This time around the hole is a par five but you will most
certainly need the extra shot. The tee box is a further seventy metres back from the ninth
tee position. From a narrow opening, the fairway invites you. This long par five begs you
to hit it as hard as you can ~ don't! All along the left of the hole is out of bounds and
even if you don't make the OOB, the trees are likely to give you something serious to
think about. In addition, the left of this fairway slopes towards the rough, so try to
keep right.The right is a much better place to be. This being said, the right has a
number of hazards of its own. The small clumps of trees and the fairway bunkers are
positioned just so they can catch you if you are slightly wayward ~ try not to be because
these hazards will ruin any chance of a decent approach shot.
Your approach to the ninth green allows you a bit of flexibility if you are on the
right of the fairway. The green is big and inviting and the only hazards are wide enough
apart not to worry about. The approach from the left of the fairway causes other concerns.
A line of bunkers, trees and the first tee box all clamour to distract your shot to the
green ~ if you have a shot!
By David Walker ~ Foxrock Golf Club Professional. |
