Everybody fears #17. The island hole at TPC Sawgrass haunts all of professional golf's big boys (Tiger, Phil, and the rest of the pack) who are swinging away at THE PLAYERS tournament kicking off today in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL.
I understand. I played the course last Spring with my father (see my story on the TPC Sawgrass Experience in SL's April '09 issue). #17 beat me. Dad smote it, however, and I even shot a video of his tee shot.
The hole's myth dominates most conversations around there. You can't even enjoy a nice dinner in the Sawgrass Marriott's Augustine Grille without it leering at you from the dessert menu.
I ordered the restaurant's signature sweet, the Island Green Cheescake (above) with its chocolate wrap, blueberry syrup, an edible flag, and a green candy alligator. I couldn't finish it. You got it. #17 beat me twice.
(Sawgrass Marriott guests can chip golf balls to the "practice" #17 in the lake by the hotel.)
