Oakmont By the Numbers Year the course was built: 1903 Yardage in 1903: 6,406 Yardage in 2007: 7,230 Number of fairways narrowed for 2007 U.S. Open: 18 Number of bunkers rebuilt for 2007 U.S. Open: 189 Average green size: 6,800 square feet Number of U.S. Opens held: 8

Visually,  the most notable feature is the almost complete absence of trees. In the 1960s and ‘70s, the course had taken on a parkland look under Jones’ direction. For the 1994 U.S. Open, Oakmont was more of a tree-lined venue. But after that Open, the course transitioned itself back to the links-style layout Fownes envisioned. Hills started the project, and Fazio and myself have continued it.
Since 1995, more than 3,500 trees were removed.

The "Church Pews" bunker on the fourth hole is perhaps the most recognizable hazard in U.S. golf. The bunker has been expanded for this year’s Open with two additional "pews" in order to challenge today’s players and equipment. Another challenge is the course’s 7,230-yard length.

The preparation for this 2007 Open has been going on almost since the last U.S. Open was held at Oakmont. For example, all 189 bunkers on the course were rebuilt in 2004-05; back tees were added on holes 1, 3, 4, 7, 8, 12, 15 and 18; all 18 fairways have been narrowed and all roughs were reseeded and cut to graduated

Two new Church Pews, which are in between holes three and four, were added last year. (USGA Photo Archives.

heights. Of particular note is the lengthening of the eighth hole to 288 yards, which would make it the longest par 3 in U.S. Open history. The par-5 12th hole also has been stretched to an Open-record 667 yards. In fact, the 12th hole must be played from the 10th tee to allow for the additional 65 yards of length.

A discussion of Oakmont’s characteristics would have to include the greens. The Pittsburgh Poa annua grass is not found anywhere else in the country and is distinctive for its ability to be mowed low, allowing for extremely fast ball travel. The greens are large, averaging 6,800 square feet and feature subtle undulations. The combination of low grass heights, size and these ripples certainly should challenge the world’s best players.