RYDER CUP
The fourth at Bethpage Black September 26-28
STRATEGY TIME AT BETHPAGE The Black Course at Bethpage State Park in New York is known for long, unrelenting holes, but the par-5 fourth is pure strategy. Snaking uphill through the woods, it’s one of the more attractive and thought-provoking designs conceived by parks superintendent Joseph Burbeck, who lived on property and oversaw the Black’s construction when it opened in 1936, with the more famous architect A W Tillinghast lending consultation. The large, fingered bunkers bracketing the first and second landing areas and in front of the tabletop green force players to shape shots and make tactical attack decisions. Some of the most compelling early shots during this year’s Ryder Cup will be right here. For more, watch architecture editor Derek Duncan break down the fourth’s challenges, mysteries and history in our “The Hole at...” video series on GolfDigest.com. Click here now.
PHOTOGRAPH BY DOM FURORE
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