Have you ever questioned which PGA National Champion Course holes test the boundaries of even the most skilled players? Since its opening on November 17, 1981, this storied course in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, has been an authentic examination of skills. It was created with championship play as its objective by Tom and George Fazio.Some of the most famous golf tournaments have taken place there throughout the years. In 2014, Jack Nicklaus undertook a significant renovation that made it the permanent location of the Cognizant Classic on the PGA Tour. With five sets of tees, the Champion Course is suitable for players of all skill levels.However, the TifEagle greens and spacious fairways present strategic obstacles at every turn. It’s unquestionably among the top courses in Florida and elsewhere! So let’s explore the three most challenging holes of this course that truly put a golfer’s skills to the test.Overcoming the three most fearsome challenges on the courseHole 11- A Par-4 Precision Test: The 11th hole, which is 450 yards long, requires both accuracy and clever play. Players must navigate a straight fairway that leads to a pond, which poses a serious risk on the fifth and eleventh holes. Player alternatives for the tee shot include placing the ball to the left of the pond or choosing to lay up short of the water. As the approach shot must cross the pond, which stretches up to the front edge of the green, it is very nerve-racking. Interestingly, even though this hole doesn’t have bunkers to deal with, precision is crucial due to the impending water.Hole 16- Par 4 (A Bear Trap Part): Jack Nicklaus made sure the 16th hole would live up to its moniker when he created the course, and it’s the ideal illustration. One of the hardest conceptual holes in the game of golf is this 434-yard par-4. Players have to carry water on the right off the tee while dodging bunkers on the left. The approach shot, however, presents the true difficulty. Anything less than flawless precision could spell tragedy, as the green is small, hard, and heavily protected by water. Here, wind frequently plays a significant role, so choosing the right club is essential. Here the scorecards of numerous PGA Tour players have fallen apart.Hole 17- Par 4 (A Bear Trap Part): The 190-yard par-3 17th hole at PGA National, which is arguably the most recognized on the course, has devastated the hearts of innumerable golfers. This hole is a real test of bravery, as water protects the front and right sides of the green while swirling winds make it even more daunting. Players are forced to play with the water hazard, which can be brutal when the pin is tucked on the right. Professionals on the PGA Tour frequently aim for the left side of the green to avoid a large number. Throughout The Honda Classic’s history, this hole has continuously played above par, highlighting how hard it is, even for the world’s best golfers.It’s not easy to survive these three dreadful holes, but how much does it cost to take on the toughest golf challenge?What is the cost of playing the Champion Course at PGA National Resort?The opportunity to play on the same course as the Cognizant Classic is a dream come true for many golfers, but it’s not inexpensive. The most recent green fees indicate that, depending on the season and time of day, a round at the PGA National Resort Champion Course can cost anywhere from $350 to $550 per person. Although off-season reductions may result in a minor price reduction, the peak season (January through April) sees the highest rates.Club rentals, food and beverage expenses, and caddie fees—which are optional but advised—should be taken into account by players alongside the greens charge. For those seeking a luxurious experience, PGA National provides stay-and-play packages that include lodging, unrestricted play on a few courses, and use of first-rate practice facilities. These packages frequently cost between $800 and $1,500 per night, depending on the facilities and degree of lodging selected.Not just another exclusive golf resort, the Champion Course at the PGA National Resort is a battlefield where dreams are dashed and legends are created. Playing here is neither for the weak of heart nor the light of pocket, thanks to the harsh Bear Trap and the exorbitant green fees. However, it continues to be one of the most thrilling experiences that golf offers to those who want a real test of the game. The Champion Course is waiting for you if you’re willing to take on the challenge and pay the price. Just keep in mind that surviving is the true prize and that par is a fantastic score.The post 2025 Cognizant Classic: Top 3 Toughest Holes of PGA National’s Champions Course, Explored appeared first on EssentiallySports.