As we reach the 25th playing of the SAS Championship, we decided to take a more recent lens by revisiting the last five years of play and performance data to explore how shot-by-shot analysis can reveal how each hole offers opportunity or trouble.
From bogeys to bunkers, eagles to extraordinary shots, the numbers paint a clearer picture of how this course shapes the scores.
Where the birdies flock
While much of the course demands caution, several key holes offer a genuine chance to go under par. None stands out more than Hole 17. Over the past five years, it’s produced significantly more birdies and eagles than any other hole, establishing itself as a pivotal moment late in the round. Its high handicap rating makes it one of the most favorable scoring chances on the course. Holes 7 and 9 also stand out as offering reliable birdie opportunities and the potential for eagles. Notably, these three are the SAS Championship course’s par 5s, reinforcing their reputation as the best chances for under-par scoring.
Bogeys and worse
Fortunately, or unfortunately if you’re trying to play according to the data, there’s no one “card wrecker” on the course. Instead, the potential for bogeys is more evenly distributed, excluding the high handicap Hole 17. Holes 3 and 4 show a slightly higher tendency to trip up players. Double bogeys, while significantly less common with approximately 10 times more bogeys recorded, tend to cluster around Hole 16, with Holes 1, 6, 8 and 9 close behind.
Score relative to par
Performance has varied from year to year. For instance, Hole 7 played particularly well in 2023, while Hole 1proved difficult in 2020. Perhaps this year will bring a turnaround for some of the tougher holes.
Water hazards and rough landings
When it comes to water landings, Hole 7 surprisingly takes the lead over Hole 8, which is known as Prestonwood’s signature island hole. Interestingly, the island hole sees fewer rough landings, while Holes 17and 18 record the most shots into the rough.
Bunker trouble
Sand traps are an expected challenge, but certain holes make escaping them particularly difficult. Hole 17recorded the highest number of bunker landings, with multiple sand traps positioned so close to the flag. Hole 9, however, stands out for bunker-to-bunker shots, creating a frustrating “double-sand” scenario.
The unicorn hole-in-one
Only one hole-in-one has been recorded at SAS Championship in the last 5 years, accomplished by David Toms in 2024. Watch Hole 11 again for the possibility that lightning strikes twice!
As the tournament unfolds, each hole tells its own story. With five years of data as a guide, it’s easy to spot places where things tend to get interesting. Whether it’s a late-round birdie or a surprise splash in the water, each hole has its own way of shaping the leaderboard.
