At 2300m Above Sea Level Chapultepec "400-Yard Long Drive Show~"

WGC Series Mexico Championship Battleground Chapultepec Golf Club "Up to 15% Longer Driving Distance"

[Asia Economy Golf Specialist Reporter Kim Hyun-jun] "400 yards is the baseline."

This is about the battleground of the World Golf Championships (WGC) Series Mexico Championship (total prize money $10.5 million), which opens on the night of the 20th (Korean time) at Chapultepec Golf Club (par 71, 7,345 yards) in Mexico City, Mexico. Situated at an altitude of 2,300 meters, the driving distance can increase by up to 15%. This is similar to Coors Field, home of the Major League Baseball Colorado Rockies, which is located at 1,600 meters above sea level and known for many home runs.

Dustin Johnson (USA) actually hit a 404-yard tee shot on the 11th hole (par 5) on the final day last year, securing a dominant 5-stroke victory (21-under 263). In the third round, he notably succeeded in reaching the green in one shot on the 2nd hole (par 4), which is 369 yards long, and made a one-putt eagle. World No. 1 Rory McIlroy (Northern Ireland) also showcased his power with a maximum 410-yard long drive. He boasted, "I usually secure 370 yards off the tee, making the next shot easier."

Bryson DeChambeau (USA), ahead of this year's tournament, recorded 397 yards during practice rounds and said, "The course feels short, but it is not an easy course." He analyzed, "On some days, the ball goes 9% farther, and on others, 12% farther, depending on club angle, spin, and swing motion." It is interesting that the 1st hole (par 4) is only 316 yards. He fired up his fighting spirit, saying, "I can send the ball 305 yards with a hybrid and immediately aim for the green."

The problem is that club selection is difficult. This is why Gary Woodland (USA) brought a reference chart summarizing cases where the distance increases by 12.5% and 15% depending on the yardage and practiced accordingly. For example, if 200 yards remain, he chooses an iron assuming about 170 to 175 yards at a regular golf course. He explained, "Generally, when the wind is strong, low-trajectory shots are used, but here, the distance advantage due to high altitude is reduced. Careful strategy is required."