PGA West (Nicklaus Tournament course) Hole by Hole - 18th Hole
PGA West (Nicklaus Tournament course), California
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Hole 18 at PGA West (Nicklaus Tournament course) is a challenging par 4 that requires precision and strategy to score well. The hole measures 453 yards from the championship tees, making it one of the longer holes on the course. The slight dogleg right shape of the fairway adds an extra element of difficulty, requiring golfers to carefully consider their tee shot placement.
From the tee box, players should aim for a drive around 217 yards in order to leave themselves with a manageable approach shot. However, this distance may vary depending on weather conditions as La Quinta experiences hot and dry desert climate throughout most of the year. In summer months, high temperatures can lead to increased ball flight distances while colder winter months may result in shorter shots due to lower air density at higher altitudes.
The green area for hole 18 is relatively large at approximately 11454 square feet but is well protected by four bunkers scattered throughout. These greenside bunkers make up only about 2% of total bunker coverage on this hole, but they are strategically placed and can come into play if not careful with approach shots.
For average golfers who hit driver around 217 yards off the tee, using a long iron or hybrid club for their second shot would be recommended as it allows them to avoid any water hazards that run along both sides of the fairway leading up to the green.
In addition to water hazards and bunkers, players must also contend with strong winds that often sweep through this part of California. Wind direction and strength can significantly impact ball flight conditions and require adjustments in club selection and shot trajectory.
Overall, Hole 18 at PGA West (Nicklaus Tournament course) offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for golfers looking to test their skills against one of the top courses in California. With strategic planning and execution on each shot, players have an opportunity to finish strong on this signature finishing hole.
Teebox type:
Championship
Par:
4
Distance:
453 yards
Handicap:
2
Green Area:
11454
Approx Fairway Width:
41
Has Water:
True
Curvature:
Slight dogleg
Percent Bunkers Near green:
2
Bunker Count:
4
Bunkers:
Some fairway bunkers, with the majority (51%) strategically placed around the area.
Club Recommendations
1. Aim for a drive of around 217 yards off the tee to leave yourself with a manageable approach shot.
2. Consider weather conditions and adjust your distance accordingly, as hot temperatures can lead to increased ball flight distances while colder months may result in shorter shots.
3. Use a long iron or hybrid club for your second shot to avoid water hazards on both sides of the fairway leading up to the green.
4. Take note of the four strategically placed greenside bunkers and plan your approach shot accordingly.
5. Be mindful of strong winds that often sweep through this part of California, and make adjustments in club selection and trajectory if necessary.
6. Remember that precision is key on this challenging par 4, so focus on accuracy rather than distance when planning each shot.
7. Keep an eye out for any changes in wind direction throughout the hole and be prepared to adapt your strategy accordingly.
8. Trust in your abilities and have confidence in executing each shot successfully - staying calm under pressure is crucial on this signature finishing hole at PGA West (Nicklaus Tournament course).
"The most important shot in golf is the next one."
- Ben Hogan
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