Hole 5 at Merion Golf Club (East Course)

Par 4 • 418 Yards • Ardmore, Pennsylvania

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Challenging

The 5th hole at Merion Golf Club (East Course) presents a deceptively straightforward par 4 that embodies the course's reputation for precision over power. This 418-yard test features a straight layout that demands accuracy from tee to green, with the absence of major hazards placing premium emphasis on course management and shot execution. The approach shot proves particularly challenging, as players must navigate to a small green that requires pinpoint accuracy with mid-irons. What makes this hole memorable is its embodiment of Merion's classic design philosophy – rewarding thoughtful strategy and precise shotmaking over brute force. The green's compact dimensions leave little margin for error, making par a well-earned score on this understated yet demanding hole.

Tees:

418y405y390y

Green:32y × 34y

Fairway @250y:33y wide

1 BunkerWater dogleg

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Merion Golf Club (East Course)

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Hole Stats

Par: 4
Yardage: 418 yds
Green: 6887 sq ft
Bunkers: 1
Water: Yes
Course Slope: 144
Course Rating: 72.9

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Strategy Tips

tee shot

Target a controlled tee shot to the 200-yard mark where the fairway maintains a comfortable 36-yard width, giving you optimal positioning for your approach without over-swinging.

hazard warning

Be aware of bunkers positioned at 174 yards from the tee - shorter hitters should use a hybrid or fairway wood to carry safely past this hazard complex.

approach

With 418 total yards and consistent 36-yard fairway width at 250, longer hitters can challenge the dogleg with driver, leaving a shorter iron approach to the generous green.

green

The large 6,887 square foot green (32x34 yards) offers multiple pin positions - focus on getting your approach shot to the correct tier rather than attacking tight pins.

approach

Conservative players should lay up short of 250 yards, maintaining the full 36-yard fairway width for an easier mid-iron approach to this receptive green complex.

train this shot at home

This 418-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.

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Scoring Tip

When water is in play, commit to a conservative target. A bogey beats a big number every time.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best strategy off the tee?

For this 418-yard par 4, most players will hit driver to set up a comfortable approach.

How difficult is hole 5?

This hole is a moderate challenge for most golfers. Key challenges include: water in play.

What hazards should I watch out for on hole 5?

Key hazards include: water at 234.6 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.

How big is the green on hole 5?

The green is fairly large with multiple pin positions. Lag putting becomes important on longer putts.

What's a good score on hole 5?

This hole is a demanding hole where bogey is not unusual. This longer par 4 will test most golfers. Focus on position over distance.

Can I practice hole 5 on a golf simulator at home?

Yes — many modern launch monitors and simulators include real course data for Merion Golf Club (East Course). You can play this exact 418-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 →