Golf Insider

Most of us average hackers who are PGA Tour fans have seen the 17th island hole at the TPC Sawgrass Stadium course on television.

We like it because the pros, usually so stoic and calm, can turn all jelly-kneed when they step up to No. 17 during The Players tournament, particularly on Sunday and especially if they are in the lead or close to it. It's reassuring to see they're as scaredy-cat as we are at the sight of a green surrounded by water. For a video of No. 17, click here.

The Stadium course isn't all about the 17th. Even from the middle and forward tees, the Stadium can be a bear, with all those tricky swales, knolls and knobs, not to mention the water.

Now might be a good time to try it yourself. The TPC, along with Sawgrass Marriott, is having a special Oct. 1 through Nov. 20 that gets you on the 17th, as well as the rest of the Stadium and the Valley course, too.

Rates start at $170 per night per person for a three-day minimum stay, and include a round on the Stadium – including a forecaddie – a round on the Valley and an hour of instruction at the PGA Tour Academy. They also throw in a $75 "bounce-back" golf credit.

Green fees for the Stadium course are normally in the $375 range this time of year, and the Valley rates are in the $80-$130 range.

For more information, call 888-421-8555.