The TPC San Antonio Oaks Course is renowned for its remarkable layout, but it’s the 16th hole that truly stands out. Golfers who regularly play this Greg Norman-designed 18-hole course have strong opinions about the uniqueness of the 16th green. Some might even describe it as unsavory or torturous. It’s a hole that leaves players wondering, “Who would do that?” and questioning the reasoning behind its construction.
Unraveling the Design and History
Measuring around 180 yards (depending on tee placement), the 16th hole features a distinctive element that can’t be ignored—a massive bunker located right in the middle of the green. This design twist has long fascinated PGA Tour players who participate in the Valero Texas Open. It draws inspiration from the renowned No. 6 hole at the Riviera Country Club, a George C. Thomas Jr. and William P. Bell creation.
TPC San Antonio’s Oaks Course was collaboratively designed by Greg Norman and Sergio Garcia. At the time, Garcia was dating Norman’s daughter, Morgan-Leigh Norman. Although their relationship ended before the official opening of TPC San Antonio in 2010, Garcia played a significant role in shaping the course.
The Avocado Hole
Locals who know the course well are familiar with a rarely-used tee box that dramatically alters the hole, and it was Garcia who brought this idea to the table. However, the originator of the concept to introduce a pit in the middle of the otherwise lush green remains unknown. It was during the COVID pandemic that Liz Ortiz, a merchandising manager with limited golf knowledge, noticed something avocado-like about the 16th hole.
When Ortiz first toured the course, she couldn’t help but associate the unique green with the shape of an avocado. Although her initial suggestion to nickname the hole “the avocado hole” fell on deaf ears, the idea didn’t fade away completely.
An Instant Hit
Fast forward to last winter when staff members of TPC San Antonio had a call with PGA Tour headquarters to discuss potential logo changes and fresh merchandise concepts. Ortiz, having been promoted by then, rekindled her avocado-themed idea with encouragement from Jason Polka, the resort’s former director of golf.
The response to the concept was astounding. As soon as the avocado-inspired merchandise hit the shelves, the shirts flew off the racks. The popularity soared even higher when local hero Jordan Spieth aced the 16th hole during his opening round of play. By mid-morning the next day, every single avocado shirt had been sold.
A Promising Future for The Avocado
The success of The Avocado merchandise has only fueled the desire to expand this concept. Liz Ortiz envisions a range of products, including more shirts, headwear, accessories, towels, and other unique items. The goal is to integrate The Avocado into the golf shop and expand its reach through an extensive network.
The combination of the TPC San Antonio Oaks Course’s challenging design and the memorable 16th hole, nicknamed The Avocado, has captivated golfers and fans alike. As its popularity continues to grow, expect to see more of The Avocado at TPC San Antonio in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What makes the 16th hole at TPC San Antonio unique?
The 16th hole of the TPC San Antonio Oaks Course features a huge bunker located in the middle of the green. This design element adds an extra challenge for golfers and has become a distinctive feature of the course.
Who designed the TPC San Antonio Oaks Course?
The TPC San Antonio Oaks Course was designed by Greg Norman, in consultation with Sergio Garcia. The two collaborated on the project, but their relationship ended before the course officially opened in 2010.
How did the 16th hole get its nickname, The Avocado?
The nickname for the 16th hole, The Avocado, was coined by Liz Ortiz, a merchandising manager at TPC San Antonio. Upon seeing the bunker in the middle of the green, she thought it resembled the shape of an avocado and suggested the nickname.
Has The Avocado merchandise been popular?
Yes, The Avocado merchandise has been a big hit with golfers and fans. The shirts featuring The Avocado design sold out quickly, especially after Jordan Spieth aced the 16th hole during the Valero Texas Open.
Are there plans to expand The Avocado merchandise?
Absolutely! The success of The Avocado has led to plans for expanding the merchandise line. TPC San Antonio aims to offer more shirts, headwear, accessories, towels, and other items featuring The Avocado design in the future.
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