COURSE CADDIES :: Pelican Grove :: Hole 18 :: PAR 4


Welcome to the Course Caddy, a look at each and every hole in Golden Tee 2014. Over the next few months, we will spend each day looking at a different design, starting with Hole 1 on the first course and ending with the final hole on the final design.

We want—no, NEED—your help in this process!

How do you play a particular design? Share your thoughts on strategy and YouTube uploads in the comment section. Your feedback is integral in the complete understanding of the design.

All holes will then be available for reference on the Course Caddy page—a bookmark must for the entire encyclopedia! Enjoy.

 

Pelican Grove No. 18


And so we’ve reached the end of the round and the end of our first Course Caddy. Before we hop in the golf cart and head to a different location, however, there’s a fascinating par-4 to be conquered and an eagle (hopefully) to be had.

Hole 18 offers variety. Not in the strategy involved, because the paths to the cup will be similar and consistent, but with the small variations on these attempts. Tee boxes, winds and distances will drastically alter how this shot is done.

The easiest path from tee to green comes when the obstruction of trees is minimal. If that’s the case, using a fairway wood and some precision can get you to the green—or better—without a ton of trackball magic.

Most times, however, this will not be the case. You’ll likely start tucked behind trees and be forced to either a) Layup, which is a live option or b) make the most of your Golden Tees.

Hitting through the trees can be done, and you have plenty of sizable openings to use. To do so, however, you’ll need to hit a driver—a lot of club for the distance required—and a low tee, capable of avoiding all those branches and leaves.

It is not an easy shot, especially with the small body of water sitting in front of the green. Getting through the trees is just the start, ensuring that your ball avoids the hazard is another significant part of this.

Landing short of the green and bouncing on is the ideal path to success, but this shot comes with a great deal of risk.

You can also land on the green, getting your ball to spin a little more with the helping hand of the low tee.

 

This shot—like the other attempts on this design—will require practice, patience and comfort. This will only come with more attempts, and it will get easier as you attempt different shots.

Is the risk worth it? That's your call. (Hint: IT IS)

What works for you here? Share your thoughts below.