MANCHESTER-BY-THE-SEA, Massachusetts — Standing as one of the oldest and most prestigious clubs, Essex County Club offers a rich-traditional environment that is unlike any other. While the back nine at Essex plays drastically shorter than the front, its full collection of holes sets it apart as one of the best in the country. Below is a list of the course’s signature holes:
Serving as one of the two par-5s on the par-70 layout, hole 3 though long, offers one of the prime scoring opportunities on the course. Donald Ross carefully placed a 75-yard-long waste area in the driving zone, forcing players to be strategic with each shot. It will be interesting to see how players take on this hole as the competition goes on.
Challenging the players with a blind tee shot, this uphill hole can be extremely rewarding if played properly. If you aim your drive towards the out-of-bounds on the left side just right, the perfect angle will be provided to get your second shot onto the green for birdie.
Arguably one of the best and most daunting par-3 holes Donald Ross has ever designed, the putting green is surrounded by an array of five bunkers. Two of the larger bunkers are located on the right side, leaving the remaining more-challenging bunkers on the left side.
Last but not least, many people’s personal favorite: the 18th hole. This downhill shot is quite the spectacle. Playing one’s drive to the left may prove more challenging, but it’s preferable over being short on the right side.
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