11 and 16 at Merion

[Tim Martin]

Can anyone recall one hole let alone two in a US Open or any professional event where there were no spectators surrounding the green? There is a fairway crossing around the 175 yard mark on 11 and that is as close as you can get which also leaves 12 tee empty as well. On 16 you can get down to the end of the fairway on the left side in front of the quarry and are then routed toward 17. Only at these locations did it really sink in what a small tract of land Merion sits on.

[Ed Brzezowski]

Again TOC.  One ring of spectators only.

[Joe Bausch]

Not quite true Tim.  You can get down to the left of 11 green, although not super close.  And you can also get somewhat close to 12 tee.

You are dead right about 16 as no fans are anywhere near it.

[mike_malone]

 I think there was one at Oakmont

[Tim Martin]

Not quite true Tim.  You can get down to the left of 11 green, although not super close.  And you can also get somewhat close to 12 tee.

You are dead right about 16 as no fans are anywhere near it.

Thanks Joe. I am thinking the closest vantage point for 11 green is still across 12 fairway on the left side looking at the green. Would this also be the same area that get's you down below 12 tee and as close as you can get?

[Ed Brzezowski]

I had a great view from 14 tee, since the players gauge the shot by crowd reaction I will whoop and holler tomorrow.

[Joe Bausch]

Not quite true Tim.  You can get down to the left of 11 green, although not super close.  And you can also get somewhat close to 12 tee.

You are dead right about 16 as no fans are anywhere near it.

Thanks Joe. I am thinking the closest vantage point for 11 green is still across 12 fairway on the left side looking at the green. Would this also be the same area that get's you down below 12 tee and as close as you can get?

Best vantage point for 11 green is the bleachers behind it.  :-)

[Cliff Hamm]

The famous picture of Hogan on 18 shows spectators lining both sides of the fairway.  That is not the case in 2013.  Why?

[Tom ORourke]

The 11th and 12th at Augusta. And you can't get to the 13th tee either which would a cool spot if there was a small grandstand behind the tee.

[Brad Tufts]

I think there was one at Oakmont

Yes, #14.  I thought this was so cool seeing as though the green is in the middle of the huge meadow with holes all around and visible from there. 

Like a final solitary walk to clear your head before the tough finish....you forget for a minute you are in the US Open before coming back to the crowds for the long 15th.