Tournament: Travelers Championship – TPC River Highlands, Cromwell, CT
Hole: 15th – Par 4, 296 Yards
Architects: Robert Ross and Maurice Kearney – 1928
Pete Dye (redesign) – 1982
Bobby Weed (renovation) – 1989
Architectural Summary:
Measuring 296 yards, the 15th hole is a drivable par 4 that will reward players for well executed shot making. The risk-reward hole will see most of the field attempt to drive the green as laying up to the narrow fairway offers little advantage. The fairway is protected by two large left fairway bunkers near the centerline of the hole as well as thick rough, trees, and a steep slope along entire right side of hole. Club selection will vary depending upon wind conditions, but players will opt for anything between a driver and strong hybrid. From the elevated tee, competitors will look to avoid the large pond to the left of the multi-tiered green. A safe “miss” is to the right of the green, though two bunkers and strong contours shaped into the hillside can create difficult up and downs. Should players lay up short of the green, approach shots can utilize the slope and run up onto the putting surface. The green itself measures 36 yards deep by 20 yards wide and slopes from right to left towards the lake. Three tiers within the green will create difficult two putts when putting from a different tier than where the hole is located.
Statistical Analysis:
The 15th at TPC River Highands has traditionally played as one of the least difficult holes on the course. Last year, the hole played to a scoring average of 3.75 (7 Eagles, 165 Birdies, 225 Pars, 50 Bogeys, and 8 Doubles).
Fun Facts:
- At only 296 yards, the 15th hole at TPC River Highlands is one of the shortest par 4s among the PGA TOUR’s annual stops.
- 2015 Travelers champion, Bubba Watson played the 15th hole to par en route to his playoff victory over Paul Casey.
- Recent changes to the 15th hole have included a new back tee, further narrowing of the fairway, and re-shaping of the green to allow for additional pin placements.