Augusta National has Amen Corner to describe the specific challenge of holes 11-13 during the Masters, San Lameer has Crowned Eagle Valley (holes 14-17 at the South Coast resort), and now Eagle Canyon in Gauteng has introduced the Eagle’s Claw.
Four of the most challenging and spectacular holes at Eagle Canyon, ranked No 73 in the Top 100, come at the start of the second nine, and they form the structure of the Claw.
There’s two long par 4s, 10 and 12, played from elevated tees with water lurking and high mounds to negotiate, a par 3 (No 11) with water on the left, again played from a high tee, and finally the uniquely daunting par-4 13th. This intimidating hole features a narrow fairway running between two large dams. If you can keep your tee shot dry you’re then faced with an approach shot across the edge of a dam to an elevated green.
Playing these four holes in 15 shots, or level par, is an exceptional achievement, and Eagle Canyon will present a medallion to any golfer who does it. And it’s not just off the tips. The medallion can be won from any of the tee markers.