Hole 17 of 18
Crater
At first glance, Crater appears very similar to the 12th hole. Both are dog-leg left par 4s with hazards influencing the line from the tee. However, the subtle differences between the two create a completely different challenge, particularly when the wind is blowing. The hole bends left around a cluster of bunkers positioned at the corner of the dog leg, while a ditch runs the full length of the right-hand side. Depending on the wind direction, players may find themselves aiming towards the bunkers and allowing the breeze to move the ball back towards the ditch, or conversely starting the ball towards the ditch and trusting the wind to bring it back towards the fairway. It is a hole that demands both commitment and confidence in your chosen line. While avoiding the hazards is the immediate priority, the ideal position is towards the right-hand side of the fairway. From here, players are rewarded with the best angle into the green and a clearer view of the target. The approach is played into another classic Cleveland green complex, with two large bunkers guarding the front left and front right. As on many holes throughout the course, accuracy into the green is essential.