Hole #7 is one of the most challenging on the course. Once again we see the effect of the dramatic terrain on the tee shot. The fairway slopes strongly to the left, so anything short, or any shot moving left has a strong possibility of running off the left side. The ideal shot is a long fade, that roles out to left, onto the only flat section of the fairway (past “sissy ridge”). However, the trees can funnel the wind into the narrow gap, which can make this shot even more challenging, and add quite a bit of length to the hole.

The ideal approach shot, a short-iron moving left along the full length of the green, is one that will be uncommon. Also, if the player can put it into the hill on the right side, there is a good chance it can kick safely onto the green.

The vast majority of approach shots on this hole will suffer from the same two challenges. An uneven lie will cause the ball to move left, the trees on the right side of the fairway that may prevent the player from starting the ball to the right side. Both of can lead to a shot moving too far left, which is exactly the worst side of the green. The up-slope and bunkers in front of the green will also hinder any attempt to run it up. A shot with these three hindrances can might be the most difficult approach shot of the day.

Drives that fail to clear the strong slope off the tee will roll down into “Hal’s Office,” the dusty area in front of the forward tees.