"Hell's Half Acre" Highlight of Challenging Moreland Course

By Shane Sharp,
Contributing Writer

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. - In terms of difficulty, all you need to know about the Moreland Course at the Legends is that in describing it, terms such as "Hell's Half Acre" and "considered one of the strongest challenges on the East Coast" come into play.

And speaking of coming into play, that is just what Hell's Half Acre itself does on the 16th Hole at the Moreland Course. Think of Carnoustie's ridiculous waist high weeds, knock off about a foot or two, throw in the fact that the average golfer is really below average, and the 16th becomes one of the most intimidating holes in all the land.

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In addition to Hell's Half Acre on the left of the hole, water comes into play along the entire right side of the hole. The fairway starts off narrow, but a well-hit, well-placed drive will be rewarded with ample landing area.

Let's go inside -

The Hole: The 16th Hole at the Moreland Course at Legends - measures 270 yards from the tips, 245 yards from the middle tees and 186 yards from the forward tees.

Architect: P.B. Dye

The Layout: Hell's Half Acre - Scottish style weeds - guard the entire left side of the whole and water guards the entire right side. The green is nestled in the right back corner of the hole and is guarded by six bunkers.

The Strategy: According to Bemis, the low handicapper should take a shot at the green, because at worst, your approach shot will be from one of the six greenside bunkers, or the waste area to the left of the traps.

The Average Golfer: Should take a three wood or a long iron and keep it in the middle of the fairway. Even a reasonable tee shot with a four-iron should only leave a sand or pitching wedge into the green.

Don't Play: A bad tee shot - period. Even a slight draw will end up in Hell's Half Acre, while a weak fade will end up in the drink to the right. There is no margin for error.

Play the Hole: With respect, if nothing else. If you are not a 15 or better handicap, consider employing some much needed course management.

Inside the numbers: The 16th Hole is the No. 14 handicap hole on the course.

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