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Loathed by those who play it for being unforgiving, No. 17 is loved by those who watch it for that same attribute. Its ability to put professional golfers in a situation we are all far too familiar with, drop two hit three, has created a compelling allure among PGA tour fans. With a hint of irony, the signature hole on a course famed for its strategic layout is penal in design.
Together, Pete and Alice Dye have created the most iconic hole on the PGA Tour. The Stadium Course at Sawgrass, commended by many as one of the best examples of a risk-reward golf course is as strong a statement in strategic design as it is a test of players’ mental will. Yet the 146 yard, born by accident, par three has received its share of criticisms, especially from architects.
It is the burden of a course that hosts the flagship event of the PGA to stand the test of time, to challenge players year in, and year out, and to exemplify the best our game has to offer - including course design. Quality course design can be considered a practiced discipline of applying strategic philosophy to constraining realities all with the intention to make the game more enjoyable to its participants.
So then why is it when tournament time comes we as fans relish the dream of playing the possibly punishing tee shot on 17, instead of the more tactical conforming 16 or 18? The answer may be glaringly obvious but No. 17 is simply more fun. For those who argue that the most photogenic golf hole ever created is not fair, I question how we have come to a point where a design school of thought precedes the sheer thrill of the game.
Perhaps the idea that holes should be built to a higher level of playability is a gross misconception. Golf holes should be designed for higher enjoyability, which may not always equivocate to strategy. Isn’t that what the game is about, fun?
Our North American culture has proven that we would rather win the big payout than take the safe bet. And thus we would rather the opportunity to hit that perfect tee shot at No.17 than be faced with the option of playing safe. Dye should be commended as this hole has done something amazing - eliminated the paradox of choice and presented the ultimate reward. The risk is obligatory. While mesmerizing us in its beauty, he has so bluntly said ‘here you go, hit your best shot’. If that is not a test of a player’s ability and mental psyche I don’t know what is.
Tuesday of this week it was announced that the architect who has challenged, us, the Tour, and the profession to which he belongs to raise the level of the game. Pete Dye will be the first ever architect inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame. It’s no coincidence that ‘The Man Golfers Love to Hate’ has created a hole that golfers hate to love.
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