Par 3s are often the most fun and/or frustrating holes on the course. They’re shorter, but not necessarily easier to play. A good Par 3 lures us in, gives us a reason to go for it and shoot for the pin – for better or for worse.
Nicklaus North Golf Course
Signature Par 3: Hole 12
Mike Zuccholin, general manager of Nicklaus North Golf Course explains the drawcards – and the challenges – of his chosen Par 3.
This hole is notably over water, making it a challenging shot. It plays about 225 from the back tee, features bunkers, and includes an Augusta National inspired bridge, which takes the scenery of this hole to the next level.
Mike’s tips include picking the right club and being mindful of what the wind is doing. In this case, it’s usually behind you. That, and having a “positive mojo”!
Chateau Whistler Golf Club
Signature Par 3: Hole 8
Nick Droulis, Operations Manager says that Hole 8 is so special thanks to the setting. It’s beautifully framed by granite rockwall on the right and a glacier-fed pond on the left. Not to mention Whistler Mountain as one of the most spectacular backdrops of any hole in the valley.
It’s a downhill hole, ranging from approximately 123 yards to 212 yards. The trick to this one, explains Nick, is just to keep the ball on the grass. It’s not the easiest hole and plays into the wind, so aim for the par and enjoy the scenery whether you make it or not!
Whistler Golf Club
Signature Par 3: Hole 8
Al Kristmanson, General Manager, goes into detail about Whistler Golf Club’s signature par 3, hole 8, and why he loves it so much.
For starters, there are some of the biggest trees in the valley around this hole – you’re surrounded by them as you tee off. It’s also a real challenge, explains Al. It’s about 185 from the back, the wind is usually in your face, and you’ve got a lake out front. Not to mention the “nasty” green with two tiers, bunker in the back, and creek down the right side.
Plus, you can see the Peak 2 Peak Gondola and Whistler peak from the hole, adding to the majesty of the scenery.
Big Sky Golf Club
Signature Par 3: Hole 5
Courtney Foxgord, head pro at Big Sky explains why – aside from the 8,000 foot Mt Currie in the background – Hole 5 is the signature par 3.
She says Hole 5 plays 161 yards from the tips and has the gorgeous Green River on the left. While you can end up in the bunker on the left, you can aim down the right-hand side an find yourself in ‘Cup’s Hollow’. This is a great hole that even offers the chance for a birdie.
With four world-class golf courses in the Whistler area, there are plenty of par 3s to challenge and excite you. To learn more about golf in Whistler and plan the golf getaway of your dreams, call 1.800.944.7853 to speak with our Whistler-based Travel Consultants.
