Hole 15 at PGA WEST (Norman course)
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 431 yds
- Stroke index
- 12
- Hazards
- 17 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 39 yds deep × 27 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 · 431 yards
The plan for No. 15
The 15th hole at PGA WEST's Norman course presents a deceptively straightforward par 4 that demands precision over power. At 431 yards, this straight-away design appears generous from the tee, but the challenge lies in the approach to a small, well-guarded green complex. The absence of major hazards shifts focus to course management and accuracy, making club selection crucial for the second shot. Players must navigate the subtle undulations of the fairway while setting up the optimal angle for their approach. The compact green rewards those who can dial in their distance control, as missing the putting surface leaves challenging recovery shots. This hole exemplifies Greg Norman's design philosophy of rewarding strategic thinking and precise execution over brute force.
Off the tee
The tee shot strategy centers on finding the optimal distance for your approach. Most players should favor a controlled driver or strong 3-wood, aiming for the center-right portion of the fairway to set up the best angle into the green. The lack of significant hazards means you can be more aggressive than on other holes, but don't let this fool you into poor course management. Focus on hitting your target line rather than simply bombing it down the middle. A well-positioned tee shot in the 250-270 yard range leaves you with a manageable mid-iron approach.
Approach & recovery
The approach shot is where this hole shows its teeth. With a small green, precision trumps power every time. Depending on your tee shot distance, you'll likely face anything from a 6-iron to a pitching wedge. The key is club selection that ensures you're hitting a comfortable, controlled shot rather than forcing a longer club or trying to muscle a shorter one. Aim for the center of the green regardless of pin position – the small target means even center-green putts are very makeable. Take one extra club if conditions are firm to ensure you carry any front trouble.
On the green
The small green size actually works in your favor for putting, as you're never facing extremely long putts. Focus on speed control and reading the subtle breaks that are characteristic of desert courses. Pin positions will feel more accessible than they actually are due to the compact putting surface. Be aggressive with makeable putts inside 12 feet, but respect longer putts by focusing on lag putting to the center of the hole. ## RISK VS REWARD This hole offers a classic risk/reward scenario in club selection and aggression level. The reward for precise play is significant – birdie opportunities abound with two solid shots. However, the risk comes from the small margin for error, particularly on approach shots. Missing the green can lead to difficult up-and-downs that quickly turn birdie chances into bogey realities. The smart play is controlled aggression: be confident but not reckless. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High-handicap players** should treat this as a two-shot par 4, focusing on hitting two solid, straight shots rather than trying to overpower the hole. Consider laying up to your most comfortable wedge distance rather than forcing a longer approach. The small green will reward accuracy over ambition. **Low-handicap players** can be more aggressive, using driver to get as close as possible for a short iron approach. However, even skilled players should respect the small green – it's better to have a 20-foot putt from the center than to short-side yourself chasing a pin position. This hole rewards players who can dial in their distance control with scoring clubs.
Watch for
- Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.
Hole 15 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 5,187 sq ft
How did Hole 15 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 431 yards.
What's the best strategy off the tee?
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For this 431-yard par 4, most players will hit driver to set up a comfortable approach.
How difficult is hole 15?
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This hole is a good scoring opportunity for most golfers.
How big is the green on hole 15?
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The green is medium-sized with moderate targets. The green is deeper than wide, so club selection is crucial. Pay attention to pin placement when selecting your approach club.
What's a good score on hole 15?
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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.