Hole 13 at Baltusrol Golf Club (Lower Course)
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 401 yds
- Stroke index
- 12
- Hazards
- 3 bunkers · Water
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 32 yds deep × 28 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 · 401 yards
The plan for No. 13
This straightforward par 4 at Baltusrol's legendary Lower Course presents a deceptively challenging scoring opportunity that demands precision over power. While the absence of major hazards might suggest an easy birdie chance, the small green and Tillinghast's subtle design elements require careful course management to avoid bogey.
Off the tee
The key to success starts with a conservative, accurate tee shot that sets up the ideal approach angle. Target the center of the fairway with a club that ensures you stay in the short grass - for most players, this means a 3-wood or hybrid rather than driver. The straight layout removes guesswork about target line, but the emphasis should be on finding the optimal distance for your approach shot comfort zone. Position your tee shot to leave yourself a full swing with a mid-iron to short-iron, typically in the 120-150 yard range. This distance allows for better spin control and accuracy into the small green. Avoid the temptation to bomb driver and leave yourself an awkward half-wedge that's difficult to control on Tillinghast's demanding putting surfaces.
Approach & recovery
The approach shot is where this hole's true challenge reveals itself. The small green demands pinpoint accuracy and proper club selection. Study the pin position carefully - with limited green real estate, missing on the wrong side can leave extremely difficult recovery shots. Aim for the center of the green regardless of pin position, as the small target makes aggressive pin-hunting a high-risk proposition. Take one extra club to ensure you reach the putting surface, as short-sided chips around Tillinghast greens are notoriously difficult. Focus on a smooth, controlled swing that prioritizes accuracy over distance. Pay attention to wind conditions, as they'll have a magnified effect on approach shots to such a small target. When in doubt, favor the fat part of the green and rely on your putting to get close to challenging pin positions.
On the green
Baltusrol's greens are known for their subtle breaks and firm conditions during tournament play. The small size of this green means you'll likely have a reasonable putt for birdie if you've hit the putting surface. Read putts carefully, as Tillinghast's greens often have more movement than initially apparent. Focus on lag putting to the correct quadrant of the green rather than being overly aggressive with birdie attempts. The small green means three-putts are rare if you maintain good pace control. Pay attention to grain and green speed, which can vary significantly depending on recent weather and maintenance practices.
Watch for
- The 13th hole represents classic A.W. Tillinghast design philosophy - appearing simple on paper but rewarding thoughtful strategy. At 401 yards with a straight layout, this hole falls right in the middle of the back nine where momentum can …
Hole 13 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 5,763 sq ft
Course and tournament history
Historical context for the course and venue. Each entry identifies the event or course it describes.
1962 · Arnold Palmer
After the victory, Sports Illustrated dubbed Wright, whose 13 major titles is the most all-time in the women’s game, “the finest woman golfer of this — and perhaps of any — era
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How did Hole 13 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 401 yards.
What's the best strategy off the tee?
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For this 401-yard par 4, most players will hit driver to set up a comfortable approach.
How difficult is hole 13?
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This hole is a moderate challenge for most golfers. Key challenges include: water in play.
How big is the green on hole 13?
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The green is medium-sized with moderate targets. Pay attention to pin placement when selecting your approach club.