Olympia Fields Country Club: A Historic Venue for the BMW Championship

As the BMW Championship returns to the North Course at Olympia Fields Country Club, golf enthusiasts are reminded of this iconic venue’s storied history. Over the years, Olympia Fields has hosted significant tournaments, including the U.S. Open and the U.S. Amateur. With the top 50 players in the FedEx Cup standings competing, let’s delve into the key holes that will shape the outcome of the 2023 BMW Championship.
Hole 1 – Par 5, 626 Yards: The Railroad Hole
Known as “Railroad,” the opening hole at Olympia Fields sets the tone for the championship. With prevailing southerly winds often favoring players, most will have a chance to reach the green in two shots. However, accuracy is crucial to avoid the three guarding bunkers. Players must navigate a green that slopes from back to front, emphasizing the importance of keeping the ball below the hole.
Hole 8 – Par 3, 251 Yards: The Uphill Challenge
The 8th hole at Olympia Fields demands precision and power. Measuring over 250 yards and playing uphill, this par 3 presents a daunting challenge for golfers. Four bunkers protect the front of the green, increasing the difficulty for any shots that fall short. Missing long poses its own set of difficulties due to the green’s undulations. A par score on this hole will be considered a tremendous achievement.
Hole 15 – Par 5, 606 Yards: The Test of Strategy
The 15th hole at Olympia Fields Country Club exemplifies the strategic aspects of the game. This sharp dogleg-right par 5 demands accuracy off the tee, with trees and woods lining the right side. Players opting to go for the green in two shots should favor the left side of the fairway, as errant shots to the right will be obstructed by trees. The green is well-guarded by bunkers, making birdies challenging to come by. The 15th hole will undoubtedly play a vital role during the tournament’s crucial moments.
Hole 18 – Par 4, 510 Yards: The Thrilling Finale
The closing hole at Olympia Fields is a fitting climax to the championship. A challenging par 4, players must execute a precise draw off the tee on this dogleg-left hole. Finding the left side of the fairway is vital, as it eliminates the threat of a pond located short and right of the green. With four bunkers surrounding the green, players need to carefully navigate their approach shots and ensure they stay below the pin on the severely sloping putting surface.
Olympia Fields Country Club’s North Course has a rich history and offers an incredible challenge for golfers competing in the BMW Championship. The strategic layout, demanding holes, and historical significance of this course make it a fitting host for such a prestigious event. As players strive for victory, the outcome of the championship will undoubtedly be influenced by their performance on key holes like the 1st, 8th, 15th, and 18th. Stay tuned to witness the drama unfold at Olympia Fields in the 2023 BMW Championship.
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