Hole 11 at PGA West (TPC Stadium course)
- Par
- 5
- Yardage
- 617 yds
- Stroke index
- 8
- Hazards
- 9 bunkers · Water
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 43 yds deep × 32 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Championship tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Championship tees · Par 5 · 617 yards
The plan for No. 11
Aptly nicknamed "Eternity," PGA West's 11th hole stands as one of Pete Dye's most formidable par 5 challenges at 617 yards. This marathon test of endurance and strategy epitomizes the Stadium Course's reputation for delivering adrenaline rushes throughout the round. The straight layout may appear deceptively simple, but the sheer distance transforms every shot into a critical decision. Players face the daunting task of navigating three precise shots to reach the small green complex, with position and course management taking precedence over power. The hole's nickname becomes painfully clear as golfers grind through each lengthy shot, making par feel like a victory. This relentless examination of skill and patience perfectly captures Dye's architectural philosophy of testing every aspect of a player's game.
Off the tee
The opening shot on "Eternity" sets the tone for the entire hole. With 617 yards ahead, resist the temptation to swing out of your shoes and instead focus on finding the fairway with your most reliable driver swing. The straight layout provides a generous target line down the center, but accuracy trumps distance here. A well-struck drive of about 250-280 yards leaves you in prime position for your second shot approach. Avoid getting too aggressive early - this hole rewards patience and smart positioning over heroic attempts to cut significant yardage with risky lines.
Approach & recovery
Your second shot strategy depends heavily on your driving distance and current lie. Most golfers will face a long iron or fairway wood for their approach, aiming to advance the ball another 180-220 yards while staying in the short grass. Focus on the center-left portion of the fairway to set up the best angle into the small green. This is typically a positioning shot rather than an aggressive attempt to reach the green in two. Conservative play here - accepting that you'll need three shots to reach the putting surface - often yields better scoring results than trying to force a miracle second shot.
On the green
The small green complex demands precision on your third shot, typically a short iron or wedge approach. With limited real estate to work with, club selection becomes critical - take enough club to ensure you reach the putting surface, as coming up short leaves difficult recovery shots. The compact green means most putts will be relatively straight, but reading the subtle breaks becomes essential. Focus on lag putting to avoid three-putts, as the small target makes aggressive putting risky. ## RISK VS REWARD "Eternity" offers limited risk/reward opportunities due to its straightforward design. The primary decision point comes on the second shot: attempting to get close enough for a short iron third shot versus playing conservatively to ensure good position. Long hitters might consider going for the green in two under perfect conditions, but the small target makes this a low-percentage play. The smart money stays patient, accepting that par represents a solid score on this demanding hole. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High Handicappers:** Embrace the three-shot strategy completely. Use your most reliable clubs off the tee and for the second shot, prioritizing accuracy over distance. Consider using a 3-wood or hybrid off the tee if your driver tends to spray. Take your medicine and play for bogey or better - don't let "Eternity" turn into a disaster hole. **Low Handicappers:** While you have the distance to potentially reach in two, evaluate conditions carefully. The small green makes going for it in two a risky proposition even for skilled players. Most scratch golfers play this as a strategic three-shot hole, using the length to their advantage by ensuring each shot sets up the next one perfectly. Par or birdie becomes very achievable with smart course management. The key to conquering "Eternity" lies in respecting its length while maintaining composure and course management discipline throughout all three shots to the small green target.
Hole 11 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 6,051 sq ft
How did Hole 11 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 617 yards.
Can this par 5 be reached in two?
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At 617 yards, A true three-shot hole for most players. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge distance.
How difficult is hole 11?
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This hole is a moderate challenge for most golfers. Key challenges include: long par 5, water in play.
What hazards should I watch out for on hole 11?
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Key hazards include: water at 587.7 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.
How big is the green on hole 11?
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The green is fairly large with multiple pin positions. The green is deeper than wide, so club selection is crucial. Lag putting becomes important on longer putts.
What's a good score on hole 11?
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This hole is a true three-shot hole where birdie requires execution. This longer par 5 demands patience. Two good shots set up the scoring opportunity.