It’s a hole that has already divided opinion, but stand by for plenty more debate over the course of the 151st Open at Royal Liverpool, for ‘Little Eye’, which is named after one of the islands that can be seen from the green, is definitely going to be one of the week’s biggest talking points.
This devilish short hole, played as the 15th hole outside of The Open, could well end up being the place where the game’s oldest Major Championship is won or lost.
And that’s because it’s not your ordinary par-3. Featuring an elevated green and guarded by fearsome deep bunkers, there’s very little margin for error when firing one in.
Most members and visitors would probably be happy to take a bogey, a score some professionals might not turn their nose up on Sunday afternoon, especially if the wind is blowing.
The idea for a new hole was conceived back in 2019. It’s the work of Martin Ebert, and it’s a classic example of a short hole that does not require great length to make it an interesting challenge.
Completely redeveloped for the 2020 season, the putting surface sits up in the sand dunes and offers wonderful views of the Dee Estuary.
Not that anyone will be admiring those during Open week, not unless they’ve knocked one in stone dead from 136 yards, affording them an opportunity to marvel at the beauty of the north-west coastline.
Little Eye’s treacherous bunkers to the left and right of the small green
(Image credit: Getty Images)
“It’s a very challenging hole, but that’s what you need for the very best in the world,” James Bledge, Links Manager, tells Golf Monthly. “It will create an exciting finish, which is what you want as an armchair viewer. Golf courses should have that crescendo feeling, like Sawgrass and St Andrews.
Matthew Jordan, a Hoylake member who came through Open qualifying to make the field for this year’s final men’s Major of the season, says “someone’s dreams will be over of they’ll be made”.
Speaking to the BBC’s golf correspondent, Iain Carter, for the Royal Liverpool Golf Club magazine, Jordan added: “I do see it potentially deciding the championship.
“I don’t want to put my neck on the line but I certainly think we will see something happen there. Whether it’s from the leader or maybe someone in fourth or fifth place.”
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