Hole 9 at PGA WEST (Norman course)

Par 4 • 359 Yards • La Quinta, California

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Moderate

The ninth hole at PGA WEST's Norman course presents a deceptively challenging par 4 that demands precision over power. At 359 yards, this straight-away hole might appear manageable, but the small green complex requires a calculated approach. The generous fairway invites aggressive tee shots, yet the real test comes with the approach shot to a compact putting surface that punishes wayward iron play. Without significant hazards to navigate, golfers must focus on distance control and pin placement, making club selection critical for scoring opportunities. This strategic finishing hole to the front nine rewards course management and precise execution, embodying the thoughtful design philosophy that makes PGA WEST's Norman course a true test of skill.

Tees:

359y339y317y292y283y

Green:45y × 32y

Fairway @250y:12y wide

6 BunkersWaterright dogleg

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PGA WEST (Norman course)

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Hole Stats

Par: 4
Yardage: 359 yds
Green: 5511 sq ft
Bunkers: 6
Water: Yes
Course Slope: 139
Course Rating: 75.1

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Strategy Tips

tee shot

Target a controlled tee shot to the 200-yard mark where the fairway is only 12 yards wide - this narrow corridor demands accuracy over distance to set up your approach.

approach

From the fairway, you'll face a mid-iron approach of approximately 150-160 yards to a generous green measuring 44 yards deep by 32 yards wide - aim for the center to avoid short-siding yourself.

hazard warning

Be aware of bunkers positioned at 297 yards from the tee - while they shouldn't affect most tee shots on this 359-yard hole, longer hitters need to account for their placement when choosing club selection.

tee shot

With the fairway maintaining just 12 yards of width at both the 200 and 250-yard marks, consider laying up with a 3-wood or hybrid to ensure you stay in the short grass rather than risking driver into trouble.

green

The large green at 5,511 square feet offers plenty of target area for your approach shot - use this to your advantage by playing to the fat part of the green rather than attacking tight pin positions.

train this shot at home

This 359-yard par 4 is ideal for working on your driver accuracy. Launch monitors from $600 let you practice this exact shot with real course data from home.

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Scoring Tip

When water is in play, commit to a conservative target. A bogey beats a big number every time.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best strategy off the tee?

For this 359-yard par 4, most players will hit 3-wood or driver to set up a comfortable approach.

How difficult is hole 9?

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

What hazards should I watch out for on hole 9?

Key hazards include: water at 137.7 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.

How big is the green on hole 9?

The green is medium-sized with moderate targets. The green is wider than it is deep, rewarding shots that find the correct tier. Pay attention to pin placement when selecting your approach club.

Which side of the fairway is safer on hole 9?

Aim for the right side of the fairway when possible. Missing left (water) brings more trouble into play.

What's a good score on hole 9?

This hole is a medium-length test where par is a solid result. A straightforward par 4 where course management pays off.

Can I practice hole 9 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 359-yard par 4 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 →