By Design – Issue 50 // Fall 2020

26 SKETCHBOOK T his new regular piece for By Design takes a leaf from a golf course architect’s sketchbook. With architect Kyle Phillips, ASGCA, we examine his original green sketch for the fifteenth hole at the new PGA National Czech Republic course at Oaks Prague. “This championship course is situated within a beautiful 140-hectare country estate and features rolling terrain, views of the Prague skyline and a historic chateau that is currently being restored to serve as the clubhouse,” says Phillips. “Sometimes the most difficult terrain can become some of the most memorable and fun holes to play. This is the case of the 388-meter par-four fifteenth hole, which plays uphill just over 20 meters from tee to green. Drives need to carry across the valley to the generous dogleg left fairway. Players should consider the two bunkers on the right side that indent into the landing area, as well as the large gathering bunker down the left side. “Favoring the right side of the fairway will leave a better angle, but also a longer approach to the diagonal green. The gently tiered green slopes from back to front and is open on the right side, leaving the option for a run up approach to the front right portion of the green. Back-left pins are well guarded by bunkers front left and behind the green.” The 18-hole PGA National Czech Republic course at Oaks Prague is previewing for play this fall, with the grand opening scheduled for 2021. • Oaks Prague