Hole 3 at Detroit Golf Club (South)
Par 3 • 157 Yards • Highland Park, Michigan
Detroit Golf Club (South) hole 3 presents a deceptively challenging short iron test at 157 yards. This par 3 demands precision over power, with its compact green offering little margin for error on approach shots. The straight-forward layout might appear straightforward, but the small putting surface punishes wayward tee shots, requiring golfers to commit fully to their club selection and target. Without significant hazards to distract, the mental challenge becomes paramount—players must resist the temptation to attack pins and instead focus on finding the heart of the green. The hole's relatively high handicap ranking of 17 reflects its accessibility, yet the premium on accuracy makes it a memorable test of iron play that rewards conservative strategy over aggressive shot-making.
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Hole Stats
- Par
- 3
- Yardage
- 157 yds
- Green
- 4343 sq ft
- Bunkers
- 6
- Course Slope
- 127
- Course Rating
- 71.6
Strategy Tips
With no fairway to work with on this 157-yard par 3, club selection and accuracy are paramount. Choose a club that gives you confidence to hit the green in regulation, as missing the target leaves no bailout options.
Beware of three bunkers strategically positioned around the green at 134.9, 146.8, and 31.5 yards from the tee. The closer bunkers at 135 and 147 yards frame the green entrance, demanding precise distance control.
Target the center of this compact 4,343 square foot green (30x28 yards). With limited green surface area, pin hunting is risky - prioritize finding the putting surface over aggressive pin-seeking.
Since there's no landing zone available for a layup strategy, commit fully to your tee shot. Take one extra club to ensure you clear any front hazards and reach the putting surface with authority.
With zero fairway width at both 200 and 250 yards, this hole demands an all-or-nothing approach. Focus on tempo and balance rather than power to ensure solid contact on your direct shot to the green.
This par 3 is ideal for working on your mid-iron. Launch monitors from $600 let you practice this exact shot with real course data from home.
See launch monitors & simulatorsShort par 3s reward precision. Pick the right club for the front-center of the green and trust your swing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What club should I use on this par 3?
At 157 yards, most golfers will need a mid-iron (7-iron to 8-iron) to reach this green. Adjust for elevation, wind, and pin position.
How difficult is hole 3?
This hole is a moderate challenge for most golfers. Key challenges include: heavily bunkered, small green.
What hazards should I watch out for on hole 3?
Key hazards include: 4 greenside bunkers. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.
How big is the green on hole 3?
The green is small and requires precision. Expect challenging pin positions with limited room for error.
Where is the best miss on hole 3?
If you're going to miss the green, favor the left side. The right brings more trouble into play and makes recovery difficult.
What's a good score on hole 3?
This hole is a solid par with birdie chances for precise approach shots. Making par is a good result here. Focus on hitting the green and avoiding three-putts.
Can I practice hole 3 on a golf simulator at home?
Yes — many modern launch monitors and simulators include real course data for Detroit Golf Club (South). You can play this exact par 3 shot-by-shot at home. Entry-level options like the SkyTrak+ (around $2,500) and Garmin Approach R10 (around $600) support course play, while premium systems from Trackman and Foresight offer tour-level accuracy. Most systems pay for themselves in a season or two versus green fees and range balls. Shop home golf simulators →
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Play This Course at Home
Practice Detroit Golf Club (South) Year-Round
Launch monitors from $600 and simulators from $2,500 include real course data. Play every hole without leaving home.
Browse Launch Monitors & SimulatorsAmazon · Top brands compared · Free returns on most items
We may earn a commission when you buy through links on this page, at no extra cost to you.
Hole Stats
- Par
- 3
- Yardage
- 157 yds
- Green
- 4343 sq ft
- Bunkers
- 6
- Course Slope
- 127
- Course Rating
- 71.6
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