Hole 7: Look for Scoring on this short Par 4.
For most of the matches, this hole will offer ample birdie opportunities for Solheim Cup players. A 220-to 240-yard tee shot will set up an approach shot of 120- to 140 yards into a relatively flat and deep green. However, like all the holes at Des Moines Golf and Country Club, pin placement will be critical. A deep and unforgiving bunker sits directly in front of the green. If the pin is set close to the bunker, players who go for the pin and miss short will have a hard time making par.
Hole 9: No Shortage of Challenges Here: Wind, Distance, Slope and False Front
Only the longest hitters will reach this dogleg left par five in two shots. Solheim Cup players will be hitting uphill tee shots into the prevailing wind to a heavily contoured fairway. A second shot of 200 yards or longer will still leave most players with an approach shot of 110- to 130 yards.
"I don't know how there will be many opportunities for the ladies to get home in two," said Des Moines Golf and Country Club head pro Scott Howe.
Adding to the distance and wind challenges, approach shots will head into a green with a false front that will pull short shots back into the fairway.
Will players finish the front nine with a flourish, or will they scramble to make up for lost ground? Catch all the 2017 Solheim Cup action Aug. 14 to 20 at the