Hole 1 at Ohio State University Golf Course
Par 4 • 324 Yards • Columbus, Ohio
The opening hole at Ohio State University Golf Course carries deep historical significance, with its tee positioned directly behind the iconic Page Hall as documented in university archives. This classic Alister MacKenzie design has endured through decades of change, maintaining its original strategic character that has challenged Buckeye golfers for generations.
PGA Tour Venue
Nationwide Children's Hospital Championship
Home of the Nationwide Children's Hospital Championship. Early-bird tickets save 30–40% vs week-of prices.
Check Ticket PricesSee full tournament page →StubHub · Buyer guarantee on every order
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Hole Stats
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 324 yds
- Green
- 3754 sq ft
- Bunkers
- 1
- Course Slope
- 111
- Course Rating
- 67
Recommended Gear
A rangefinder takes the guesswork out of your approach into the green.
Shop Rangefinders →Strategy Tips
With the fairway measuring 39 yards wide at the 200-yard mark, position your tee shot conservatively in the center of the fairway. This shorter par 4 rewards accuracy over distance, so consider a hybrid or long iron off the tee to ensure you find the short grass.
At only 324 yards total length, most golfers will have a short iron approach shot remaining. The green measures 23 by 26 yards, providing a generous target, so focus on distance control rather than pin-hunting to avoid short-siding yourself.
Be aware of the bunker positioned at 318 yards - just 6 yards short of the green. Any approach shot that comes up short risks finding this greenside sand trap, so ensure you take enough club to carry this hazard.
The green's substantial size of 3,754 square feet means putting distances can vary significantly depending on pin position. Study the green carefully during your approach to identify the correct tier or section to target.
The fairway maintains its width at 40 yards even at the 250-yard mark, so longer hitters can be more aggressive off the tee. However, with such a short hole, there's little advantage to driving past the 250-yard mark when a wedge approach awaits.
This 324-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 & simulatorsFocus on getting your approach inside 20 feet. Two putts from there and you walk away with par.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best strategy off the tee?
For this 324-yard par 4, most players will hit 3-wood or driver to set up a comfortable approach.
How difficult is hole 1?
This hole is a good scoring opportunity for most golfers. Key challenges include: small green.
What hazards should I watch out for on hole 1?
Key hazards include: 1 greenside bunker. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.
How big is the green on hole 1?
The green is small and requires precision. Expect challenging pin positions with limited room for error.
What's a good score on hole 1?
This hole is a birdie opportunity if you find the fairway. This shorter par 4 rewards accuracy off the tee with a short iron approach.
Can I watch hole 1 at the Nationwide Children's Hospital Championship in person?
Yes — the Nationwide Children's Hospital Championship at Ohio State University Golf Course is one of the PGA Tour's most-attended events, drawing over 200,000 spectators across the week. Hole 1 is a popular viewing spot. StubHub typically lists single-day grounds passes starting around $75–$150, with premium grandstand and hospitality options available for serious fans. Prices tend to climb as the tournament approaches, so buying early often saves 30–40%. Buy Nationwide Children's Hospital Championship tickets on StubHub →
Can I practice hole 1 on a golf simulator at home?
Yes — many modern launch monitors and simulators include real course data for Ohio State University Golf Course. You can play this exact 324-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 →
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For course operators and clubs
PGA Tour Venue
Nationwide Children's Hospital Championship
Home of the Nationwide Children's Hospital Championship. Early-bird tickets save 30–40% vs week-of prices.
Check Ticket PricesSee full tournament page →StubHub · Buyer guarantee on every order
Play This Course at Home
Practice Ohio State University Golf Course 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
- 324 yds
- Green
- 3754 sq ft
- Bunkers
- 1
- Course Slope
- 111
- Course Rating
- 67
Recommended Gear
A rangefinder takes the guesswork out of your approach into the green.
Shop Rangefinders →Get the Free Strategy Guide
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