The 16th and 17th holes at Pinehurst No. 2 form one of golf’s most demanding finishing stretches, a back-to-back par-4 examination that has decided countless championships. These consecutive holes showcase Donald Ross’s genius for creating strategic challenges that grow more intense as pressure mounts.These two holes have humbled major champions and defined careers.

The 17th and 9th at Aronimink Golf Club embody the course’s timeless beauty and strategic brilliance. Together, these holes showcase Aronimink’s blend of classic design and unforgettable challenge.

The penultimate hole at Pinehurst No. 2 is a test of nerve and precision. Its crowned green, a signature of Donald Ross, repels all but the most accurate approaches. The sandy waste areas and natural contours embody the course’s rugged elegance. As you stand over your shot, the history of champions past lingers in the air, reminding you that every stroke here carries the weight of legacy.

Framed by the natural beauty of the Sandhills, this hole begins with a tee shot that must navigate a wide but undulating fairway, bordered by native grasses and sandy waste areas. The approach shot is where the drama unfolds, as the green is elevated and well-guarded by bunkers, demanding precision and control. The putting surface, with its subtle slopes, challenges even the steadiest hands.

As the final hole at Secession, the 18th offers a memorable finish, blending natural splendor with a test of skill that leaves a lasting impression. It is a par-4 that embodies the serene beauty and strategic challenge of this Lowcountry gem.

The 5th is a hole that tests every facet of a golfer’s skill while showcasing the timeless beauty of Pinehurst No. 2. With a gently curving fairway framed by sandy waste areas and native wiregrass, precision off the tee is essential. The approach shot is no less demanding, as the green – one of Donald Ross’s signature crowned designs – repels anything less than perfect.

The 9th at Pinehurst No. 2 is a par-3 that showcases Donald Ross’s genius for creating deceptively simple yet profoundly challenging holes. With its subtle beauty and strategic demands, the 9th is a quintessential Pinehurst experience, blending artistry and challenge in equal measure.