Hole 14 at Tobacco Road Golf Club
- Par
- 3
- Yardage
- 194 yds
- Stroke index
- 8
- Hazards
- Water
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 49 yds deep × 27 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Pro tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Pro tees · Par 3 · 194 yards
The plan for No. 14
The signature hole at Tobacco Road Golf Club, this dramatic 194-yard par 3 showcases Mike Strantz's architectural genius in full display. Playing downhill over water that guards the entire right side, the tee shot demands both precision and nerve as golfers aim for a long, narrow green complex. Bunkers strategically positioned on the left create a classic risk-reward scenario, forcing players to flirt with the water hazard to avoid the sand. The downhill trajectory adds deception to club selection, while the small green demands pinpoint accuracy to hold the putting surface. This breathtaking hole epitomizes Strantz's visionary design philosophy, creating one of North Carolina's most memorable and challenging par 3s that tests every aspect of a golfer's short iron game.
Off the tee
Club selection is critical on this downhill par 3, as the elevation change can easily cause you to fly the green. Take at least one club less than the yardage suggests, possibly two clubs depending on wind conditions. Aim for the center of the green rather than chasing pins, as the narrow target leaves little margin for error. The water hazard on the right side should influence your target line - favor the left side of the green to give yourself the best bailout area. Commit fully to your swing, as tentative swings often find the water.
Approach & recovery
Since this is a par 3, your tee shot is your approach. Focus on a smooth, controlled swing that emphasizes accuracy over distance. The downhill nature of the shot means the ball will carry further and land softer, so trust your club selection and swing within yourself. Pay attention to pin position - when the flag is tucked right near the water, play to the fat part of the green on the left side. Wind conditions can dramatically affect this shot due to the elevation change and water below.
On the green
The narrow green configuration means most putts will be relatively straight, but don't underestimate the subtle breaks that can develop on Strantz's greens. The green slopes generally from back to front, so approach putts from above the hole with caution. Given the small green size, you'll rarely face extremely long putts, making this a good birdie opportunity if you find the putting surface. Focus on speed control, as the downhill approach shots often leave uphill putts. ## RISK VS REWARD The primary risk/reward decision comes in pin hunting versus playing safe. When the pin is tucked near hazards, the smart play is targeting the center of the green for a stress-free two-putt par. However, when conditions are favorable and the pin is accessible, this hole offers one of the better birdie chances on the course. The key is honestly assessing your current ball-striking confidence and making the percentage play accordingly. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High Handicappers:** Focus entirely on finding the green, regardless of pin position. Take an extra club to ensure you clear the water, and aim for the widest part of the green. A bogey here isn't disastrous, but a lost ball in the water can quickly turn into a big number. **Low Handicappers:** You can be more aggressive with pin hunting, especially when the flag is in the left portion of the green. Use the elevation change to your advantage by taking precise yardages and accounting for the reduced carry distance. This hole should be a legitimate birdie opportunity with proper execution. The 14th at Tobacco Road exemplifies strategic golf course design - it rewards precision and course management while punishing overly aggressive or poorly executed shots. Trust your yardages, commit to your target line, and embrace one of the most visually stunning par 3s in American golf.
Watch for
- Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.
Hole 14 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 5,091 sq ft
Course coverage
Tournament and creator videos about Tobacco Road Golf Club — shared course coverage, not hole-specific clips.
Featured by these creators
Creator videos about this course
YouTube creators who filmed or featured Tobacco Road Golf Club. · Stats as of Oct 12, 2026 · 6d ago
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D.J. Pie gets rich at Tobacco Road
How did Hole 14 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Pro tees · 194 yards.
What club should I use on this par 3?
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At 194 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.
How difficult is hole 14?
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This hole is a moderate challenge for most golfers. Key challenges include: water in play.
What hazards should I watch out for on hole 14?
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Key hazards include: water at 130.8 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.
How big is the green on hole 14?
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The green is medium-sized with moderate targets. The green is wider than it is deep, rewarding shots that find the correct tier. Pay attention to pin placement when selecting your approach club.