Hole 4 at TPC at Deere Run
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 454 yds
- Stroke index
- 3
- Hazards
- 3 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 27 yds deep × 31 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Championship tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Championship tees · Par 4 · 454 yards
The plan for No. 4
"Friendship Farm" stands as one of TPC at Deere Run's most demanding par 4s, stretching 454 yards through terrain steeped in agricultural heritage. This straight-away hole honors the historic farmland where Erskine Wilson once built his stone house, contemporaneous with John Deere's plow company beginnings upstream. The tee shot demands precision down a generous fairway, setting up a challenging approach to a compact, elevated green complex. Without significant hazards to navigate, success hinges purely on execution and distance control. The small green rewards accurate iron play while punishing wayward approaches with difficult recovery shots. This hole exemplifies TPC design philosophy—rewarding strategic thinking over raw power in a setting that celebrates the land's rich farming legacy.
Off the tee
The tee shot strategy centers on finding the optimal position in the fairway while maximizing distance. With no significant hazards mentioned, the primary focus should be on hitting a controlled drive that leaves the best angle for the approach shot. Most players should favor a slight draw or straight ball flight down the center of the fairway. Driver is likely the preferred club for longer hitters who can maintain accuracy, while shorter hitters might consider a 3-wood or hybrid to ensure they stay in play. The key is avoiding any rough or marginal lies that would complicate the demanding approach shot to the small green.
Approach & recovery
The approach shot to the small green requires pinpoint accuracy and proper club selection. From a good fairway lie, focus on hitting the center of the green rather than attacking pins, especially when they're tucked near edges. The compact green size means there's little margin for error, making course management crucial. Depending on your tee shot distance, expect to hit anything from a mid-iron to a long-iron for your approach. Take note of wind conditions and green firmness, as these factors become magnified when targeting such a small surface. Favor the fat part of the green and avoid short-siding yourself.
On the green
With the green's small size, putting becomes a premium skill on this hole. Focus on getting your first putt close rather than being overly aggressive, as three-putts can easily derail your score. The compact surface likely means most putts will have subtle breaks, so read them carefully. Pay attention to the overall slope and drainage patterns around the green. When the pin is on the edges of this small green, lag putting to the center and taking your par becomes the smart play. ## RISK VS REWARD The primary risk/reward decision comes with tee shot aggression. Longer hitters can attack with driver to leave shorter irons into the green, but must maintain accuracy to avoid rough. The reward of a shorter approach shot to the small green is significant, as hitting from closer range with a higher-lofted club provides better spin and control. However, the penalty for missing the fairway is severe given the precision required for the approach shot. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High-Handicap Players:** Focus on finding the fairway at all costs, even if it means hitting 3-wood or hybrid off the tee. Accept that you'll have a longer approach shot, but prioritize accuracy over distance. Aim for the center of the green regardless of pin position, and focus on avoiding big numbers rather than attacking pins. **Low-Handicap Players:** Can be more aggressive with driver if they have good accuracy. Should still respect the small green size and make smart decisions about when to attack pins versus playing to the center. Consider course conditions and personal strengths when deciding on tee shot strategy. These players can take advantage of precise iron play to attack more pin positions, but should still exercise caution when pins are tucked. The historical significance of "Friendship Farm" adds character to this demanding test, reminding players that like the original farmers who worked this land, patience and precision yield the best results.
Watch for
- Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.
Hole 4 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 4,581 sq ft
How did Hole 4 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 454 yards.
What's the best strategy off the tee?
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For this 454-yard par 4, most players will hit driver to set up a comfortable approach.
How difficult is hole 4?
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This hole is a moderate challenge for most golfers. Key challenges include: long par 4.
How big is the green on hole 4?
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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 4?
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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.