At this point in most matches, the players know where they stand, down a bunch, close, in command, etc., and playing from the back tees (usually into the wind) only the longer hitters tend to feel comfortable trying to cross the creek with their tee shot. Measuring well over 500 yds, laying short of the creek makes the 9^th a very long hole. Most of the longer hitters take a rip and hope that if they are off line the 7^th tee will save them. Do not hook your tee shot, if you do chances are you’ll hear the following…. "reload please".

Not the fairway of the 9th, but the fairway of the 7th.  This was the shot Tom Bres was looking at in 2000.

This hole has matured over the years, most notably by the pine trees lining both sides of the hole. One approaches his second (layup) shot with the idea of leaving a mid to short iron into a green set back among the pines, willows and apple trees. The approach to the green is slightly deceptive to the player as the green, while flat, sits slightly subterrain making hole depth tough to judge from the fairway (or rough) Maybe the easiest green on the course to putt, although very large, the only concern is how many the player lies upon reaching the front nine’s final hole.

Par is a good score, but at the same time (as with most holes at Concord) we’ve seen birdies and doubles halve this hole through the years. It is critical to have your longer hitter driving on the odd holes for the front side and teams taking this into account will have an advantage on both par 5’s. (should Brad be your partner, discard the previous statement, his bunt 3-wood is a perfect lay up off the tee)

Once complete, don’t forget to post the updated score of your match, grab a cup of chili, and order up a six pack for the back nine.