The Cognizant Classic is set to take place at the Champion Course at PGA National in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, kicking off the Florida Swing on the PGA Tour schedule. Known for its challenging layout, the course has undergone changes over the years, with water coming into play on nearly every hole and numerous sand bunkers lining the fairways and greens. The course is a par 71 and measures almost 7,200 yards, with a brutal finishing stretch of holes known as “The Bear Trap.”
Ball-striking is crucial at PGA National, especially with over half of the approach shots falling between 125-200 yards. Scrambling will also be important as players navigate the challenging course, which is demanding off the tee and rewards accuracy over length. Despite its difficulty, recent rain in the area and a favorable wind forecast could make scoring more manageable for the players. The average winning score at the event has been less than 9.5 under par in recent years, with Chris Kirk and Austin Eckroat posting below-par winning scores.
Correlated courses for PGA National include British Open specialists and the Sony Open at Waialae Country Club, both featuring Bermuda grass and windy conditions. Players who excel at these courses often perform well at PGA National. Our expert Brady Kannon has selected several players for this week’s event, with long-shot winner predictions due to the lack of star power in the field. Shane Lowry, the co-betting favorite, boasts an impressive record in Florida and at PGA National, making him a strong contender for the title.
Taylor Pendrith and Nicolai Hojgaard are also among Kannon’s top picks, with their ball-striking abilities and recent form making them noteworthy contenders. J.J. Spaun, Jhonattan Vegas, Nico Echavarria, and Ben Kohles round out the selections, each bringing unique skills and experiences to the tournament. Chirp Golf users are also making their picks for the Cognizant Classic, with exciting prizes up for grabs for those who score well in the contests.
As the PGA Tour heads into the Florida Swing, players will face unique challenges at PGA National, testing their skills and mental strength on the demanding course. With factors like water hazards, sand bunkers, and windy conditions in play, success will require a combination of accuracy, ball-striking, and scrambling ability. The event promises an exciting competition with potential for unexpected winners emerging from the field of talented professionals.
With the Masters just around the corner, the Cognizant Classic marks the beginning of the march toward the season’s first major championship. Players will look to fine-tune their games and build momentum heading into Augusta National. Shane Lowry’s success on the Florida Swing, coupled with his recent strong performances, make him a top contender for this week’s event. As the competition unfolds at PGA National, fans can expect thrilling moments and impressive shot-making from the players vying for the title.
Overall, the Cognizant Classic at PGA National offers a challenging test for the PGA Tour professionals, with a mix of veteran contenders and up-and-coming players looking to make their mark. The course’s renowned difficulty, combined with the unique characteristics of Florida golf, sets the stage for an intriguing competition. With long-shot winners a possibility and top players showcasing their skills, the tournament promises excitement and drama for golf fans worldwide. Stay tuned for updates and highlights as the action unfolds at the Champion Course in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.
