Though par-3s typically don’t make very compelling finishing holes – just two exist on the PGA Tour schedule – the Old White’s 18th has seen its share of excitement in just seven editions of what used to be known as the Greenbrier Classic.
The fireworks started with the debut edition in 2010, as Stuart Appleby’s 11-foot birdie capped an out-of-the-blue 59 that vaulted him past Jeff Overton for the title. The Aussie joined David Duval (1999 Bob Hope Classic) as the only men to sew up a PGA Tour victory with a 59.
One year later, Scott Stallings’ closing birdie forced his way into a three-man playoff with Bill Haas and Bob Estes. Returning to the 18th tee, the rookie stiffed a short iron to 6 feet for a winning birdie.
No.18 proved to be the difference last year, too, when Xander Schauffele stuck a pitching wedge to 3 feet that pushed him past Robert Streb and Sebastian Munoz. Playing one group behind, both rivals missed the green on their turn through the 18th.
The Old White’s 18th also holds a historical footnote as the site of Sam Snead’s final hole-in-one in 1995. Slammin’ Sammy was 83.
No.18, Greenbrier Resort (Old White TPC)
Par 3, 177 yards
2017 average: 2.97 (8th easiest)
2017 Greenbrier Classic: no aces, 69 birdies, 331 pars, 49 bogeys, 5 double bogeys, none higher
