Signature holes, views make Oakmont, Longue Vue perfect venues for U.S. Amateur

There is no better golfer in Southwestern Pennsylvania than Sean Knapp to talk about what players will face at the 121st United States Golf Association’s Amateur Championship this week.

The second oldest player in the field at 59, the Oakmont resident knows how to attack Oakmont Country Club, which is two blocks from his house, and Longue Vue Club, where he was a member for more than 10 years.

The two courses are the co-hosts for the U.S. Amateur Championship stroke play competition Monday and Tuesday.

There are 312 golfers competing over two days, trying to secure one of the 64 spots for the match play portion of the tournament, which begins Wednesday.

“It’s the toughest cut in golf,” Knapp said. “Both courses present unique challenges.”

And both feature unique holes and amazing views.

“After taking out the trees between the first and second holes at Longue Vue, the view of the Allegheny Valley is spectacular,” Knapp said. “I would argue it’s the best view in the state and maybe the country.

“No. 18 is also amazing with the view of the beautiful clubhouse. It’s a great closing hole.”

As for Oakmont, Knapp said there are numerous amazing views.

“Where do you want me to start?” Knapp said. “Everyone knows about the view on No. 18. But my favorite is when you crest the hill on No. 9 and see the clubhouse. It’s like when you exit the Fort Pitt tunnels into downtown. There isn’t a better view.”

And while the views at both courses are breathtaking, the challenges that face the golfers are daunting. The slopes of the greens at both courses and all the bunkers at Oakmont will test the players’ accuracy, patience and mettle. Golfers need to bring their ‘A-plus’ game to advance.

“Longue Vue has one of the most unique clubhouses in the state and maybe the country,” Knapp said. “The course is manicured well, and the greens are frightening.

“It’s difficult to navigate around the course if you don’t put your ball in the right places. I don’t care how good your short game is. And you have to come in at the right angles to attack the greens. It’s a great test, and you have to be patient.”

Knapp said all the par 3s are tough, as are a stretch of holes (Nos. 2 thru 7) on the front nine.

“With the forecast of warm temperature, little wind and no rain, both courses will play fast and firm,” Knapp said. “If you don’t watch, you will post big numbers.”

Knapp said he considers No. 3 at Oakmont to be a huge test, not only because of the famed church pew bunkers.

“There are so many tough holes at Oakmont — Nos. 1, 2, 7, 8, 10, 15 and 18,” Knapp said. “But the green at No. 3 is like hitting on the roof of a Volkswagen Beetle.

“Sure, there will be some good scores posted Monday and Tuesday at both courses. But there are going to be some big scores, too.”