difficult skill to master. Even if the ball is buried in the sand, the basic principles of a bunker shot remain the same. Above all, confidence is essential, and you must never be scared of a fried egg lie. Forget about trying to stick the ball close to the hole or holing it out. The mindset should be that "escaping is the best option." Here are some tips for the fried egg bunker shot.

1. Take a closed stance at address.

2. Put about 60% of your weight on your left foot, and position the ball near your right foot.

3. Grip the club shorter than usual and hold it firmly.

4. Take a steep 'V'-shaped backswing, then execute an 'explosion shot' by hitting about 2 to 3 cm behind the ball.

5. Keep your head steady and eyes open, watching the ball throughout the swing.

6. Control your distance through regular practice.

A: Oh, look! Your ball is plugged in the center of the sand trap. It's a fried-egg lie.

B: Now, how do I get out of this bunker?

A: Relax, and make sure your feet are firmly planted in the sand. Then, keep your sand wedge slightly closed and hit about two inches behind the ball. I suggest you focus solely on getting the ball out of the bunker and not worry about anything else. Good luck!

B: Thank you.

Written and photographed by Kim Maengnyeong, Golf Columnist

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.