Hole 17 at PGA National Resort and Spa 'Champion Course'

Par 3 • 172 Yards • Palm Beach Gardens, Florida

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Challenging

The closing par 3 at PGA National Resort and Spa 'Champion Course' hole 17 presents a deceptively straightforward test at 172 yards that demands precision over power. This finishing short iron features a small, well-protected green that punishes wayward tee shots despite the absence of major hazards. The compact putting surface requires golfers to commit fully to their club selection and swing, as anything short or long leaves challenging recovery shots. What makes this hole particularly memorable is its role as the penultimate challenge before the famous Bear Trap finale, where steady nerves and accurate iron play become paramount. The straightforward layout masks the mental pressure of executing under championship conditions.

Tees:

172y161y155y131y111y

Green:32y × 39y

2 BunkersWater dogleg

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PGA National Resort and Spa 'Champion Course'

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Hole Stats

Par: 3
Yardage: 172 yds
Green: 5783 sq ft
Bunkers: 2
Water: Yes
Course Slope: 148
Course Rating: 75.2

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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 172-yard par 3 - take one extra club to ensure you clear any front hazards and reach the putting surface with confidence.

hazard warning

Bunkers positioned at 181.7 yards create a significant threat just beyond the green - avoid going long as recovery shots from these traps will be challenging back to the pin.

green

The generous 5,783 square foot green (32y x 39y) provides a large target, so focus on hitting the center of the green rather than attacking tight pin positions.

approach

With no fairway available (0 yards wide at both 200y and 250y), this is a pure carry shot - commit fully to your club selection and swing with confidence.

green

The green's 39-yard depth gives you room for error on distance control - aim for the front third of the green to avoid the bunkers beyond at 181.7 yards.

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 172 yards, most golfers will need a mid-iron (7-iron to 8-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 126.4 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. Pay attention to pin placement when selecting your approach club.

What's a good score on hole 17?

This hole is a solid par with birdie chances for precise approach shots. Making par is a good result here. Focus on hitting the green and avoiding three-putts.

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

Yes — many modern launch monitors and simulators include real course data for PGA National Resort and Spa 'Champion 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 →