Hole 8 – Hamilton

Maple Corner

PRO Tips

This hole is a dog leg to the left, with out of bounds running along the left-hand side and a sloping run-off area to the right. Club selection and positioning from the tee are key, so take a moment to decide how much of the corner you want to take on.

The more aggressive option is to hit a big drive tight to the corner, but there are trees waiting to catch anything that is too far left. Get it right, however, and you will be rewarded with a short iron into the green. The safer option is to play more conservatively, but this can leave you without a clear view of the green. Be careful not to miss too far right, as the slope can take the ball down the bank and leave an awkward lie for your second shot.

The green is protected by a bunker at the front left and another on the right-hand side. There is also deep rough to the left and back making accuracy particularly important.

The putting surface is two-tiered, so take care to select the correct club and aim for the appropriate level. Being on the wrong tier can leave a challenging first putt.

This is a hole where risk and reward need to be weighed carefully. If you are confident with the driver, taking on the corner can set up an excellent birdie opportunity. Otherwise, favour the safer line and accept the longer approach.