Hole 14 at PGA WEST (Norman course)
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 443 yds
- Stroke index
- 10
- Hazards
- 4 bunkers · Water
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 33 yds deep × 34 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 · 443 yards
The plan for No. 14
The 14th hole at PGA WEST's Norman course presents a deceptively challenging straight par 4 that demands both distance and precision across its 443 yards. This mid-length test features a generous fairway that invites aggressive tee shots, but the real challenge emerges on the approach to a small, well-protected green complex. Without significant hazards cluttering the landscape, golfers might expect a straightforward hole, yet the compact target green demands pinpoint accuracy with mid-iron approach shots. The green's subtle undulations and firm conditions typical of desert golf create challenging pin positions that reward conservative play to the center. This hole exemplifies Norman's design philosophy of rewarding strategic thinking over pure power, making it a memorable test of precision golf.
Off the tee
The straight layout allows for an aggressive target line down the center of the fairway. With no significant hazards to navigate, players can focus on finding the optimal position for their approach shot. A driver or 3-wood should leave most players with a mid-iron to the green, but the key is avoiding the rough where controlling spin and trajectory becomes much more difficult. Aim for the widest part of the fairway to maximize your options for the approach.
Approach & recovery
The small green demands pinpoint accuracy on the approach shot. Club selection becomes critical here - it's better to be slightly long than short, as most small greens have more trouble behind than in front. A mid-iron to long-iron, depending on conditions and pin position, should be the play for most golfers. Focus on the center of the green unless you're feeling particularly confident, as the limited target area punishes aggressive pin-hunting.
On the green
Small greens typically feature subtle breaks that can be deceptive. Spend extra time reading putts from multiple angles, as the compact surface means every slope is magnified. Lag putting becomes essential - getting your first putt close to the hole is more important than being aggressive. Pay attention to grain direction and any subtle tiers that might affect ball roll. ## RISK VS REWARD The primary risk/reward decision comes with approach shot aggression. While the small green tempts players to aim directly at pins, the smart play is often targeting the center and relying on putting skills. The reward for precise iron play is significant - well-struck approaches to small greens often result in birdie opportunities due to shorter putts. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High-Handicap Players:** Focus entirely on hitting the fairway off the tee, even if it means taking a 3-wood or hybrid. On the approach, aim for the center of the green regardless of pin position. Two-putt for par and move on - this hole rewards patience over aggression. **Low-Handicap Players:** Can be more aggressive with driver off the tee to set up shorter irons into the green. Consider pin position when selecting approach targets, but respect the small green size. This is a hole where superior short game skills can create scoring opportunities through precise distance control and green reading. The 14th hole at PGA WEST's Norman course epitomizes strategic golf - rewarding thoughtful course management and precise execution while punishing overly aggressive play. Success here builds momentum for the challenging finishing holes ahead.
Watch for
- Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.
Hole 14 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 4,922 sq ft
How did Hole 14 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 443 yards.
What's the best strategy off the tee?
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For this 443-yard par 4, most players will hit driver to set up a comfortable approach.
How difficult is hole 14?
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This hole is a moderate challenge for most golfers. Key challenges include: water in play.
What hazards should I watch out for on hole 14?
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Key hazards include: water at 85.4 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.
How big is the green on hole 14?
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The green is medium-sized with moderate targets. Pay attention to pin placement when selecting your approach club.
Which side of the fairway is safer on hole 14?
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Aim for the left side of the fairway when possible. Missing right (water) brings more trouble into play.
What's a good score on hole 14?
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This hole is a demanding hole where bogey is not unusual. This longer par 4 will test most golfers. Focus on position over distance.