Hole 11 at PGA WEST (Norman course)
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 337 yds
- Stroke index
- 18
- Hazards
- 17 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 48 yds deep × 33 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Championship tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Championship tees · Par 4 · 337 yards
The plan for No. 11
The shortest par 4 on PGA WEST's Norman course, hole 11 presents a deceptive challenge that belies its modest 337-yard length. This straight-away hole features a generous fairway that invites aggressive play, but the small green demands precision on the approach shot. With minimal hazards protecting the hole, the primary defense comes from the compact putting surface that punishes wayward iron shots. The elevated tee provides excellent visibility of the entire hole, allowing golfers to plot their strategy from the outset. Smart players will favor accuracy over distance, using a controlled tee shot to set up the ideal angle for attacking the pin. Despite being the handicap 18 hole, this seemingly simple par 4 can quickly turn birdie opportunities into bogeys for those who underestimate its subtle demands.
Off the tee
The key decision here is whether to take driver or lay back with a fairway wood or long iron. Given the hole's modest length, many players can reach the green or get very close with an aggressive tee shot. However, the straight layout and small target green favor a more conservative approach. Consider hitting 3-wood or hybrid to position yourself in the ideal landing zone, leaving a comfortable wedge distance to the pin. This strategy provides better distance control for your approach while minimizing the risk of finding trouble with an overly aggressive play.
Approach & recovery
With the green being small in size, your approach shot becomes the scoring determinant. Focus on hitting to the center of the green rather than attacking pins, especially when they're tucked near edges. A controlled wedge or short iron from your preferred yardage will give you the best chance at sticking it close. Pay attention to wind conditions, as they can significantly affect shorter irons. The lack of hazards around the green means you can be slightly more aggressive, but remember that precision trumps power on this hole.
On the green
The small green size means every putt is crucial for scoring. Without specific hazards to navigate around the putting surface, focus on reading the subtle breaks and grain direction typical of desert courses. Take extra time to study your line, as shorter putts on smaller greens can be deceptively tricky. Lag putting becomes essential if you find yourself with longer putts, as three-putting from anywhere on this green would be a costly mistake on such a scoreable hole. ## RISK VS REWARD This hole epitomizes smart risk/reward golf strategy. The reward of a potential eagle or easy birdie must be weighed against the risk of missing the small green entirely with an aggressive play. The conservative play of positioning your tee shot for a full wedge approach typically yields better scoring results than trying to drive the green or get too close. The risk/reward calculation should factor in your current round situation and comfort level with short iron precision. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High-Handicap Players:** Focus on two solid shots rather than one spectacular one. Hit your most reliable fairway club off the tee, even if it's a 5-iron, then play a comfortable approach shot to the center of the green. This hole offers one of your best chances to make par or better through smart course management. **Low-Handicap Players:** You have more options here, including the possibility of driving the green in favorable conditions. However, the small target still favors the strategic approach of positioning your drive for a precise wedge shot. Use this hole to build momentum in your round by playing to your strengths and taking advantage of the scoring opportunity it presents.
Watch for
- Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.
Hole 11 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 6,381 sq ft
How did Hole 11 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 337 yards.
What's the best strategy off the tee?
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For this 337-yard par 4, most players will hit 3-wood or driver to set up a comfortable approach.
How difficult is hole 11?
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This hole is a good scoring opportunity for most golfers.
How big is the green on hole 11?
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The green is fairly large with multiple pin positions. Lag putting becomes important on longer putts.
What's a good score on hole 11?
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This hole is a birdie opportunity if you find the fairway. This shorter par 4 rewards accuracy off the tee with a short iron approach.