Hole 17 at Maketewah Country Club
Par 4 • 377 Yards • Cincinnati, Ohio
The 17th hole at Maketewah showcases the brilliance of Brian Silva's 2022 restoration, featuring the signature "trap-door fairway" that exemplifies the tactical Golden Age-style bunkering now defining this historic Donald Ross design. This strategic gem demands precise positioning and course management, embodying the thoughtful shot-making that has made Maketewah a beloved Cincinnati classic since 1910.
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Hole Stats
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 377 yds
- Green
- 4563 sq ft
- Bunkers
- 4
- Course Slope
- 132
- Course Rating
- 72.5
Recommended Gear
Bunkers everywhere — a versatile wedge is your scoring club on this hole.
Shop Wedges →Strategy Tips
This hole presents a significant challenge with no fairway landing zone from the tee - the fairway is completely blocked at both 200 and 250 yards, likely due to the massive ravine system that runs through Maketewah.
With bunkers positioned at 317, 333, and 339 yards, plan a conservative tee shot that stays short of trouble. Consider a mid-iron or hybrid to position yourself for a longer but safer approach shot.
The approach shot will be the key to scoring on this 377-yard par 4. With the tee shot requiring a layup strategy, expect a mid to long iron into the green from an elevated or awkward lie.
The relatively compact green measuring 25 by 30 yards (4,563 sq ft) demands precision on your approach shot. Focus on hitting the correct tier and leaving yourself below the hole on these famously undulating Maketewah greens.
This hole exemplifies the 'trap-door fairway' design mentioned in Golf Digest's review. The strategic bunkers and ravine system create a risk-reward scenario where aggressive play is heavily penalized - course management is essential.
This 377-yard par 4 is ideal for working on your driver accuracy. Launch monitors from $600 let you practice this exact shot with real course data from home.
See launch monitors & simulatorsWith bunkers guarding the green, pick the side with the most room and let the slope feed the ball toward the pin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best strategy off the tee?
For this 377-yard par 4, most players will hit 3-wood or driver to set up a comfortable approach.
How difficult is hole 17?
This hole is a good scoring opportunity for most golfers. Key challenges include: heavily bunkered.
What hazards should I watch out for on hole 17?
Key hazards include: 4 greenside bunkers. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.
How big is the green on hole 17?
The green is medium-sized with moderate targets. Pay attention to pin placement when selecting your approach club.
What's a good score on hole 17?
This hole is a medium-length test where par is a solid result. A straightforward par 4 where course management pays off.
Can I practice hole 17 on a golf simulator at home?
Yes — many modern launch monitors and simulators include real course data for Maketewah Country Club. You can play this exact 377-yard par 4 shot-by-shot at home. Entry-level options like the SkyTrak+ (around $2,500) and Garmin Approach R10 (around $600) support course play, while premium systems from Trackman and Foresight offer tour-level accuracy. Most systems pay for themselves in a season or two versus green fees and range balls. Shop home golf simulators →
Reviews & Tips
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For course operators and clubs
Play This Course at Home
Practice Maketewah Country Club Year-Round
Launch monitors from $600 and simulators from $2,500 include real course data. Play every hole without leaving home.
Browse Launch Monitors & SimulatorsAmazon · Top brands compared · Free returns on most items
We may earn a commission when you buy through links on this page, at no extra cost to you.
Hole Stats
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 377 yds
- Green
- 4563 sq ft
- Bunkers
- 4
- Course Slope
- 132
- Course Rating
- 72.5
Recommended Gear
Bunkers everywhere — a versatile wedge is your scoring club on this hole.
Shop Wedges →Get the Free Strategy Guide
All Maketewah Country Club holes — tips, yardages, and pro strategies delivered to your inbox.