Hole at Punta Cana resort epitomizes “cape” design

A great example of the “cape” hole design philosophy is the mid-length, par-4 Hole No. 18 at Corales Golf Club at Puntacana Resort & Club in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, a course under way by Fazio Golf Course Designers and slated for completion later this year.

The picturesque Corales Golf Club definitely saves the best for last, with an ocean-edge setting and a layout that plays up the coast and along and over a great, rocky cliff. This dogleg right, closing hole redefines the ultimate "cape" hole, which implies that the design will offer an option to play safe or, in this case, try the bold carry shot over the ocean.

So the first decision for golfers comes at the tees — seven total at No. 18. The tees, ranging from 309 yards to 409 yards, determine the angle of the drive and the amount of risk.

The safe play is to not attempt the ocean carry and to play to the left, avoiding the left-to-right curving Bay of Corales. This route makes this hole longer, yet less hazardous. This is the recommended line for beginners, high-handicap players and smart people.

The bold line of play begs the player to try the carry over the ocean and rock-lined cliffs of the Bay of Corales to the fairway on the other side. This courageous carry will allow an opportunity to “get home” in regulation. This line also allows the rare chance for the game's longest players to drive to the green.

Of course, in tropical golf, wind often is a factor. No. 18 plays directly into the prevailing cross breeze off the ocean.

The 9,914-square-foot green is silhouetted on a peninsula, bordered by the ocean on the right and directly behind the green. The large and elevated green has a “savior bunker” to the right side. Left of the green is a swale, which is closely mown, fairway height turf. This valley will gather the ball and keep it in play for a challenging chip.

The hole’s name is “The Mother of All Holes.” One of the Corales owners, Frank Rainieri, christened the hole. He believes this hole may become the most famous and memorable ocean  hole in the world.

Another footnote: The clubhouse will be built on an elevated site overlooking this 18th hole.(The view will also include views to the other ocean front holes: 16, 17, 9, 8, 7, and 1). This open view to golf and the ocean will make the Corales clubhouse one of the premier locations in the world for oceanfront golf. When this private club opens later in 2008, the Tom Fazio course will easily become a "must see" course for the golf enthusiast.