The National / Bluff Nine
8th Hole / 397 Yards / Par-4
Architect: Tom Fazio (1997)
Throughout his prolific career architect, Tom Fazio, has created a wide range of golf designs that have incorporated shotmaking challenges in tandem with scenic vistas that leave an indelible mark on those playing.
The National is a 27-hole layout with three distinct nines among the various golf offerings available at the magnificent Reynold Lake Oconee facility -- located roughly halfway between Atlanta and Augusta.
The Bluff Nine provides a mixture of hole types and the par-4 8th encapsulates the challenge superbly, both golf wise and in tandem with the scenic splendor of the terrain.
Par-4 holes of real quality that are less than 400 yards and more than 350 can be extremely difficult to design for a wide array of players. Often times such holes may prove to be daunting for high handicappers but be of little challenge to the most talented of golfers.
The 8th includes a pesky creek that winds its way at different times during the playing of the hole. The creek begins on the left side of the fairway and then winds its way to become a barrier that must be accounted for with the approach shot.
The landing area for the tee shot must be attained. There is less room on the left side as the creek cuts in closest to that side. Players can opt for the larger landing area on the right but a solitary bunker is artfully positioned and must be avoided.
While the putting surface is fairly large at 7,134 square feet it has a number of internal movements that must be successfully negotiated. "The approach shot to the green includes three different tiers with bunkering located on the left and the widest portion of the creek to the right of the green complex," said Weslety, J. Forester, PGA Director of Golf. "These challenges make the 8th on the Bluff one of the most difficult, yet aesthetically pleasing holes at The National."
The single most driving aspect of the 8th is how it mandates players to make smart decisions based on one's ability level. Honesty in regards to one's skillset and the wherewithal to execute accordingly can pay dividends.
The 8th is akin to an honest judge -- no bribes accepted -- simply present your evidence to secure the appropriate verdict.
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