Amateur golfers see significant shot penalties from bunker hits

New data from Shot Scope reveals that amateur golfers lose an average of half a shot every time they hit a greenside bunker. The 2026 findings indicate that 15-handicappers incur the largest penalty, while lower-handicap players also see notable increases in their scores. For example, a scratch golfer is penalized by 0.43 shots per bunker hit. The report underlines the importance of avoiding bunkers to maintain lower scores and emphasizes the need for golfers to refine their approach play or improve their bunker techniques as the season progresses.

• 3:30 PMYahoo Sports — Amateur Golfers Lose Half A Shot Every Time They Hit Bunkers