Last week we discussed how to play some of the hardest par-4’s on the golf course. Because of the feedback we have received, we will keep it up and give you some insight on how to play some of the hardest par-3’s on the golf course. This week, our course management series will focus on 7-Red and 6-White.

7-Red

7-Red is a very difficult par-3. The shortest this hole can be played is about 190 yards. For many players, that could mean they have to hit their driver. There is also water in between the green and the tee that finishes down the left side of the green. You need to be sure that you carry the ball far enough to avoid the water. All in all, this is a monster of a hole.

When hitting your tee shot, the best place to aim for will be short and to the right side of the green. This will help you avoid the water and leave you in the best position for a chip if you miss the green. The better player should use the same philosophy but will have the ability to draw his shot onto the oddly shaped green. If you can walk away with a three on this hole, you should be very happy.

6-White

6-White is very different from 7-Red, but still presents many challenges. First, it is a long hole as well. It plays about 165 yards from the middle tees. Second, you should try to avoid the two huge bunkers in front of the green. If you hit your golf ball in them, the hole will be twice as hard. When teaching, we often use the three rules of hitting in bunkers:

1. Get the ball out of the bunker.

2. Get the ball on the green.

3. Get the ball close to the flagstick.

When hitting from the tee, you should take enough club. The safe shot to hit in case you miss the green will be on the far side. If you miss the green left, you will have to hit a high lob shot. If you miss to the right, you will have to hit up the hill. If you miss the green short, you are contending with the bunkers. The easiest play will be from the flat lie past the green. This will leave you with an easy chip shot that should give you a chance at par.

The hardest holes on the golf course can sometimes be par-3’s because players have such a hard time hitting greens in regulation. Par-3’s are generally designed with water, bunkers or trees around them to make them difficult to play. You will play better golf if you figure out where the safe shot is and play to that spot. Let us know if you have any questions.