The par-3 17th at Hoylake, known as Little Eye, is set for a major overhaul after the controversial short obstacle came in for criticism during The Open.
While Pete Cowen declared it could ‘ruin someone’s career’ and Billy Foster described it as a ‘monstrosity’, the majority of players got on with the job and the hole played anything but, albeit aided by damp conditions that made the elevated green more receptive than it might’ve been in elusive summer heat.
That said, Telegraph Sport has since reported that the 136-hole monster is set for a makeover, work set to be carried out for the club’s membership more than anyone else.
A source told Telegraph Sport: “In truth, the majority of members have not liked this hole since it was opened a few years back.
“It has caused all manners of problems in the club’s competitions. There was one women’s tournament held when there was a host of ‘no returns’ at the 17th.
“It was taking 20 to 30 minutes for each group to complete, and it caused a huge tail back.
“They are not getting rid of it, but they will be blowing it up and making it much fairer and appealing to play.”
I guess beauty is in the little eye of the beholder.
RIP Little Eye, 2023-2023.
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