Hole 17 at Westin Innisbrook Resort 'Copperhead Course'
- Par
- 3
- Yardage
- 215 yds
- Stroke index
- 16
- Hazards
- 4 bunkers · Water
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 46 yds deep × 30 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Championship tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Championship tees · Par 3 · 215 yards
The plan for No. 17
The penultimate hole in Innisbrook's infamous "Snake Pit" serves as a crucial test before the dramatic finale. This 215-yard par 3 at Westin Innisbrook Resort 'Copperhead Course' hole 17 demands precision and nerve as pressure mounts in the closing stretch that has decided countless PGA Tour Valspar Championship outcomes. The tee shot must carry to a small, well-defended green complex surrounded by Florida's signature dense vegetation and strategic bunkering. Club selection proves critical on this deceptively challenging one-shotter, where even seasoned professionals have seen their rounds unravel. With its straightforward layout masking subtle complexities, this hole epitomizes Copperhead's reputation as a ball-striking examination that rewards accuracy over distance, setting up the tension-filled approach to the legendary 18th.
Off the tee
Club selection is absolutely critical on this hole - take one more club than you think you need and commit to a smooth, controlled swing. The 215-yard distance typically calls for anything from a 5-iron to a hybrid depending on wind conditions and pin position. Aim for the center of the green regardless of pin placement, as the small target leaves little margin for error. Focus on a balanced finish and trust your yardage - many golfers come up short by trying to guide the ball rather than making a confident swing. The straight layout means you can be aggressive with your target line, but never sacrifice accuracy for distance.
Approach & recovery
Since this is a par 3, your tee shot IS your approach shot, making it even more crucial to execute properly. The small green means you must be precise with both distance and direction. Pay close attention to wind conditions, as they can significantly affect club selection on this longer par 3. If the pin is tucked in a corner, resist the temptation to chase it - the center of the green is always your friend here. Take note of the green's subtle slopes and contours when selecting your landing spot.
On the green
The small green means shorter putts but also less room for error on your approach. Read the green carefully during your pre-shot routine from the tee, as you'll have a good view of the overall slope and grain. Most putts will be relatively straight due to the green's size, but don't underestimate subtle breaks. Focus on speed control rather than trying to be too aggressive with the line. A two-putt par here is an excellent score and keeps you in great position for the final hole. ## RISK VS REWARD This hole offers little in the way of risk/reward options - it's purely about execution and course management. The reward comes from making a solid par and maintaining momentum heading into the 18th. The risk is letting the pressure of the Snake Pit get to you and making a costly mistake that can affect your entire round. Avoid any temptation to be overly aggressive, especially if you're in contention or trying to post a good score. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High Handicappers:** Focus on making solid contact and getting the ball somewhere on the green. Take an extra club to ensure you reach the putting surface, as a long putt is much better than a short-sided chip. Don't worry about pin hunting - aim for the fattest part of the green and be thrilled with any putt for par. **Low Handicappers:** This is where precision and course management separate good players from great ones. Study the pin position carefully and consider how it affects your target selection. You have the skills to be more aggressive, but remember that even tour pros play conservatively here. A routine par keeps you in position to attack the 18th with confidence. The 17th hole at Copperhead is where rounds are preserved rather than won. Embrace the challenge, trust your preparation, and remember that a solid par here sets up perfectly for whatever the famous 18th hole has in store.
Hole 17 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 6,484 sq ft
Course coverage
Tournament and creator videos about Westin Innisbrook Resort 'Copperhead Course' — shared course coverage, not hole-specific clips.
Tournament coverage
Valspar Championship highlights
Valspar Championship | Final Round Highlights
2025
How did Hole 17 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 215 yards.
What club should I use on this par 3?
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At 215 yards, most golfers will need a fairway wood or hybrid to reach this green. Adjust for elevation, wind, and pin position.
How difficult is hole 17?
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This hole is one of the tougher holes on the course for most golfers. Key challenges include: long par 3, water in play, heavily bunkered.
What hazards should I watch out for on hole 17?
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Key hazards include: 4 greenside bunkers; water at 3.5 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.
How big is the green on hole 17?
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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 17?
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This hole is a challenging par where bogey is acceptable. This longer par 3 will test your long iron or hybrid game. Par is a good score.