PGA West (Nicklaus Tournament course) Hole by Hole - 3rd Hole
PGA West (Nicklaus Tournament course), California
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Welcome to Hole 3 at the PGA West Nicklaus Tournament course in La Quinta, California. This par 3 hole is a challenging one, with a distance of 192 yards from the championship tees and a handicap of 15. The tee shot will require accuracy and precision as you navigate your way towards the green.
As you approach this hole, keep in mind that there are five bunkers strategically placed throughout the fairway and around the green. These greenside bunkers make up approximately 19% of the total area surrounding the green, so be sure to plan your shots accordingly.
The weather here at PGA West can vary greatly depending on the season. In spring and summer months, temperatures can reach upwards of 100 degrees Fahrenheit with little wind present. This may cause your ball to fly further than expected due to lower air density at higher altitudes.
In fall and winter months, temperatures tend to be cooler with occasional gusts of wind coming off nearby mountains. This could affect your club selection as well as potentially altering ball flight paths.
For an average golfer hitting a driver ~217 yards off the tee box, it is recommended to use a mid-iron such as a 7 iron for their approach shot which averages ~140 yards in distance according to our inferred data. However for those who struggle with longer irons or have difficulty controlling their trajectory under windy conditions may benefit from using an alternative club such as pitching wedge (~120 yards) during these times instead.
Overall, Hole 3 at PGA West requires careful planning and execution in order to achieve success. Keep these factors in mind when strategizing for each round played on this challenging course.
Teebox type:
Championship
Par:
3
Distance:
192 yards
Handicap:
15
Green Area:
6970
Approx Fairway Width:
Has Water:
False
Curvature:
Percent Bunkers Near green:
19
Bunker Count:
5
Bunkers:
Some fairway bunkers, with the majority (51%) strategically placed around the area.
Club Recommendations
1. Use a mid-iron for your approach shot: As mentioned, the inferred data suggests that using a 7 iron for the average golfer's approach shot would be optimal. This club will provide enough distance to reach the green while also giving you control and accuracy.
2. Take note of the bunkers: With five strategically placed bunkers on this hole, it is important to plan your shots accordingly. Avoiding these bunkers will greatly increase your chances of scoring well on this challenging par 3.
3. Consider weather conditions: The weather at PGA West can have a significant impact on your game, especially when it comes to temperature and wind speed. Be sure to take these factors into account when selecting clubs and planning shots.
4. Adjust club selection based on conditions: Depending on whether it is hot or cold, windy or calm, you may need to adjust your club selection for both tee shots and approach shots. For example, in warmer temperatures with little wind present, you may want to consider using a lower lofted club such as an 8 iron instead of a 7 iron for more distance.
5. Aim for the center of the green: With greenside bunkers making up almost one fifth of the total area surrounding the green, aiming for the center will give you more room for error and decrease your chances of landing in one of those hazards.
6. Practice controlling trajectory under windy conditions: If you struggle with controlling ball flight under windy conditions, practice hitting low-trajectory shots with shorter clubs like pitching wedge before playing this hole at PGA West.
7. Stay hydrated and use sunscreen: Playing golf in hot temperatures can be physically taxing so make sure to stay hydrated throughout your round by drinking plenty of water and wearing sunscreen to protect yourself from harmful UV rays.
8.Carefully read distances before each shot: It's important not only know how far away from the green you are but also how far each bunker is from your ball. This will help you make informed decisions on club selection and shot strategy.
9. Visualize your shots: Before hitting any shot, take a moment to visualize the trajectory and landing spot of your ball. This can help you execute more precise shots and avoid hazards.
10. Stay positive and focused: Hole 3 at PGA West is a challenging hole, but with careful planning and execution, it can be conquered. Stay positive and focused throughout the round to give yourself the best chance for success on this difficult par 3.
"The most important shot in golf is the next one."
- Ben Hogan
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