Hole 17 at PGA WEST (Norman course)

Par 3 • 180 Yards • La Quinta, California

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Tough

The 17th hole at PGA WEST's Norman course presents a deceptively straightforward par 3 that demands precision over power. At 180 yards, this hole may appear benign compared to the course's more notorious challenges, but the small green creates an unforgiving target that punishes wayward shots. The straight layout offers no place to hide, making club selection and accuracy paramount. Without significant hazards to navigate, golfers must focus entirely on distance control and pin placement, as the compact green leaves little margin for error. This hole exemplifies Greg Norman's design philosophy of rewarding precise execution while exposing any weakness in a player's short iron game.

Tees:

180y161y142y126y102y

Green:23y × 41y

3 BunkersWater dogleg

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PGA WEST (Norman course)

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Hole Stats

Par: 3
Yardage: 180 yds
Green: 5520 sq ft
Bunkers: 3
Water: Yes
Course Slope: 139
Course Rating: 75.1

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Recommended Gear

Dial in your mid-irons — accuracy is everything on a short par 3.

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Strategy Tips

tee shot

Club selection is critical on this 180-yard par 3 - take one extra club to ensure you clear the bunkers positioned at 195 yards and reach the putting surface with confidence.

hazard warning

The bunkers at 195 yards are strategically placed just short of the green - avoid the temptation to take less club, as coming up short will leave you in sand with a difficult up-and-down.

green

Target the center of this generous 5,520 square foot green measuring 23 by 41 yards - the large putting surface gives you margin for error and reduces the penalty for slight mis-hits.

approach

With no fairway landing area available, this is a pure carry shot to the green - commit fully to your club selection and swing with confidence knowing you must fly it all the way.

train this shot at home

This par 3 is ideal for working on your mid-iron. Launch monitors from $600 let you practice this exact shot with real course data from home.

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Scoring Tip

Short par 3s reward precision. Pick the right club for the front-center of the green and trust your swing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What club should I use on this par 3?

At 180 yards, most golfers will need a long iron or hybrid (5-iron to 6-iron) to reach this green. Adjust for elevation, wind, and pin position.

How difficult is hole 17?

This hole is a moderate challenge for most golfers. Key challenges include: water in play.

What hazards should I watch out for on hole 17?

Key hazards include: water at 104.8 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.

How big is the green on hole 17?

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 17?

This hole is a challenging par where bogey is acceptable. This longer par 3 will test your long iron or hybrid game. Par is a good score.

Can I practice hole 17 on a golf simulator at home?

Yes — many modern launch monitors and simulators include real course data for PGA WEST (Norman course). You can play this exact par 3 shot-by-shot at home. Entry-level options like the SkyTrak+ (around $2,500) and Garmin Approach R10 (around $600) support course play, while premium systems from Trackman and Foresight offer tour-level accuracy. Most systems pay for themselves in a season or two versus green fees and range balls. Shop home golf simulators →