Hole 17 at PGA National Resort & Spa (Champion)
Par 3 • 172 Yards • Palm Beach Gardens, Florida
The 18th handicap hole at PGA National Resort & Spa (Champion) hole 17 proves that a 172-yard par 3 can be deceptively challenging despite its straightforward appearance. This short iron test demands precision over power, with a small green that offers little margin for error on approach shots. The absence of major hazards might suggest an easy birdie opportunity, but the compact putting surface punishes wayward tee shots with difficult up-and-down scenarios. Smart golfers focus on finding the center of the green rather than attacking pins, as the small target rewards conservative play. This closing stretch hole epitomizes how strategic course design can create memorable challenges without relying on intimidating water or sand.
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Hole Stats
- Par
- 3
- Yardage
- 172 yds
- Green
- 3620 sq ft
- Bunkers
- 2
- Water
- Yes
- Course Slope
- 153
- Course Rating
- 76.1
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Strategy Tips
Club selection is critical on this 172-yard par 3 - take one extra club to ensure you clear the bunkers positioned at 198.9 yards and reach the putting surface comfortably.
Beware of the bunker complex at 198.9 yards - this is just past the pin position, so any shot that flies the green will find sand, making distance control paramount.
The compact 3,620 square foot green measuring 26 yards by 34 yards demands precision - aim for the center of the green as there's limited room for error on all sides.
With no fairway available (0 yards wide at standard distances), this is a direct tee-to-green shot requiring committed club selection and confident execution.
The green's 26-yard width provides a reasonable target, but focus on distance control over direction - being short is better than long given the bunker placement beyond the green.
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.
See launch monitors & simulatorsShort par 3s reward precision. Pick the right club for the front-center of the green and trust your swing.
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 one of the tougher holes on the course for most golfers. Key challenges include: water in play, small green.
What hazards should I watch out for on hole 17?
Key hazards include: water at 137.8 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.
How big is the green on hole 17?
The green is small and requires precision. Expect challenging pin positions with limited room for error.
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 & Spa (Champion). 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 →
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Play This Course at Home
Practice PGA National Resort & Spa (Champion) Year-Round
Launch monitors from $600 and simulators from $2,500 include real course data. Play every hole without leaving home.
Browse Launch Monitors & SimulatorsAmazon · Top brands compared · Free returns on most items
We may earn a commission when you buy through links on this page, at no extra cost to you.
Hole Stats
- Par
- 3
- Yardage
- 172 yds
- Green
- 3620 sq ft
- Bunkers
- 2
- Water
- Yes
- Course Slope
- 153
- Course Rating
- 76.1
Navigate
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