@Harlow
Yep, that’s my natural shot. Straight through the fairway and onto the road.
That hole is tough even if you hit the fairway. The green is small and the rough on the right of the green can ruin your day quickly. Then, there’s the challenge of a blind approach from a tee shot landing 60 feet above the fairway.
@Cam
Ah, holes #2 and #15… I could have broken 110 if not for those two.
@Cam
Agreed, #1 at Bethpage Black looks easy from the tee but miss that fairway and you’re in trouble. I wonder how the Ryder Cup players will handle it, especially if they decide to bomb and gouge right of the trees.
@mae
It looks easy to you? Missing the fairway usually means the trees will block any shot to the green.
@mae
They’re planning a few changes for the Ryder Cup, like short tees and wider fairways, making it less like a US Open and more about scoring.
Reagan said:
@mae
They’re planning a few changes for the Ryder Cup, like short tees and wider fairways, making it less like a US Open and more about scoring.
The challenge of Bethpage Black usually comes from the rough. I play there often, and when the greens aren’t too fast, it’s manageable. But I’m curious if they’ll speed them up for the Ryder Cup.
@Axelle
They’re not setting it up to be tough. It’s about the style of the course and its location. They want to make it a place where making birdies is possible, and yes, the greens will still be fast.
@Reagan
The US team often sets up the course with shorter rough for the Ryder Cup. It’s a contrast to how the European team sets up their courses, focusing on course management.
Atlas said:
@Reagan
The US team often sets up the course with shorter rough for the Ryder Cup. It’s a contrast to how the European team sets up their courses, focusing on course management.
Exactly. This strategy isn’t new, and you can find quotes and plans about their intentions with a quick search.
Reagan said:
@mae
They’re planning a few changes for the Ryder Cup, like short tees and wider fairways, making it less like a US Open and more about scoring.
That’s interesting. If they really do shorten the rough, it could turn the Ryder Cup into a scoring fest. Players like McIlroy and Bryson could really take advantage.
If I was a course designer, I’d make sure the 1st, 9th, 10th, and 18th holes were scenic and exciting, especially for tournament play. The 1st would be a medium par 4 with a narrow landing area, the 9th a challenging par 3, the 10th a long par 5, and the 18th a risky but rewarding par 5. This layout would make for an exciting and varied round.
@Carson
I’ve always felt that holes 1, 9, 10, and 18 should be par 4s. A great second shot could earn you a birdie, but any mistakes could be costly.
Riley said:
@Carson
I’ve always felt that holes 1, 9, 10, and 18 should be par 4s. A great second shot could earn you a birdie, but any mistakes could be costly.
I think the best closing holes are those you can reach in two but with enough risk involved. It adds excitement, whether you call it a par 4 or a par 5.
@Carson
It would be great if holes 1 and 10 were open, especially after a tense front nine. A wide-open 10th hole would be a welcoming sight after a quick snack at the turn.
I think a par 5 is the perfect way to start. It should have plenty of room on at least one side to give everyone a good shot at starting well.
Gentry said:
I think a par 5 is the perfect way to start. It should have plenty of room on at least one side to give everyone a good shot at starting well.
Both Riviera and Spyglass start with fantastic par 5s, giving you a chance to score early. It’s like the course is asking if you’re ready to make the most of your par 5 opportunities.
A par 3 with a long carry over water. Let’s find out right away if we’re serious about our scores today.
Jade said:
A par 3 with a long carry over water. Let’s find out right away if we’re serious about our scores today.
This kind of start forces you to warm up properly. There’s a local course with an easy overall rating, but the 18th is a 140-yard carry to an island green. It’s a make-or-break hole for many scorecards.
Jade said:
A par 3 with a long carry over water. Let’s find out right away if we’re serious about our scores today.
Underrated comment