Playing a Buried Lie or “Fried Egg” Bunker Shot in Golf

One of the most challenging shots in golf is a buried lie or what is commonly referred to as a “fried egg” bunker shot. This occurs when your ball lands in a sandy bunker and becomes partially or fully submerged in the sand. Here are a few tips and techniques to help you play this difficult shot:

• Assess the Situation: Before approaching the shot, evaluate the depth of the buried lie. Determine how much sand is covering the ball to get an idea of the force required to extricate it.
• Select the Right Club: In a buried lie, you need a club with a higher loft to help lift the ball out of the sand. A sand wedge or lob wedge is usually the best choice for such shots.
• Take a Stance: Position your feet wider than shoulder-width apart for stability. Dig your feet slightly into the sand to establish a firm base.
• Grip and Swing: Grip the club tightly and place your hands slightly ahead of the ball. Make a steep swing, focusing on maintaining a downward angle of attack to ensure you make solid contact with the sand, rather than the ball.
• Swing with Force: The buried lie requires more energy to extract the ball from the sand. Swing harder than you would for a normal bunker shot, but remember to keep your tempo consistent.
• Hit Behind the Ball: Aim to strike the sand about an inch or two behind the ball. This will allow the sand and the clubhead to lift the ball out of the buried lie and onto the green.
• Follow-Through: Maintain acceleration through impact and follow-through with your swing. This will help generate the necessary loft and backspin to control the shot, allowing the ball to stop quickly on the green.
• Practice: Like any challenging golf shot, practice is key to improving your proficiency in handling buried lies. Experiment with different swing lengths and practice controlling the distance and trajectory of the shot.
• Keep a Positive Attitude: Buried lies can be frustrating, but maintaining a positive mindset is crucial for successful execution. Embrace the challenge and approach each shot with confidence and determination.

Playing a buried lie or “fried egg” bunker shot requires a combination of technique, strength, and precision. By following these tips and practicing regularly, you will gradually improve your ability to navigate these challenging situations on the golf course. Remember, each shot is an opportunity to learn and grow as a golfer, so embrace the challenge and have fun!