Biarritz refers to the putting green features where the golf hole is culminated. It is the gully or swale that is placed in the middle and is manicured to look the same as the rest of the green area. The Biarritz runs from side-to-side, creating a front and back portion of the green that is divided by the swale. Sometimes it can run from front to back, creating a right to left side feature.
Challenges of Biarritz
Golfers find it a challenge to pitch if hole is cut on the one side of the swale of the Biarritz and the ball is on the other side. The player would often switch to a long putt in order for the ball to carry through the gully and up to the other side where the hole is located. There are other golfers that prefer to avoid the gully and instead choose to pitch over it. But, if the ball is near the Biarritz, the golfer will need to get it on the same side where the swale and the flagstick is located to avoid having to use a long putt and swing across the gully. Par 3-holes often house these Biarritz features.
Origin of Biarritz
The Biarritz features are common for classic age golf course. Today, however, Biarritz is not that common. The first recorded Biarritz was built at a golf course in Biarritz, France by Willie Dunn Jr. This was originally called template hole, one of the features for golf architecture. The Biarritz was built as the golf course’ par-3. During the time when the template hole was built at the club, golfers named it chasm. Hence, the word chasm is attributed as a synonym for a Biarritz design.
Importance of Biarritz
Biarritz is one of the features in a golf club that is very important. It is where the putting green is located containing the hole. This hole plays a significant role in a golfer as they attempt to put the ball inside to gain a score. If the golfer successfully put the ball in play, it will determine their current standing, especially during a tournament.