Hole 8 at Mammoth Dunes

Hole 8 at Mammoth Dunes demands precision over power, and club selection is everything on this par 3. Before you swing, take a moment to assess the wind—this green sits in an exposed position where breezes can significantly affect ball flight, so err on the side of one more club than you think you need rather than coming up short. Trust your yardage to the center of the green and commit fully to that number rather than second-guessing mid-swing.

Given the medium-sized green, accuracy trumps distance here. The putting surface offers enough room to work with, but it's not so generous that you can afford to aim at flags tucked near edges or slopes without a clear read on the day's conditions. When the pin is in a demanding position, playing to the fat, safer portion of the green is often the smarter play, leaving yourself a longer birdie putt rather than a difficult up-and-down from a missed green.

Around the green, expect Mammoth Dunes' signature undulating, sandy terrain to test your short game. If you miss the putting surface, a low, running chip or bump-and-run shot typically works better than a high, spinny pitch, especially given the firm, links-style turf conditions common to the course.

Above all, avoid being overly aggressive toward flags guarded by trouble—patience and disciplined club selection will keep your scorecard clean on this beautiful, deceptively challenging one-shotter.