The Fourteenth at Doonbeg
Depending on the ocean breezes, it can require anything from a sand wedge to a 5-iron at Doonbeg’s picture-postcard hole, the spectacular 111-yard par-3 14th - arguably the most sensational short hole in Ireland, with an unforgettable view extending all the way to the far peninsula. The hole requires a precise strike with just the right club. Go right and you are down the bank - too far left and you are also in for a difficult, blind recovery shot to find the putting surface. The short 14th is just one of many standout holes on this superb Greg Norman design in County Clare.
The Fourteenth at Royal Portrush
There are plenty of great holes on this Harry Colt classic, which many feel should be on the Open Championship rota of courses, but there is one that will be etched in the memory long after you leave. This is the 210-yard par-3 14th known as Calamity, whose reputation has travelled far and wide. It calls for an accurate long iron or fairway metal shot that must not go right. To slice or push the ball will earn you an almost sure double bogey, because the links land falls away severely down a steep slope. Take plenty of club and hit to the back left of the green. Don’t be ashamed of taking a four at Calamity - threes are as rare as an unfriendly Irishman.
The Fifteenth at St Enodoc
Many golfers will have heard of St Enodoc Golf Club in Cornwall, but not all will have been fortunate to make the pilgrimage to play this James Braid gem. Although there are many terrific holes at St Enodoc, the 168-yard 15th is up there with the best in the southwest, and the start of a strong finish. A deep ravine lies between the tee and the green on this beautiful downhill par-3, and anything slightly mishit or under-clubbed is destined to be in the bottom of it. The wonderful views of the Camel Estuary from the tee as you prepare to hit off is worth the green fee alone.
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