Celtic Manor Twenty Ten Course

The Celtic Manor Twenty Ten Course is a behemoth if played from the tips. Stretching to a jarring 7435 yards, the course was built to test the very best on golf's biggest stage - the Ryder Cup.

Celtic Manor Twenty Ten - It's Long & Potentially Wet

From the main resort, you must make your way to the course's own clubhouse. The driving range is located beside the first tee a short drive from the clubhouse.  The first 14 holes play on the low ground in the flood plains of the River Usk. The final four holes are on higher ground overlooking the first 14 holes. The River and four lakes add drama and penal hazards that make the golf a searching test that will expose any fault in one's game.

As you'd expect, it is long! The Par 5's average almost 600 yards, the par fours - 449 yards and par 3's - 202 yards. Of the five Par 3's, two play directly over water on the 3rd and 13th. The 12th is a fun par 4 with a tee shot over water to a sliver of fairway. The approach is then made over another lake to a green perched on the edge of disaster.

Match Play vs Stroke Play

The 15th is a very unique par 4 which offers a distinct choice from the tee. It can be played as a 'winner takes all' driveable par four or a mundane two-shot hole. Whoever tees off first can set the tone if they wish or allow their opponent an opportunity if they play it safe. The intellectual and strategic value of the hole in a tight match at this point in the round is what makes it great.

With a diversion away from the traditional game, the 2010 rewards the aerial game played at the highest level. Even for the low handicap, playing off appropriate tees as part of a match will make the day much more enjoyable than stroke play from the tips.