RANKED #4:
HOLE 3 — Shot Across Two Rivers
Laying up on this dangerous par 5 is a smart play, as the first creek lies just 230 yards from the tee. However, what lies ahead may be the toughest shot on the golf course. If you manage to clear the first creek, the meandering Trout Creek makes the fairway on the other side look increasingly distant as it stretches along this classic hole. Laying up still carries the risk of landing in the water, making this shot all about risk versus reward. Many amateurs have gone for it, only to swing too hard, thinking they need to crush it over the river. Soon enough, your ball will be in downtown St. Marys as the swift current claims golf balls from morning until night. A smooth rhythm is the only way to navigate this shot. Slice or hook it to the right, and you’ll end up in the cedars, needing to punch it out. Hit it left, and you might not clear the river. This is the number one handicap hole for a reason, with the highest scoring average at St. Marys Golf. If you do manage to hit over both creeks to the next fairway, a large, bean-shaped green awaits, setting up the perfect approach shot.
CLICK HERE to take a tour of Hole 3.