Hole 1 is a par 4 featuring an uneven fairway that slopes left to right. A large bunker and trees limit access to the green from the right side, and the deep rough of Harding Park covers the left side.

The ideal tee shot should focus on holding the fairway, and with a goal of an even lie.

The approach shot is complicated by the sloping of the fairway which will cause most shots to move toward the large bunker.