Firestone Country Club - South
Akron, Ohio
Famous for its "Monster" moniker, Firestone South hosted the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational for decades and three PGA Championships. Robert Trent Jones Sr. transformed the original layout into one of America's most demanding tests, anchored by the legendary 625-yard par-5 16th hole.
History & Heritage
Firestone South was originally built in 1929, then dramatically redesigned by Robert Trent Jones Sr. in 1960 for the PGA Championship. Arnold Palmer triple-bogeyed the 16th hole during the 1960 PGA and dubbed it "The Monster" — the nickname stuck permanently.
Longtime host of the WGC-Bridgestone Invitational and three PGA Championships. The 16th hole measures up to 667-675 yards from the tips — one of the longest holes ever on the PGA Tour. A bridge at the 16th was dedicated to Palmer in 2017.
Signature Holes
"The Monster" — up to 667-675 yards, one of the longest holes ever on the PGA Tour. A winding tree-lined fairway leads to a pond-fronted green. Arnold Palmer named it after his triple-bogey in the 1960 PGA Championship.
What to Expect
A massive, demanding par-70 where length and accuracy are both essential. Tree-lined fairways, strategic RTJ Sr. bunkering, and water hazards create a stern championship test. Tiger Woods famously hit shots in near-darkness here.
Strictly private. Also features North and West courses.
Playing Tips
On the 16th, keep your tee shot inside the tree line. The pond fronting the green means laying up is smart for most golfers.
Position off the tee is everything in the tight corridors throughout.
Highlights
- ✓ Hosted WGC-Bridgestone Invitational for decades
- ✓ Legendary 625-yard 16th hole
- ✓ Three-time PGA Championship venue
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called The Monster?
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