Hole 12 at TPC at Deere Run
- Par
- 3
- Yardage
- 215 yds
- Stroke index
- 12
- Hazards
- 4 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 43 yds deep × 25 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. 12
TPC at Deere Run hole 12 presents a classic test of precision on this 215-yard par 3, where club selection becomes paramount in the Illinois winds. This straightforward one-shotter demands a confident tee shot to a small green that sits elegantly within the historic farmland that once belonged to Erskine Wilson. The absence of major hazards might suggest simplicity, but the compact target and potential for challenging pin positions require golfers to commit fully to their approach shot. With its mid-range handicap rating, this hole rewards accurate iron play while punishing anything less than precise execution. The green's modest size ensures that finding the putting surface is just the beginning of the challenge on this deceptively demanding par 3.
Off the tee
Your tee shot strategy centers on committing fully to your club selection and target line. Given the 215-yard distance, most players will need anything from a mid-iron to a hybrid depending on conditions and personal carry distances. Aim for the center of the green regardless of pin position - the small target makes going for tucked pins unnecessarily risky. Take extra time on the tee to assess wind conditions, as they'll significantly impact club selection on this longer par 3. A smooth, controlled swing with good tempo is essential, as trying to muscle the shot often leads to mishits and missed greens.
Approach & recovery
Since this is a par 3, your tee shot IS your approach shot. Focus on landing the ball on the putting surface rather than trying to get close to specific pin positions. The small green means even a shot to the wrong portion of the green leaves a reasonable putt. If you're between clubs, take the longer option and swing easier - coming up short on a small green often means a difficult up-and-down. Trust your yardage and commit to your club choice without second-guessing.
On the green
The small green size means putting will be relatively straightforward once you're on the surface. Focus on lag putting to ensure you don't three-putt, as making par from anywhere on this green should be considered a success. Read the green carefully from behind your ball, as the compact surface may have subtle breaks that aren't immediately obvious. Two-putt pars are excellent scores here, so don't get overly aggressive with longer putts. ## RISK VS REWARD This hole offers minimal risk/reward opportunities - the smart play is always targeting the center of the green. The small target eliminates any real benefit from aggressive pin-hunting, making conservative strategy the optimal approach. The main risk comes from club selection errors or poor execution. There's no reward for being overly bold here; par is always a good score on this challenging one-shotter. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High Handicappers:** Focus entirely on making solid contact and getting the ball airborne toward the green. Don't worry about pin positions - just try to find the putting surface. If you miss the green, practice your short game recovery shots. **Low Handicappers:** This hole rewards precision and course management skills. Study pin positions carefully but resist the urge to get too aggressive. A controlled fade or draw to the center of the green, depending on your natural shot shape, often yields the best results. **Mid Handicappers:** Take one extra club and make a smooth swing. The small green requires accuracy, so prioritize solid contact over trying to hit the perfect distance. Accept that par is an excellent score and play accordingly.
Watch for
- Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.
Hole 12 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 5,763 sq ft
How did Hole 12 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 12?
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This hole is a moderate challenge for most golfers. Key challenges include: long par 3, heavily bunkered.
How big is the green on hole 12?
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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 12?
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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.