I've played here three times and it still scares the life out of me. There is so little margin for error on the greens, where 90% of the danger is on this course.

The front 9 is tougher, with the first 6 holes providing the stiffest of tests, where hanging on is all you can do. There is a brief respite before the last 3 very strong holes.

Visually from the tee it's not as intimidating as some, but the waste areas are a lottery with some lucky flat lies and others unplayable. Water is only in play on the tee shot at 16, with an amazing clubhouse dominating your approach to 18.

Nothing I can say that hasn't already been said about the marquee course at Pinehurst, which runs such a slick operation. The caddies here are far better than those on other courses and make the round fun. All told, it's a must-play despite the hefty green fee and additional $200 for a mandatory caddie. (ED)