Bunker Etiquette

No one likes to be in the sand unless it is a hot sunny day one one of the Okanagan’s many beaches. Unfortunately everyone ends up in a sand bunker once in a while.

I would like to talk briefly about our bunker etiquette that we use at Predator Ridge. Even though a bunker is considered a hazard on the course, we can all do our part to ensure that everyone gets a consistent lie from bunker to bunker.

Start by entering the bunker from a flat area on the low side of the bunker, grabbing a rake while entering. This will reduce any large depressions that can occur from stepping in from a high face. Stepping in on a slope can create an inconsistent lie in the bunker that can lead to plugged golf balls.

After you have taken your stroke (and hopefully are out of the bunker) smooth the club mark and footprints using the rake, leaving minimal depressions. Rake yourself out of the bunker the same way that you entered the bunker.

Avoid raking sand to the edge, as we try to maintain a 2” lip at Predator Ridge to minimize sand from migrating outside of the bunker. This can cause us to lose our edge, and eliminates the chance of someone putting out of the bunker.

After the bunker has been raked, please leave the rake inside the bunker tucked beside a lip. This ensures that the grounds crew can maintain their efficient mow schedule, and that the rake will not prevent a ball from rolling into the bunker.

Written by: Michael Long | Predator Ridge Golf Course Superintendent