Many of the world’s most iconic courses have that one hole which operates as its signature strip of land, whether it be the 17th at TPC Sawgrass or The Road Hole at St Andrews’ Old Course.
They often feature an eye-catching approach or imposing penalty areas – possibly even extraordinary length one way or the other.
The 7th at Pebble Beach has a little of each and is widely regarded as one of the most famous golf holes in the world.
At barely over 100 yards from the tips, this par 3 packs a whole lot of punch, pound for pound. It has stunning views of the Pacific Ocean (which surrounds the small green on three sides) from wherever you stand, a wide array of places you don’t want to land your ball, and – if the wind is playing ball – a golden chance for an ace.
But despite being so widely renowned and an obvious bucket list aim for many a golfer, there is still plenty many people don’t know about it. Here are just a few facts about the par-3 7th hole at Pebble Beach.
RENOWNED ARCHITECT WANTED IT GONE
A view of Pebble Beach’s par-3 7th hole around 1950
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Pebble Beach Golf Links opened in 1919 after amateur golfers, Jack Neville and Douglas Grant were tasked with creating a championship golf course by Samuel F.B. Morse. Despite having no experience of course design, the pair forged a layout which has barely seen any changes since.
However, if esteemed architect William Herbert Fowler had his way at the time, the 7th would look very different indeed.
Just a year after opening, Fowler tried to convince Pebble Beach developer, Brown to rip up the little par-3 – stating it was a beautiful location but the hole was not worthy of a championship layout.
Speaking to S. F. B. Morse in 1920, Fowler said: “I am quite ready to admit the beauty of the location from a scenic standpoint, but the golfing shot required is not of such a character as would make it worthwhile to descend to the lower level and then have to rise again.
“I think it would be quite easy to find another location for a one-shot hole to take its place, and this will enable us to play the tee shot to the 8th hole from the high ground on the same level as the (6th) green.”
Fortunately, Brown did not listen to Fowler about the 7th, although he did heed his advice on adding circa 200 yards to the…
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