The 3 Best Holes at Crown Park

February 3, 2010

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No. 4, 223-yard, par 4 – The longest par 3, No. 4 also has one of Crown Park’s largest greens. The two-tiered putting surface runs from back to front and allows for many interesting pin placements. The green is narrow and a bunker in the right front has collected more than a few stray shots. Take a deep breath and produce a pure swing.

No. 15, 549-yard, par 5 – The 15th is the course’s longest hole and arguably its most difficult. A natural waste area that dissects the fairway doesn’t come into play off the tee, but players that don’t have a good drive could have trouble getting across it on their second, particularly if they find the fairway bunker on the right.

“You have to hit a good tee shot to carry the water for your second shot,” Funderburk said. “The tee shot there is (important) to set up for your third.”

Players that don’t make it across the hazard on their second shot face an approach from more than 200 yards. You don’t want to be in that position as a narrow green awaits. The 15th is a three-shot par 5 for all but the longest of hitters, and it’s an excellent hole, demanding and fun.

No. 18, 174-yard, par 3 – Crown Park’s signature hole, No. 18 is by far the most demanding, and consequently, the most rewarding way to end a wonderful round. It requires a tee shot across water into a green that dramatically tilts right-to-left.

The attractive “amphitheater” style shaping around the green not only helps balls funnel back towards the middle, but lends itself to some good-natured heckling of fellow golfers, and is fun for all.

A par 3 finishing hole isn’t common, but the 18th at Crown Park sends players home with a vivid memory.

What’s the best hole at Crown Park in your opinion?