Hole 17 at Bellerive Country Club

Par 5 • 595 Yards • Saint Louis, Missouri

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Tough

The 17th hole at Bellerive stands as the penultimate challenge in the legendary "Ridge" stretch, where holes 14-17 have historically tested champions with their demanding play into the prevailing southerly winds. This par-5 exemplifies Robert Trent Jones' philosophy of creating holes that offer "a difficult par but a comfortable bogey," demanding both strategic thinking and precise execution.

Tees:

595y525y515y495y425y

Green:34y × 41y

7 BunkersWater dogleg

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Bellerive Country Club

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Hole Stats

Par: 5
Yardage: 595 yds
Green: 7775 sq ft
Bunkers: 7
Water: Yes
Course Slope: 144
Course Rating: 75

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Strategy Tips

tee shot

This 595-yard par 5 requires careful tee shot placement as the fairway completely disappears at both 200 and 250 yards. Focus on accuracy over distance with your driver, aiming for the widest part of the fairway in the first 180-200 yards to avoid the severe narrowing ahead.

hazard warning

Three strategically placed bunkers guard the hole at 266, 290, and 491 yards from the tee. The first two bunkers create a significant challenge for longer hitters, while the bunker at 491 yards protects the approach zone - plan your layup accordingly.

approach

With bunkers positioned at 490 yards, your second shot strategy is crucial. Consider laying up to around 470-480 yards to leave yourself a comfortable wedge approach to the large 7,775 square foot green, rather than risking the bunker complex.

green

The expansive green measuring 34 yards by 41 yards (7,775 sq ft) offers plenty of target area for your approach shot. Use this generous landing area to your advantage by aiming for the center of the green and letting your short game handle any pin position.

tee shot

As part of Bellerive's famous 'Ridge' holes (14-17) that play into the prevailing southerly wind, club selection becomes even more critical. The complete absence of fairway at 250 yards means even a well-struck 3-wood could find trouble - prioritize position over power.

train this shot at home

This 595-yard par 5 is ideal for working on your driver accuracy. Launch monitors from $600 let you practice this exact shot with real course data from home.

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Scoring Tip

Scoring on par 5s starts with a smart second shot. Laying up to your favorite wedge distance gives you the best birdie chance.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can this par 5 be reached in two?

At 595 yards, A true three-shot hole for most players. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge distance.

How difficult is hole 17?

This hole is one of the tougher holes on the course for most golfers. Key challenges include: long par 5, water in play, heavily bunkered, large green requiring good lag putting.

What hazards should I watch out for on hole 17?

Key hazards include: 3 greenside bunkers; water at 405.5 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.

How big is the green on hole 17?

The green is large and can play quite long. Three-putt territory if you don't manage your approach distance well.

What's a good score on hole 17?

This hole is a true three-shot hole where birdie requires execution. This longer par 5 demands patience. Two good shots set up the scoring opportunity.

Can I practice hole 17 on a golf simulator at home?

Yes — many modern launch monitors and simulators include real course data for Bellerive Country Club. You can play this exact par 5 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 →