Shorty's · Hole 1
Back
75
Forward
55
A welcoming opener that sets the tone for what Shorty's is all about: short shots, creative thinking, and a lot of fun. At 75 yards you are firmly in wedge territory — most players will hit a 56- or 60-degree wedge here. But do not let the distance lull you into a mindless full swing. The green has subtle slopes and a landing zone that rewards a specific trajectory. Welcome to short game school.
Shot-by-Shot Strategy
Tee Shot
This is a three-quarter or even half wedge depending on your distances. The biggest mistake at 75 yards is taking a full-force swing with a lob wedge — this produces inconsistent distances and unpredictable spin. Make a smooth, controlled 70–75% swing with your 56° or gap wedge and focus on a specific landing spot 10–12 feet short of the flag. Let the ball release to the hole.
Putting
The 1st green slopes subtly from back to front. Any putt from above the hole on this smooth, firm surface will be quick — use less force than feels natural. Below the hole, putts are true and slower. Start your Shorty's round with the correct habit: leave everything below the hole and make confident, decisive strokes.
⚠Gotchas — What Kills Your Score
- •Full-swing lob wedge at 75 yards is almost always the wrong play — it creates too much backspin variability on a firm green. Control the shot with less club or a shorter swing.
- •Players underestimate the time needed to read these greens. Short holes do not mean simple greens — slow down and read properly.
- •Opening hole adrenaline at Shorty's is real. Your first shot will carry farther than expected. Club down one.
Wind Intelligence
At 75 yards, wind has a meaningful proportional effect. A 15 mph wind in your face can add 10 yards of effective distance — pushing you into a different swing length or club choice. Always check wind before landing-zone planning.
Hazard Map
- ▲Fescue rough surrounds green
- ▲Back of green falls off quickly