Burn
Nowhere else will the professionals face such a wide target area from the 1st tee as on The Old Course at St Andrews: The fairway (shared with the 18th) is 126 yards across. But the lack of a clear shot requirement delivers an interesting psychological challenge. This combined with the fact it’s “The Home of Golf,” makes for a nerve-wracking drive, particularly in the first round. Just ask Ian Baker-Finch, who hooked out-of-bounds in 1995!
Unless the wind is firmly against, most players will select a long iron or hybrid from the tee and aim to leave about 100-130 yards in. If the pin is at the front, look for most to err long, as the Swilken Burn
lurks just short of the putting surface. The green is relatively flat, so this fairly short hole should present a good birdie opportunity.
