Oakland University (R & S Sharf) - Michigan - USA

Oakland University, like the University of Michigan to its west, is fortunate to have two 18-hole golf courses available to students and faculty. The R&S Sharf course is noted as the better and more challenging of the two. Michigan golfers will recognize the names of Warren Henderson and Rick Smith from their work at Arcadia Bluffs, but the latter figure also hosts an Academy at the university.

Although this landscape is not quite as dramatic as the dunes of Lake Michigan, the pair work their bold tendencies into the land north of Detroit, namely in the shape of their large, amorphous bunkers. Still, the land itself gives them plenty of inspiration to work with. One example is No. 12, a drivable par four that utilizes a yawning valley. At just 308 yards, the hole is certainly drivable for the biggest hitters. The biggest question is one of nerves, and whether they’re willing to take the chance. A bailout area of the fairway stands ready to receive the tee shots of those who would rather not.