Quail Hollow isn’t just another stop on the PGA Tour – it’s a beast. Known for its demanding layout and rich history, it’s hosted multiple editions of the Wells Fargo Championship and the 2022 Presidents Cup. It staged the PGA Championship in 2017- and it’s set to host the Major once again this month, as the second Grand Slam event of the season gets underway.
Stretching over 7,600 yards, this par-71 brute – originally crafted by George Cobb and later sharpened by Tom Fazio – packs its biggest punch at ìThe Green Mile.î The final three holes (16-18) are downright brutal, especially the 506-yard 16th, where the green dares players to flirt with a lake.
1. “Green Mile” Name Origin – The final three holes are dubbed “The Green Mile” not just for their difficulty, but as a nod to the Stephen King novel and film, referencing a punishing final stretch.
2. Presidents Cup Layout Tweaks – For the 2022 Presidents Cup, Quail Hollow adjusted its routing so the famous “Green Mile” (holes 16–18) played earlier in match play, with the course finishing on the par-5 15th.
3.Fastest Greens on Tour – Quail Hollow’s Bermuda greens are often among the fastest on the PGA Tour, especially in dry spring conditions, sometimes stimping well over 13.
4.Clubhouse History – The elegant Southern-style clubhouse was completely rebuilt in 2006 to match the stature of major championship venues, though it retains the classic charm of the original.
5.Jordan Spieth’s Grand Slam Delay – Spieth’s 2017 PGA Championship bid at Quail Hollow was a missed chance to complete his career Grand Slam – a feat he still hasn’t accomplished.
6.Customised Bunkering – Tom Fazio’s redesign introduced “flash-faced” bunkers, mimicking Augusta National’s style but with steeper lips, requiring precision on approach shots.
7.Members Include Legends – Michael Jordan is a member of Quail Hollow, and often plays with Tour pros. His custom course, The Grove XXIII, was inspired in part by Quail’s design.
8.Elevation Surprises – Though not mountainous, the course features subtle elevation changes, particularly on holes 7, 9, and 17, making club selection tricky.
9.Greens Rebuilt – Again – After some player complaints, the greens were rebuilt (again) in 2016 with Champion Bermudagrass, replacing bentgrass to handle heat better and improve speed.
10.Charity Legacy – Since its inception, the Wells Fargo Championship at Quail Hollow has raised over $25 million for local charities, making it one of the most philanthropic stops on Tour.
