Hole 17 – Hamilton

Hawthorn Alley

PRO Tips

From the elevated tee, you get an excellent view of the hole, but don’t let the inviting vista distract you from the challenge ahead. This hole rewards accuracy from the tee and can quickly punish an errant drive.

A straight drive is essential, with trees lining the right and rough waiting on the left. The fairway narrows considerably around the typical landing area, creating an important decision for your tee shot.

The safer option is to lay up short of the narrow section, but this leaves a longer second shot into the green. The more confident player can take on the narrow gap, while the big hitter may be able to carry it altogether and open up a much wider landing area.

The green is long and narrow, with bunkers guarding the front left and right. Rough also awaits anything missing the green to the left or beyond the back.

Pick your strategy from the tee before you swing. If you can confidently carry the narrow section, commit to the shot and take advantage of the wider fairway beyond. If not, play conservatively and accept the longer approach. On the second shot, favour the centre of the green and avoid the temptation to attack a difficult pin position. Accuracy over aggression is the key to scoring well on this hole.