Hole 1 at Westin Innisbrook Resort 'Copperhead Course'
- Par
- 5
- Yardage
- 560 yds
- Stroke index
- 5
- Hazards
- 6 bunkers · Water
Hole 1 map
32 yd wide × 27 yd deep · 3.3 ft total elevation range
Light = gentler slope · Red = steeper slope
White lines: 1 foot of elevation. Arrows: downhill. General terrain, not a pin read.
Approach from bottom
Contour source
USGS 1 Meter 17 x32y312 FL_Peninsular_2018_D18 · collection 2018–2019
Map source & reference
Mapbox Satellite composite · capture date not provided. Green at the top; the labeled map reference is below.
Scorecard yardage is for Championship tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Championship tees · Par 5 · 560 yards
The plan for No. 1
The opening hole at Westin Innisbrook Resort 'Copperhead Course' sets the tone with a spectacular downhill tee shot that showcases Florida's unexpected rolling terrain. This 560-yard par 5 offers an exhilarating start, diverging dramatically from the state's typically flat courses. The elevated tee provides commanding views as players launch their drives into the generous fairway below, framed by the signature tree-lined corridors that define this PGA Tour venue. While hazards are minimal, the hole's character lies in its dramatic elevation change and the psychological boost it provides before tackling the course's renowned ball-striking challenges ahead. The small green demands precision on the approach shot, making this opening statement both welcoming and strategically engaging.
Off the tee
The downhill tee shot is the defining feature of this hole, providing both opportunity and challenge. Aim for the center-left portion of the fairway to set up the best angle for your second shot. The elevation drop will add significant distance to your drive, so club down if you're prone to wild drives - accuracy trumps distance here. The tree-lined fairway punishes errant shots severely, so focus on a smooth, controlled swing rather than trying to bomb it. A well-struck driver or strong 3-wood should leave you in prime position around the landing zone.
Approach & recovery
With the advantage gained from the downhill tee shot, many players will face a decision on their second shot. Longer hitters may have a mid-iron or hybrid into the small green, while others will need to lay up strategically. If going for the green in two, target the center as the small green offers little margin for error. For layup shots, position yourself about 100 yards out with a clear angle to the pin. The straight layout means there's no preferred side, but staying in the fairway is paramount for your approach shot success.
On the green
The small green size makes precision essential on your approach, whether going for it in two or hitting your third shot. Putting strategy should focus on getting below the hole when possible, as uphill putts are generally easier to control on smaller greens. Pay attention to the subtle breaks that may not be immediately obvious - Florida greens often have more movement than they appear. Take your time reading the green, especially on longer putts where pace becomes critical. ## RISK VS REWARD This hole presents a classic risk/reward scenario. The downhill tee shot makes the green reachable in two, offering a legitimate eagle opportunity to start your round. However, the tight fairway and small green mean that aggressive play can quickly lead to bogey or worse. The reward is significant - starting with birdie or better sets a positive tone for tackling Copperhead's notorious challenges ahead. Conservative players can still make birdie with three solid shots, making this a hole where smart play often trumps aggressive tactics. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **Low Handicappers:** Should consider going for the green in two with the right lie and conditions. Focus on hitting the fairway first, then assess your second shot options based on pin position and wind conditions. This is a hole where your superior ball-striking can create a scoring advantage. **High Handicappers:** Play this as a three-shot hole and focus on keeping the ball in play. Use the downhill tee shot to your advantage but prioritize accuracy over distance. Lay up to your favorite wedge distance and try to get up and down for birdie. Even par is a great start on this challenging course. The key to success on Copperhead's opening hole is patience and precision - qualities you'll need throughout this demanding layout that culminates in the infamous "Snake Pit" finish.
Hole 1 Green Complex & Slope
USGS 3DEP terrain analysis
Green size: 4,951 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 1 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 560 yards.
Can this par 5 be reached in two?
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At 560 yards, A true three-shot hole for most players. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge distance.
How difficult is hole 1?
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This hole is one of the tougher holes on the course for most golfers. Key challenges include: long par 5, water in play, heavily bunkered.
How big is the green on hole 1?
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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 1?
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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.