17th Hole / Par-4 / 420 Yards
Cromwell, Connecticut, USA
Architect: Bobby Weed (1989)
The penultimate hole at TPC River Highlands comes at a pivotal moment as players in contention for The Travelers Championship have to be aware of an array of execution issues that must be smartly navigated.
The hole commences from an elevated tee — showcasing clearly what’s needed.
The 17th is shaped in similar fashion to the letter “C” with water hugging the entire right side. The slightest miss to that side can easily find a permanent watery grave.
Two fairway bunkers occupy the left side — the second one starts at approximately 264 yards off the championship tees. Players missing even further left can easily get snared by menacing rough severely challenging the skill level of any player to successfully flight one’s approach to the green over the menacing pond.
The fairway tapers in as a longer distance is sought. Many players will opt to use a fairway metal club or long iron to secure a fairway position that leaves a short iron to the putting surface.
The green is sloped from back-to-front and players have to be especially mindful in terms of the amount of spin placed on an approach shot.
The heart of the 17th rests on strategic calculations. Players have options — those choosing wisely reaps huge dividends. Those failing to do so — will pay an appropriate penalty.
Given the event is sponsored by an insurance company — it pays to have the right policy to cover your needs when arriving at the 17th tee — no pun intended.
