The clever bunker hack Lee Trevino learned from Seve Ballesteros

No matter your golf ability, hearing a tip from the legendary Lee Trevino always hits a little bit differently.

Not only does the 84-year-old explain things in a manner that’s easy to understand and apply, but he also uses his charisma to communicate it all. The result? A fun way to learn about the game — and improve yours.

In a recent video lesson with GOLF Teacher to Watch Parker McLachlin (aka the Short Game Chef), Trevino reveals how to hit soft bunker shots to short-sided pins — a tricky shot for any golfer.

The shot is not to be feared, though, Trevino says. Instead, he advises rethinking your setup so you gain the confidence to produce the shot you imagine in your head. You can see his tips in the video below.

Lee Trevino shows how to hit softer bunker shots

It’s one thing to get a tip from Trevino, but it’s next level when the six-time major champ shares wisdom that he learned from another legend, Seve Ballesteros.

“If it’s a very short bunker shot, I use the Seve method, which is riding a pony,” Trevino tells McLachlin. “I put my feet out at a 45-degree angle and I take my knees and put them out towards the toe. That enables me to hit this shot without moving my body.”

In a more traditional bunker setup, players open their stances and swing around their bodies. Splaying your feet and locking in your legs will prevent your body from swaying.

Bunker Shots

“A lot of guys carry their hands, not only Seve, so they’ll lower their hands and [open up the clubface towards the sky],” Trevino says. “That’s how you hit the soft ones.”

So start by setting up more square and with your feet pointed outward. Then allow your hands to stay firm instead of rolling over, which will helps engage the bounce of the club. While swinging, you should feel more of a release sensation than a drag, which will square the clubface at impact as it digs into the sand.

Short-sided bunker shots can be intimidating. But by practicing this more athletic setup from Trevino, you can start to properly splash the sand and hit higher, softer shots.

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Nick Dimengo

Golf.com Editor