Canterwood

The course at Canterwood Golf & Country Club is, like many, affiliated with the residential neighborhood that exists between its fairways. Unlike many institutions of a similar nature, however, is the fortunate native flora of the Pacific Northwest. Many of the homes will remain blocked throughout the round because of the magnificent Douglas Firs that grow naturally in the region.

Perhaps that’s a win for the average golfer from an aesthetics standpoint, but they must understand that the existence of such trees contributes to further challenge in the playing of the game: Those who are wayward from the tee will often find themselves requiring additional shots in order to get to the green. This demand for accuracy does not mean that the club suffers for length; at nearly 7,200 yards, Canterwood requires significant focus from the tees. Robert Muir Graves built the course during 1988, and the course is a testament to the demanding nature expected of championship courses during the day.

No. 9 is an exception in its open corridor from the tee. That said, the challenge lies in deciding whether to lay up straight ahead or try booming it over a pond that protects the corner on this short, 90-degree par four.