ARCHITECTS
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Course Report
The Champion Course hosted the 1983 Ryder Cup, the 1987 PGA Championship, and has been home to the Cognizant Classic (formerly Honda Classic) since 2007.
About
PGA National's Champion Course is an iconic Florida layout, originally designed by Tom and George Fazio in 1981 and extensively redesigned by Jack Nicklaus. Host of the PGA TOUR’s Cognizant Classic and past majors, it features The Bear Trap, one of golf’s most notorious stretches. With a reputation for penal rough, strategic water hazards, and lightning-fast Bermuda greens, the course consistently challenges even elite players.
Caddie Tip
Stay below the hole on approach shots, especially on the ultra-slick TifEagle greens. The Bear Trap (holes 15–17) can ruin a card; play smart, know your yardages, and take extra club if the wind is up. Course management and precision are far more important than raw power.
The Main Challenge
The course’s challenge is defined by narrow fairways bordered by water, thick Bermuda rough, and slippery greens. The Bear Trap (holes 15–17) is notorious for deciding tournaments with swirling winds and punishing hazards, demanding nerves and strategic shotmaking.
The Good
Golfers rave about the thrilling challenge of The Bear Trap and the feeling of walking in the footsteps of tour pros on a course that has hosted some of golf’s most iconic events. The conditioning is tournament-caliber, and the aura of championship golf is unmistakable throughout the round.
The Not So Good
Many visitors feel the pace of play can be slow, especially during peak season and after major events. The high greens fees and occasional crowded resort environment can detract from the experience for some, and the course’s extreme difficulty may overwhelm less skilled players.
Signature Hole:
#
17
The par-3 17th, centerpiece of The Bear Trap, demands a precise shot over water to a narrow, angled green heavily guarded by deep bunkers and swirling winds. With little bailout and immense tournament pressure, it is a memorable test, frequently deciding outcomes during the Cognizant Classic (formerly The Honda Classic).
Clubhouse
The clubhouse offers upscale dining, a lively bar, locker rooms, pro shop, and access to the resort’s spa and pool. Expect premium service, modern furnishings, and a lively tournament vibe, particularly during big golf weeks.
Practice Facilities
Extensive facilities include a full driving range, short game complex, massive putting greens, and bunkers. Instruction by PGA professionals is available. The facilities are kept in tour-level condition, offering excellent opportunities for warm up or game improvement.
Dress Code:
Standard
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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