Hole 8 at Hazeltine National Golf Club
- Par
- 3
- Yardage
- 175 yds
- Stroke index
- 0
- Hazards
- 3 bunkers · Water
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 33 yds deep × 23 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 · 175 yards
The plan for No. 8
Hole 8 at Hazeltine National stands as one of golf's most iconic par 3s, featuring the legendary Payne Stewart Bridge that has become synonymous with championship golf. This picturesque hole has tested the world's best players during multiple major championships, cementing its reputation as a true signature test of precision and nerve.
Off the tee
Club selection is paramount on this hole - take one more club than you think you need and swing smoothly. The 175-yard distance typically calls for a mid-iron to long-iron depending on wind conditions and pin position. Aim for the center of the green regardless of pin placement, as the small green size makes aggressive pin-hunting a risky proposition. Focus on a controlled, balanced swing rather than trying to muscle the shot, as rhythm and tempo will produce better results than raw power.
Approach & recovery
Since this is a par 3, your tee shot IS your approach shot. The straight layout means you can play aggressively down the target line without worrying about doglegs or hidden trouble. Pay close attention to wind direction and strength, as even a moderate breeze can significantly affect club selection on this distance. If the pin is tucked near an edge, resist the temptation to fire directly at it - the small green rewards conservative play to the fat part of the putting surface.
On the green
The small green means you'll likely face manageable putts if you've hit an accurate tee shot. Focus on speed control rather than trying to make everything, as leaving putts short or running them well past the hole can lead to three-putts on the compact surface. Read the green carefully during your approach to the tee, noting any subtle slopes that might affect your putt. Most importantly, get your first putt close to ensure you walk away with par at minimum.
Watch for
- Water along the hole
- Greenside bunker (greenside)
Hole 8 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 4,181 sq ft
How did Hole 8 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 175 yards.
What club should I use on this par 3?
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At 175 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 8?
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This hole is one of the tougher holes on the course for most golfers. Key challenges include: water in play, small green.
What hazards should I watch out for on hole 8?
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Key hazards include: 3 greenside bunkers; water at 146.6 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.
How big is the green on hole 8?
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The green is small and requires precision. The green is wider than it is deep, rewarding shots that find the correct tier. Expect challenging pin positions with limited room for error.
What's a good score on hole 8?
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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.