Since The Belfry first staged a DP World Tour event in 1979, the venue for this week’s Betfred British hosted by Sir Nick Faldo has played host to many memorable moments.
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Having hosted the Ryder Cup on four occasions, the Brabazon course boasts two signature holes that are known worldwide – the driveable par-four tenth and the 18th, which makes for a demanding tee shot with its sweeping left hand dog leg.
From Seve Ballesteros driving the tenth green – on more than occasion – to Christy O’Connor Jnr’s two iron onto the 18th green to win the 1989 Ryder Cup, the venue has gone down in golfing folklore.
At last year’s Betfred British Masters, Thorbjorn Olesen clinched victory with a 36 foot birdie putt at the 18th, which played as the hardest Fortinet Threat Score hole across the four rounds.
With 36 birdies made on the closing hole by the field, only the par-three 12th saw fewer birdies across the week.
By comparison, the tenth was one of just seven holes that played under par, with three birdies mixed with 98 birdies across the four competition days.
Former World Number One Justin Rose summarised the significance the pair of holes hold for European golfers on his return to the DP World Tour this week.
“What makes it great here at the Belfry here is the history,” said the 2013 U.S. Open champion.
“It has a couple of really good holes on it that are memorable and iconic.
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“The 18th is one of those holes that you feel you really know well even if you may never have been to the Belfry.
“The tenth speaks for itself as well, some legendary shots have been hit there over the years, none more so than the tenth.”
Measuring 319 yards on the scorecard, the tenth tee will be brought forward on both Saturday and Sunday, ensuring great excitement for viewers watching both at home on television and at the venue due to its risk and reward nature.
On his way to victory last year, Thorbjørn Olesen mixed one birdie with one bogey, which interestingly happened when he opted to try and drive the green. Which poses the question: What are his plans this week?
“There are a few different things that come into play, but it is nice to go for it, hit the green and make an easy birdie or an eagle," he said.
"You have to take in all the factors, make a decision and commit to it when you do.”
As for the feared 18th – 497 yards off the tee – the drive is semi blind so you do not see the lake that flanks the left side of the fairway, meaning accuracy is of paramount importance.
Once the fairway is found, the approach to a raised three-tier green over water is also a stern challenge in itself and has caught many a player out.
Olesen has great memories of the hole having made a birdie on both the Saturday and Sunday as he returned to the winner's circle after a near four-year absence but the Dane is fully aware of the difficulties it presents.
"It is a very strong golf hole," he said.
"You need to hit a good tee shot to have a chance and then you have a very bid green with a lot of very difficult pin placements. Every shot on that hole is going to be tough, even the putting because there is a lot of slope on the green."
When it was suggested to him he must feel as if he can hole a put from anywhere on the 18th green, Olesen added: "I definitely have a lot of good memories and that is always good to carry into the week."
Whether it be a conservative mindset or an attacking intent, players' strategy is sure to be a key factor on both holes this week and it would be no surprise if the outcome of the tournament was determined by either a moment of brilliance or a piece of misfortune late on Sunday.
