The Key Holes at Carnoustie

The Open Championship is underway this week at one of the most difficult courses on the championship’s rota – Carnoustie. We take a look at the key holes which could see the Claret Jug won or lost.

Hole 6 (Hogan’s Alley) – Named after the legendary Ben Hogan who won the Open Championship in 1953, this menacing par-5 is where Carnoustie starts to come into its own. Wind direction is normally against the player, adding extra distance to an already lengthy hole. Out of bounds is a constant threat on both the drive and the second shot, with a relatively straightforward approach to an undulating green the only reprieve. If a player leaves Hogan's Alley with a five, they'll be pleased.

Hole 16 (Barry Burn) – At 248 yards, you might wonder if its even possible to make par at this infamous par-3. That was certainly the case for Tom Watson in 1975, who failed to card a three throughout the tournament. A prevailing wind usually blowing against the player, along with significant hazards at the front of the green, means Barry Burn’s reputation as one of Carnoustie’s toughest holes is justly deserved.