Hole 4 - "Ginger Beer"
Hole Overview
- Par: 4
- Length: 480 yards
- Stroke Index: 7
Description
A challenging par 4 that plays directly into the prevailing wind. Named after the ginger beer stand that once stood near the green, this hole features a series of bunkers known as "Students" that guard the right side of the fairway.
Strategy Tips
- Take enough club - the hole often plays longer than the yardage
- Avoid the "Students" bunkers on the right
- Left side of fairway provides the best angle to the green
- The green is shared with the 14th hole
- Consider laying up if out of position
Historical Note
The "Students" bunkers got their name because they were supposedly dug by university students in the early days of the course. The ginger beer stand that gave the hole its name was a popular refreshment stop for golfers in the late 19th century.
Common Hazards
- "Students" bunkers (right side)
- Deep greenside bunkers
- Shared double green
- Out of bounds (far right)
Green Reading
The large double green slopes generally from back to front with a significant ridge running through its middle. The left portion tends to be more receptive to approach shots, while the right side features more subtle breaks that can be difficult to read.