Hole 12 at Baltusrol Golf Club (Lower Course)
- Par
- 3
- Yardage
- 202 yds
- Stroke index
- 16
- Hazards
- 3 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 37 yds deep × 29 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 · 202 yards
The plan for No. 12
This straightforward par 3 at Baltusrol's Lower Course demands precision and smart club selection to find the small target green. While the hole appears deceptively simple with its straight layout and lack of major hazards, the combination of distance and green size creates a classic Tillinghast test of accuracy under pressure.
Off the tee
Club selection is paramount on this hole, with most players requiring a long iron or hybrid depending on conditions and pin position. The key is committing fully to your club choice and swinging with confidence rather than trying to guide the ball. Aim for the center of the green regardless of pin position, as the small target leaves little room for error. Wind conditions will play a significant role in club selection, so take extra time to assess the flags and feel the breeze before making your decision.
Approach & recovery
Since this is a par 3, your tee shot is your approach shot. Focus on a smooth, balanced swing that prioritizes accuracy over distance. The straight layout means you can be aggressive with your target line, but the small green demands respect. Take one extra club if you're between selections, as being short of the green typically leaves a more manageable recovery shot than being long or in greenside trouble.
On the green
The small green size means putting will be relatively straightforward once you're on the surface, but also means there's less margin for error on approach shots. Focus on lag putting to the center of the green if facing a long putt, as three-putting from this distance would be particularly costly on a scoring hole. The green's modest size should make reading breaks more manageable than on Baltusrol's larger, more undulating surfaces.
Watch for
- The 12th hole represents a classic mid-length par 3 that rewards committed swings and punishes indecision. At 202 yards to a small green, this hole epitomizes the strategic philosophy of A.W. Tillinghast's design - appearing simple while de…
Hole 12 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 6,687 sq ft
How did Hole 12 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 202 yards.
What club should I use on this par 3?
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At 202 yards, most golfers will need a long iron or hybrid (5-iron to 6-iron) to reach this green. Adjust for elevation, wind, and pin position.
What hazards should I watch out for on hole 12?
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Key hazards include: 3 greenside bunkers. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.
How big is the green on hole 12?
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The green is fairly large with multiple pin positions. The green is wider than it is deep, rewarding shots that find the correct tier. Lag putting becomes important on longer putts.