Hole 11 at National Golf Links of America
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 432 yds
- Hazards
- 14 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 52 yds deep × 39 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Pro tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Pro tees · Par 4 · 432 yards
The plan for No. 11
The 11th hole at National Golf Links of America presents a deceptively straightforward par 4 that embodies the classic American golf design philosophy. At 432 yards, this straight hole demands precision over power, with its compact green serving as the primary defense. The tee shot opens to a generous fairway that invites aggressive play, but the approach shot reveals the hole's true character. The small green complex requires pinpoint accuracy with mid-irons, leaving little margin for error on approach shots. Without significant hazards to distract, golfers must focus entirely on execution and course management. This hole exemplifies the National's reputation for rewarding strategic thinking and precise shotmaking, where the absence of obvious trouble makes every shot critical to scoring success.
Off the tee
Focus on finding the center of the fairway with a controlled swing rather than maximum distance. A driver or strong 3-wood should leave you in the ideal position for your approach, but club selection should prioritize accuracy over length. The straight layout allows for an aggressive target line down the middle, but resist the temptation to cut corners or take unnecessary risks. Position yourself in the landing zone that provides the best angle to the small green - typically this means favoring the center-right portion of the fairway for the most direct approach angle.
Approach & recovery
The small green size makes this approach shot the defining moment of the hole. Club selection becomes crucial - take one extra club and swing smoothly rather than forcing a shorter iron. Aim for the center of the green regardless of pin position, as the compact putting surface leaves little margin for error. The key is committing to your club choice and making a confident swing. Missing short or long can leave difficult recovery shots, so err on the side of being pin-high rather than coming up short.
On the green
With a small green, putting strategy focuses on speed control and reading the subtle breaks carefully. The compact surface means most putts will be relatively short, but don't underestimate the importance of your first putt. Lag putting to the center of the green from longer distances, and be aggressive on shorter putts where you can see the line clearly. The small target rewards precision, so take time to read even seemingly straightforward putts. ## RISK VS REWARD This hole offers a classic risk/reward scenario in club selection rather than target selection. The reward for hitting the small green in regulation is significant - likely a birdie opportunity. However, the risk of missing the green entirely can lead to difficult up-and-down situations. The strategic play is conservative club selection on the approach, accepting the middle of the green and relying on solid putting rather than forcing pins. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **Low-handicap players** should view this as a scoring opportunity, using precise iron play to attack pins when conditions allow. Consider the wind and green firmness when selecting approach clubs, and don't hesitate to take dead aim when you have a good lie and favorable conditions. **High-handicap players** should prioritize finding the green in regulation above all else. Use the club that gives you the highest percentage chance of hitting the putting surface, even if it means a longer first putt. Focus on solid contact and center-green targets, building confidence through successful execution rather than forcing difficult shots. The 11th hole at National Golf Links represents strategic golf at its finest - rewarding thoughtful planning and precise execution while punishing careless shots with its demanding small green target.
Watch for
- Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.
Hole 11 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 11,069 sq ft
Course coverage
Tournament and creator videos about National Golf Links of America — shared course coverage, not hole-specific clips.
Official & tour
Tour & network videos
Official coverage mentioning National Golf Links of America.
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How did Hole 11 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Pro tees · 432 yards.
What's the best strategy off the tee?
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For this 432-yard par 4, most players will hit driver to set up a comfortable approach.
How difficult is hole 11?
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This hole is a good scoring opportunity for most golfers. Key challenges include: large green requiring good lag putting.
How big is the green on hole 11?
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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 11?
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This hole is a demanding hole where bogey is not unusual. This longer par 4 will test most golfers. Focus on position over distance.