Short par-4s are some of the most exciting holes in golf. The risk-reward nature of going for the green off the tee makes them must-watch holes and provide plenty of opportunity for low numbers if executed correctly.
This week during the U.S. Open, the par-4 17th fits the bill. At just 312 yards on the scorecard, Oakmont‘s penultimate hole will play a crucial role in deciding the champion come Sunday afternoon.
Ahead of the U.S. Open, Cisco ambassadors Patrick Cantlay and Jessica Korda walked the hole to discuss the best way to attack this tricky little par-4.
When it comes to the decision between going for the green and laying back, Cantlay says there isn’t much debate.
“I’d probably hit driver most of the time,” he says. “Unless it was really down wind or really into the wind. You could hit a 3-wood if it gets to the right number, or if driver might not be able to cover that left side.”
But while Cantlay will be planning on hitting driver most days, he won’t be wailing away mindlessly. Having the proper angle into this skinny green will be of utmost importance.
“It’s actually not too dissimilar to the 10th at Riv[iera Country Club],” Cantlay says. “You want to put it on the left side coming up the green, because the green is relatively severe. If you can get it on that correct angle pitching up the green, I think that’s the best way to play the hole.”
