Hole 4 at Tobacco Road Golf Club

Sanford, North Carolina
Par
5
Yardage
525 yds
Stroke index
9
Hazards
3 bunkers
Hole 4 aerial at Tobacco Road Golf Club

Aerial source not provided

Green size: 51 yds deep × 51 yds wide

Scorecard yardage is for Pro tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.

Pro tees · Par 5 · 525 yards

The plan for No. 4

The fourth hole at Tobacco Road Golf Club presents a deceptively straightforward par 5 that embodies the course's reputation for strategic complexity within the North Carolina sandhills. This 525-yard test features a generous fairway that invites aggressive play off the tee, but the real intrigue lies in the approach to the compact green complex. The straight layout allows longer hitters to consider going for the green in two, while shorter players must carefully position their second shots for an optimal angle into the small target. True to Tobacco Road's quirky character, the hole rewards precision over power, with the intimate green demanding accurate iron play. This early scoring opportunity sets the tone for the unique challenges that await throughout Mike Strantz's imaginative design.

Off the tee

The tee shot strategy centers on finding the optimal position for your second shot while maximizing distance. With the straight layout and absence of major hazards, driver is typically the right play for most golfers. Focus on the center-right portion of the fairway to set up the best angle for your approach. The key is avoiding any rough areas that might complicate your lie for the crucial second shot. Wind conditions in the North Carolina sandhills can affect club selection, so factor in any crosswinds when choosing your target line.

Approach & recovery

Your approach strategy depends heavily on your distance remaining after the tee shot. Longer hitters may have an opportunity to reach the green in two, but the small green size demands exceptional accuracy. If going for it, aim for the center of the green and accept whatever pin position you're given. For those laying up, position your second shot in the 80-100 yard range to leave a full wedge shot - partial shots to small greens are notoriously difficult to control. Choose a landing area that provides a level lie and clear sight lines to the flag.

On the green

The small green requires precise distance control and careful read of the putting surface. Given Tobacco Road's recent conversion to mini verde greens, expect a firm, grainy surface that will affect both approach shots and putts. Putts may require slightly more aggressive speed to hold their line through the grain. Focus on getting your approach shots below the hole when possible, as uphill putts are more manageable on grainy surfaces. The compact green means most putts will be relatively short, making this a good opportunity to be aggressive with your putting. ## RISK VS REWARD This hole presents a classic risk/reward scenario for longer hitters. Going for the green in two offers legitimate birdie and even eagle opportunities, but the small target demands exceptional precision. The reward is significant - this rates as one of the course's better scoring holes. However, the safe play of laying up to wedge distance still provides excellent birdie chances while virtually eliminating big numbers. Consider your current round momentum and comfort level with long approach shots when making this decision. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **Higher Handicap Players:** Focus on two solid shots to set up a manageable wedge approach. Don't feel pressured to reach the green in two - three well-executed shots will likely result in par or better. Use this hole to build confidence with your course management skills. **Lower Handicap Players:** Assess the pin position and your lie after the tee shot before committing to going for the green. If the flag is tucked or conditions are firm, consider the strategic lay-up to ensure you have a comfortable yardage for your approach. When you do go for it, commit fully to the shot and trust your distance control. The 4th hole exemplifies smart golf course design - rewarding good shots while punishing poor execution through the challenge of the small green rather than penal hazards. Take advantage of this scoring opportunity while respecting the precision required around the putting surface.

Watch for

  • Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.

Hole 4 Green Complex

Mapped green boundary

Green Surface

Green size: 10,378 sq ft

Dimensions
51y Deep × 51y Wide
Mapped green boundary

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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Frequently asked questions

Yardage reference: Pro tees · 525 yards.

Can this par 5 be reached in two?

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At 525 yards, A true three-shot hole for most players. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge distance.

How difficult is hole 4?

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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 4?

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The green is large and can play quite long. The green is wider than it is deep, rewarding shots that find the correct tier. Three-putt territory if you don't manage your approach distance well.

Which side of the fairway is safer on hole 4?

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Aim for the left side of the fairway when possible. Missing right brings more trouble into play.

What's a good score on hole 4?

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This hole is a solid birdie opportunity with smart layup strategy. Most golfers can reach in three. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge.