Hole 5 at Oakmont Country Club
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 382 yds
- Stroke index
- 11
- Hazards
- 8 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 39 yds deep × 25 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Championship tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Championship tees · Par 4 · 382 yards
The plan for No. 5
The fifth hole at Oakmont Country Club presents a deceptively challenging par 4 that embodies the course's reputation for precision golf. At 382 yards, this straight-forward layout demands accuracy over distance, with the absence of major hazards placing premium emphasis on course management and shot execution. The hole's true defense lies in Oakmont's legendary firm, fast conditions and the small, undulating green that punishes wayward approach shots. Players must navigate the psychological pressure of what appears to be a "birdie hole" while respecting the subtle difficulties that have tested champions for over a century. The green's compact size transforms what seems like a straightforward scoring opportunity into a test of iron play precision, making par a satisfying achievement on this understated yet formidable hole.
Off the tee
The straight layout allows for multiple tee shot strategies depending on your comfort level and conditions. Most players should focus on finding the center of the fairway with a controlled swing rather than trying to bomb driver. A 3-wood or hybrid off the tee can provide excellent positioning, leaving a comfortable mid-iron approach. The target line should favor the center-right portion of the fairway, as this typically provides the best angle into the small green. Avoid the temptation to overswing - smooth tempo and solid contact are more valuable than extra distance on this hole.
Approach & recovery
The approach shot is where this hole shows its teeth. The small green demands precision, and Oakmont's typically firm conditions mean balls won't stop quickly. Aim for the center of the green regardless of pin position, as the margin for error is minimal. Club selection should err on the side of taking enough club - better to be long than short into such a small target. Pay attention to wind conditions, as they can significantly affect club selection on this exposed hole. A controlled fade or straight ball flight works best here.
On the green
Oakmont's greens are legendary for their speed and subtle breaks, and the 5th hole's small putting surface amplifies these challenges. Focus on lag putting to avoid three-putts, as the firm conditions can send aggressive putts well past the hole. Read putts carefully from below the hole when possible, as uphill putts are more manageable on these lightning-fast surfaces. The small green means most putts will have some break, so take your time reading the line. ## RISK VS REWARD This hole presents a classic Oakmont risk/reward scenario wrapped in deceptive simplicity. The reward for accurate play is a legitimate birdie opportunity, but the risk of missing the small green can lead to difficult up-and-downs. The smart play is conservative - fairway off the tee, center of the green on approach. Aggressive pin-hunting can quickly turn a scoring opportunity into a bogey or worse. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High Handicappers:** Play this hole as a three-shot hole mentally. Use a fairway wood or hybrid off the tee for accuracy, then focus on hitting the green with your approach rather than attacking pins. Two putts for par is an excellent result. Avoid the temptation to press for birdies - steady play wins here. **Low Handicappers:** This hole offers a legitimate birdie chance with proper execution. Driver can be used if you're confident in your accuracy, but the key is sticking your approach shot. Consider the pin position carefully - some locations on the small green are simply not worth attacking. When in doubt, aim for the fat part of the green and rely on your putting to create scoring opportunities. The 5th hole at Oakmont perfectly embodies the course's philosophy: it looks manageable but demands respect and precise execution to score well.
Watch for
- Crossing center
- Crossing center
Hole 5 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 5,350 sq ft
Course coverage
Tournament and creator videos about Oakmont Country Club — shared course coverage, not hole-specific clips.
Featured by these creators
Creator videos about this course
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How did Hole 5 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 382 yards.
What's the best strategy off the tee?
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For this 382-yard par 4, most players will hit driver to set up a comfortable approach.
How difficult is hole 5?
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This hole is a good scoring opportunity for most golfers.
How big is the green on hole 5?
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The green is medium-sized with moderate targets. The green is deeper than wide, so club selection is crucial. Pay attention to pin placement when selecting your approach club.
What's a good score on hole 5?
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This hole is a medium-length test where par is a solid result. A straightforward par 4 where course management pays off.