National Golf Links of America

National Golf Links of America (NGLA) is the museum of American golf architecture. C.B. Macdonald set out to build the perfect course by curating the best holes from the British Isles, and in doing so, created a template for strategic design that persists today.

The Templates

Walking NGLA is like walking through a history book. The Redan, the Alps, the Eden, the Road Hole—they are all here, and in many cases, play better than their original inspirations.

The Redan (4th Hole)

The 4th at National is arguably the finest Redan in existence. The tilt of the green is severe, and the bunker guarding the front left is a true hazard.

195 yards

NGLA - 4th (Redan)

The distinct kick-plate on the right feeds balls toward the hole, but the depth of the green allows for multiple pin positions that change the strategy entirely.

Redan

North Berwick (West Links)

Redan

Hole 15

Par 3

Yards 190

#blind #bunker #classic #template

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Architectural Analysis

Macdonald improved on perfection by making the strategy visible. At NGLA, you see the challenge, but executing the shot requires absolute trust in the ground game.