Hole 1 at PGA National Resort and Spa 'Champion Course'

Par 4 • 365 Yards • Palm Beach Gardens, Florida

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Moderate

The opening hole at PGA National Resort and Spa 'Champion Course' sets a welcoming yet strategic tone for one of Florida's most respected championship layouts. This 365-yard par 4 presents a straightforward challenge that rewards precision over power, featuring a generous fairway that invites confident tee shots from golfers of all skill levels.

The absence of major hazards allows players to focus on course management and green reading rather than navigating penal features. The small green demands accurate approach shots, as missing the putting surface can leave challenging up-and-down opportunities. Smart golfers will favor position over distance off the tee, setting up the ideal angle for their second shot.

This opener perfectly embodies the Champion Course's philosophy of strategic golf, where thoughtful play trumps aggressive tactics and sets the foundation for a memorable round.

Tees:

365y360y345y339y308y

Green:27y × 29y

4 BunkersWaterleft dogleg

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PGA National Resort and Spa 'Champion Course'

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Hole Stats

Par: 4
Yardage: 365 yds
Green: 3912 sq ft
Bunkers: 4
Water: Yes
Course Slope: 148
Course Rating: 75.2

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Hole 2

Par 4 • 437y

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Strategy Tips

hazard warning

This hole presents a significant challenge with no fairway landing areas at both 200 and 250 yards from the tee, indicating forced carries over hazards or extremely narrow playing corridors that require precise shot placement.

tee shot

With no traditional landing zone from the tee and fairway constraints, consider laying up short of trouble or hitting a precise shot to whatever narrow playing area exists - course management is critical on this demanding par 4.

approach

Plan your approach to the compact 3,912 square foot green carefully, as the small target (27 x 29 yards) demands accuracy over distance - focus on hitting the center of the green rather than attacking pin positions.

hazard warning

Be aware of bunkers positioned at 372.5 yards from the tee - while this is well beyond the hole's 365-yard length, this suggests greenside or approach area sand hazards that will impact your strategy on the second shot.

green

The relatively square green dimensions (27 x 29 yards) provide a consistent target, but at under 4,000 square feet, precision is paramount - favor the safe side of any pin position and focus on two-putt strategy.

train this shot at home

This 365-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 365-yard par 4, most players will hit 3-wood or driver to set up a comfortable approach.

How difficult is hole 1?

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

What hazards should I watch out for on hole 1?

Key hazards include: water at 336.3 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.

How big is the green on hole 1?

The green is small and requires precision. Expect challenging pin positions with limited room for error.

What's a good score on hole 1?

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 1 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 365-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 →