Tournament: The Barclays – Bethpage State Park (Black), Farmingdale, NY
Hole: 4th – Par 5, 517 Yards
Architects: A.W. Tillinghast – 1936

Architectural Summary:

The 4th hole at Bethpage’s Black Course is an uphill, double dogleg par 5 measuring 517 yards. The risk-reward hole will present competitors with a myriad of options on the iconic Tillinghast design where players can opt to play a conservative three-shot approach or decide to go for the green in two. The tree-lined fairway is protected by three distinct areas of bunkering, highlighted by the expansive diagonal cross bunker separating the two fairway sections. From the tee, players will look to challenge the left fairway bunker that spans from 250 yards to 305 yards in order to shorten the hole. The large cross bunker should not come into play unless competitors miss the first section of fairway. If playing conservatively, competitors will look to play their uphill second shot towards the right side of the fairway. Alternatively, players can tackle the lengthy second shot into the blind green which likely will require a 200+ yard carry. A safe “miss” is to the right of the green in order to avoid the two bunkers guarding the front of the green. Players long on their approach will likely find a collection area to the rear of the green, where a difficult chip will be required. The elevated green measures 30 yards wide by 25 yards deep and slopes away from competitors. Overall, most players will find scoring opportunities on the Black Course’s first par five where well-executed shot making is rewarded.

Statistical Analysis:

When The Barclays was last played at Bethpage Black in 2012, the 4th played as the second-easiest hole on the course. The par 5 played to a scoring average of 4.68. (13 Eagles, 149 Birdies, 190 Pars, 38 Bogeys, and 5 Doubles).

Fun Facts:

• Bethpage State Park is the largest public golf facility in the country and is comprised of five 18-hole courses, including the famed Black Course. Four courses were designed by A.W. Tillinghast, while the final course is an Alfred Tull design.
• Nick Watney, 2012 The Barclays champion, played the 4th hole to 4 under par (-4) for the tournament after recording 2 birdies, 1 eagle, and 1 par.
• Only walking is permitted on the Black Course.