16th Hole / Par-3 / 198 Yards
Architect: Pete Dye
During Pete Dye's distinguished career as a golf course designer the wherewithal to instill fear into golfers was certainly front and center -- particularly when playing par-3 holes. The most famous of his efforts in this regard is the 17th at TPC Sawgrass in Florida.
At the 54-hole Paiute Golf Resort in Las Vegas, Dye created three distinct courses. Those playing the Snow Mountain Course will face a moment of truth as their round nears an end. The 16th is completely exposed to the elements and wind patterns can be both varied and intense at different times. The green is also set on a slight angle from the tee and a menacing water penalty area runs up immediately near the green.
Players have to determine how aggressive or conservative they wish to play from the tee. Selecting the proper club is no small feat. Those showing the slightest bit of hesitation can easily provide a quick donation to the frontal pond.
There is a bailout area right of the green but finishing the hole with a par is a challenge of nerve and skill. Frontal pin placements can be unnerving, however, a location in the far-left corner can be just as perilous.
The 16th provides an attractive backdrop with the mountains glistening in the distant background. The key is summoning up the concentration with a resolute commitment to execution front and center.
In summation-- the 16th is Dye-lightful.
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Photos Courtesy: Brian Oar
