Hole 1 at TPC at Deere Run
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 395 yds
- Stroke index
- 17
- Hazards
- 6 bunkers
Hole 1 map
27 yd wide × 34 yd deep · 2.7 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 15 x71y460 IL_8County_PlusChampaign_2019_B19 · collection 2019–2020
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 4 · 395 yards
The plan for No. 1
TPC at Deere Run hole 1 welcomes golfers with a welcoming yet purposeful opening statement on Jack Nicklaus's masterful design. This 395-yard par 4 features a generous fairway that encourages an aggressive tee shot, setting the tone for the round ahead. The straight layout allows players to find their rhythm early, though the small green demands precision on the approach shot. Without significant hazards to navigate, golfers can focus on course management and building confidence. The hole embodies the rich heritage of this historic Illinois farmland, where Erskine Wilson once built his stone house as John Deere was establishing his plow company upstream. It's an ideal opener that hints at the elevation changes and strategic challenges that await deeper into Nicklaus's thoughtful routing.
Off the tee
Focus on finding the fairway rather than maximizing distance on this opening tee shot. The straight layout allows for a comfortable target line down the center, but accuracy should be your priority. Consider using a fairway wood or hybrid if you struggle with driver accuracy, as positioning in the fairway is far more valuable than extra distance from the rough. The relatively modest length at 395 yards means even a conservative tee shot leaves a manageable approach. Aim for the center of the fairway to give yourself the best angle into the small green.
Approach & recovery
The small green size makes precision paramount on your approach shot. From a good fairway position, you'll likely have a mid-iron to short-iron in hand, depending on your tee shot distance and pin position. Focus on hitting the center of the green rather than attacking pins, especially early in the round when you're still getting a feel for your distances. The key is avoiding short-siding yourself, so err on the side of the fat part of the green. Take one extra club if you're between distances to ensure you clear any front trouble and give yourself a reasonable putt.
On the green
With a small green, putting becomes critical for scoring well on this opener. Focus on lag putting to avoid three-putts, as the compact surface likely features subtle breaks that can be tricky to read initially. Pay attention to the overall slope and grain direction during your pre-round warm-up, as these tendencies will help throughout your round. Conservative putting strategy pays dividends here – aim to get your first putt close rather than trying to make everything. ## RISK VS REWARD This hole offers minimal risk/reward scenarios, which actually makes it an ideal scoring opportunity if played intelligently. The straightforward design rewards steady play over aggressive tactics. The main reward comes from hitting quality shots rather than taking chances – a well-struck tee shot followed by a solid approach can easily yield birdie opportunities. Avoid the temptation to overcook shots just because it's the opening hole. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High-Handicap Players:** Use this hole to build confidence by playing well within your comfort zone. Consider a hybrid or 3-wood off the tee for accuracy, then focus on getting your approach shot somewhere on the green. Two-putt par is an excellent start to your round. **Low-Handicap Players:** This presents a legitimate birdie opportunity if you execute properly. Still prioritize fairway position off the tee, but you can be more aggressive with your approach shot to create shorter birdie putts. The small green rewards precise iron play, which better players should be able to capitalize on. The opening hole at TPC Deere Run embodies the strategic principles that make this Nicklaus design so respected. Start your round with smart course management, and you'll set yourself up for success on this historic Illinois layout.
Watch for
- Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.
Hole 1 Green Complex & Slope
USGS 3DEP terrain analysis
Green size: 5,338 sq ft
How did Hole 1 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 395 yards.
What's the best strategy off the tee?
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For this 395-yard par 4, most players will hit driver to set up a comfortable approach.
How difficult is hole 1?
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This hole is a good scoring opportunity for most golfers. Key challenges include: heavily bunkered.
How big is the green on hole 1?
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The green is medium-sized with moderate targets. The green is deeper than wide, so club selection is crucial. 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 medium-length test where par is a solid result. A straightforward par 4 where course management pays off.