The High-Stakes Showdown at Winthrop Gold: Players Share Their Thoughts on Hole 17

The United States Disc Golf Championship has finally arrived at Winthrop Gold, and with it comes a new level of intensity and competition among top-ranked players. Defending champion Paul McBeth is looking to make history by winning his second consecutive title, but he faces stiff opposition from talented competitors like Eagle McMahon and Kristin Tattar.

As the players take on the challenging course, one hole in particular has been gaining attention: hole 17. This par-3 "faux island" is known for its dramatic effect on a player's game, with a long walk to the tee box often accompanied by pressure and anxiety. But how daunting is it really?

According to course designer Andrew Duvall, hole 17 was not intentionally designed as a challenge, but rather an exciting anomaly that proves an exception to the rule. "It's not like it's really that scary of a hole...If it was a true island hole, kind of like that one at Emporia Country Club, it'd be a lot more nerve-wracking," said McBeth.

But despite its perceived ease, hole 17 still has the power to unsettle even the most seasoned players. "It's not just about throwing the disc," said McMahon. "You have to approach it strategically and take into account the wind and other factors."

Tattar, who is competing in her second major tournament of the year after winning at Worlds, shared a different perspective on how women play golf at Winthrop. "I think our approach can be beneficial, especially when it comes to breaking down holes," she said.

Meanwhile, McBeth is still chasing his goal of winning all five PDGA Majors, which he achieved in 2015. This year's competition will be fierce, but the defending champion remains confident. "It's exciting...I like making history in some ways – hopefully more so positive than negative."

As for McMahon, who has finished in sixth, fourth, and 24th in his previous four USDGC appearances, he is feeling optimistic about his chances this year. "Winthrop sets up well for my game," he said. "I'm excited...It's been more good than bad, I'd say."

However, not all top players will be competing at Winthrop this week. Ricky Wysocki has announced that he will sit out the rest of the season due to Lyme disease, which is a stark reminder of the risks and challenges faced by professional disc golfers.

The USDGC promises to be an intense and thrilling competition, with many surprises in store for fans and players alike. Will McBeth repeat his title win, or can one of the other competitors dethrone him? Only time will tell.

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This article was compiled from disc golf coverage with AI assistance. Source: pdga.com — https://www.pdga.com/news/long-walk-and-sweep-talk