If you have ever watched a zombie movie you'll always remember the tenacity of the zombies to get their victims. They never stop -- never. That's what lies in store for those playing Victoria National. Unlike the usual Tom Fazio designs which are heavy on the make-up and sometimes short on the substance -- the shotmaking challenges at Victoria National are relentless -- especially off the tee.

The most important decision comes very early in the round -- be sure to play the appropriate tee markers or be prepared to make a healthy ball donation. Being able to hit consistent tee shots -- with sufficient distance and sound placement is essential. There is no way around that element when playing the course.

The course is played over 418 acres of a reclaimed coal mine. There are pockets of water scattered about and the juxtaposition of the verdant playing areas with the wild and wooly off-course grounds makes for an eye-catching presentation.

It has already been stated about the need to get out of the gate quickly in order to reap some opportunities for low scores -- both on the outward side and inward half.

Beyond the prowess one must have the driver -- the greens are also a quality mixture of varying contours and the manner by which pin positions can be placed in the corners. Be forewarned -- when you go flag hunting be prepared to execute flawlessly or be just as prepared to face a demanding recovery play. There are few "gray" areas at Victoria National -- the requirements are a constant black and white determination. In my mind, such extremes take away from what would have been an even higher course assessment. When golfers are placed in countless extreme situations the senses can be simply overwhelmed to the point of exhaustion. One person's fun can easily be another's slog.

When you have back tees sporting a 77 course rating and nearly 150 on the slope scale -- the slightest miscalculation can mean some serious pain as you wince at the numbers placed on the scorecard. One other thing -- be sure to have enough ammo when you start play -- because ball sacrifices are a likely certainty.

The collective nature of the par-3 holes at Victoria National is well done. Ask yourself this how many courses have a 233-yard par-3 with water skirting the entire left side and the 11th is the 18 handicap hole?

The 16th has been mentioned by a few people and I certainly concur it's utterly captivating to the eye. All that's needed is oxygen tanks placed on the various tee pads as you need to inhale deeply before paralysis overcomes your wherewithal to take the club back. The same can be said when you encounter the 5th. When the pin is cut in the extreme rear of either hole it takes someone with absolute confidence or madness to fire all the way to the pin position.