Cognizant Classic 2025 at PGA National: 5 incredible facts including the famous ‘Bear Trap’ stretch
The PGA National Members Club in Palm Beach Gardens in Florida is hosting the 2025 Cognizant Classic, formerly the Honda Classic.
With Brian Campbell edging out monster hitter Aldrich Potgieter for his maiden PGA Tour win at last weekend’s Mexico Open, the field returns to the USA for round nine of the 2025 season.
The Sunshine State is littered with golden beaches, top-tier golf courses, and of course, its barmy tropical climate.
Florida offers some of the best golfing experiences around the world with a multitude of sun-kissed tour standard courses and resorts that are open to the public.
It really is the perfect option for a dreamy golfing break!
Last year, Austin Eckroat of the USA won his first PGA Tour event in the 2024 Cognizant Classic in a key event in the lead-up to the Major season.
The PGA National Members Club is certainly easy on the eye but here are five facts you may not have known about this week’s host…
The infamous ‘Bear Trap’
An iconic stretch of three holes running from the 15th to the 17th is named the ‘Bear Trap’, designed by 18-time Major champion, Jack Nicklaus.
The holes are world-renowned for their difficulty and only add to the intrigue at a critical point in the outcome of rounds and the tournament.
Hole 15 is a par 3 with a narrow green surrounded by an imposing water hazard, a precise tee shot is a must.
The 16th is a par 4 spanning 434 yards but with the entire right side being lined by water.
Finally, the 17th, is another testing par 3 that measures 190 yards over water.
Staying in play is essential to beat the daunting ‘Bear Trap’
Golfing for a fantastic cause
The tournament’s commitment to giving back to the community is admirable with the primary beneficiary of the Cognizant Classic the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation.
Chaired by Barbara Nicklaus, Jack’s wife, the charity supports various healthcare services and ensures that children receive fantastic medical care as well as improving medical research and treatment for those who are in need.
An intimidating test of skill
Well recognised for being one of the toughest stops on the circuit, and not to mention the ‘Bear Trap’, the golf course was rated the second most challenging on tour in 2018 with an average score of two over par across the field.
The venue is littered with hazards including strategically placed bunkers and water features implemented by Jack Nicklaus in his cunning course design that has stood the test of time.
The Staple Course
In 2021, the PGA National expanded its offerings with a modern par 3 course over nine holes named the Staple.
Designed by the respected golf architect, Andy Staples, the course is built to be enjoyable for those who attempt it with holes ranging from 60 to 130 yards and offering a more relaxed experience.
Bermuda grass fills the greens
The putting surfaces at the tournament are known for their durability in warmer climates, however, the increased resilience could wreak havoc on the greens.
Grainy Bermuda grass can make it much tougher to read putts with a different roll depending on whether the contact is with or against the grain of the grass.
The grass’ interwoven nature makes the surface much more dense meaning putts can break more violently.
READ MORE: ‘It’s probably illegal now!’ – Rory McIlroy makes stunning reveal about his favourite ever driver