Hole 18 at Olympia Fields Country Club (North Course)
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 485 yds
- Stroke index
- 14
- Hazards
- 6 bunkers · Water
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 38 yds deep × 29 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Pro tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Pro tees · Par 4 · 485 yards
The plan for No. 18
The 18th hole at Olympia Fields Country Club (North Course) presents a demanding 485-yard par 4 finale that has tested champions throughout this storied venue's history. This straight, no-nonsense closing hole strips away architectural gimmicks, relying instead on pure length and precision to challenge players when it matters most. The generous fairway invites aggressive tee shots, but the real test begins with the approach to a small, well-protected green complex that demands pinpoint accuracy. Without significant hazards to distract, golfers must execute two quality shots under pressure, making this an ideal championship closer. The hole's deceptive simplicity has decided countless tournaments, rewarding those who can deliver when the stakes are highest at this prestigious Illinois venue.
Off the tee
Driver is the play for most golfers here, as you'll need every yard to give yourself a reasonable approach shot into that small green. Focus on the center of the fairway - there's no need to take unnecessary risks with the tee shot when hazards aren't a major factor. The key is finding the optimal distance that leaves you comfortable with your approach club. Better players might consider whether they're more confident with a 7-iron from 150 yards versus a 5-iron from 170 yards, and adjust their tee shot accordingly.
Approach & recovery
This is where the hole's true challenge reveals itself. That small green demands precision, and from the likely distance you'll be playing from (anywhere from 140-180 yards for most players), club selection becomes critical. Take one extra club and swing smoothly - the small target makes distance control more important than pure distance. Favor the center of the green regardless of pin position, as the small surface leaves little room for error. Any approach that finds the putting surface should be considered a success.
On the green
With a small green, you're likely looking at manageable putt lengths if you've hit the surface. Focus on speed control rather than trying to be overly aggressive with line - two-putting from anywhere on this green is a good result. The key is avoiding the three-putt by ensuring your first putt gets close to the hole without racing past it. ## RISK VS REWARD The primary risk/reward decision comes with club selection on the approach shot. The reward for aggressive pin-seeking is minimal given the small target, while the penalty for missing the green entirely can be severe. This hole rewards conservative, percentage golf - take your medicine if you're between clubs, and always favor the safe play that keeps you on the putting surface. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High Handicappers:** Focus entirely on getting the ball in play off the tee and onto the green with your approach. Don't worry about pin positions - the center of that small green is your target every time. Consider laying up if your second shot would require a club you're not confident with, as a wedge third shot might be easier than a forced long iron. **Low Handicappers:** This hole tests your ability to execute under pressure with precision iron play. You have the skills to be more aggressive with pin positions, but remember that even for skilled players, the small green makes this a challenging target. Trust your yardages and commit to your club selection - indecision is your biggest enemy on this type of hole. The 18th at Olympia Fields North rewards patience and precision over power, making it a fitting test to close out your round at this storied championship venue.
Watch for
- Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.
Hole 18 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 6,818 sq ft
How did Hole 18 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Pro tees · 485 yards.
What's the best strategy off the tee?
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For this 485-yard par 4, most players will hit driver to set up a comfortable approach.
How difficult is hole 18?
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This hole is one of the tougher holes on the course for most golfers. Key challenges include: long par 4, water in play.
What hazards should I watch out for on hole 18?
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Key hazards include: water at 419.4 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.
How big is the green on hole 18?
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The green is fairly large with multiple pin positions. Lag putting becomes important on longer putts.
What's a good score on hole 18?
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This hole is one of the tougher holes where par feels like birdie. A challenging par 4. Accept that bogey happens and avoid big numbers.