Adam Tomasiello

Look at any ranking of golf courses in North Carolina and you are bound to find Grandfather Mountain Golf & Country Club high on the list. Annually rated among the strongest designs in the Tar Heel State, Grandfather is a well-regarded, exclusive mountain retreat. It was a privilege to finally see the property on a crisp fall morning this past September.While my list of North Carolina mountain golf courses played is not all-encompassing, I feel grateful to have seen a handful of other golden age designs and modern layouts in the Appalachians prior to playing at Grandfather. In my opinion, Grandfather’s routing represents a bridge between two eras of American golf architecture. Fortunately for its membership, the Ellis Maples and Aggie MacRae design captures some compelling elements from both periods.Like its many mountain predecessors, Grandfather features sound strategic golf holes and a routing that highlights so many natural features in the land. A wonderful example of this blend is the par four 13th. With a creek cutting across the fairway diagonally, any drive played up the right can gain a distance advantage. However, a shot that is too aggressive can easily be blocked by evergreen trees. In the modern flare, each forest-lined hole presents a unique adventure and incredible views where peaks can guide the player. The views across holes like the par five 11th provide stunning visuals and an individual adventure through each corridor. On the first tee, I immediately recognized Grandfather as the inspiration for so many newer mountain courses.Many courses in this ecosystem struggle with drainage, but at Grandfather the ball interacts with the ground in captivating ways both off the tee, and on the greens. Features throughout the golf course force the player to hit a range of shot shapes. At the 1st, a player can avoid bunkers on the right but may hit a natural hill that acts as a wall on the safer left portion of the fairway. At the 2nd, a draw may bounce off the mountain slope back into the fairway, while that same shot at the dogleg left 3rd would find a rocky outcropping. Greens like the 9th provide enthralling opportunities to land a ball in one portion of the putting surface in order to funnel it to tucked pin placements.Among both the handful of Ellis Maples and North Carolina mountain courses I have played, Grandfather stands out as both a consummate test of golf and a delightfully pleasant retreat. The entire atmosphere of the course and clubhouse reminds you of the escape it provides into this stunning countryside.

The Carolinas are blessed with one of the widest arrays of ecosystems in the continental US. For the traveling player, great golf can be found from the peaks of the Appalachians, to the rolling Sandhills, to the marshes of the Lowcountry. With such incredible settings for the game, it is no wonder that countless classic and modern architects have left their mark across the two states.Intriguingly, some of the highest ranked courses here are not those with naturally fantastic sites. Instead, renowned architects left lasting marks by following the adage that “18 great greens naturally lend themselves to 18 fantastic holes.” Course reviewers across the globe do not spend their time analyzing the terrain at Donald Ross’ Pinehurst #2 or Seth Raynor’s Yeamans Hall, but instead focus on the artistry on their putting surfaces.A.W. Tillinghast’s unheralded work at Rock Hill Country Club – and subsequently, Kris Spence’s restoration – fits this category. Situated just outside of Charlotte’s sprawling bustle, Rock Hill Country Club is a fantastic escape with an intimate, secluded ambience not found on the many residential courses closer to uptown. While the routing maximizes the natural undulation, it is the magnificent green complexes and strategic corridors that make the course worthy of a strong ranking in South Carolina. Every single green at Rock Hill presents new challenges and opportunities. The severe spines jutting in from the outer rims of many greens make every edge seem even more slippery. Only a player with a creative spirit, varied shot-making ability, and a willingness to take on risk will find themselves with birdie putts at Rock Hill.On some holes, the center of the green may be the most sensible option. This is certainly true at the treacherous par four 4th, the downhill par four 10th, and the short par three 17th. Any aerial shot that can stick the landing may provide the player with a safe two-putt option to an outward pin placement. Conversely, many other holes welcome and reward run-up shots. The open par three 2nd, the testing par five 7th, and the curling 11th all can be taken on from the ground. Even more enthralling are those greens where the golfer might play away from the hole entirely. At the par three 6th, members can take a links style approach and bounce tee shots off a bank right of the putting surface. Balls bound down towards any pin placement.While Rock Hill Country Club has no weak holes, those which stand out most employ both phenomenal green sites and fantastic, blind hole corridors that enable strategic options. On the front nine, the par five 7th is exceptional. Off the tee, players must choose how aggressive to be with Sahara bunkering bisecting the fairway. It may be possible to reach the green in two, but the putting surface abuts out-of-bounds long and right, tempering the desire to play aggressively.On the back, the par four 16th leaves a lasting impression. This bunkerless hole doglegs to the left and begs the player to bite off as much as they care to chew off the tee. The green complex is absolutely beguiling and may make any member second guess the choice to pull driver. Guarded in front by raised mounding, the putting surface is inimitable, sloping hard down a few distinct tiers from front-to-back and inviting most players to fly the ball. In most cases, a shorter approach provides no advantage. Players will need the utmost spin control to hold their wedge on this masterpiece of a green.Great architects’ designs remain timeless because they provide a distinctive experience on any consecutive round. Thanks to the unique questions it asks its players, A.W. Tillinghast’s work at Rock Hill Country Club breaks the mold of so much repetitive, residential golf in the greater Charlotte area. Rarely in the modern era does a player need to consider whether they need to aim at a green at all, yet this decision occurs constantly throughout a round at Rock Hill. Its set of 18 standout putting surfaces are among the five most memorable this writer has encountered in 150+ courses played across the Carolinas, and it should rightfully earn a place on the list of any classic golf aficionados in the Piedmont. PC of 7th & 18th hole: RHCC member Mike Cavallo

The Prestonwood Country Club property holds an elite reputation in Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill area of North Carolina. Located in the Preston neighborhood of Cary, the club opened at a time when the Research Triangle was only beginning to burgeon. Even after the tremendous regional growth in the last two decades, Prestonwood maintains its status by providing members with an unparalleled set of amenities. At my first visit to the course a few weeks ago, my jaw dropped at seeing the stately clubhouse, vast swimming and tennis facilities, and elegant homes…all before I had even stepped foot outside of my car.Fortunately for Prestonwood members, three strong golf courses match the ambience of the overall club. My recent round at the Meadows layout demonstrated Tom Jackson’s ability to maximize the architectural value of the site.The Meadows at Prestonwood is set on an altogether flat piece of property. Meandering around numerous streams and wetlands, the course has a distinct “Florida-like” feel. Even after a bout of thunderstorms, its drainage was working properly and its greens were firm and fast. The course presents a plethora of challenges thanks to thoughtful choices in the design. Despite being in the Preston neighborhood, houses never once come significantly into play. The fairly wide corridors allow wind to affect shots, and holes play in many directions. The high-flashing faces of the bunkers and short-grass collection areas around some greens are visually deceptive. My host mentioned that the par fives all stand out on the Meadows course, and he was absolutely right. Among my favorites was the strategic 3rd hole. The landing zone on the tee shot is generous, yet players may benefit from favoring the right side of the fairway. The putting surface is somewhat narrow and must be navigated over a lake. Playing to the right provides a better angle, but even more challenge over the hazard. Bailing left may a safe move, but will leave a difficult third from tight grass to a short-sided putting surface. This “pick your poison” type of strategy presents itself numerous times throughout the round.Praise is also due for the superintendent and maintenance team, as the course set-up was near perfect during my round. Prestonwood’s golf leadership clearly understand the importance of variety. Our group played different clubs on each of the par threes, and on longer holes we ended up using all of our clubs. Many greens reveal themselves after a dogleg, and the ideal strategy differed on the holes that turned.After just one visit, it was readily apparent why Prestonwood is so appealing to so many individuals. It is a club that is both luxurious and welcoming, and it presents a solid golf experience to its members thanks to thoughtful decisions by its architect and leadership. Prestonwood is no doubt among the strongest clubs in the area.

There is little one can add to the vast commentary on the West Links at North Berwick Golf Club. From the first tee to the 18th green, the course earns its mark as one of the finest golf properties in the world. Its setting is a breath of fresh air. Mere minutes from the train station, the town center, and the Firth of Forth, the club exudes a welcoming atmosphere even on such hallowed grounds.Every device of strategic golf architecture is present at North Berwick, allowing the course to provide options and a distinctive experience. With varying weather conditions, the layout at North Berwick’s West Links is eternally unpredictable. The landforms incorporated on opening and closing holes are enthralling. Taking on the large hill at the first can lead to an opening birdie, or a disastrous lie in an unkempt ditch. Blind shots played into the greens at the 14th or 17th can run up closely to the pin, circle round unique green complexes, or just as likely ride swales and bumble beyond the putting surfaces. Rumples leading up to the 15th, the Redan, provide even more intimidation than the player already had stepping onto this renowned hole. On other holes with less severe topography, gently canted landing zones and sand traps peppering the fairway give the player pause. At the 11th, the ideal angle into the green is from the right half of the corridor which is guarded by deep pot bunkers. At the 13th, the ideal left side, with sand and sea in play, is similarly treacherous. At North Berwick, the challenges vary on every shot.It goes without saying that the green complexes at North Berwick are equally world-class. Many may appear large, but with slick edges, can repel even well-struck shots. From those at the distinguished Redan or Gate, to those less heralded yet altogether inspiring at Trap, Bass, and Perfection, the putting surfaces at the West Links are stunning. There are innumerable ways to hit a shot close, or miss each green with dire consequences.North Berwick’s West Links is unforgettable. To play the course is to experience the full spirit of the game in an 18 hole walk. It is an extraordinary, captivating journey worthy of every golfer’s bucket list.

On a recent trip to the United Kingdom I was fortunate to play at West Hill Golf Club. The course was not only my first round in the English heathlands, but also my first overseas. Simply put, West Hill is a complete test. It is impossible to imagine golfers of any ability tiring of its superb layout. What struck me most profoundly was that the course creates an engaging golf experience without prototypical features employed at hundreds I have played across the United States. Whereas so many layouts in America generate challenge with manmade ponds, lengthy forced carries, narrow fairways flanked with trouble, and repetitive greens, West Hill creates a dynamic adventure with:•	Firm conditions that bring the existing terrain into consideration on almost all shots•	Wide playing corridors which typically allow players to recover from errant shots•	Natural hazards such as hollows, streams, and patches of heather which bisect the line of play and prevent the use of driver on every tee shot•	Wavy greens with steep drop offs that require different angles and shot shapes to holdWest Hill’s topography is no different than countless courses in my home area, yet it could be dropped here in the Carolinas and immediately be a top rated course. Its design allows the natural contours of the land to deliver a thoughtful experience. Playing West Hill makes me eager to return to England and see other authentic heathland courses.Although each hole at West Hill is worthy of study, some of my favorites include:•	#3: The par four 3rd kicks off a thrilling stretch of holes on the front nine. The tee shot is blind to a landing zone that cants hard from left-to-right. For many pin placements, the left half of the fairway will be preferred, though far harder to stick. The right half is flatter but also features additional hazards. The green is receptive to shots on the ground which may be necessary, as the curvature of its entrance may repel aerial approaches.•	#8: The use of diagonal bunkering is a simple, yet underutilized means of deception. On the tee shot at the par four 8th, the player faces the decision of determining how much they may wish to bite off a series bunkers playing right-to-left. An aggressive tee shot may hurdle the far right trap, thereby leaving less yardage into the rumpled green complex, but it will also leave the golfer with a blind shot. There is more visibility to the left, but that same fairway also runs out.•	#10: Golfers are enticed to play down the right half of the 10th – avoiding ditches, out-of-bounds, and formidable bunkering. Of course, the best angle is approached from the left, taking on all of the trouble.•	#12: Rarely do I encounter a drivable par four that I do not wish to attack. The 12th at West Hill may be an exception. Despite lacking any penalty areas of note, the severe, multi-tiered green and nine treacherous bunkers in play near the putting surface bring big numbers into play for even a slight mishit. West Hill is an enthralling, consummate golf experience. By the 9th tee box, I had used every single one of my 14 clubs with a variety of shots. My praise for its strategic architecture, conditioning, staff, and membership community cannot be overstated. Parkland courses in America considering renovation should look to a heathland gem like West Hill to better understand how simplicity in design enables timeless challenge and interest.

Recently, I was fortunate to experience my first round of golf in the “Show Me” state at the Tom Fazio designed Missouri Bluffs Golf Club. Situated on a rolling piece of forested terrain above the Missouri River, the course offered an exceptional example of the riveting golf topography in the greater St. Louis area. The Missouri Bluffs routing is near perfectly balanced, and it is no wonder that guests return time and time again to play this public course. By my count, there is nearly an equal number of holes which are routed downhill, on flatter ground, and uphill, as well as a fairly even split among holes which work their way to the right, stay straight, or move left. Moreover, Fazio masterfully designed corridors which utilize almost every permutation of these undulations. On some holes, the fairways may act as a speed slot. On others, such as the dogleg right 9th, the slope actually kicks balls to the left. Only a player with a consummate game will feel comfortable over every tee shot and approach at Missouri Bluffs.The course conditioning was also strong at Missouri Bluffs. Here in North Carolina, zoysia fairways are a rarity. The well-maintained playing surfaces set up well for a variety of shots into some shallow, wavy putting surfaces.While I would return to Missouri Bluffs without hesitation, my one critique of the course would be about the setup the day I played. For instance, each par three played to a roughly similar length mid-iron. Since each plays at least slightly downhill, the staff could easily have set up five very unique distances on those holes. Moreover, on the back nine, one or two of the opening par fours could be set up as drivable, adding diversity to the overall set of challenges presented. The highlight of my trip to Missouri was being able to meet and play with fellow Top100GolfCourses reviewer Jeff Kissel. Jeff could not have been a more knowledgeable and gracious host in the Gateway City. If you are not following Jeff’s “Munis_and_Monsters” Instagram account, you are missing out on some very thoughtful, interesting golf architecture commentary (https://www.instagram.com/munis_and_monsters/). Jeff has also has 80+ well-crafted reviews on Top100GolfCourses that you should check out as well (https://www.top100golfcourses.com/reviewer/10026). Thank you Jeff for such a fantastic day!

Wilmington is among the strongest golf destinations in North Carolina. The selection of courses is unbeatable, with options ranging from the golden age to the modern era, private and public courses at any price point, and clubs welcoming to beginners as well as those that can host a tour event. Many notable architects left their mark on the golf scene in the rapidly growing city.The Pete Dye Course at the Country Club of Landfall captures this diverse spirit throughout its 18 hole layout. A consummate test for any level player, the Dye Course is sure to be fun.As with many Pete Dye layouts, Landfall features numerous risk-reward holes with options and tradeoffs. One great example is the opening hole. With water running down the entire right side, it can be easy to bail out left. However, doing so give the player a blind shot behind moguls to a green that has a shallow angle and water lurking long. Both the front and back nines loop back to the clubhouse and in doing so, force the player to tackle the wind from all angles. Many of the holes with wider fairways may seem accessible, but the wider corridors are often the most exposed to the coastal breeze, adding to the difficulty. While many courses in this area are flat, Dye expertly created many blind shots and speed slots in the fairways that often appear quite natural. The par fives at the Dye Course are especially noteworthy and may play entirely different on consecutive days in wind. Each par five varies in direction, and the green complexes also differ in size and scale. All four are perched fairly high from their surrounds, and the monstrous 18th sits well above a massive bunker right of the green. Missing any of these putting surfaces will lead to a very tough chip and may make even the best player second guess an attempt for the green in two.With fabulous practice facilities and top notch conditions, the Country Club of Landfall’s Dye Course provides all the player could want in a round and captures the greater spirit of Wilmington’s golf scene.

Porters Neck Country Club is emerging from a difficult stretch in its history quite well. The club was recently acquired by McConnell Golf, and the new owner has left a positive mark in just few years. During my recent round there, every aspect of the experience was top notch.From a design perspective, the putting surfaces at Porters Neck are the stars of the show. The course’s greens are large, and some have up to six or seven distinct areas where a pin could be placed. The layout lends itself naturally to numerous options. From a membership standpoint, Porters Neck presents a constantly changing set of challenges. On one day a pin may be accessible on the ground, while on the next it must be attacked from the air. At times, a player may use a slope to spin their ball towards the cup, while on a future round, that same undulation may prove perilous. The architecture keeps you on your toes.Porters Neck’s course conditions were immaculate, and the practice facility – particularly for short game – was extensive. It is no doubt a strong option if you are in the Wilmington area.

There are not enough adjectives in the golf course reviewer’s thesaurus to capture the masterpiece that is the restored Southern Pines Golf Club. While the layout was no doubt charming and stimulating before, the artistry of Kyle Franz and his team have brought new life to this marvelous golf property. It is an honor to post the first review here since its reopening in September of 2021.The conditions for my round at Southern Pines could not have been more perfect. After a dry week, the dormant turf played firm and fast, accentuating the curvature of the topography. Southern Pines has always been lauded for having arguably the best terrain of any course in the Sandhills, but thanks to the elimination of long Bermuda rough, players must now consider how the ball interacts with the ground to avoid sandy waste areas. You can truly pay homage to the roots of the game at Southern Pines by considering all options of attack.With such a diversity of challenges, it is difficult to generalize any common themes at Southern Pines. A few notable features that are prominent at this restored Donald Ross gem include its:•	Gorgeous, natural routing: The routing of Southern Pines has remained generally intact. Corridors hug the land and flow uphill, downhill, and sometimes both. Southern Pines is a delightful walk.•	Strategically mixed width fairways: On the card, Southern Pines is not long. Regardless, even bombers will likely hit every club in their bag. In so many places, sandscape pinches the landing zone, and sharp undulations will kick an overly aggressive tee shot into undesirable wiregrass and pine straw. •	Uncomfortable blind shots: Protruding bunkers pepper the landscape at Southern Pines. So frequently, the high-flashing faces of these traps obscure the landing area. Without a caddie or prior knowledge, it can be nearly impossible to tell how much room one might have beyond a hazard or onto a putting surface.•	Fascinating, knobby green entrances: While many of the greens are open in the front, playing the ball on the ground can be an adventure. So many of the putting surfaces at Southern Pines today are loaded with thumb prints and prongs that I can only describe as similar to the teeth of a gear. Landing a ball and running it up – or worse, landing it on one of these hollows – can lead to a completely unpredictable bounce in any possible direction.There are so many holes at Southern Pines that capture the brilliance of Donald Ross’s understanding of golf strategy. From the up-and-down speedslots of the par five 2nd, to the terrifying, perched false front of the 4th, to the visual intimidation of the 17th, every hole is worthy of study.However, the par four 11th is a hole that belongs on the list of contenders for Ross’s finest Carolinas creations. From the tee, the player faces a perpendicular “bite-off-as-much-as-you-care” shot over waste area and sand traps. While an aggressive player may consider trying to drive this green, the extremely tight landing zone near the approach and sharp runoffs to a lake will likely discourage this play. Most players will take a long iron or metal to the fairway that is sharply canted from left-to-right. Finding the short grass is only the first consideration, however. The putting surface is also tilted in the same direction as the fairway, and it features a menacing plateau on the back. If the pin is on the left, it is imperative for the player to use the contour of the land to work the ball to the right half of the fairway. The opposite is true to achieve the proper angle for a right pin placement. In both cases, the steep slope of the land will present a lie that promotes a push ball-flight; this outcome must be considered carefully with the lake lurking on the right. The 11th at Southern Pines encapsulates the essence of golf strategy: it is a hole that can defeat or be conquered by the player in an infinite number of ways.As the Mid-Pines/Pine Needles resort continues to promote and enhance its third sister course, it would not be surprising to see Southern Pines surpass its neighbors in many rankings publications. Southern Pines is a golfer’s course and a consummate test of the player’s abilities. I cannot wait to make the trek back down to the Sandhills to experience it again, and I am excited to watch its rating grow rapidly on this website.

Regarded as one of the most elite clubs in North Carolina by nearly all rating bodies, Quail Hollow is known for the stern test it provides tour professionals. I was thrilled to recently play the course and experience life inside the ropes.The pristine conditions that the superintendent and maintenance team at Quail Hollow display are essential to highlighting key elements of the design:•	The Bermuda rough off fairways is thick, and beyond that, players may find themselves among roots, dirt, acorns, and other unpredictable lies. Hitting it straight down the center is essential on all par fours and fives.•	The course’s bunkers are frequently surrounded by shortgrass, and not rough. Visually, many of these traps have an Australian Sandbelt appearance, and they act as magnets for mishits.•	The subair systems of Quail Hollow’s greens enable seriously firm putting surfaces. I imagine that professionals and their caddies must either love, or despise the challenge this presents. Iron shots must be struck with the utmost precision; miss your mark by mere inches, and you might find yourself 10 yards over the green.The finishing five holes are the most compelling on the course. At this stage in the round, swirling wind off the main lake will make any player question their club selection. Angles come at a premium at the short par four 14th, as the hazard must be challenged aggressively. From there, accuracy is essential to avoid diverse sets of penalty areas and stick the landing on titled putting surfaces.My assessment of Quail Hollow’s architectural merits align closely with those of M. James Ward. While the course will likely test every club in your bag on length, other aspects of the design felt somewhat straightforward and repetitive. For example, almost all fairways were relatively flat and flanked by a bunker or two in the landing zone. Even so, Quail Hollow stands out from its many Charlotte neighbors thanks to its lack of houses and large acreage. Having only visited previously for tournaments with large crowds, the serene, peaceful, and quiet nature of the property surprised me. The course is impressive in its scale alone and will continue to serve as a strong championship test.

During a recent visit to The Club at Longview, one of our hosts mentioned that the club was nicknamed “Longshot” when originally constructed. Situated quite far southwest of the uptown Charlotte, it was not clear if Mel Graham’s vision for a high-end private club could be successful. Decades later, it is more than clear that this bet paid off, as Longview offers a retreat from the bustle of its surrounding suburbia.Longview is a luxurious place. The staff are welcoming, the food is the best I have eaten at any golf course, and almost every commercial and residential structure on the property has a castle-like appearance. This level of fine detail is observed throughout the round as well. My praise for Longview’s superintendent cannot be understated. No blade of grass is out of place, and the bent putting surfaces rolled fast and true. Longview’s conditioning is easily among the top five of my 120+ courses played in North Carolina.The routing and architecture of the course are varied. Some segments flow through tighter, wooded portions of the property while others provide wide corridors. Many holes are penal in nature, and “Longshot” is an apt nickname for anyone tipping it out. Many fairways are flanked by ponds, and the bunkers on the course play as true one-shot (or more) hazards. On almost every tee, the player has the option to play conservatively to avoid trouble, but faces a longer approach to the green. Notable putting surfaces include the thumbprint, peninsular complex at the 6th and the crowned tabletop at the 17th. The start-to-finish experience at The Club at Longview is one to remember. It is easy to understand why it has such a dedicated, tight-knit membership.

The area around Boone is a mountain destination with breathtaking beauty, quaint towns, and limitless adventure. With so many housing communities established and being built nearby, it is no surprise that this region is also regarded as one of the strongest golf destinations of North Carolina. Even in the midst of so many elite, exclusive courses, the Hounds Ear Club stands out.Visitors flock to the Blue Ridge to be inspired by the natural wonders of mountain life. It is this respect for the ruggedness of the land that impressed me most during a visit to Hound Ears Club. In addition to providing 18 fine championship holes, members can enjoy numerous other outdoor activities, such as fly fishing, right along the course. The routing at Hound Ears Club reminded me of the Agawam Hunt Club near Providence, Rhode Island, in that it offered players the opportunity to explore every inch of the property. The holes at Hound Ears are bold, varied, and comprehensive, covering almost every inch of available terrain. There are holes which glide gracefully along the banks of the Watauga, while others creep slowly up steep hillsides before tumbling back down ridges. Ancient rock outcroppings play an integral role in strategy, a commendable alternative to dynamiting.Hound Ears Club also manages to maintain desirable classic characteristics with a modern flare. As encountered at many golden age designs, the holes at Hound Ears seem to flow over and highlight the features of the topography. On the flip side, the placement and shaping of bunkers is treacherous, as many traps seem open-faced, ready to gobble up wayward shots. Hound Ears Club may not appear long on the card, but this is deceptive. The wise player will not be hitting driver off every tee, and any errant approach will find brutally thick rough and slick poa greens.From arrival to departure, Hound Ears Club exudes a welcoming feeling. It is a place where any level player can not only enjoy a round of golf, but also soak in the beauty of Appalachian life. Even in its competitive market, Hound Ears Club is well-positioned to thrive as a golf community far into the future.

Richmond’s Lakeside Park Club oozes history. Its Donald Ross design has stood the test of time for a century. Thankfully, the routing is one which has been dutifully preserved. While playing the course recently, it became apparent that the entirety of the Lakeside Park community – from golf leadership, to the maintenance team, and its members – cares deeply about this special property. Lakeside Park is presented in stellar condition. The tightly manicured fairways and extensive shortgrass chipping areas accentuate the natural topography. The wavelike undulations throughout the course play an integral role in the extensive architectural merits of the property.The land at Lakeside Park is full of gentle, rolling hills. Ross snugly fit a compelling 18 holes on the property without any corridors feeling narrow. Many golfers try to stereotype his style, but this typically proves impossible as Ross always allowed the terrain to dictate the routing. One common misconception is that Ross always started with a gentle handshake. This is anything but the case at Lakeside Park. As one of my hosts put it, the first four holes are all about surviving, and then you can finally begin to play aggressively.Another label Ross often receives is that the worst place to miss his greens is long. While this is true on most of the holes at Lakeside Park, I was especially struck by the unique bowled nature of many of its putting surfaces. A round at Lakeside Park is truly a game of inches. Catch the left or right edge of a green, and your ball may funnel down to the center. Miss laterally, and you will be chipping upward to a downslope from a tight lie. Lakeside Park features additional crowned, terraced, and volcano greens as well.In my opinion, the real star of the show at Lakeside Park is the contouring of the fairways, an attribute which must be considered on nearly all full shots. There are countless courses where a player may face risks/rewards by playing aggressively, or have benign options by playing conservatively. Lakeside Park is the type of course that provides severe tradeoffs for every route taken to the hole. There are tee shots where the ball may run after hitting a downslope, be stunted by an upslope, or bounce sharply left or right into the rough. This is true regardless of whether you hit driver or a mid-iron – the course will keep any style player on their toes.Although there are many standout holes at Lakeside Park, the par four 13th shined as one of the most compelling. Bursting from a stretch of internal holes, the open vista and sharp curvature of the land at the 13th reminded me of the Old Town Club in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. The initial portion of the fairway – which will be the target landing zone for shorter hitters – slopes heavily to the right. Wise players will aim towards the left side and hope for a favorable bounce, but they must be wary of getting hung up on the hill. Any shot too far left will be blocked by a large tree. Longer hitters may pass over this first part of the fairway and catch a speed slot, but they also need to mind their distance to avoid a creek that bisects the remaining corridor. With seemingly no dirt moved, Ross’s routing brilliance is on full display, and the hole honors the spirit of the game too rarely encountered in America.It is no surprise that Lakeside Park members take so much pride in their course. It would be a treat to play day-in and day-out. As if the golf were not memorable enough, the remnants of nineteenth century zoo cages are in play throughout the round. This certainly seems to fit the theme, as the topography across the property is simply wild.

Cutalong at Lake Anna may be an unfamiliar name today, but I suspect that it will be cropping up in many golf course rankings over the coming years. This bold destination club in central Virginia embodies all that is right with the modern renaissance of golf architecture.Tom Clark and the Cutalong design team constructed a course that honors the works of many great golf architects, past and present. The property is loaded with template holes and greens that replicate famous putting surfaces from around the globe. When reading the course description prior to my arrival, I wondered how a place that incorporates so many different styles could meld them together.This concern was quelled early in the round. The routing at Cutalong hugs the natural contours of the Virginia countryside gorgeously, embracing its rustic clay exposures and the wiry plants native to the area. At no point does the player feel that features are out of place, and the holes flow seamlessly. Cutalong was built over an old mining site, and the club creatively celebrates its history by incorporating dragon-teeth hazards on the 3rd which imitate spoil mounds found in the surrounding woods.Cutalong pays homage to the roots of the game in ways too rarely seen in America. Its turf is firm, and there is randomness to the bounces a player may experience off the tee, on approaches, or around the greens. There is far more shortgrass than Bermuda rough, leading to plenty of treachery around putting surfaces and creative options with recovery shots. Terrifying false fronts and opportunities to play run-up shots are present on almost half of the holes. Cutalong clearly embraces these hallmarks of the sport as it is experienced on so many true links.The cadence of a round at Cutalong is like that of a Busch Gardens roller coaster. Thrilling challenges await the player at every twist and turn. The round commences with an electrifying opener. The downhill hole plays over a crowned fairway to a green that is inspired by the 4th at Spyglass. At 61 yards deep and running away from the player over three tiers, it is a sight to behold. A more unsettling prospect than being on the wrong plateau is missing this narrow putting surface laterally, as the player must pop-and-stop a pitch on less than 10 yards of workable area from a tight lie.The front nine continues with holes that present a variety of green shapes and sizes, bunkers that lie in the ideal sightlines, and gentle elevation changes. At the par five 8th, the player is confronted with a distinct set of decisions that depend entirely on the day’s pin location. The putting surface, which roughly resembles a Lion’s Mouth template, is banked into a hill. It features six different pockets and is guarded by a set of tall trees and a creek. Choosing where and how to lay up to this hole requires strong understanding of strategy. One must avoid the parallel waterway, place their shot far enough away from the gateway of trees, and either play hyper-conservatively short or extra aggressively to the far end of the fairway for an ideal angle. It is incomparable to the overwhelming majority of straightforward three shot holes, and almost impossible to describe in writing.The stretch from holes 12 to 15 is arguably the most memorable on the course. The 12th is a Biarritz template, angled slightly from the tee box, which begs the player to work a shot slightly with an uncomfortable long-iron. The par four 13th plays across a side-hill, blind knoll. The green has no precedent, being bisected into front and back sections by a massive ridge that rejects balls in both directions. The tee shot at the par five 14th is exhilarating. One option, to the right, presents a wide open fairway, but essentially eliminates the chance of reaching the green in two. The left option presents a more direct route to the hole, but the drive must navigate a narrow chute and cover a penal bunker. At the 15th, players are asked to hit a shot unheard of on most American courses. Sitting in a massive bowl surrounded by shortgrass, the golfer must not aim for the middle of the green, but instead, play off the banks of the collar five to ten yards away from the putting surface in order to funnel a shot near the hole. It is yet another instance of Cutalong breaking from prototypical design norms.Thanks to some sage planning and its very wise golf leadership, Cutalong is building a consummate golf retreat. This course is a stern test for the advanced player, and new tees are being added to stretch its length to 7,800 yards. At the same time, there are constructed forward tee boxes which make the course playable for beginners and juniors. Cutalong recognizes its powerful position to help grow the game. The Cutalong staff are fostering a welcoming, relaxed culture at the course, and it is no wonder that membership is already thriving. Cutalong also plans to have golf villas for those looking for a weekend getaway. In all ways, Cutalong at Lake Anna breaks the mold of stereotypical destination golf. It manages to be both accessible to players of all abilities while providing unforgettable challenges many golfers will have never encountered previously. Cutalong has an exciting future in store.

Perched on a relatively undeveloped Appalachian property, Champion Hills Club is considered to be one of Tom Fazio’s finest mountain designs in North Carolina. Fazio’s ability to visualize and construct holes over such severe land is remarkable, and as a result the entirety of the player’s experience is memorable.
A recent interview with the architect sheds light on the numerous ways in which Champion Hills is altogether unique. For starters, Fazio’s firm is actually based in Hendersonville. While most of his team is typically spread across global project sites, many of his associates weighed in on the construction of the course. To his credit, Tom specifically designed Champion Hills with the amateur player in mind. Many corridors are friendly to slightly errant tee shots, and flanking banks will ricochet mishits back into the fairway.
Champion Hills is not an overly long course, and its length on the card is shortened by the fact that 14 holes play downhill. Even so, the routing has plenty of teeth. Fairways are narrow, and a big hitter spraying the ball even slightly is in for a tough round. Bunkers are often located right where an aggressive player would like to place their drive, and the green complexes are relatively small. Champion Hills is a shot-shaper’s track that requires well-struck aerial approaches on almost every hole. The par threes in particular present desirable variety.
While most of the ideal landing zones are fairly flat, certain fairways, such as those at the 10th and 12th, employ speed slots that can reward a well-placed drive with a distance boost, but may also funnel shots toward the rough. The majority of greens are terraced. The putting surface at the 10th was especially memorable, as the first tier is raised above the back. To stick a shot at a front pin placement requires creativity and touch, potentially even landing a ball in the run-up area short of the green.
The breathtaking vistas at Champion Hills are unparalleled, and the severe drops on tee shots like the 5th, 9th, and 13th are exhilarating. Adding to the quality of the experience were the hospitable staff and well-maintained turf. Should you find yourself with an invitation to play Champion Hills, it is well worth the trip. The course would also pair well with nearby Hendersonville Country Club for a contrasting classic/modern day.

Think of all of the negative connotations associated with the game of golf today: a sport for the wealthy; slow, six hour rounds; stuffy clubhouse environments.Martindale Country Club in Auburn, Maine breaks every single one of these stereotypes. On a recent visit during a Wednesday (!!) afternoon, I encountered a course that was full of energy. The tee sheet was packed, yet our group took less than four hours to get around; people from all walks of life and of all skill levels were taking advantage of the club’s golf amenities; and, even the restaurant had a line out the door of patrons trying to grab a delicious bite to eat. I knew I was in for a special round before I even got out of my car.This type of inviting environment is rare, and it is therefore no surprise that the club’s leaders deeply care about culture. My praise to owner Nick Glicos and fellow professional Chris Carrier cannot be overstated. In my opinion, they should be writing the modern day manual on golf course management.The golf itself at Martindale is as equally compelling as the dynamic community experience. As one would expect, with two nines built decades apart, the front and back sides vary in their style, though both present a plethora of challenges.The front nine is routed over a steep, crowned hill which provides loads of memorable full shots. These include the thrilling blind approach at the 2nd which allows players who land the ball 30 yards short to funnel balls down onto the putting surface, the naturally tilted fairway at the 3rd, the wild crowned landing zone at the 7th, the infinity green 8th followed, and the plummeting par three 9th to finish the roller coaster.On the back nine, the main storyline is the absolutely terrifying green complexes. Each seems to slide away in all directions. Even along the gentler topography of the Little Androscoggin River, golfers can use knobs and speed slots to keep their ball in play through the tighter, forested corridors. A wise player can utilize the options available even when at first glance, the playing field seems narrow.It is no surprise that Martindale has such a dedicated membership. The entire property – in its ruggedness, simplicity, and accessibility – captures the true spirit of Maine golf. It is a delightful facility for any golfer whether they are visiting the area for the first time, or experiencing the course as a regular local patron.

Penobscot Valley Country Club is a 1924 Donald Ross original just south of the University of Maine campus in Orono. The course is set on spectacular rolling topography with the clubhouse perched atop the property’s highest point. Ross maximized every feature of the landscape in designing Penobscot Valley, and the club has played host to numerous Maine amateur golf events.Ross was arguably the best router of golf courses, and his expertise shines through at Penobscot Valley in two ways. The first is that landforms must be strategically avoided or incorporated through the playing corridors. At holes like the uphill 2nd or 5th, the fairways climb up step-like hills which can stunt overly aggressive drives and leave an awkward lie on the approach. Conversely, on the blind tee shot at the 13th, the wise player can use a speed slot in the ideal landing zone to advance towards the green. Similarly, a well-struck drive at the 15th might also gain additional yardage if the player fades the ball properly to a slope at the dogleg. On every hole, Ross capitalized on the natural terrain rather than creating artificial features.The other notable characteristic of the routing is that almost no two holes run in the same direction. During a breezy round, players will find it nearly impossible to gain comfort with the wind as its influence shifts constantly…sometimes in multiple ways on a single hole.Penobscot Valley also has 18 exceptional Donald Ross green complexes, many of which are fronted by steep false fronts. On my first trip around the course, I eventually stopped making the note “never seen a green like this.” Each putting surface had its own unique, challenging, and downright fun character. Some of the more memorable ones include the tilted mini-Biarritz banked into a slope at the par five 3rd, the three tiered 11th with a wraparound bottom layer, and the postage-stamp volcano at the par three 14th. Another fascinating trait of many of the putting surfaces were prongs that burst out of greenside corners. At the 10th, the entire green sharply falls away from a protruding spike in the back right portion making any approach tricky to hold.My overall rating for the course is held back by lackluster conditions during my round there, particularly on the fairways. This may be due to the fact that I visited earlier in the season (June), and because of rainy days prior to my arrival, though all three of the other nearby courses I played were very well manicured. In my opinion, having tighter, firmer fairways at Penobscot Valley would only enhance the already riveting opportunities to play the ball on the ground. Before you book the next available flight to Bangor International Airport, you may want to call and check in on the course conditions.Even with this one bit of hesitation, I consider Penobscot Valley among my favorite Ross courses architecturally. Orono is lucky to have a club which has made notable efforts to preserve the original, strategic merits of the design. It is a great course for travelers to include on a visit to Maine and must be a pleasure for members to experience time and time again.

Although some golf rankings focus on the exclusive, historic courses of New England, many other accessible designs built in recent decades are providing the public with excellent opportunities to test their game. Some examples that come to mind include Fox Hopyard in Connecticut, Meadowbrook in Rhode Island, and The Ranch in Massachusetts. Fox Ridge Golf Club in Auburn, Maine, also belongs in this category.Laid out between a blend of open meadows and dense forest, Fox Ridge lives up to the variety it advertises. With mixed-width fairways and doglegs that twist over sharp angles, Fox Ridge is an “every club and every shot shape" type of course.One thing that is consistent about Fox Ridge, however, is the stern test it provides from the first tee to the eighteenth green. Some of the most challenging aspects of the course include:•	Target tee shots: even on the wider fairways, players must shape their ball-flight and stick the landing. On most holes, aerial shots are needed to hold shots on rugged contours in the prime landing zones.•	Precise approaches: although many holes at Fox Ridge have broad corridors, almost all of the greens are small to medium in size. Most were also raised in elevation from the fairway, especially on the two long three-shot holes on the back nine. An extra club is almost always a necessity. It is also worth mentioning that the course features an island green measuring 202 yards from the tips; by comparison, the 17th at TPC Sawgrass is about 140 yards.•	Steeply shelved greens: Fox Ridge is not a course where one can safely play to the center of the putting surface. Most greens have at least two distinct layers, and finding the incorrect tier can easily lead to a three putt.Lower handicappers will no doubt love the challenge of Fox Ridge, and I suspect the course will produce many strong players in the years to come. Even so, with its large practice facility and dedicated staff, Fox Ridge is also a great place to learn the game and hone critical skills.

One of the many distinguishing qualities of Bandon Dunes is that after experiencing the great courses there, golfers have a hard time choosing their favorite. This was easily apparent after a recent trip to Mike Keiser’s masterpiece resort. Although a bit predictable and cliché, Pacific Dunes stood out as the crown jewel even among its elite counterparts.Upon reflection, Pacific Dunes emerged as my personal favorite at Bandon because it eloquently united the standout themes present throughout its sister courses:•	Like Bandon Dunes, the routing at Pacific is full of surprises. On most holes, the player must navigate through dense gorse-covered mounding to find the next tee. It is impossible to predict the next hole’s adventure. One such example comes early in the round. The feeling emerging from the bushes to the vista overlooking the oceanside par five 3rd is magical. •	Like Bandon Trails, Pacific feels entirely natural and ‘discovered,’ rather than built. The topography varies significantly throughout the round. There are tremendous flat holes like the 4th, and all-world climbs like the step-up fairway at the 9th. Not a single component of any hole feels out of place.•	Like Sheep Ranch, Pacific’s views are absolutely stunning, yet perfectly incorporated. Thank goodness Tom Doak did not try to force a more traditional sequence of pars onto the course; to have done so may have taken away from the perfect flow of the round.•	And, like Old Macdonald, the bold undulations in the greens and the wide, yet hazard-filled playing corridors lend themselves to unparalleled strategic options. By the turn, most players will not only have hit most clubs in their bag, but also will have needed to employ every type of shot imaginable. Some holes, like the par three 5th, will appear to require an aerial play, yet a low runner can creep over mounds into the far corners of the putting surface. Others embody the opposite effect. The 16th green may appear to welcome bounced shots, yet knobs fronting the putting surface can actually reject shots into treacherous dips and hollows surrounding the complex. Many peers ask what traits I feel make a golf course great. Although my favorite courses span many different geographies, levels of difficulty, and price points, the one factor they all have in common is variety. Pacific Dunes is a consummate test of golf. It is a course that favors no one, yet is accessible to everyone. It is a course that reflects its environs exceptionally while still presenting challenges fit for the modern era. It is impossible to ask for a more thoughtful, yet peaceful adventure than that which awaits at Pacific Dunes.

One of the many distinguishing qualities of Bandon Dunes is that after experiencing the great courses there, golfers have a hard time choosing their favorite. This was easily apparent after a recent trip to Mike Keiser’s masterpiece resort. Bandon Dunes was a strong contender for my personal favorite. Bandon Dunes’ most compelling feature is a routing that feels more like a theme park ride than a links style golf course. It is full of suspense at every turn. Reading “Dream Golf” prior to my arrival gave me even more appreciation for the painstaking efforts undertaken by David McLay Kidd to nail every single detail. After finally experiencing the course for myself, I was no longer surprised that so much of the book was dedicated to the formation of the resort’s maiden venture. At Bandon Dunes, the player never knows what to expect around the bend. Every tee presents new challenges. Turning around the corner at the dogleg right 4th, one must regain focus on their shot after emerging into a breathtaking vista of the Pacific. Immediately after at the 5th, the player must navigate their way back into a splendid green site amidst the dunes, avoiding fascinating dragon teeth mounds which pepper the fairway. After playing a relatively flat corridor at the 9th, players must hold a crowned landing zone at the 10th. And, if the dangers of a cliffside falloff are not enough thrill, one must choose among multiple lines over diagonally bisected landing zones in the fairway at the all-world 16th. For a first timer, it is impossible to predict what might be coming next.Of all five 18-hole courses at the resort, Bandon Dunes is the most traditional ‘Championship’ style layout. Even so, there is absolutely nothing cookie-cutter about this golf course. From tee-to-green, Bandon Dunes astonishes the player with a plethora of distinctive challenges and opportunities.

One of the many distinguishing qualities of Bandon Dunes is that after experiencing the great courses there, golfers have a hard time choosing their favorite. This was easily apparent after a recent trip to Mike Keiser’s masterpiece resort. Old Macdonald was a strong contender for my personal favorite. The mantra of Golden Age architects was that with 18 great greens, it was nearly impossible to end up without 18 great holes. Old Macdonald captures this spirit exceptionally. Even without the dramatic ocean vistas of Bandon’s other courses, Old Macdonald was captivating at every turn. Its 18 bold putting surfaces were the most memorable of any course at the entire resort. While critics may argue that they are not all exact Macdonald templates, each one forces the player to think through the hole strategically. Playing angles are at an absolute premium at Old Macdonald, magnified by the sheer enormity of the greens, fairway bunkers that actually lie in the line of play, and width of the rumpled corridors. This is not to say that Old Macdonald lacks the flash of the other Bandon courses. The 3rd hole, which dramatically plays over the dune ridge and “Ghost tree,” is an all-world thriller for any level player. The short par three 5th may seem like a pushover, but any shot which improperly uses the banks built into the green can lead to a massive score. The 16th was another standout that offers options. Tee shots to the left will be blind into the green, blocked by an ‘Alps’ mound, but often will have a superior angle; drives to the right open up the hole, but may make the approach difficult due to the awkward angle. Too often, these equitable trade-offs are lost in a world where the focus is simply on penal risk/reward shot-making.Simply put, Old Macdonald encapsulates all that is right with the game of golf. It embodies strategic options while also presenting a delightful element of randomness. It is a course that you could play every day, yet never experience two rounds alike. It honors the ideals upon which the game’s founders built their architectural philosophy. In its simplicity it is magnificent.

One of the many distinguishing qualities of Bandon Dunes is that after experiencing the great courses there, golfers have a hard time choosing their favorite. This was easily apparent after a recent trip to Mike Keiser’s masterpiece resort. With so much already written about Bandon Trails below, our group noted the following highlights:•	The ways the holes lie on the ground is exceptional. Coore and Crenshaw incorporate many compelling knobs and rough bunkers that distort the player’s depth perception. These can be seen on the tee shot at the long par five 9th, as well as fascinating dunes that protrude across fairways at the 4th, 6th, and 15th. •	Even though the course is lined by dense forest, utilizing the proper playing angles is still at a premium. Any player out of position will quickly find themselves trying to stop a wedge to a shortsighted corner. Our caddie, who has been at the resort since 1999, warned that the plummeting 14th hole was one such example. Although this par four is short on the card, he cited it as the most deceptive and difficult for most amateurs at Bandon Dunes. Too many golfers immediately grab driver, not realizing that if a ball slides too far down the slope to the right, they may be in for a rough series of chips back and forth over the green.•	Bandon Trails diverse set of par threes were exceptional. Each required a different club and shot type, and none followed the same wind pattern. We only wish we could have been eased into the long, penalizing 2nd a little further into the round!Bandon Trails has a serious fan base. In fact, prior to my arrival, I had seen more reviews citing Trails as a favorite course than any other at Bandon. While it is far more enthralling than your run-of-the-mill parkland layout, I suspect that many first time visitors love Trails for its traditional, familiar set of challenges. The course is less affected by wind (allowing for more aerial shots); it is wide but still penal outside of the playing corridors (producing some of the most difficult holes at the resort); and, perhaps because it is set farther from the sea, it also had the lushest conditions we saw all week. Bandon Trails is an elite American golf course, and it is not surprising that so many Bandon guests fall in love with its rugged routing. Many state that more than any other course at Bandon, it needs the most plays to be appreciated. Here’s to hoping for a lottery win so I can put that to the test.

One of the many distinguishing qualities of Bandon Dunes is that after experiencing the great courses there, golfers have a hard time choosing their favorite. This was easily apparent after a recent trip to Mike Keiser’s masterpiece resort. With so much already written about Sheep Ranch below, our group noted the following highlights:•	The course (intentionally) has the best views on the property. With so many greens on the ocean, it is difficult not to be taken by its natural beauty. The way the cliffs are incorporated into the tee shot on the par four 6th is captivating.•	Interestingly, though, our group felt the most compelling holes architecturally were actually away from the Pacific, especially those which maximized the terrain. The blind, infinity fairway at the 14th was our favorite tee shot on the course. The one-of-a-kind, protruding terrace at the front of the 8th green left us entirely perplexed. And, the blown out green site at the par five 11th made us feel like we were right at home in the Sandhills of North Carolina.•	While the winter was harsh on the newly sodded greens, we did not think playability was affected. We preferred Sheep Ranch and Old Macdonald’s bent/fescue mix which was exceptionally firm and welcoming to ground shots.Sheep Ranch is a must include on any trip to the resort. It will be fascinating to see how the course matures and develops in the years to come.

The 13-hole Preserve short course at Bandon Dunes is a delightful addition to an already fabulous golf destination. Coore & Crenshaw’s ability to fit so many interesting par threes onto such a tight parcel of land is remarkable, especially since so many of the holes are individually framed. Even at the Preserve, no single type of golfer will be favored. The routing takes advantage of the undulating property, with holes playing uphill, downhill, and even against the side of ridges. The putting surfaces feature a mixture of terraces, pointed knobs, and slopes that test the precision of stronger players without being overly penal for beginners. Prior to arriving at the resort, I had not read much at all about Bandon’s other short, nine-hole course: Shorty’s. Featuring the same type of grass found at Old MacDonald and Sheep Ranch, this par three track is a hidden gem. While it does not have the ocean views of the Preserve, my playing partner and I felt that it offered an excellent practice opportunity for shots into tricky crowned greens. If you like the Preserve, be sure to give Shorty’s a chance as well.

The phrase “storied past” might be overused to describe many golf courses, but it is exceptionally appropriate for Sedgefield Country Club. With such a robust timeline of golf tournaments, Sedgefield’s history is steeped in notable events. These include but are not limited to its hosting of the first professional competition in North Carolina, witnessing Sam Snead win a record eight times at the Greater Greensboro Open, and breaking down racial barriers by inviting Charlie Sifford to participate in its 1961 event before the PGA Tour had removed its “Caucasians only” clause. To this day, Sedgefield remains among the favorite stops for tour players. This wonderfully preserved Donald Ross design provides more strategic challenge than many of its peer courses on the professional circuit. Frequently, classic clubs that host PGA Tour events are lumped into the “great second-shot golf courses” categorization. This moniker would be an injustice to the thoughtful tests presented from tee-to-green at Sedgefield Country Club.Sedgefield is a great “first-shot golf course.” While holes are lined by neighborhoods, the corridors provide plenty of width for playing angles. Fairway bunkers actually lie in the fairway; on holes 1, 8, 13, and 14, those same traps completely distort depth perception. The contours in landing zones can punish the player who thoughtlessly bombs away. If the course is presented under firm conditions, the wise golfer will vary their shot shape and club selection. It is imperative to employ speed slots throughout the round to find the flattest stance possible, if one even exists. Sedgefield can only be conquered by a player with a consummate golf skillset. At the finisher, for example, Ross asks that the golfer hit to an uphill green from a steeply downhill lie. Sedgefield is also a great “second-shot golf course.” Almost every green complex on the course is crowned, or raised from the fairway. With so many sharp ridges surrounding the putting surfaces, it can be nearly impossible to hold a green without aiming towards the center. Even with these treacherous targets, Ross provides reasonable opportunities for recovery. Most greens welcome run-ups and provide a variety of options for bump-and-runs, flops, and other creative short-game shots.Finally, it is worth noting that Sedgefield is also a great “third-shot golf course” (or, for most of us, fourth-, fifth-, sixth-, etc.-shot). The tricky undulations on these Ross green complexes are absolutely stunning and follow no distinct pattern. On some holes, the player may encounter classic templates like the Biarritz-esqe 2nd. On others, the challenge manifest in terraces, such as those found at the 18th. Features such as the wildly fun thumbprint at the short par three 16th are too underemployed in the game today. This simple green design is nearly impossible to navigate, yet it adds incredible strategic interest to an otherwise straightforward hole. Played from the proper set of tees, Sedgefield Country Club provides a difficult, but fair test of golf. With such delightfully contoured fairways, strategic bunkering, and knobbed green complexes, no two rounds will play identically at Sedgefield. It is undoubtedly among the finest Ross designs in North Carolina.

Golf course architects are invariably remembered for their most hallowed designs. While this may make sense for designers with small portfolios, it minimizes the accomplishments of other historic greats. This is especially true for the visionary Donald Ross. Defining Ross solely by his most famous routings disregards what may be his most impressive achievement: constructing hundreds of lesser-known clubs which thrive today even without a spotlight. Alamance Country Club is a fine example of a Ross course that does not receive significant attention, but that delights members every round. Ross’s penultimate design is not laid upon land with any dramatic features, yet it presents a compelling variety of challenges. Key elements of the routing that create interest include:•	The fact that the green is not visible from the tee on almost every par four or five. Most long holes bend in one direction or another, or feature blind shots from the tee. Knowing the day’s pin placement can considerably alter the preferred angle of attack.•	A thoughtfully maximized property. Alamance Country Club sits on a compact piece of land, yet no two consecutive holes are routed in exactly the same direction. With even a light breeze, the player will need to rethink their strategy on almost every shot.•	An uncluttered presentation. There is nothing forced about Alamance’s appearance. Bunkers are not needlessly planted around greens where there is already a challenge, and there is a refreshing lack of unnecessary artificial mounding. The holes flow over the topography that existed well before there was a golf course.In 2020, Alamance Country Club’s membership commissioned a renovation to the course that kept it faithful to the original 1946 plans. This unified admiration for the club’s roots is a testament to Ross’s genius as an architect. It was not simply Ross’s well-known masterpieces that defined his career. Instead, Ross should be applauded for putting forth his best effort on all of his projects. Ross left an indelible mark on golf all over the nation, and his spirit is alive and well in small-town Burlington, North Carolina.

Sandwiched between the golf-rich behemoths of Massachusetts and New York, Connecticut’s spectrum of architecturally significant courses pales in comparison to its neighbors. Despite this lack of famous layouts, plenty of Nutmeg State golf clubs showcase captivating, rolling properties that are perfect for the game. When notable designers did route courses, they took advantage of this compelling natural terrain.Donald Ross’s work at the Country Club of Waterbury is a fine example of this architectural style. Building the course over a quirky landscape, Ross managed to fit 18 thoughtful holes into a unique V-shaped property. Ross maximized strategic interest not by bulldozing, but by highlighting the distinctive features of the topography. One standout hole is the 7th, with a green that appears to fall into a small rock-outcropped pit. Another is the par four 10th which includes a massive, grass-covered mound that completely cuts off the fairway. The Country Club of Waterbury favors no one type of player, and it is impossible to get comfortable at any point in the round. A hole may require aerial target shots over creeks and ponds, and also force the player to consider the steeply sloping topography of the ground. This variety is essential for sustained playability, and it is a key reason why the course continues to stand the test of time.

There is very little I can add to M. James Ward’s thorough commentary on the recently renovated Tanglewood Park Championship Course. Undoubtedly among North Carolina’s finest public tracks, this routing is full of bold, unrelenting features. The course is peppered with massive bunkers, most of which are surrounded by thick rough. Adding to the difficulty of challenging these traps on risk-reward shots are their high, flashing faces. The player’s depth perception is completely thrown off when these types of sand pits are placed consecutively in the line of sight, which is the case at the 8th and 14th holes. Exacting drives and approach shots over the rolling terrain are demanded from the first tee to the final green. The Championship Course is a stern test that is best suited for advanced players. After all, it did host the 1974 PGA Championship. However, Tanglewood Park is a consummate golf playground. It is welcome to players of any ability. The property offers another 18-hole layout in its Reynolds Course, family tees, and a spacious practice range. Its rates are affordable throughout the year, placing the facility among the best values in the state. It is absolutely worth a stop in the golf-rich city of Winston-Salem.

In an area loaded with higher education institutions, North Carolina State University has always managed to stand out. With so many excellent academic programs, particularly in engineering, technology, and other niche natural sciences, NC State has arguably played the most critical role in the Research Triangle’s exponential expansion. It is fitting that Lonnie Poole Golf Course has this same, distinctive spirit. The Triangle region does not boast our state’s most notable courses, but instead provides a breadth of solid options. With its audacious layout and enormous scale, Lonnie Poole breaks from the norm of so many other area designs. Opened in 2008, Lonnie Poole has a very modern feel. The course was built by the Arnold Palmer Design Company; two of the key contributing architects were NC State graduates Brandon Johnson and Erik Larsen. Lonnie Poole may be one of, if not the only university course in the country designed by alumni. On the Lonnie Poole website you can receive an inside glimpse into the architectural thought processes employed on each hole from Brandon and Erik themselves. In that video series they display infectious energy and meticulous attention to detail.The most prominent theme of Lonnie Poole’s routing is the visually intimidating features found on almost every single hole. While the scale of most corridors is massive, so too are the flashing waste areas that block the players line of sight. Gargantuan cross bunkers can play tricks with your depth-perception. Most fairways at Lonnie Pool have mixed width, so it can often feel like you are playing to pocketed, island landing zones en route to the green, even when there is no forced carry. Any player who does not find excitement in blind shots over large hillcrests need not visit Lonnie Poole. A second standout aspect of Lonnie Poole is the property itself. The layout takes advantage of some sharp topography. While it is easy to single-out the par five 11th, which features a fabulous view of the Raleigh skyline, many of Lonnie Poole’s holes maximize the rolling knolls around the site. Like the Old Town Club in Winston Salem, Lonnie Poole requires that every player “read” the fairways like a green complex. Landing zones and hole corridors are tilted, twisted, and sometimes crowned. More often than not, a perfectly straight shot is insufficient to find the short grass. The terrain movement is simply spectacular.Strong conditioning is paramount in maintaining the playability of these features. Benefitting from its position as an NC State turfgrass research facility, Lonnie Poole accomplishes two key elements in its presentation. The first is generally well-draining, tight surfaces that allow the ball to be played on the ground. The second is the incorporation of natural wiregrasses which give the course an exceptionally natural and rustic feel. Errant players may find their ball in some thick patches of unkempt, but beautiful high grasses. The phenomenal work done by the superintendent and staff allow every inch of this property to shine. At one time, Lonnie Poole was quite a bit more expensive than its university course neighbors. The course should be commended for maintaining its pricing structure and not gouging like many peer courses during the pandemic. With that said, if you would like to play, be sure to book well in advance. Demand for tee times is high.Lonnie Poole is not a course to miss the next time you are in the Triangle. Its modern layout captures the beauty of the region while testing both your physical and mental abilities as a player. It is undoubtedly among the finest courses in the Raleigh-Durham area.

Maine is a fascinating state. It is a place that takes equal pride in its heritage and its modern, progressive spirit. A similar dichotomy can be found on many Vacationland courses. In the state golf association’s book titled “The Game Has Come to Stay,” longtime seasonal resident and former president George H.W. Bush describes the game there as “timeless.” So many designs in Maine stand the test of time for being unassuming, yet distinct.Brunswick Golf Club is one such example. The club’s first holes were built in 1898 on a property lacking any dramatic features. From an aerial photograph, one might assume the minimalist layout is straightforward. However, thanks to the willingness of various architectural contributors to break from stale design norms, Brunswick Golf Club presents a memorable round.This unconventional flair is best captured by Brunswick’s many half-par holes. Too many modern courses employ prescribed, repetitive yardages. Brunswick is simple, yet full of variety. One such example comes at the 9th, a true three-shot beast which tips out at over 600 yards. It will test your nerves from tee to green. Another delightful oddity are the back-to-back par threes at four and five. The 4th plays slightly uphill, is flanked by a pond, and requires an aerial shot over a precarious bunker with what is likely your longest iron. The 5th, on the other hand, is only about 100 yards, downhill. The notion that one-shotters should not be consecutive is really nonsense; after all, it is done exceptionally well at Brunswick and another well-regarded course known as Cypress Point.Simply put, Brunswick Golf Club is a charming place. With its proximity to the world-renowned L.L. Bean headquarters in Freeport, Brunswick is an easy round to incorporate in any trip up the Maine coast.

The breadth and depth of golf options in the Sandhills of North Carolina can be overwhelming. Loaded with courses from a variety of designers spanning almost all architectural eras, Pinehurst and Southern Pines can satisfy any golfer’s expectations. On the other hand, navigating the vast selection can be as difficult for a return visitor as it is for a newcomer. Even with its many globally-renowned neighbors, the publicly accessible Legacy Golf Links stands out. It is a course that is sure to satisfy any level of player visiting the Sandhills. A host to many prestigious amateur events, this Jack Nicklaus II championship design incorporates a range of features throughout the round. Among the most notable aspects of the course are its:•	Serene setting: situated fifteen minutes south of the Southern Pines commercial district, Legacy Golf Links instills a feeling of tranquility. Though the layout is built among a neighborhood, homes are not noticeable. There is a peacefulness about the course which meanders through thick hardwood forests and still lakes. •	Emphasis on playing angles: Legacy features a number of kidney-shaped and other oblong green complexes. On some holes it is necessary to find the correct side of the generous fairways to attack the flag. •	Thoughtful use of the topography: On this rolling property, corridors meander across slopes in a variety of directions. Throughout the round, the player may need a fade or draw to hold a shot against a canted fairway (such as the 7th or 10th). On other holes, the daring golfer may take on a blind shot and trust the undulating landing area for a good kick. The short par four 15th and the very memorable 18th, which plays over the crest of a knoll, are two fine examples.•	Demanding one-shotters: Each of Legacy’s par threes incorporates a water hazard, yet none plays similarly thanks to the setting of the putting surfaces. These tee shots are unnerving, even to the best players. In any other North Carolina location, Legacy would not only be a great bang-for-your-buck, but probably would rank among the best public courses. With phenomenal practice facilities and country-club-ambience, Legacy provides a calm atmosphere where locals and visitors alike can escape the busier parts of Pinehurst.

Reiterating the previous reviewers’ comments, the University of Georgia Golf Course is a tremendously difficult test for any player. Just a few shots into the round you will realize why the Bulldogs have produced so many successful tour professionals. From tee to green, the Robert Trent Jones/Davis Love architecture here is unrelenting.By the numbers, the golf course is very long. However, the yardage on the scorecard does not even begin to capture the true length. That is because so many holes flow down and then back up hills. Even the most brawny tee shots are abruptly halted when they slam into upslopes in the landing area. Almost every hole on the course requires an aerial shot, eliminating the possibility of playing the ball on the ground. And, there is very little wiggle room to err beyond each fairway corridor. Like other university clubs in the Southeast, UGA’s course benefits from the presence of a strong turf management program on campus. Conditions are generally good throughout the year. If you find yourself in Athens, a round at the university course is certainly worth the price of admission.

The three prior reviews capture the essence of Mohegan Sun Golf Club accurately. Pautipaug’s previous design was altogether straightforward. The most recent renovation has made a major difference, forcing the player to be thoughtful and creative with shot shaping, particularly off the tee. This is best demonstrated by the many holes where landing zones are stunted by hazards exactly where players would wish to place a drive. Fairways are awkwardly pinched by bunkers (2, 5, 10, 12, 14-16), streams (5), and ponds (5, 10, 18) throughout the round. On virtually any tee shot, successfully overcoming any of these intrusions may result in a full-stroke advantage, while succumbing to their challenges will almost always lead to a bogey or worse. While Mohegan Sun Golf Club has certainly come a long way from its roots, the course is not on the same level as its nearby casino peers. It is not the most accessible geographically nor for cost, though its choice to reopen as a public course is commendable. It is worth a stop if staying at the resort.

There are countless reasons to visit the Outer Banks. History buffs can enjoy the Wright Brothers Memorial and nautical museums; nature buffs can traverse dune ridges, pristine beaches, and gorgeous waterways; and those looking to simply escape will enjoy the OBX’s refreshing lack of high rise hotels. Despite these appealing qualities, the barrier islands of North Carolina are a difficult place to build golf courses. There is little acreage to begin with and the landscape is constantly on the move due to cyclical erosion. Combine that with the competition of real estate and, sadly, golf has not emerged as a priority.M. James Ward’s description of the Currituck Club below is spot on. Even though housing took precedence in the project, Rees Jones and his team did a phenomenal job of creating what is arguably the best course in the northeast corner of the state. With holes routed in a variety of directions, players are tested throughout the day by the same winds that inspired Orville and Wilbur a century ago.Aerial shots of the course used in advertisements give the impression that the standout holes will showcase views of the sound. During my first round there this fall, I was surprised to find that high reeds blocked the intracoastal waterway vistas. However, I was equally surprised that the inland holes, routed over the highest points of the dune ridge, were actually the most compelling architecturally. This is best illustrated by the rolling topography in the middle of the round. Playing uphill towards the clubhouse, the fairway at the 9th is canted from right-to-left. The preferred angle to the green complex is from the harder-to-find right side, forcing the player to challenge the natural slope and out-of-bounds. Continuing to take advantage of the terrain, the par four 10th plays up and over a large knoll while the par three 11th features a blind green atop a hill. At the 12th, the best angle to the green is from the right side which is guarded at the dogleg corner by pot bunkers and a natural sandy waste area. The par five 13th drops significantly from the tee to a fairway flanked by a preserved maritime forest. The ideal layup zone is peppered with treacherous hazards that distort the line of sight. This exciting stretch is capped by the potentially reachable par four 14th which features wild swales in the landing zone.In hindsight, to be most captivated by the inner holes routed over dunes should not have come as a surprise. After all, a similar type of ecosystem inspired the games founders overseas. It does beg the question of whether or not there are more properties on the Outer Banks that might be open to supporting a true links style layout. Then again, with the environmental and erosional hurdles that would need to be overcome, the OBX may be better left alone as a beach retreat.

When you rate golf courses, what factors do you consider? What aspects create an experience worthy of return? By my criteria, Gillette Ridge shines in perhaps the most important category: fun. It is a track that any player could enjoy on an endless loop.Central Connecticut offers a wide array of parkland courses with corridors lined by thick forest, plain circular green complexes, and blasé fronting bunkers. Gillette Ridge manages to break this mold in countless ways. The most compelling aspects of this Arnold Palmer design are its quirky, pronged putting surfaces and their short-grass collection areas. These chipping swales can be spotted on all four sides of greens throughout the round. On any given day, the proper playing angle and ideal bail out may change drastically. Any players missing greens will find themselves using aerial flops, bump-and-run chips, and other creative recovery techniques.Sadly, for many years Gillette Ridge fell under hard times. Facing stiff public and private competition in its immediate vicinity, the course was on the verge of closing and lost favor among the local golf community. While great conditioning is not a necessity for all great architecture, tight lies and lush fairways are critical to enabling Gillette Ridge’s strategic interest. Thankfully, under strong management today, Gillette Ridge is thriving once again. Public reviewers are raving about the course and tournaments are returning regularly.Although the previous arrangement of the front and back nines allowed for a more dramatic start and finish, the tempo of the current routing at Gillette Ridge still features bursts of compelling stretches through each segment of the layout:•	The round commences with a range of tests. These include deep, three shot par fives, penalty areas that are ever present in the players mind, and great temptation shots like the drivable par four 4th. •	Things pick up as the outward side finishes. The 8th hole’s green complex, while polarizing in its design, is undoubtedly unique in the game today. The green is set atop a stone bridge, and achieving the proper angle on the layup shot is nearly impossible due to a centerline trap. Players may also wish to bail out left at the par four-and-a-half 9th to avoid missing its rocky, peninsula green. •	The turn begins with a bang, setting the tone for the remainder of this adventurous excursion. The 11th hole is a superb risk-reward par five. If the pin is on the front or back prongs of the green, laying up is the wise move, while holes cut in the top portion of its triangular shape beg for bravery. Situated on sloping topography, the player can use the ground at the 12th off the tee and as an entry to the large putting surface.•	The finale at Gillette Ridge begs the player to muster up all remaining energy to tackle some of the course’s longer holes.Growing up and learning the game in the greater Hartford area, my golf group tried to play as many of the Nutmeg State’s daily fee courses as our teenage budgets permitted. In general, we almost always sought out new tracks. Perhaps the greatest compliment we could offer to Gillette Ridge is that it fell among the top echelon of public courses which we gladly returned to regularly. Though the property has hosted numerous PGA Tour qualifying and Symetra Tour events, it continues to offer affordable rates for the public. With such an accommodating atmosphere, Gillette Ridge is a splendid stop for anyone traveling through Hartford. Gillette Ridge can be paired well with another round at Keney Park, Wintonbury Hills, Wampanoag, or serve as a great standalone 36-hole day.

Steeped in a rich history of golf’s greatest players, Starmount Forest imparts a special feeling as you enter the property, ascend the long driveway to the pro shop, and soak in views of the hallowed grounds. It is also impossible to miss its modern amenities which include a magnificent clubhouse, top notch short game area, and water slide worthy of an amusement park.Situated in the suburban/urban divide of Greensboro, Starmount Forest exemplifies the mission of any country club: offering its members a retreat from the bustle of city life. The layout rolls over mixed topography and incorporates a number of natural waterways in true classical fashion. Architecturally, two main themes emerge throughout the round.The first is the varied nature of the dogleg corridors. In fact, with so many twists and turns, the green is not visible from the tee on 13 of the 14 par fours and fives. Neither a fade, nor a draw, nor a perfectly straight ball will suffice to conquer Starmount Forest. Perhaps the most compelling aspect of the design, though, is that on any individual hole, the adventure can change drastically after the bend. This characteristic is exemplified by the par four 6th which comfortably sits among my favorites of 3,800 unique holes played. From the tee, the player can easily experience a sensation of tunnel vision. With houses left, out-of-bounds right, and a creek acting as a wall at the end of the fairway, nerves sink in as you must either drop a perfectly positioned layup, or severely hook the ball around the corner. After descending to the fairway, though, the approach to the green emerges as a wide-open vista. The creek, which previously ran perpendicular to play, then must be conquered in parallel, often forcing the opposite shot shape from your drive. This type of diversity – on a single hole, no less – is fascinating and favors no player.The second main characteristic of Starmount Forest are the exceptional putting surfaces which are frequently banked into the natural hills of the property. Given the firm nature of the Bermuda grass, and the fact that almost every approach must be played aerially, players often need to consider how the ball will react with the ground upon landing. In some instances, a well-struck shot may unfavorably bounce to an irrecoverable chipping area. In others, a player may be able to use the natural contours to roll an approach to a different tier. This feature is seen at holes such as the 8th where a draw to the more accessible front right portion of the green can swing all the way to a guarded back left pin.Starmount Forest may not be long by modern standards, but it is a dream layout for players who can work the ball. This second shot golf course will test every club in your bag and dare you to play aggressively around its many dogleg holes. It is a golf tradition that continues to stand the test of time.

Imagine if the land that is now Longshore Park was discovered in 2020. Situated on a coastal inlet of Long Island Sound, the value of that real estate would be almost incalculable. Surely, no sensible developer today would commission a municipal course on the site.Fortunately for local golfers, Longshore Golf Course has survived and served the community of Westport and players all around the Constitution State for a century. From any perspective, Longshore is a model ‘muni,’ overcoming so many of the challenges that all courses face in the modern era:•	Appropriate conditioning: Longshore is a seaside course, and its condition reflects this nature. Holes are not crowded by trees, and wide areas of dry rough reside between many corridors. Longshore demonstrated the value of “brown is the new green” well before the mantra was marketed by the USGA. With high natural fescue covering many bunkers, the conditioning also affects strategy; simply clearing the sand traps is usually not enough for success.•	Minimalist design: Longshore is generally flat, but thankfully the original architects highlighted and incorporated the interesting aspects of the topography rather than razing and re-shaping it. Examples include the protruding knob at the par three 2nd and the green complex atop a small mound at the exceptionally fun short par four 4th. The course is compact, with distances from green-to-tee kept minimal, and the bunkering is not overly ornate.•	Affordability: In one of the wealthiest counties in the nation, Longshore Golf Course remains staunchly accessible to the public. The presentation and layout support its low cost – the course is not painstakingly manicured and does not require significant watering, and it is always walkable. This is a property that could easily be converted into an exclusive, private retreat; instead, it proudly makes the game available to any member of the community.Longshore Golf Course is a wonderful example of successful simplicity. Not every course needs a signature hole to be memorable. Flashing bunkers, understated conditioning, and corridors routed in a variety of directions all provide a stimulating experience for its players.

Over the last decade living in the Carolinas, I lost track of the number of times members of my golf circle cited the Mid South Club among their two or three favorite courses in the state. During my first round there this summer, the course met the high bar set by these countless positive reviews.The Mid South Club makes a strong first impression. Immediately, the golfer realizes they are in for a real treat when stepping foot on the driving range and practice green, presenting some of the fastest and most lush turf in the entire Pinehurst area. These conditions are central to Mid South’s memorability, enabling the numerous swales and collection areas scattered around green complexes to pose a serious strategic threat.Like many other Arnold Palmer courses, Mid South Club tests all aspects of the player’s game. Holes differ significantly in length and frequently vary in their narratives, sometimes requiring an all-aerial approach, and other times welcoming run-up shots. Interestingly, the journey on each side of the course differs almost entirely.The main storyline on the front is one of fantastically contoured fairways and elevation change. In fact, green complexes are not visible from the tee on any of the seven two and three shotters. The knolls situated in the ideal landing zones are beguiling for players of all abilities. On the dogleg right 2nd, a properly played fade might actually follow the sloping land behind a tree, blocking a view of the green. On the 4th, similar curvature may funnel a ball into a completely blind approach over a steep knob. At the 5th, the player must strategically land a drive on a downward slope that leads to a pond. At virtually all points in the round, the King demands precision and thoughtfulness.The topography of the back nine is far more subdued with the opening four holes flowing over gentle terrain. At the 14th, the course abruptly bursts into a more prototypical Sandhills-style landscape which asks the player to navigate large waste areas to an island fairway. The risk-reward approach shot at the 15th is arguably the most memorable shot of the round. Going for the green in two at this par five is tempting but dangerous. A hard slope can be used to funnel balls down to the green, but only if the shot can avoid a virtually irrecoverable centerline bunker. An airborne approach is also an option, but it requires a hard hook that does not fly beyond the green and into a pond. The final holes all incorporate treacherous penalty areas.The Mid South Club is technically a gated, private community, though it offers occasional daily-fee tee times through booking websites and area travel affiliations. For its membership, the facility provides an exceptionally varied experience; for visitors, a high-quality round with some of the finest conditions in the Sandhills. Balancing the needs of both clientele, the staff at Mid South provides wonderful hospitality and a memorable day on and off the course. The Mid South Club is more than deserving of its consistent, strong praise by virtually all rating bodies.

It is not easy to stand out in the Sandhills of North Carolina. With dozens of highly ranked courses in the region – including so many that are publically accessible – it is even more difficult for private clubs to establish the value proposition of their brand. Pinewild Country Club is among the few communities in the Pinehurst area that successfully accomplished this feat, offering a consummate golf playground for its members. For beginners, the facility offers a massive driving range and practice ground. Pinewild also established its super fun, Donald Ross inspired Azalea par 27 course well before par three courses were such a mainstay at high end country clubs. For a step up in the challenge, Pinewild’s Holly Course captures the natural beauty of the ecosystem, featuring vast sandy waste areas and moderately hilly terrain.The crown jewel of the Pinewild property is the Magnolia Championship Course. Opened in 1989, this layout is a plain and simple brute. Dialing in at 7,400+ yards from the tips, the course has challenged some of the finest amateur players from around the world annually at a variety of notable tournaments, signaling the respect of many golf associations to this esteemed design.With broad playing corridors and flanking bunkers often placed directly in the player’s line of sight, the Magnolia presents a plethora of challenges. However, the most memorable characteristic of the round are the severe and often abrupt elevation changes. There are holes which play up and over knolls, across valleys, and in virtually every direction over the undulating topography. This trait is best exemplified on the back nine. The par three 12th hole’s green is totally blind from the tee, playing at least a club or two longer than listed. The par five 13th follows with what is likely the most dramatic plummet in the Sandhills. It is among the most riveting tee shots in all of Pinehurst.With so many golf options in its confines, Pinewild Country Club is equally exciting for its members as it is for a passing guest. Should you ever receive an invitation to play the Magnolia Course, be sure to hit the gym and bring your A-game.

With its combination of great weather and gentle topography, along with its reputation as a financial services industry hub, it is no surprise that Charlotte is loaded with so many excellent golf courses. The market is competitive, though, so it can be hard to stand out. Even with almost 10 other private clubs within a few miles, TPC Piper Glen’s phenomenal layout and immaculate course conditioning produce a round that is memorable for a visitor while never boring the membership.In my experience, Arnold Palmer designs exhibit noteworthy balance and variety. This is especially true at TPC Piper Glen, making the course nearly impossible to pigeonhole into any particular category. Some key features the player encounters include:•	Rapid, unpredictable elevation changes: Even in the first four holes at TPC Piper Glen, the holes are routed over flat land (1), straight uphill (2), uphill and then downhill (3), and back downhill (4). This variability is a preview of challenges to come, and it forces golfers to get their footing immediately.•	Deceptive, daunting bunker schemes: Many Palmer course’s pay homage to classic architects with deep sand traps whose flashing faces can totally alter the player’s depth perception and strategy of attack. Many of these hazards also sit centerline. Examples of such illusory threats can be found on six holes. •	Strategically-angled putting surfaces: With such miscellaneous shaping, TPC Piper Glen’s greens often present significant risk-reward opportunities. Frequently, the player must choose between taking the longer, safe route to a deep green versus a more direct path to the shallow side of the hole.Perhaps the most compelling aspect of TPC Piper Glen from a competition perspective is the tempo of the round. Both nines open with strategic, yet gentle scoring opportunities. Then, bursts of tough stretches pepper themselves throughout the routing. Each nine ends on holes loaded with visually intimidating penalty areas. Players have the opportunity to ease into their round, encountering challenges that ebb and flow. If you ever receive an invitation to play there, TPC Piper Glen is a solid option in the competitive Charlotte golf market. Whether experiencing the course for the first or fifteenth time, the player will constantly be presented with differing obstacles and options. Especially with the addition of its new greens, TPC Piper Glen will not disappoint on your next visit to the Queen City.

The city of Asheboro is a surprising crossroads in North Carolina. Situated in the ancient Uwharrie Mountain range, Asheboro creates a unique link among the piedmont, Sandhills, and Appalachian geologic zones of the state. On this common ground, it is fitting that Asheboro’s strong golf options also capture three styles of architecture, each from a unique era in design history.Representing the classic period is one of North Carolina’s best nine-hole courses, the Asheboro Municipal Golf Club. This 1937 Ross design gently flows over a rolling property with perched putting surfaces. On the other end of the spectrum is the modern Mike Strantz course at Tot Hill Farm, once rated among America’s toughest courses. The rugged oddities found throughout Tot Hill Farm make other polarizing Strantz properties seem benign.Built in 1971, Pinewood Country Club presents a more typical routing for a central North Carolina golf course. Clearly constructed for a strong playing membership, the twists and turns of Pinewood present challenges both for recreational golfers and the state’s finest amateurs. Though historically private, Pinewood has now opened its doors with limited tee times for the public.The two nines at Pinewood could not be more dissimilar, each telling its own individual tale. The front pays homage to the historic mountains on which the course was built. Every one of the par fours and fives rises or falls steeply over hills and valleys. Interestingly, the bold green complexes follow suit and feature terrifying plateaus and knobs. They are as wild as the nearby North Carolina Zoo.The course’s opening three holes are attention-grabbing, capturing the spirit of this undulating, strategic design. The first hole bends to the left, though the fairway is canted to the right. This tilt makes the approach shot into the green challenging, since the natural miss will force balls out-of-bounds. The landing zone at the second provides a major speed slot for the aggressive shot-shaper, but may also leave an awkward downhill lie to a sharply uphill green. The massive plummet at the par five third is inspiring, but tightened by forest, sand, and a pond situated in the ideal driving location. Each of the greens on these holes feature no less than three distinct tiers, forcing players to be precise on their approach.The theme of harsh, rolling terrain all but disappears on the second nine. Mapped over more gentle topography, many holes after the turn feel more like a stroll in a park, especially on the stretch from 12 – 15. This is not to suggest that the back lacks teeth. Bunkers pinch or flank the ideal landing zone on every one of the par fours and fives, and on many occasions, knolls carefully funnel even well struck tee shots into the sand. Not a single green on the back welcomes a run-up shot, as bunkers also guard the entry to every putting surface.In the same way that Asheboro bridges the gap between so many regions of the state, Pinewood Country Club is the middle ground of two other notable golf properties in the area. Pinewood manages to test any type of player while still showcasing the natural beauty of the Uwharrie landscape.

Outside of the Sandhills region, Greensboro arguably boasts more breadth and depth of golf architecture than any other city in the Old North State. This variety is especially true among courses that are publicly accessible. One can find minimalist designs dating back to the Golden Age (Perry Maxwell’s Gillespie Park comes to mind), bold and brash modern layouts (Pete Dye’s Cardinal and Oak Hollow are two personal favorites), and virtually every style of golf in between.It is my opinion that the crown jewel of these very strong daily fee options, though, is Forest Oaks Country Club. As the host to the historic Greater Greensboro Open for three decades, Forest Oaks became a favorite of tour players. While its transition from private to public had some amenity hiccups, the quality of golf and the integrity of the layout were never lost thanks to superb efforts by the superintendent and staff. A quick scan of recent course reviews reiterates that the conditions today are as immaculate as ever.Despites its modern setting and relatively recent renovations, Forest Oaks pays homage to the design style of classic architects. Routed over tumbling terrain through suburban neighborhoods, the real star of the show at Forest Oaks are its massive, daunting green complexes. This flavor of golf – which forces the player to think carefully about angles as they approach each putting surface – is too rarely encountered on other courses built in the same era. No two holes are alike at Forest Oaks, and players of every level can expect to encounter strategic challenges throughout their round. Some of the most notable holes include:•	#4: The tee shot at the par five 4th is fear-inducing. With a pond running down the entire left side of the fairway and out-of-bounds long and right, players must carefully take a long-iron or metal off the tee. Some relief is rewarded by those who bank their shot off the boundary hill. The second shot plays uphill to a green so severe in its pitch, any shot missed long will be nearly impossible to recover.•	#11: Among my personal favorite holes in the entire state, the 11th is a modern twist on the classic Biarritz template. With a bowled fairway, the drive is relatively straight-forward. Most Biarritz holes – with their horseshoe-shaped green complexes – are long par threes. The spirit of that design is captured here beautifully for those players attempting to reach the green in two. Finding oneself in the bowl or on the wrong plateau of the green is a recipe for disaster, and the best way to attack this massive putting surface may be on the ground.•	#12: The curvature of the lake on the 12th is beguiling. In essence, the unique shape provides three distinct landing zones, each shrinking as the player becomes more aggressive. Brave drives are rewarded as the uphill approach into this green is lengthy.•	#14: Like any good short par four, the 14th at Forest Oaks provides the proper amount of temptation. Reaching the green requires a drive that curves hard to the right. Any shot over-cooked risks out-of-bounds or a more difficult angle into a green flanked by a C-shaped trap. Less risky players face their own challenges, with the ideal landing area pinched by additional bunkers.•	#15: Twisting the challenge, the 15th begs the player to hug the inside left curve of the hole. This green complex is banked gorgeously into a natural knoll and leaves an unnerving, blind approach.•	#18: The finishing hole at Forest Oaks is a full adventure. Off the tee, players can attempt to clear a menacing cross bunker, gaining a significant yardage advantage, or play safely to its right. This conservative strategu may be penalized, though, as the corridor bends right over a hill which may reject those drives backwards, leaving a blind approach off a sidehill lie. While the green complex welcomes run-up shots, any player trying to reach the putting surface in two must navigate a classic, thin, centerline bunker that gives a greenside-illusion.Around the state’s other major metro areas (Raleigh/Durham, Charlotte, etc.), one would be hard pressed to find a weekend, in-season tee time at a high caliber public course for less than $75. Maxing out at just over ~$50 on any day of the week, with numerous specials scattered throughout, Forest Oaks provides a quality golf experience at a more affordable price than comparable public courses in the aforementioned cities. Recent testimonials on Google reaffirm that golfers are traveling here regularly from far and wide for Forest Oaks’ exceptional value. If you find yourself in the Greensboro area, take the time to soak in a round at Forest Oaks. You will not be disappointed by the historic feel, caliber of playing surfaces, and variety of challenges presented.

Outside of the Sandhills region, Greensboro arguably boasts more breadth and depth of golf architecture than any other city in the Old North State. This variety is especially true among courses that are publicly accessible. One can find minimalist designs dating back to the Golden Age (Perry Maxwell’s Gillespie Park comes to mind), bold and brash modern layouts (Pete Dye’s Cardinal and Oak Hollow are two personal favorites), and virtually every style of golf in between.For those players seeking memorable, resort-style risk/reward golf presented under immaculate conditions, look no further than the options at The Grandover. Maximizing its setting, The Grandover East Course incorporates numerous natural and manmade hazards throughout the round and features a balanced mix of holes that turn in all directions, routed both up and downhill. The course is a consummate test of the player’s abilities, and it is no surprise that it hosts a number of college and amateur events. Some of the more prominent architectural themes at The Grandover’s East Course include:•	Blind shots requiring precision, commanding trust in your own distance control (eight holes)•	Canted landing zones that funnel the ball away from the ideal angle into the green (ten holes)•	Forced carries over ponds or creeks to fairways and/or putting surfaces (ten holes)Countless playing corridors at The Grandover East Course are daunting. Finding the fairway on any one of the par fives is equally terrifying whether attacking the hole conservatively or aggressively. Crowned, sloped fairways that feed balls toward creeks are ever present. Even with the run-up option available into many putting surfaces, the knobs and hollows to and through each green complex leave the player unnerved.With so many bold challenges presented throughout the round, it is ironic that perhaps the most architecturally compelling hole is also the shortest. Playing to a mere 125 yards from the back tees, the 12th hole on the scorecard may appear to provide the player some relief. That golfer is in for a rude awakening. Misplacing your tee shot on any of the left-to-right tiers will lead to a three putt at minimum, if not worse. With a creek running directly in front of this shallow putting surface, it is hard to imagine a more unsettling short wedge shot in the entire Piedmont region.With delicious dining and a refreshing spa, The Grandover Resort is a wonderful facility in which to get away and relax. After a round on the East Course, any player will definitely need to unwind. This modern golf property requires your A-Game from tee-to-green for 18 consecutive holes. With its convenient location just off the highway, it is certainly worth a stop if you find yourself in the Triad.

Outside of the Sandhills region, Greensboro arguably boasts more breadth and depth of golf architecture than any other city in the Old North State. This variety is especially true among courses that are publicly accessible. One can find minimalist designs dating back to the Golden Age (Perry Maxwell’s Gillespie Park comes to mind), bold and brash modern layouts (Pete Dye’s Cardinal and Oak Hollow are two personal favorites), and virtually every style of golf in between.For those players seeking a modern, traditional design, The Champions Course at Bryan Park by Rees Jones should fit the bill. Situated a few miles north of the city on a sprawling, wooded property abutting Lake Townsend, Bryan Park is every man’s country club – a retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The practice facilities and full swath of amenities available to any visitor are remarkable.Make no mistake, though. The Champions Course is no walk in the park. Throughout the round, players will encounter many architecturally thoughtful features found on other tough Rees Jones’ layouts, including:•	Bunkers guarding the preferred green angle off the tee, or pinching the ideal landing zone with driver (1, 3, 9, 13, 15, 18)•	Menacing forced carries over water or precariously placed hazards (1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 10 – 15) •	And numerous raised putting surfaces which, if missed, leave difficult recovery shots The three hole stretch from 13 to 15 is one of the finest in the Triad region, if not the entire state. The 13th features a heroic tee shot to a fairway that turns 90 degrees to the right (pictured above). To cut off distance, the player must challenge two deep bunkers and an inlet to an incredibly original peninsular fairway stretching out to Lake Townsend. The 14th is as difficult a one-shotter as you might encounter anywhere. Playing 230+ yards from the back tees, the hole requires a long iron or metal to a green that is fronted by a massive sand trap and a lake immediately beyond. The best, and for many, the only, play may be laying. The island fairway at the par five 15th is exhilarating. Bunkers guard the left side, and finding one can make even a lay-up nearly impossible.The Champions Course at Bryan Park is unabashedly difficult, and brazenly public. For these reasons, it is no wonder the site has hosted countless prestigious regional and national events, and is always a contender for future tournaments. It is a solid test for any strong player visiting the area.

With hundreds of courses to Donald Ross’s credit, it is inevitable that historians attempt to stereotype his architectural style, particularly around the greens. One need not look further than Forsyth Country Club in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, to realize that Ross not only incorporated variety into his stellar routings, but also his world-class putting surfaces. Built on the bones of an original nine hole Tillinghast design, it is no surprise that golfers are in for a very unique, special experience at Forsyth.Situated on a rollicking piece of property, Forsyth is similar to many other top-notch Ross courses with corridors incorporating the topography naturally and strategically. The routing hugs the ground, highlighting virtually every natural feature of note, from bumbling brooks to gentle cants in the fairways. Presented under some of the firmest conditions in the entire Piedmont region, the rolling land must be deliberately considered on every shot from tee-to-green. This charm is a rarity on so many American courses, making Forsyth even more of a treat to experience day-in and day-out. Thought-provoking from the opening tee shot, any number of holes at Forsyth are worthy of study:•	#1: Options abound as the round commences. The player may use the natural right-to-left hill in the fairway to safely avoid two fairway bunkers on the left, gaining yardage. However, laying up to the wider portion of the landing zone has its advantages on this short two-shotter. The green complex is divided into two portions by a steep, diagonal ridge. Hit this wall on the fly, and holding the green will be nearly impossible.•	#2: Not long by modern standards, new pin placements may entirely alter the way one approaches the 2nd hole. With the pin on the left, keeping the ball on the right half of the fairway – while avoiding bunkers and fighting the slope – is an absolute necessity. This is best achieved with an aggressive drive. With the pin on the right, a layup shot should suffice. •	#3: This par three might as well be an island green. Pitching out from either bunker or from the collection area beyond the putting surface will leave a chip that is nearly impossible to hold.•	#4: The reachable par four 4th is truly exhilarating thanks to the course’s firm conditions. The green is wide and unguarded in the front. Playing straight downhill, one could not imagine a more inviting opportunity to pull the driver. However, as the artist Ross so frequently accomplished, this hole seamlessly hides the peril for even a slightly errant shot. Miss long or left and watch your ball drop sharply into a hazard; miss right and enjoy a delicate pitch towards that same penalty area. Adding to the difficulty is the narrowing green complex molded in the spirit of a Biarritz. While the traditional Biarritz green presents as a long par three, the essence of the template is still captured here since most players will be using a driver or fairway metal to run the shot up. This hole falls in the top echelon of Ross creations in that it is so simple, yet so effective, it appears to be “discovered rather than designed.”•	#5: Although reaching the green in two is improbable at Forsyth’s first par five, the best angle for any approach shot is from the right half of the fairway. Again, the player is asked to combat the natural cant of the land and to avoid a deep cross bunker.•	#6: Unlike many architects, Ross designed courses with the amateur in mind. It was his desire to challenge all aspects of any player’s game while still leaving the golfer excited to return. The 6th hole at Forsyth captures this philosophy exceptionally. With a creek bisecting the landing zone, one must hit either a career best drive to clear the hazard, or lay up significantly with an iron or fairway metal. The more common conservative shot leaves one with another long iron into this difficult green complex. Keeping the average player in mind, Ross offers a wide entryway with the option to run the ball up. In this sense, Ross demonstrates his ability to balance an otherwise brute of a hole with some respite. •	#7: With a steep false front, three distinct tiers, and nasty fescue long, this par three, like the 3rd, might also be an ‘island’ as any miss leaves unrecoverable challenges.•	#8: Members have the option of taking the 8th on as a par four or par five. As a three shotter, more interesting land contours are in play. This is especially true off the tee. A less aggressive drive can utilize a knob in the fairway right to funnel balls to the center. Brave players attempting to cut off yardage must contend with tight grass cascading shots into perilous cross bunkers. Blind from the fairway, this rectangular, diagonally angled green can be reached in two with a sweeping hook that fights the undulation of the putting surface. •	#9: Ross did not only crown green complexes. The very tough fairway at the 9th is frightening from the tee as it appears to slope in two directions, neither of which will instill confidence on this long, uphill approach. Once again, if not presented under firm playing surfaces, the hole would not be nearly as interesting.•	#10: Arguably the star of the inward nine, the volcano green at the par four 10th is terrifying. Wiser players might consider laying up to their preferred wedge distance from the tee, but even this prospect is complicated by cross bunkers peppering the ideal landing zone and deceptively obscuring sightlines. With so little dirt moved, Ross transforms a hole that is short by modern standards into a true monster. •	#11: The longest one shotter on the course offers a slight break for errant shots right, though Ross hides this recovery area behind a bunker.•	#12: The dogleg right 12th follows a steep ridge in the land, and properly shaped tee shots can catch a major speed slot. Play too conservatively and pay the price with shots blocked out from this tough green.•	#13: With deep fescue grass right and a pond left, players must be accurate with the tee shot at the 13th hole or aggressively take on two flanking bunkers that pinch a driver landing area. With a charming plateau on its back right portion, this green offers numerous interesting pin locations. •	#14: Four bunkers guard the left corner of the shallow green complex at the par three 14th hole. Naturally, one’s eyes might look right for an easy bailout. Unsurprisingly, Ross thought two steps ahead by burying a large elephant in the back right portion of the green, adding serious difficulty to any recovery shot.•	#15: The star of the show at the 15th is an exceptionally distinct green complex that is beguiling regardless of the club in hand. Triangular in shape, this putting surface features two distinct left/right tiers with a sharp, hollow spine running down the middle. Ending up on either incorrect terrace can easily lead to putting disaster. •	#16: With out-of-bounds down the entire right portion of 16th hole, the player is drawn to the endless corridor left. Ross guards this bailout with signature chocolate drops, forcing the golfer to take on a cross bunker.•	#17: Driving is not so easy on this short par four, as the landing zone is strategically banked into an upslope. While there is a collection area left, missing this multi-tiered green complex on any side will lead to a very awkward up-and-down.•	#18: The thrill ride ends similar to its beginning, reminding the player that at Forsyth, the spirit of strategic options is thriving. The best angle into this slanted putting surface is only achieved by challenging a desert of five bunkers, demanding every last bit of the golfer’s energy.It is impossible to overstate the difference that Forsyth’s superintendent and grounds crew are making for the property. The firm conditions under which the course is presented elevate the architectural brilliance. Furthermore, under the leadership of newly announced head pro Chase Adams, Forsyth’s staff go out of their way to make every player feel like a veteran member. The practice facilities are top notch, and the property offers modern amenities with a timeless vibe. Over the last five years, Winston-Salem has garnered significant and deserved national attention for the Coore & Crenshaw restoration of the Old Town Club. It is shocking that Forsyth does not also receive some of the spotlight. Fascinatingly, both courses are built on comparable rolling topography, and one might wonder if Maxwell and Ross had switched sites, would the same results have been produced? Similarly, it is the very firm and fast conditions – particularly of the rumpled fairways – that yield such charm and strategic interest on both properties. There are few more architecturally compelling 36-hole days in any major metro-area of North Carolina than Forsyth Country Club and the Old Town Club. Lump in nearby Roaring Gap for a 54-hole weekend and consider yourself luckier than a lottery winner. Each of these three courses demonstrates the power of thoughtful, classic-design restorations. While it may not sit in the spotlight today, Forsyth is well worth a stop on any trip to the Triad.

Maximizing its setting on the Northeast Cape Fear River, River Landing’s courses thrive and continue to be ranked among the state’s finest golf properties. On a recent trip to the Wallace community, it became very apparent why both routings are so well-regarded. Presented under immaculate conditions – with tight fairways, lush rough, and fast greens – the two layouts at River Landing offer distinct challenges that test all aspects of one’s game. It is the consummate playground for any golf enthusiast, and it is impossible to imagine ever growing tired of either 18-hole layout. Typically considered stronger than its younger sibling, the River Course’s tight landing areas and island fairways make it a ball-striker’s dream. Beautiful inclusions of the Northeast Cape Fear River throughout the routing remind the player that accuracy is critical and that driver can generally stay in your bag. Notable holes include:•	#3: The first of many holes with a forced carry to the fairway and green, the third invokes options. The ideal angle of attack to the putting surface is from the right, though this area is guarded by two large bunkers. Two more traps protect the green on the left, making that angle from the fairway even less desirable.•	#6: A stunning one shotter, the 6th is the first introduction to the property’s namesake. While not a long hole, sticking a wedge or short iron to this oblong green while avoiding both the river and a deep, central bunker make for a tricky, yet gorgeous par three.•	#14: Holes that turn a full 90 degrees are becoming more rare, yet the 14th at the River Course demonstrates how fun they can be. With a bunkering scheme that appears almost random, the challenge off the tee is intriguing both for an amateur aiming for the corner, and the low-handicapper trying to shape a shot from left-to-right. Knowing the pin placement may very well dictate an entirely different driving strategy on any given day.•	#16: If playing from the proper tee, the drive at the 16th will test even the best players’ nerves. Following the natural contour of the land, this fairway has a strong slope from right-to-left and towards a pond which bisects the hole. Of course, the ideal angle to this long kidney-shaped green is from that harder-to-find right portion of the fairway. Off the tee, then, the player must keep the ball as far to the right as possible – thereby challenging the mighty Northeast Cape Fear – while also finding the perfect distance between a soft drive and a long fairway metal. This hole makes one delightfully uncomfortable and tests the players’ creativity, thoughtfulness, and touch.Although the River Course features superior views and topography, a number of holes are similar in strategy. It is surely a course best suited for very strong players. If asked to split 10 rounds between the two courses, my preference would be 7-3 Landing. In addition to the two top tier golf courses, there are many other compelling aspects of the River Landing community. The first is a clear appreciation and stewardship of the environment. With so many natural waterways and game land, residents enjoy a variety of other outdoor activities. Both courses seem to work in harmony with the property, rather than feeling overly manmade. The second is the absolutely luxurious accommodations and generous staff. The clubhouse itself is magnificent and the food was delicious. Every employee made me feel welcome and appreciated. For these reasons and many more, it is no surprise why both courses at River Landing stand out as the crown jewels of Eastern North Carolina golf.

Maximizing its setting on the Northeast Cape Fear River, River Landing’s courses thrive and continue to be ranked among the state’s finest golf properties. On a recent trip to the Wallace community, it became very apparent why both routings are so well-regarded. Presented under immaculate conditions – with tight fairways, lush rough, and fast greens – the two layouts at River Landing offer distinct challenges that test all aspects of one’s game. It is the consummate playground for any golf enthusiast, and it is impossible to imagine ever growing tired of either 18-hole layout. Although it is usually rated slightly higher than its older sibling, the Landing Course’s intricately contoured fairways and flashy, deceptive bunkering pique the players’ interest throughout the round. Notable holes include:•	#2: This short par four is potentially reachable, though laying up to the wide portion of the fairway is a more reasonable decision. Two bunkers which appear greenside are actually about 50 yards short. Finding either leaves a very awkward, daunting approach over more traps strategically hidden from the line of sight.•	#3: The ideal driving zone at the 3rd is exceptionally unique, with four distinct tiers of fairway from which to choose. Players must decide how much corner to bite off, risking tree trouble and awkward stances from errant shots.•	#7: The ideal angle into the 7th green is from the right, though this position is tough to achieve thanks to three very intimidating bunkers and a subtly right-to-left sloping fairway.•	#9: The four towering fairway bunkers at the 9th are menacing and demonstrate Clyde Johnston’s expertise at visual deception. Though it is not clear from the tee, there are two possible landing zones guarded by these hazards, and while the forward one is a far more manageable prospect, both require touch to avoid overpowering the drive.•	#10: With two large waste areas flanking the corridor, finding the fairway at the turn is imperative. This daunting green, which slopes sharply from back-to-front and left-to-right, offers absolutely no room to miss, especially long. Finding yourself in the sand can be deadly, as any thin miss will surely lead to a big number.•	#15: Featuring the most interesting putting surface on the course, the 15th presents challenges from tee to green. A bowl on the far right portion creates an awesome, yet terrifying array of potential pin placements requiring a left-to-right shot sliding towards the pond.Although the Landing Course lacks the scenery of the River Course, the thoughtful bunker schemes and variety of corridor widths made it quite appealing. If asked to split 10 rounds between the two courses, my preference would be 7-3 Landing. In addition to the two top tier golf courses, there are many other compelling aspects of the River Landing community. The first is a clear appreciation and stewardship of the environment. With so many natural waterways and game land, residents enjoy a variety of other outdoor activities. Both courses seem to work in harmony with the property, rather than feeling overly manmade. The second is the absolutely luxurious accommodations and generous staff. The clubhouse itself is magnificent and the food was delicious. Every employee made me feel welcome and appreciated. For these reasons and many more, it is no surprise why both courses at River Landing stand out as the crown jewels of Eastern North Carolina golf.

The mountains of North Carolina have no shortage of highly regarded golf properties ranging in origin from the golden age of architecture to the modern era. Unsurprisingly, Donald Ross courses are well represented here, and many of his finest Appalachian works receive significant attention in ranking publications. Among his best in the area are Roaring Gap, Asheville Country Club, Linville, Biltmore Forest, and the Asheville Municipal Golf Course. With such bright spotlights on so many of these Ross mountain designs, it was a tremendous surprise this past summer to discover the thought-provoking, roller-coaster-like Hendersonville Country Club. Perhaps falling in the shadow of many other nearby greats, HCC superbly exemplifies Ross’s most well-regarded skill: routing strategic courses that never grow tiresome on any property. Arriving at HCC, the player can see most of the course from the clubhouse located atop a large hill. By the finishing hole, one is grateful that Ross found this rollicking property when he did, as any modern architect would probably have turned to dynamite and construction equipment to soften the landscape. Ross thoughtfully situated his holes to highlight the gorgeous natural features of the course without making the climbs and descents unfair for the average player. This unmatched vision – to design courses playable by golfers of all abilities – demonstrates Ross’s superb talent as an architect. He never shied away from a challenge.While not a requirement for an enjoyable round, it is a pleasure to play courses that are well-manicured. The immaculate conditions at HCC, particularly the firm fairways and greens, add to the enjoyment of the contoured land, forcing the player to think wisely about shot shaping.Among the most standout holes at HCC include:•	#1: Plummeting down into a valley, the opener at HCC previews many of the day’s forthcoming challenges. While the hole is not lengthy, the green is guarded by a terrifying false front making it imperative control a wedge.•	#4: The par three 4th showcases a stunning natural backdrop of mountains stretching for miles. Do not let the view distract you from this interesting one-shotter which, while open to a run-up shot, may fool players with a number of knobs protruding before and onto the putting surface.•	#5: Arguably the best hole on the outward nine, the par five 5th brilliantly fits the land. Playing downhill, any straight drive will pick up added yardage, likely enticing the golfer to attack the green in two. To accomplish that feat, players must navigate a diagonally bisecting creek and a four pronged green complex. Even from a lay-up position, this uniquely shaped putting surface leaves no margin for error if a brave approach is even slightly awry.•	#8: The tee shot at the 8th plays slightly downhill, and a swampy area with tall fescue grasses gobbles up any miss left. As was so often the case with Ross, the greensite chosen is perfect for the hole, perched on a small plateau. Virtually any approach shot will be blind, and given the slight right-to-left cant of the putting surface, the best angle generally requires players to challenge the thick rough and wetlands. •	#10-#12: The back nine begins with three consecutive par fours, all running against a severely sloped hill. While potentially monotonous, each plays differently. The 10th, with a drop downwards at the start, stunts and even rejects many drives, lengthening the already meaty hole considerably. The 11th offers a wide fairway, but it is uncomfortably pinched in the ideal driver landing zone. The 12th, significantly shorter than the prior two holes, has a severely canted right-to-left fairway that is nearly impossible to hold with any type of tee shot. As always, Ross’ ability to turn one topographical feature into three truly distinct adventures is remarkable. •	#13: The short, par three 13th, is a throwback too rarely encountered in the game today. At just 136 yards from the tips (and 98 yards from the forward tees), virtually any player will have a short wedge in hand. Despite its length, Ross’s skill in creating unexpected challenges shines. To unsettle the player, Ross has the hole drop so severely that the green is blind. Adding to the nerves is a bunker short which prevents bounces onto the green, and a frightening shallow putting surface with no room to bail out long. Too few architects have the bravado to build a hole like this today, yet it arguably the most fun on the entire course.•	#14: From the tee, the rumpled fairway at the 14th gives the impression that one must aim right. In fact, hidden width exists just beyond the knoll on the left side of this fairway, demonstrating again that Ross could add deception to the land he was given.•	#15: With a blind tee shot over a pond, the 15th demands a right-to-left tee shot which can pick up significant yardage through a speed slot. The bunkerless green complex is a thriller thanks to the shortgrass collection area long, and the two-tiered surface which can require bouncing a wedge shot in to hold the front portion.Any player traveling to the mountains of North Carolina will be presented with countless options for great golf experiences. Flying under the radar, Hendersonville Country Club is a must-stop for any Donald Ross enthusiast. It is difficult to imagine any other architect creating such a strategic, fair, and thought-provoking design without the use of modern equipment. Holes lie so elegantly on the landscape and greens are banked in the most natural locations. Hendersonville is truly a hidden gem.

In the truest sense, every golf course should reflect its environment. This spirit, core to our game, is captured in designs of the most prolific golf architects of the past and present. Alister MacKenzie, a trained military camouflage specialist, for instance, worked tirelessly to ensure his masterpieces blended into their natural settings.While certainly not a requirement for great architecture, stimulating scenery intensifies the mystique and enjoyment of the round, especially when a course pays homage to seaside roots. It is no surprise that clumps of the greatest courses in the world still exist on the coasts of Scotland, Monterey, and Long Island. Another such pocket of courses thrive in one of my favorite golf destinations, the Lowcountry of South Carolina.Stretching from Charleston to Savannah, the charm, slower pace of life, and natural beauty of the Lowcountry captivate the senses. It is hard not to relax in this environment, forgetting worries and focusing solely on the shot at hand.It is disappointing, then, that with its superb ecological potential, Lowcountry golf courses are so frequently bland. Their unmistakable style includes flat topography, predictable bunkering, and condo-lined corridors. What’s more, even with all of the gorgeous marshland and tidal estuaries, very few courses actually feature holes on saltwater, and those that do are often exclusive.In breaking the monotonous mold of typical Lowcountry golf, Old South Golf Links may provide the best value in the entire Hilton Head area. Old South features thought-provoking and varied architecture, is priced affordably, and most importantly, keenly and uniquely highlights the environs…without having to play through neighborhoods.As if this feat were not impressive enough, Old South allows players to experience three unique natural settings: open parkland pasture, live oak marine forest, and intra-coastal waterways all come into play throughout the round. Each is brought to life by the exceptional design work of Clyde Johnston.An examination of the holes at Old South better illuminates these magnificent elements:•	#1: With a pond running down the left side of the opener, the wide portion of fairway right may seem inviting. This deceptive strip of short grass can leave one blocked from an aerial approach due to the overhanging branches of a large oak. While the putting surface welcomes run-up shots, it is shallow and guarded by a bunker and water in the back. The 1st at Old South truly sets the tone for the day – an adventure where options abound.•	#2: Playing up and over a knoll to a blind fairway, the long par four 2nd also features many possibilities. Two palmetto trees situated like goal posts guide the player off the tee. Laying up with a metal may be wise, though more aggressive players can take on a patch of rough which bisects the fairway, pressing their luck for a good bounce and added yardage. There is a serious advantage to having a wedge in hand to this undulating green.•	#7: Among my favorite of 3700+ holes played, the 7th at Old South breaks all architectural concepts by being the most open, inviting form of target golf I have encountered. Transitioning from forest to saltwater estuary, windy conditions may require any club from driver to a mid-iron in order to avoid sandy waste areas, and best position oneself on the generous island-fairway. Aggressiveness here has any number of benefits, including a broader landing zone and a superior angle to this shallow island green. Once again, width showcases itself as perhaps the greatest lever to engrain strategy in a golf course…even when the hole could be categorized as exacting.•	#8: The par three 8th is a fantastic reminder that great holes do not require bunkers. With the green sloping from back left to front right, and the wind often working against that slope, the architects created a mid-iron shot that will have players running through a wide variety of shot options before pulling a club.•	#9: The par four 9th offers perplexing trade-offs from the tee. The green is narrow, deep, and best approached from the right portion of the fairway, which is guarded by a large bunker. While there is more room left and long with a driver in hand, one’s second shot will need to carry a massive bunker and stick the landing on this thin putting surface.•	#10: Frequently, trees in the middle of corridors tend to annoy players and harm turf quality. The 10th at Old South Golf Links is a strong exception, as the feature adds complexity. From the tee, this long par four often plays straight into the prevailing wind. With its wide and delightfully rumpled fairway, one might almost feel they are on a true links. A large tree near the green offers players creative options. If you wish to loft it over, you must be aggressive on the tee shot; if you wish to run the ball up, you must be wary of a large bunker and pond right – not to mention, the very shallow green complex. Delightfully beguiling, the 10th is certainly a riveting start to the back nine.•	#12: Turning sharply to the left yet offering a superior angle from the right, the preferred shoulder at the 12th is guarded by trees, a bunker, and a pond. Fascinatingly, this hole literally “turns” into a new ecosystem – thick coastal forest.•	#13: When one sees the 13th on the scorecard – the shortest par four on the course – they may automatically think “bombs away.” But, standing on the tee reveals an entirely different story. Dense woodlands on either side of a fairway leading to an extremely shallow putting surface demands a favorite wedge in hand on the second shot, a far more important consideration than sheer distance. •	#14: The par five 14th is another hole which favors no player and features multiple natural environments. After navigating a narrow tee shot, the green bursts into a wide open field, encouraging fearless players who wish to reach the hole in two. Errant shots, however, can be severely penalized. Miss short, and be challenged with an awkward bunker shot; miss long, and watch your ball be swallowed by grass hollows.•	#17: Showcasing some of the best views on any public (really, any) golf course in the entire Lowcountry, the triangular shape of the green complex at the par three 17th seems to offer some respite at the front. However, a massive waste area can easily engulf even slightly errant iron shots.•	#18: Old South finishes on an exciting par five. From the tee and on the approach, the left half of the hole generally provides the best angle. To place a drive there, players must contend with a diagonal creek crossing the fairway. The crowned green will test the bravado of even the best ball-strikers who consider reaching in two.The unheralded Old South Golf Links hits all marks for greatness in a Lowcountry golf adventure. The variety in settings and ecosystems, the ways in which they are incorporated throughout the round, and the absence of houses on the property provide a stunning natural experience. The design of the course highlights the beauty of the environment while still offering strategic architecture. It is the type of course that will ask you to pull every club in your bag, hit every shot in your repertoire, and leave you itching to return…at an affordable price, no less. When it is safe to travel again, strongly consider grabbing a tee time at Old South Golf Links.

“[The course] doesn’t take long to play….it’s an unbelievable architectural experience at a price that any golfer can afford. It is a golf course that deserves the most praise…the type that fulfills you the most.” This was Fried Egg Founder Andy Johnson’s description of the Aiken Golf Club, a South Carolina municipal gem, in an April 2019 podcast. Over the last five years, praise for Aiken has spread rapidly around the golf architecture community, all thanks to a few players like Andy who saw the inherent greatness in this previously unheralded design.At first glance, Umstead Pines might seem like your average suburban country club. However, after years of playing this course and studying golf architecture, I feel compelled to take a risk and bring attention to this gem hidden in plain sight. Umstead Pines might not currently sit on anyone’s North Carolina bucket list, but for the very same reasons Andy Johnson listed above, it is arguably the most enjoyable, thought-provoking design to play on a day-to-day basis in the entire Triangle region.Friends, family, and acquaintances often ask me what I feel “makes a golf course great?” It is my opinion that the most encompassing answer is simply “variety.” Truly stimulating courses offer a variety of lengths, widths, options for aerial and ground shots, green sizes and undulations, terrain, and shot-shaping required to tackle the round. Even when the site lacks amazing vistas or exceptional topography, a course can still captivate by incorporating such variety.The holistic diversity present throughout your round at Umstead Pines is remarkable. At 6,400 yards from its longest tees, one could easily write the property off as short by modern standards. Yet, in my dozens of rounds logged at Umstead Pines, I have always hit every single club in my bag, often more than once, curving left and right, and played high and low. Umstead Pines is not the type of place that bores even a scratch player. Risk-reward tee-shots, quirky doglegs, canted fairways with altering width, and a superb set of crowned green complexes banked in all four possible directions force one to meaningfully consider the options available on every shot. Many holes at Umstead Pines are architecturally intriguing, including: •	#1: Anything but a ‘gentle-handshake,’ the first at Umstead Pines sets the tone for the round by testing clubs that might never emerge from your bag on other courses. Twisting to the left, players can hit anything from a mid-iron to a fairway metal to reach the bend. Properly shaped, aggressive shots might pick up extra yardage where the fairway begins to gently slope downwards; beware, though, as this added distance comes at the price of a downhill lie to an uphill green. A chipping area left of the putting surface may seem like an ideal bailout, but looks can be deceiving, as sharp knobs then block this undulating green, eliminating a preferable bump-and-run recovery. •	#2: The second hole at Coore and Crenshaw’s Talking Stick (O’odham) Course in Arizona receives praise in the architectural world for its use of out-of-bounds left as a hazard. In many ways, the second at Umstead Pines is nearly identical. While this mid-length par four may seem straightforward with endless bailout area right, it is essential to challenge the out-of-bounds left for an optimal angle. With a greenside bunker to the right, and a complex that also slopes right-to-left, holding this L-shaped putting surface from the right rough can be nearly impossible. Even by the second hole, Umstead Pines proves its inherent architectural stimulation on otherwise bland land.•	#3: To date, I have played 3,500 unique holes, yet only five (!) feature greens that slope from front-to-back. The third at Umstead Pines is one of those. This rare, compelling feature truly tests the nerves, even with a short-iron in hand. What’s more, the areas long and right seem like the perfect bailout, but thanks to the architect’s thoughtful inclusion of short grass, the ideal high shot back onto the green is made unsettling. This tightly mown dip is another fabulous example of how collection areas can make any course captivating and unique from its monotonous, rough-covered neighbors.•	#4: A fascinating par five, the tee shot at the fourth offers a multitude of options. Conservative players can play this hole in three shots, laying up to a wide, flat portion of the fairway with a metal. However, more aggressive players can shape a shot hard left-to-right to use the natural slope for extra yardage. Out-of-bounds left will quickly grab the slightest double cross, though, and the added distance from a successful bold play may lead to a side-hill lie. The fourth hole’s green is very receptive to a breadth of shots played on the ground, including the exciting possibility of throwing your ball safely to the right and watching it roll down closely to the pin.•	#5: The golfer once again faces the choice of extra yards with an awkward stance at the fifth. In this case, the risky play could pay off, as a conservative layup could be well over 225 yards from a tiny, terrifying green. This par four-and-a-half hole is unrelenting, and missing the three tiered green complex on any side will lead to a big number.•	#6: After such a brute, the very short sixth is a wonderful respite. The green complex is pitched strongly from left-to-right, and the ideal angle is almost always from the right side of the fairway. A thoughtful bunker must be challenged to end up there, though, and an extra thick patch of lush rough must also be avoided. From the tee, the corridor seems so open that it is difficult to not pull driver. However, when the pin is in the front, the prudent, yet incredibly hard-to-mentally-overcome choice is to actually lay back.•	#7: Set in a vast meadow, the crowned seventh putting surface almost feels like an island. This unique complex is four-pronged with ridges protruding towards the center. There are virtually no strong bailout options, further adding to the ‘do-or-die’ illusion of playing an island green.•	#8: An interesting dogleg, the fairway at the eighth cants slightly against the turn. The green complex is one-of-a-kind, with a wide area in the front and narrowing toward the back left. There is a steep drop off to a barren area of sandscape right, making up-and-down nearly impossible. However, while the chipping area left seems inviting, it also forces the golfer to get up-and-down to a green sloping away, often from a tight lie.•	#9: A truly phenomenal three shot hole, the diagonal tee shot at the ninth is beguiling. Players can easily aim right to a wide portion of the fairway, but almost eliminate the possibility of reaching the green in two. The more daring player may try to cut some corner, but to do so successfully must challenge one of the most fascinating hazards I have ever encountered – a donut bunker with a gorgeous tree in the middle. The approach, straight uphill, is also made more interesting by a visually deceptive bunker which appears greenside. In fact, there is room to run the ball up to this attractive green which slopes heavily from left-to-right. Once again, the shortgrass left may seem like the ideal miss, but chipping back onto this green will then require deft touch.•	#10: The three shot tenth is another deceptive par five. While not long, absolute precision is required to reach the green in two. On the tee shot, players must position themselves on the right half the fairway to successfully open a chute to the green. Most players will use a left-to-right shot to attack the hole, but a wise, less-aggressive golfer will know that laying up to the wide swath of fairway left actually leaves the best angle to this green with two tiers. •	#11: The left-to-right cant of the eleventh hole corridor at Umstead Pines is terrifying, especially with Sevenmile Creek bumbling all down the right side. Precise shot-making is required to hold your tee shot in the fairway.•	#12: This medium length par three features a scarily crowned green complex. While one’s eye immediately goes right, thanks to the creek and bunker left, up-and-downs from any side of the putting surface are challenging due to subtle slopes and uneven lies.•	#13: The thirteenth hole at Umstead Pines, as seen from a satellite view, looks about as straight and dull as one could imagine. However, when standing on the tee box, it will become immediately apparent why this is the highest rated handicap hole on the course. One might receive the misleading impression of a wide fairway, when in fact, any shot on the right half will be blocked out from the green. What’s more, because the hole plays straight uphill, most drives are immediately stunted. With a mid or long-iron in hand, players must then hit a perfectly precise shot to a green complex which is pitched both severely back-to-front, and also has separate left-and-right tiers. Once again, Umstead Pines showcases its architectural trickery by maximizing its terrain.•	#14: A brutal par four, the fairway at the fourteenth is tilted sharply right-to-left while the hole turns in the opposite direction. This combination, a hallmark of some of the most difficult holes in the world, stunts drives which must precisely wrap around the corner. The crowned green is shallow and raised, making a tough approach even more problematic.•	#15: Umstead Pines fifteenth hole is placed perfectly in the round, especially for match play. Turning hard to the right, players have the option of laying up safely to the left, or using the natural contour of the ground to run the ball far to the right. That aggressive shot must also avoid a nasty centerline bunker. In my years playing Umstead Pines, I have hit almost every club from 3 iron to gap wedge into this uphill green complex. If that is not the mark of a great risk-reward design, I am not sure what is!•	#16: While each of the previous par fives offer the (albeit difficult) possibility of bringing it home in two, the sixteenth at Umstead Pines is a refreshing, true three shot beast. Players can gain a distance advantage on their drive by challenging a perfectly placed fairway bunker on the right and catching a gentle slope. A deceptive, centerline bunker guards the ideal lay-up zone. A ridge divides this putting surface into a front tier and back tier, both which slope in the opposite direction. Ensuring that you have your favorite wedge in hand for the third shot is critical to hold this green.•	#17: Many of Umstead Pines dogleg holes offer daring opportunities to cut off significant yardage, and the frequently photographed seventeenth is among the finest. Off the tee, a conservative player can simply hit a driver or metal out to the right. The more aggressive player, however, can challenge a massive dip in the topography, peppered with five pot bunkers, to leave a short pitch into this multi-pocketed green complex, giving a tremendous advantage. In my opinion, it is the shortgrass around these bunkers – a feature too rarely seen in the United States – which gives the hole its teeth. These traps can suck up drives and make a potentially easy birdie or par into a big number, quickly.•	#18: Ending on a par three is admittedly not a personal favorite, especially when said par three requires a long-iron, over a lake, frequently into the wind. However, fitting with the spirit of the property, this one-shotter more than likely forces you to hit a shot you have not already been asked to play.There is so much more than meets the eye at Umstead Pines. Even though it offers other country club amenities, I consider it the ultimate golf purist’s layout. I cannot fathom members ever growing tired of this timeless design, and no one type of golfer is favored on the property. This is perhaps best evidenced by the fact that Umstead Pines’ interclub team is frequently a top contender in the state finals. The players it produces have a consummate set of golf skills that can be translated to tackle any other course. If ever visiting the Triangle, consider incorporating Umstead Pines into your trip, especially in the spring or fall when its bentgrass greens run fast. Never once in my dozens of outings has my round exceeded three and a half hours (walking or riding), and rarely does it cost more than $40 to play. To me, Umstead Pines is doing everything right when it comes to bringing our sport back to its roots. The breadth of skills tested and architectural variety throughout the property are compelling, easily placing Umstead Pines among my top Carolinas “gems.”

Generally regarded as a top 100 course in the state, the Country Club of North Carolina’s Cardinal Course has sat on my bucket list for years. Just recently, the opportunity to check off both the Dogwood and the Cardinal arose, and I eagerly made my way to the Sandhills.Two aspects of the CCNC experience were ingrained upon me before my round even began. The first was the incredible hospitality shown to me and my playing partner by the staff. Every single employee we encountered – from bag attendants, to food servers, to Mr. Jeff Dotson the head professional – treated us as if we were a seasoned member. Each went out of their way to make us feel welcome, and that type of greeting is hard to forget.The second was the unbelievably superb playing conditions present on both courses. My praise for CCNC’s superintendent and their staff knows no bounds. Fairways were springy and every lie was perfect; the rough was thick and actually played like a true, unpredictable hazard; and, the Bermuda greens rolled exceptionally true with virtually no impact from grain. While I do weight routing and layout more when I rate courses, CCNC’s playing surfaces are too pristine to ignore. Of 101 courses played in North Carolina, CCNC’s conditioning was comfortably top three.With more dramatically rolling terrain than its Dogwood sister, the Cardinal course allowed for creativity off the tee and when approaching greens. With tremendous variety throughout the routing, players are bound to hit every club in their bag in addition to numerous shot shapes. Holes which stood out to me most include:•	#1: My favorite hole on the entire CCNC property, this very short, potentially drivable par four was incredibly unique. More conservative players can take advantage of what must be the widest fairway on the course, shunted by three small fairway bunkers. This right-side angle, though, is far inferior on the approach to a green which then is quite narrow. More aggressive players who challenge water and trees can be rewarded with an easy bump-and-run or maybe even a green under regulation, if they can find the thin entryway. This hole is a perfect way to begin a round of golf: exhilarating fun, endless options, and not too much difficulty from the start.•	#2: This par five can easily be played as a three shot hole with wide landing areas for a metal from the tee and a lay-up. However, one can also attempt two very bold shots to reach the putting surface. The first is a massive drive over four bunkers that pinch the fairway. The second is a downhill shot to a small green that essentially must stick the landing. In firm conditions, this is nearly impossible, and players may watch a well-struck ball leak off the back into a lake.•	#3: This par three features a penal, undulating peninsula green. I found this out the hard way. Playing conservatively to the right portion of the green, I faced an impossible putt down a hill, towards the lake, directly over a massive spine. I was pleased with a three whack and learned quickly that the Cardinal rewards those who take a little more risk.•	#4: Having any idea of the pin placement may drastically change the method of attack at the fourth. A pond diagonally cuts off this fairway, ultimately pinching it down the right side. If a pin is on the left portion of the green, it may be wise to play aggressively down this right side. However, for most pin placements, challenging the water left or laying up may actually improve the angle significantly. A hole need not have bunkers to offer such compelling options.•	#7: The green at the par three seventh is deceptively crowned. This extra padding not only forces one to club up, but also rejects shots which are (very likely) to come up short.•	#9: Swooping to the right and down a massive hill, the par five ninth may tempt players to try and run a shot up to the green. However, banked into a hill, this approach is nearly impossible. With the putting surface being so deep and elongated, laying back may actually be a strategic win with a better view of the many tiers and pin placement.•	#10: Playing down the left side of this hole and avoiding two pot bunkers provides the best angle into this green complex, though it is possible to cut of distance down the right, risking a bad lie in the rough but potentially cutting off significant yardage.•	#13: While I generally dislike trees which sit in the middle of fairways, the tree at the inside corner of the dogleg left thirteenth is an excellent, fair natural challenge right in the line of sight.•	#15: A truly awesome par five, the right-to-left cant of this hole’s corridor provides loads of challenge. From the tee, one must avoid the massive fall-off to the left. On the second shot, the player again sees that they can favor the right side for a potentially good kick into the fairway. However, play too conservatively, and face a nearly impossible up-and-down to a shallow, skinny, deep putting surface. •	#18: This finisher is a bit quirky, but does test the nerves exceptionally. From the tee, it is imperative to hit your shot far enough past the corner, but also not into a pond or thick rough – a difficult task on this firm, downhill fairway. Hugging the right provides the best angle, but also the highest risk of not having a view at the green. On this website, as of July 2020, the Dogwood course is ranked #13 while the Cardinal course is ranked #45; on the N.C. Golf Panel rankings, the Dogwood is ranked #5 while the Cardinal is ranked #17. Personally, I found both to be compelling. In fact, my playing partner and I both felt if we had to divvy 10 rounds between the two, it would likely be close to a 5-5 split, maybe even 6-4 towards the Cardinal. This is simply just to say that, in my opinion, the courses are far closer in their ‘ranking’ than it might appear on the surface. The front of the Cardinal and the back of the Dogwood is arguably the best composite of the four nines.All-in-all, the Cardinal course at CCNC kept my interest steadily throughout the round. I hit every club in my bag, played some tremendously fun shots on the ground both in the fairway and around greens, and felt completely lost on the property. If ever provided the opportunity, it is well work the trek to the Sandhills to experience it yourself.

Generally regarded as one of the best golf courses in the state, the Country Club of North Carolina’s Dogwood Course has sat on my bucket list for years. Just recently, the opportunity to check off both the Dogwood and the Cardinal arose, and I eagerly made my way to the Sandhills.Two notable aspects of the CCNC experience were ingrained upon me before my round even began. The first was the incredible hospitality shown to me and my playing partner by the staff. Every single employee we encountered – from bag attendants, to food servers, to the starter, to Mr. Jeff Dotson the head professional – treated us as if we were a seasoned member. Each went out of their way to make us feel welcome, and that type of greeting is hard to forget.The second was the unbelievably superb playing conditions present on both courses. My praise for CCNC’s superintendent and their staff knows no bounds. Fairways were springy and every lie was perfect; the rough was thick and actually played like a true, unpredictable hazard; and, the Bermuda greens rolled exceptionally true with virtually no impact from grain. If ever there was an argument for more Zoysia grass fairways in the Sandhills, look no further than CCNC for an answer. While I do weight routing and layout more when I rate courses, CCNC’s playing surfaces are too pristine to ignore. Of 101 courses played in North Carolina, CCNC’s conditioning was comfortably top three.Featuring gentle terrain, great disparity in hole lengths, and a mix of shot shaping opportunities, the Dogwood’s championship style tests virtually all aspects of your game. Standout holes for me include:•	#3: The island-green par three third was one such example of this compelling variety. After opening with two dogleg lefts, each requiring a solid mid-iron into the green, the third demands a left-to-right shot shape with a short-iron in hand. Too many courses today are unwilling to leave short par threes like this in a layout. With a deep, narrow green, the seemingly benign chipping area and bunker left actually leaves a difficult up-and-down without much room to work with, and an awkward spine.•	#4: The tee shot at this par four is perplexing. The best angle into this diagonal green is, no doubt, from the right side of the hole. This confused me initially, since there seemed to be no reason to challenge the pond which runs down the entire left side. However, to achieve this angle, one must first carry two large bunkers in the right rough. If they successfully do, the cant of the fairway might actually kick their ball towards the water after all, as the pond juts back into play. Options and trickery abound.•	#5: If playing from the proper tee, this par five might yield a green under-regulation. With a pond short, players must be careful to not spin the ball back. This shallow green was beguiling, as I found out when I laid up to the left. Chipping to the top tier from this side was nearly impossible due to a tough ridge, and I wish I had played more conservatively.•	#6: An uphill par four with a blind tee shot, the architect wisely created a massive putting surface on this very lengthy hole. With a few pocketed tiers, this half-par was very fun to play.•	#10: The short par four tenth was a unique test following five fairly long holes that precede it. With fairway bunkers pinching the ideal landing area, precision rather than length from the tee is a must. From there, players must hit a green that is best attacked from the right side – right where the fairway bunkers lay. A gorgeous, short-grass collection zone sits to the right and beyond this green complex, making any up-and-down truly demanding. Once again, this unique feature created new challenges not yet seen in the round.•	#11: An excellent risk reward tee-shot, any player considering a deep drive over a lake and its bisecting tributary must not only consider water, and short-siding in trees, but also ensuring that they do not fly through the fairway into more water or deep rough.•	#14: Perhaps the most photographed hole on the course, the fourteenth’s approach was even more compelling than the all-carry tee shot. A bunker short right of the green creates an illusion when in fact, this uphill putting surface actually welcomes run-up shots.•	#17: Among my favorite holes on the course, the right-to-left cant of the seventeenth fairway, guarded by bunkers left, demanded a clever shot shape to hold the short grass. From there, players must be precise with an iron to a shallow green complex in order to avoid bunkers short and waste area long.On this website, as of July 2020, the Dogwood course is ranked #13 while the Cardinal course is ranked #45; on the N.C. Golf Panel rankings, the Dogwood is ranked #5 while the Cardinal is ranked #17. Personally, I found both to be exceptionally compelling. In fact, my playing partner and I both felt if we had to divvy 10 rounds between the two, it would likely be close to a 5-5 split. This is simply just to say that, in my opinion, the courses are far closer in their ‘ranking’ than it might appear on the surface. The front of the Cardinal and the back of the Dogwood is arguably the best composite of the four nines.All-in-all, the Dogwood course at CCNC kept my interest steadily throughout the round. I hit every club in my bag, played shots in the air and on the ground, and was forced to conjure up fades, draws, and everything in between, all without feeling too beat up when it was all said and done. It is certainly worth the stop if ever you are fortunate to receive an invitation.

Reviewing Royal New Kent required more time and thought investment than any of my others to date. Fitting, too, that it also ended up being my longest. There is so much to say about this one-of-a-kind “links,” and virtually every hole is worthy of study. Royal New Kent is an exceptional manifestation of “strategy” in golf architecture today, and while many Mike Strantz designs are polarizing, there is absolutely no question that every single bunker, mound, hazard, and rumple are intentionally placed to create thought-provoking decisions on this property.There is not a term which adequately captures the ambience of Royal New Kent. The course is entirely manufactured without ever feeling unnatural. With corridors set among towering dunes – particularly on the front nine – one is immediately lost in the grandeur of the natural locale. This escape allows the player to truly focus on the shot at hand, which, as mentioned above, is essential to successfully conquering the visually intimidating, yet pleasantly playable routing.The beguiling layout at Royal New Kent asks the player to consider a multitude of questions on virtually every shot. The front nine features the most riveting start to a round I can imagine. An examination of each hole captures the daring, risk-reward nature of the Royal New Kent adventure: •	#1: With a stone wall right of the corridor, players’ sense of place is immediately sparked at Royal New Kent. The hole turns 90 degrees to the left, and most can easily hit a tee shot straight down the fairway at the turn. However, depending on one’s ability to carry a drive, an aggressive line over the banks can shorten the opener considerably. Beware, though, as any shot which does not hurdle the mounding is surely a goner, and even those which do carry face an uneven lie to this perched, sharply tiered green complex. Leave any approach short, and prepare to watch your shot embarrassingly trickle back down into the fairway upwards of 75 yards. When one descends from the tee box into the fairway, it is impossible to see beyond the flanking, towering dunes. The indescribable feeling of separation sets the tone for an unforgettable day in this very historic part of the nation.•	#2: This horseshoe-shaped par five is a stunner regardless of whether one attacks it as a two or three-shotter. The more aggressive player can take driver from the tee, though the fairway pinches and slides left in the ideal landing zone, further lengthening the second shot over a deep basin. Although entirely aerial and requiring a roughly 240 yard carry from the drive zone, the green offers some relief for the more heroic player with a backstop. In fact, one wishing to go for this putting surface in two might actually want to lay back with a metal to the nearer portion of the fairway right. However, most players will likely approach this hole with three shots in mind. The initial landing zone is fairly generous, as is the layup area. However, to achieve the best angle for the third shot, one must hug the ravine as closely as possible, less they wish to face a green which is sharply canted from left-to-right and away from them. Unbelievably fun no matter what strategy the player chooses, the second at Royal New Kent is a phenomenal demonstration of how width, wind, natural terrain, and options create world-class architectural masterpieces.•	#3: The tee box at the par three third is roughly 100 yards wide, generating new challenges for players during every round. The kidney shaped green is best tackled with a right-to-left shot shape, especially since the putting surface slopes in the opposite direction. Though this complex lacks bunkers, deep crevices left and right can act either as hazards or safe bailouts depending on pin location.•	#4: Though the fairway is blind from the tee at the fourth, it is massively wide if attacked with a long-iron or metal. Wisely, Strantz placed a behemoth, pronged bunker on the left hand side. This trap must be challenged to achieve the best angle on the approach.•	#5: The entire corridor at the fifth is unfathomably unique. With four distinct hourglass-like bulbs, players have a multitude of landing zone options on every shot. From the tee, most will likely aim for the second which is ultimately abutted by a bunkered dune, bisecting and blinding the fairway beyond. One must be careful to keep their drive far enough back from these mounds or risk having to lay up with a high lofted club. While there is plenty of width right for the remainder of the hole, Strantz once again allows the more aggressive player to challenge the rough and woods on the left for a preferred angle on most pin-placements. The handsome colonial era fence in play across the fortress-like ridges here perfectly fits the setting of the Williamsburg area and is a feature I had never encountered previously.•	#6: When I saw that the sixth had the number one rated handicap, I was confused. While there is a large waste area left and a small bunker in the landing zone right, the tee shot appears otherwise straightforward. Even though the hole plays gently uphill, nothing seemed particularly severe. When I arrived at the putting surface, though, my jaws dropped. This green complex is a terrifying creation, featuring four tiny tiers and not one, but two deadly slopes which drop sharply off the left. It is impossible to capture in writing how exacting one’s approach must be to even think about two putting here; a three or four whack from the wrong tier is an achievement worthy of applause.•	#7: On the entryway, players are greeted to Royal New Kent with a glimpse of just one hole: the par three seventh. Dropping from an elevated tee, the thin putting surface sits diagonally to the line of play. In the front, a gorgeous natural creek welcomes any miss short, and beyond, thick fescue-covered banks and pot bunkers capture any overly conservative block. Although this hole only presents one option – a perfectly struck long-iron – its use of natural elements is exceptionally compelling.•	#8: The par four eighth ended up being among my favorite on the property as Strantz completely fooled me. The fairway seemed wide and deep, leaving any decent tee shot with a chance for birdie. When I arrived at my well-struck drive, I immediately realized that it had been hit too long. Now, instead of having a benign sand wedge into a back-to-front green, I had absolutely no view of the putting surface and needed to flight a high shot over a towering dune, stopping the ball on a canted, left-to-right slope. Holes like this make me ecstatic for my return to Royal New Kent!•	#9: The snaking creek down the right side of the ninth is absolutely charming. More conservative players, who avoid this waterway left, are provided with a better angle into the putting surface, though anyone looking to gain a distance advantage must find a narrower strip of short-grass past two bunkers. Interestingly, the rough to the right of the creek is mown fairly short, and as I found out thanks to a poorly struck drive, actually provided a pretty decent place to miss and get up-and-down.•	#10: The turning hole at Royal New Kent is yet another fascinating puzzle of a par five. Should players find the wide fairway, they face a delightful risk-reward decision. Going for the green in two is a possibility, but the shot to reach must hook significantly from right-to-left, and carry a hazard and bunker to a Biarritz-style green. A more conservative player can lay-up, leaving a wedge or short-iron into this bold putting surface. En route, however, they also must find a sliver of short-grass on their approach just beyond a massive waste area. Regardless of how one attacks the hole, precision is of the utmost importance.•	#11: The green complex at the par four eleventh is terrifying. With three distinct levels from left-to-right, staying below the hole on any tier is essential.•	#12: The sharp hourglass green at the downhill, par three twelfth is one-of-a-kind – worth stopping what you are doing and pulling up Google Maps to get a visual. As I found out the hard way, landing on the thin middle strip creates speed difficulties putting to either end.•	#13: Once again, the player is presented with an unbelievably wide fairway at the short par four thirteenth. However, as always, Strantz places massive bunkers directly in the line of play for the desired angle. Bailing out left leaves a near impossible wedge into this very shallow putting surface.•	#14: Plummeting into a valley, one must keep a long-iron or fairway metal in the right portion of the fairway to have any sight of this severely pitched green.•	#15: This long par three is deceptive, with some flat area to bail out left and long. Miss right or short, and risk watching your ball roll 50 yards into hidden hazards.•	#16: The tee shot at this par four-and-a-half strongly rewards aggressive players. While one can conservatively take a long-iron or metal straight from the tee, they will then face a lengthy approach into a very tough green. Any player who risks shaping a shot hard right-to-left, however, can hit a speed slot and gain an extra 50 yards – a massive advantage given the difficult putting surface.•	#17: A creek runs up the right hand side of this very long par five, ultimately crossing just short of the putting surface. For most pin placements, challenging this creek on the layup shot is essential for the best angle. Being as aggressive as possible with one’s length off both the tee and approach also pays off significantly; with such a shallow putting surface, it is nearly impossible to hold the green with a long-iron in hand.•	#18: After 17 holes of non-stop puzzles, the wide peninsula-fairway at the eighteenth seems to be quite straightforward. But, Strantz still had one trick up his sleeve. If playing from the proper tee, most will face the choice of using a metal or taking some distance off their driver. What is not obvious, however, is that the fairway is actually slightly canted in either direction perpendicular to play. Lay-up with the metal, and your ball will be stunted immediately into an upslope, leaving an even longer approach into a shallow green over a pond. Play more aggressively with the driver, and risk catching the other side of the ridge which may funnel your ball into that same pond. Precision is demanded to your very last stroke at Royal New Kent.The course conditions at Royal New Kent, in my opinion, capture the true essence and roots of our sport. With firm greens and fairways, players must be careful about the way in which the ball reacts with the ground. Among the most compelling aspects of the course was the irregularity of the rough. Too many players today shun courses which do not mow all grass to specific, consistent heights. At Royal New Kent, it is impossible to anticipate what type of lie you will draw in the long grass. The rough is a hazard which should be avoided, and Royal New Kent’s maintenance practices capture that spirit exquisitely. My only critique of the property was the stark difference in setting between the front and back nine. Set deep in a forest, the front flows beautifully and feels completely at harmony with its surroundings. Expecting more of the same on the back, I felt slightly let down playing through neighborhoods. Furthermore, the back was even less walkable with awkwardly prolonged distances between holes. Though disappointing from a transition standpoint, I applaud Strantz for prioritizing architecture and using the best land to design great golf.Though my words here will never capture the way my heart raced playing Royal New Kent, I do hope this review showcases the immense variety and artistry inherent in virtually every hole on the property. Though my exposure to Virginia golf is quite limited, it seems impossible that there are 50 courses which could be ranked higher in the Commonwealth. It comfortably sits in my personal top 25 of 225+ played, and I am very eager to return – the highest compliment I can offer, as my true passion is experiencing new courses!

With its excellent use of the topography and natural hazards, the Willow Creek course at High Point Country Club presents a variety of challenges, engaging the player from start to finish. This memorable piedmont design is rich in history, and its membership’s dedication reaffirms the compelling nature of the architecture. The front nine at High Point flows over some very rolling terrain while the back nine snakes through a more flat portion of the property, incorporating a range of water hazards. With two mixes, no single type of player is favored throughout the round. Additionally, the course features three fantastic practice greens which provide ample opportunity to work on awkward length shots. Among the more memorable holes at the Willow Creek course to me include:•	#1: Golfers are mentally stretched from the very first tee shot at Willow Creek. This hole plays straight before turning right down a very sharp hill at the green. From the tee, players must be aggressive towards the end of the fairway to have a clear second shot, and while left may present the best angle, one must avoid thick rough and bunkers. This tough green is guarded on three sides by bunkers and on one by a pond. Already, options and challenges abound.•	#4: The landing zone is pinched by a pond at this par five which may force players to lay-up off the tee. The green is also guarded by bunkers left and a creek short, again providing difficulty.•	#5: The tee shot at the par four fifth is short and over a river to a wide landing area. However, finding an exact yardage and proper angle is essential as the putting surface is perched well above the players’ line of sight. This hole captures its environs gorgeously!•	#7: The brawny par five seventh is a blast to play. From the tee, the hole bends slightly to the right and starts to creep uphill, potentially stunting drives. One can only cut off so much corner before also having to challenging a nasty bunker on the right. Going for the green in two may be possible, but one must avoid another long, deadly bunker on the right side if they play to run the shot up.•	#8: The long par three eighth may seem completely brutal playing over a pond to a shallow green with bunkers short and long. However, bail out options are present short right and long left suggesting that the strategic play is a slight draw.•	#9: The turning hole at Willow Creek is a fascinating puzzle. A dogleg right, the more conservative player can easily take an iron or wood off the tee to the corner, but risks leaving a mid to long iron to a tough green over a pond. A more aggressive player can actually cut off quite a bit of the corner but must hurdle trees and a fairway bunker on the right, in addition to avoiding the water previously mentioned. The risk/reward opportunity here is thought-provoking and daring.•	#11: The long par three eleventh is guarded by bunkers short, right, and left of the deep putting surface. It changes the challenge relative to many other holes as just a little long will quite frequently be better than short.•	#12: The fairway at the twelfth is essentially an island as the player must carry a brook which then runs right and long of the landing zone. Additionally, a masterfully placed bunker guards the best angle into the putting surface which itself is peninsula like. The way in which the hole weaves through this waterway is delightful.•	#17: The entire corridor at the seventeenth is narrow, guarded by a pond right and a brook left. This hole begs the player to keep the ball as close to the pond as possible for the shortest distance and best angle into the putting surface, demanding a well struck metal or long iron to bravely reach the green in two.The Willow Creek course at High Point Country Club is no doubt a difficult test of your game, but with options present on a number of holes, your strategy on how to attack a pin might change day-to-day. Masterfully routed, the course captures the beautiful rolling terrain well while also highlighting some of the natural creeks in the area. Our hosts at the course were two members who were retired and had travelled the country playing golf. Despite having the means to live just about anywhere, they had remained steadfast members at High Point for decades. They took great pride in walking us through each hole and welcoming us warmly to the club. If that is not enough testament to what a joy this property is to play on a daily basis, I do not know what is!

Nestled near the Chatham County line near Jordan Lake, Old Chatham feels worlds away from the quickly growing bustle of the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill metropolitan areas. Indeed, in many other ways, Old Chatham breaks expectations for a modern, North Carolina piedmont club. Thanks to its superb setting and focus on golf, Old Chatham easily falls into the mix of courses that could be considered ‘best in the Triangle.’Should you ever receive an invitation to play Old Chatham, allow yourself plenty of time to arrive early and enjoy the many amenities. The driving range is absolutely massive and immaculate, and the chipping green nearby provides the rare opportunity to practice half and three-quarter swing wedge shots. While sophisticated inside, the locker room and food areas at Old Chatham manage to walk the fine line of being lavish with an air of casualness. For a club this exclusive and prestigious, I found every member and staff member at Old Chatham to make me feel quite at home – like one of their own.In my mind, the most essential element to the Old Chatham success formula is its unbeatable conditions. Of my 99 courses played in North Carolina, Old Chatham has the most impressive maintenance I have encountered. The course is firm throughout which lends to strategy on many holes. Additionally, by keeping the rough at a modest length, players are penalized for missing the fairway without having to spend hours looking for their ball. This keeps the pace of play up, another bonus.Holes which stand out to me at Old Chatham include:•	#1: The par five opener tests a wide range skills. From the tee, it is possible to shape a shot between two flanking bunkers to gain a distance advantage. This may come at the price of a downhill lie. Players must be careful to avoid additional bunkers on the lay-up, and to not miss long on this hard sloping back-to-front green.•	#3: Among my favorites on the course, the short par three third may be drivable depending on your tees. Most, however, will opt to find a guarded, canted fairway and hit their favorite wedge yardage into this undulating green.•	#4: With some classic architecture taste, the fourth green complex is a stunner. Unlike the previous three holes, players can run balls up to this green from the left. However, one must be careful to avoid a tough chipping area long-left, and a sharply sloping fall-off on the right.•	#9: The ninth sits on a really fascinating piece of the property. Turning sharply to the right, this hole almost feels like a racetrack, banked into the hill. Turning the ball from left-to-right here can provide one with some serious distance advantage but beware, the best angle to most pin placements will be from the left portion of the fairway.•	#10: The short par four tenth presents options. The fairway is fairly wide for a more conservative tee shot, but pinches closer to the green. The putting surface is perched and blind from the fairway, and is quite shallow, so playing to a controlled wedge distance far exceeds the importance of hitting a bomb with driver.•	#14: On the surface, the par five fourteenth appears to be a brute. With massive bunkers off the tee and a pond down the left side of the approach, there is plenty of trouble to avoid. However, there are still options for the average player. One can take advantage of the gentle downward slope off the tee and on the approach to pick up extra yardage, there are some wider portions of fairway in the lay-up landing zone, and the green welcomes run up shots.•	#16: Many holes at Old Chatham roll over the natural topography gorgeously, and in doing so, visually intimate the player. With a massive pronged bunker left and a knoll, the tee shot at the fifteenth is enthralling without unnecessary manmade construction.In so many ways, Old Chatham is an anomaly. It is convenient to every city in the Triangle yet feels totally secluded; hole corridors are cut from forest yet never feel narrow; the layout is bold and brawny yet is a very gentle, enjoyable, and short walk; and, the hospitality and relaxed atmosphere feels more like a community than an elite retreat. For these reasons and so many more, Old Chatham is a model course and private club which captures the most important elements of the spirit of our game.

The Cardinal by Pete Dye, formerly the Sedgefield Dye Course, was on my bucket list for many years. With McConnell Golf’s decision restructure access as semi-private in February of 2019, I finally had the opportunity to check it off. While Dye layouts can often be polarizing, I found The Cardinal to have solid variety, capture its topographical features effectively, and present fair challenges. The routing at The Cardinal runs over a handful of ridges closer to the clubhouse, and on the flatter holes, around tributaries Brush Creek. For that reason, the round feels like a bit of a roller coaster, with strategy and styling changing frequently.Many holes at The Cardinal stood out during my round, including:•	#2: Short par-threes, where a player actually has a club lower than an 8 or 9 iron in hand, are just too rare today. Placed early in the round, this one shotter is gentle, but still punishes the lackadaisical player. While not long, the ideal shot shape for many pins will be left-to-right. Any overcooked shot might find the creek, while any conservative bail-out left will have a fast chip back down toward the stream.•	#3: On the scorecard, the par-four third seems drivable, but realistically, there is virtually no room to go at this green. However, thinking through the tee shot is still interesting. The best angle into this perfectly perched putting surface is from the right side, though players must be careful to avoid overhanging trees.•	#7: The tee shot at the par-four seventh needs to avoid the creek at the end of the fairway. To find the best angle, one must also challenge the water on the right, too. This putting surface was exciting, as players can spin balls back off a shortgrass hill.•	#8: The green complex at the par-three eighth is terrifying, but actually provides significant options. The green runs almost right into the creek on the right, separated only by signature Dye railroad ties. With a few tiers present between the front, middle, and back, the wise player can use the slope on the left to boomerang balls to the proper portion of the putting surface.•	#9: The ninth is a brute, requiring both exceptional shaping and a long ball to conquer. Off the tee, players face a very narrow chute. If one cannot curve the ball from right-to-left, they will likely need to lay-up with a long iron or metal and probably have the same club into the green, a near impossible prospect for regulation. If one does play more aggressively, curvature is a must to avoid a fairway bunker. Adding insult to injury, any shot too conservative will be blocked by a tree. This slippery putting surface features pot bunkers and a number of dips and hollows to short-grass collection areas. The play is to the center of the green which initially slopes away from the player. In this particular case, the sheer difficulty of each shot required to make a par (or bogey…or double bogey!) is compelling.•	#10: Players arriving at The Cardinal get a peek at the tenth’s tee shot from the entryway, and it is a stunner. The fairway is gorgeously canted on both sides and appears bowl like, leading to a number of interesting potential sidehill lies. This par five is not particularly long, but a thoughtful approach is needed to reach the putting surface in two. The green is deep, but with firm conditions and steep drop-off long, ensuring that one uses the contours of the land properly to roll the ball up is essential.•	#11: Cascading downhill back towards the creeks, the moderate length par-four eleventh is sensational. Standing on the tee, one feels on top of the world. There appears to be significant width, and the impulse to take driver is almost insurmountable. However, peril can await tee shots that are slightly awry. Drives which catch either of the two massive sandy areas flanking the peninsula leading to the green leave a very awkward distance to a fairly small landing area. Even shots in the fairway must be placed on the left if they are to hold the green from the downhill lies. In this sense, Dye builds your confidence from the tee, only to test your nerves a few hundred yards later.•	#12: A plaque at The Cardinal’s twelfth commemorates Pete Dye’s thoughts that this was the toughest par three he ever designed. There is no good miss here. Pond left and long, bunkers and creek right, and all hazards in your mind if you find yourself chipping. Did I mention that it plays to over 200 yards from the tips?•	#14: This subtly excellent par four incorporates a hilly knob in the middle left portion of the fairway. This ridge makes the green blind from the tee, yet it is also provides the best angle. Playing too conservatively to the right brings tree blockages and Brush Creek into play; taking on the knob may lead to an awkward stance. The crowned, diagonal green drops sharply off the right.•	#15: The long par-five fifteenth is a very unique three shotter. After a pretty straightforward drive, options abound. One can lay up to the left, safely, but the third shot will then face a very narrow putting surface that is nearly impossible to stick. One can go for the green, but must challenge Brush Creek and still take on this same brutal angle. I believe the best play is actually to challenge the creek to the lay-up area short right of the green, A sharp left-to-right shot is needed to find this space, but it provides a very reasonable up-and-down for birdie.•	#16: Though not a true Redan, the multi-tiered, angled putting surface allows for players to hit a right-to-left shot, either aerially or on the ground, to best cozy a tee shot towards the hole.The wildly undulating and often crowned green complexes at The Cardinal are beguiling. Hitting controlled shots to the proper portion of each putting surface was critical to avoid finding pot bunkers and collection areas. Despite receiving five inches of rain the week prior to my visit, the greens were especially firm. While some of the lower-lying parts of the course were expectedly wet, conditions were solid overall, especially for the very modest price we paid to walk on a weekend.It is my understanding that Ross Jernigan, former superintendent at Wakefield Plantation, is now leading the team at The Cardinal. Having seen his tremendous work in Wake Forest, I know he and the McConnell staff will find ways to continue improving the turf, corridors, and drainage in Greensboro. The Cardinal is well worth the stop next time you find yourself in the area. In terms of value, this may be the best public course in the Triad.

“Hasentree is an OK course, but there is no water.”Year ago, that was the description of Hasentree a friend provided after their round. It was such an odd response for any number of reasons. Of course, in my head, I wondered, “when did a golf course need manmade ponds to be considered great?” I do not believe such features were an essential element of the game’s roots.After finally experiencing it myself, I can firmly say that Hasentree is a standout Fazio design which comfortably joins 4-5 other contenders for top course in the Triangle region of North Carolina. What this property lacks in water hazards (if that matters to you…), it makes up for with incredible character, rolling over its natural topography rather than around compelling components of the terrain. Fazio masterfully deceives the player throughout the thought-provoking routing. Although situated in a housing community, Hasentree’s positively sylvan setting is absolutely charming. Driving to the course out on Rt. 98 feels like a trek to the countryside. The clubhouse is magnificent and adds to the forested feel of the property. The practice range and chipping greens are the perfect places to get loose before the round, and the rumpled putting green is a great addition to test just about any break you may encounter. Members are lucky to have such fantastic facilities to hone in their games.Every hole at Hasentree presents new strategy, as well as a mix of corridors, flora styling, and other testing elements. This variety is compelling. Some of the standout holes include:•	#1: The first at Hasentree is no gentle handshake. The ideal angle to this green is from the right side of the fairway which is halted by a large bunker. The putting surface is bisected by a ridge and landing on the proper tier is a necessity to two putt.•	#2: This shortish par four is sneakily among the most challenging, and architecturally unique on the course. The tee shot plays downhill and is fairly inviting. However, the putting surface is perched on a massive volcano. Miss short, and find yourself in a treacherous bunker; miss anywhere else, and be prepared to have your creativity as a chipper tested. Being thoughtful with your tee shot and playing to a very comfortable wedge yardage is critical. Fazio’s ability to make such a difficult hole look so straightforward demonstrates great skill.•	#3: The moderate length par three third is also tricky. From the tee, it appears the safe miss is right of the green towards a handsome collection area, as a dense forest and bunkers await balls left. However, as the green is sloped slightly from right-to-left, any shot in that seemingly benign chipping area may actually be impossible to stop. This excellent hole calls for a very controlled left-to-right shot which is not overcooked.•	#4: The canted fairway from right-to-left at the fourth creates interest, as the best angle is often from the right side. I commend Fazio for incorporating the topography, rather than flattening such a great feature. •	#6: Though the sixth is a very lengthy par “3.5” hole for the average player, the green welcomes run-up shots, and lay-ups to the wide portion of fairway left also provide a solid opportunity for an up-and-down.•	#7-#8: It was refreshing to see these two holes running parallel with long rough between, breaking the course’s ecological styling and welcoming major gusts of wind. This shift in design is refreshing and hints that housing did not dictate the routing.•	#9: Knowing the pin location may drastically change strategy at the ninth. Playing straight downhill to a two pronged fairway, players might find the left or right portion more advantageous round to round. The left is guarded by a massive bunker while the right is more open, though the right leaves a shaper downhill lie to this very shallow putting surface.•	#10: Holes like the tenth at Hasentree strongly support the argument that width creates captivating strategy. The fairway is massively broad and canted from left-to-right. There are two potential greens that can be used. During my round, the green on the right was in play. From the right set of tees, players must consider how much to bite off from the tee. The longer the club, the bigger chance of hitting two very difficult midline bunkers, or potentially rolling one all the way to the green complex. An astounding use of the land, and once again a fascinating break in forested-style with the hole running in parallel to the finisher.•	#16: The curling par five sixteenth is a shot shapers dream. Drives must be accurate to fit through a chute of bunkers off the tee. Any righty with a major hook (or lefty with a slice) might have a go at this narrow, but exceptionally deep putting surface. Beware, though, to avoid six bunkers which may greet even a mishit that lands anywhere 50 yards short of the green and in! The curling fairway beyond these traps provides a hidden, yet ideal layup area. Consider golf holes along two axes: how hard it appears, and how difficult it actually plays. Architecturally speaking, it is pretty straightforward to design an easy hole which looks easy, and a difficult hole which is actually quite difficult. The artistry and talent of the architect shines through in the other quadrants. At Hasentree, Fazio managed to create some very difficult holes that appear straightforward, all while highlighting the natural terrain. Among those Fazio courses I have personally experienced, his work at Hasentree stands out for the great diversity in corridors, natural settings, and strategic options. It is truly a marvelous golf experience. Additionally, if you ever make it out, be sure to enjoy the local flair of downtown Wake Forest. This small town is full of character. Some suggestions:•	Poke around the beautiful Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary which sits on the site of the original Wake Forest University campus (where Arnold Palmer physically attended)•	Grab lunch and some delectable pastries at the Main Street Grill (1318 S Main St.)•	The honey ice cream at Lumpy’s (306 Wait Ave.) is the perfect post-round sweet treat•	And, wash it all down with a pint at the regionally famous White Street Brewing Company (218 S White St.)

Unlike many other major metropolitan areas around the country and world, there is arguably no outright “best course” in the Research Triangle of North Carolina. With excellent use of its topography and water hazards, MacGregor Downs is certainly among the 4-5 courses that could reasonably be considered in the debate.On the surface, so many golf course raters today would automatically write-off MacGregor Downs because of its residential setting. As I discussed in my previous review for Rivermont, making such broad generalizations from a Google Maps image is damaging. First, it fails to acknowledge the win-win potential where strong architecture is prioritized and housing communities also thrive. Additionally, it also shrinks the breadth of fantastic rounds those reviewers and their fans ultimately pursue, limiting the scope of their perspective. MacGregor Downs is a Triangle golf experience not to be missed, delivering on all fronts without feeling constricted by homes.In my opinion, the most compelling aspect of MacGregor Downs is its inherent variety. No one type of player is favored on this property, and success throughout the round will require fades and draws, bombs and careful tee placement, and virtually every club in the bag. An examination of standout holes illustrates this quality:•	#1: The opening tee shot features a massively wide fairway which seems welcoming to any long iron, metal, or driver, well-struck or even mishit. However, ensuring that you are not too conservative is critical. When the pin is in the tiny, front portion of this green, spinning the ball back into the water is a real possibility, and blindsiding yourself in any of the bunkers could spell disaster from the beginning.•	#3: Many forces are at play in the golfer’s mind at the difficult dogleg right third. The right half of the fairway presents the best angle into the green, but any shot too far right flirts with a steep drop off and bunkers, almost all of which force a lay-up. Playing out to the left lengthens an already difficult hole and makes the approach even more dreadful.•	#5: For most players, the par five fifth will not likely be reachable, but one must still make interesting decisions. The best angle off the tee is from the left portion of the fairway which is guarded by three pot bunkers. This side also lengthens the hole. The green as a pronged shape with left-to-right tilt meaning that any lay-up shot too deep through the fairway will require proper spin to hold. This quirky hole is a boatload of fun to navigate.•	#6: Pin location on this hourglass shaped green determines the best playing angle off the tee, though the somewhat wide landing area is flanked by traps on either side. The wiregrass area here and on other holes is a charming reminder that the player is just a short drive from the Sandhills.•	#7: Unlike previous holes which allow for booming drives, precision with a metal or driving iron is demanded at the seventh. Additionally, overturning the ball from right-to-left can hurt your angle into this deep green.•	#9: Tumbling straight down a steep slope, the par five ninth is both tempting and terrifying. While the green welcomes run-up shots, the often downhill lie may lead to a thin blade. That error, or even an aerial shot that hits anywhere past the middle of the green, will likely end up in the clubhouse.•	#11: Among the most handsome tee shots on the course, the dogleg right eleventh is a brute. Off the tee, players can opt for a straight metal or a curving drive. Holding the fairway in the landing zone is a challenge due to the cant away from the player. Hugging the corner as best as possible provides a superior angle into this rectangular putting surface.•	#13: The thirteenth is an absolutely beguiling hole placed at the perfect time in the round. After a pretty benign tee shot, players are faced with an uphill wedge. There is no reasonable miss, and failing to control your spin can lead to some incredibly awkward chips. This is often a turning point in a match, and I find the architect demanding a simple, controlled wedge at this crucial junction to be a wise test.•	#14: The resurgence of reachable par fours in the modern era is admirable. It is hard to fathom anyone not loving this category of hole. However, so many today have such tiny, unreceptive greens that they miss the mark on actually luring aggressive play. Not the fourteenth at MacGregor Downs. Players who lay-up may ultimately give themselves more green to work with on the approach, but it often comes at the risk of a side-hill stance, or landing in an awkwardly placed fairway bunker. The aggressive player has a solid entrance to the green if they can shape their shot properly, but any miss left or right can severely hurt the chances of an up-and-down.•	#17: The par five penultimate hole asks players to keep the ball on the right portion of the fairway for a superior angle. An aerial shot is required to land the ball on the green, and while reaching in two is a possibility, only a little room exists behind the putting surface for shots too long.•	#18: A few months ago, I saw some ‘woke’ golf architecture reviewers on Twitter poking fun at MacGregor Downs’ finisher. While this hole may have a manufactured look, I could sit there with a bucket of balls and play it repeatedly for days on end. With the fairway running perpendicular to the tee box and over the lake, the player is asked to attack one of three potential landing areas. The largest is also the closest from the tee, but leaves the longest distance into the green. The landing zone on the middle begins to shrink, but makes the approach much shorter. And, for the bomber, there is a chance to go right at the green, though this area is guarded by a massive tree. For most pin locations, keeping the ball as close to the hazard as possible is ideal, adding further depth of thought and challenge to the tee shot. As is often the case, Twitter bullies need to take a walk in their victims’ shoes. I cannot fathom anyone not loving this daring finisher if they had the chance to experience it themselves. The eighteenth at MacGregor Downs features strategy, options, and is pure fun to play. How is that not great architecture?The diversity of MacGregor Downs’ routing is compelling. There are shots requiring precision spin control, and ones which demand bombs. On some holes one is asked to play away from a hazard, and on others they must challenge penalty areas. Throughout the property you will be equally impressed by both the natural terrain and constructed traps. You will need every club and shot in your bag to make the loop, and a spirit of creativity to achieve low scores at this perfectly manicured course. Simply put, MacGregor Downs is a delightful club which demonstrates again that win-win situations for houses and golf are indeed possible. It is among the finest courses in the Triangle and is no doubt a real jewel for its members who can get vastly varying experiences daily.

Donald Ross is heralded for his unbelievable talent routing golf courses. Regardless of the property’s size, topography, and natural setting, Ross always managed to neatly arrange a course while still incorporating both the environs and architectural interest into his design. Think of a place like Seminole, which as we all just saw, so beautifully touched the two main dunes, or Wannamoisett, which packs a punch in barely 100 acres. At Mimosa Hills, Ross showcases his mastery again on a very rolling piece of terrain. In 18 holes, golfers not only play over a rollicking piece of land, but also experience tremendous views of the Appalachian Mountains.Sitting in the foothills, Mimosa resides in the charming town of Morganton, NC. The club has a storied history of producing tremendous golf talent, and after just one round you will immediately realize why. Virtually every aspect of the player’s game – from flat to steep lies, aerial shots to run ups, and holes of every length – are tested in a loop at Mimosa Hills. While the corridors feel bold and brawny, a quick Google Maps search will show you how perfectly connected the routing is into its setting. Ross was also incredible at using the land and bunkers to cause visual deception. Mimosa is full of holes that make one pause and think carefully about their plan of attack. Some of those include:•	#2: Although the second is a very short par four by modern standards, there is no shortage of trouble. Initially, it seems the tee shot is directly uphill, but importantly the fairway is also canted to the left. This poses a challenge, as the best angle into the blind green is from the right – a very difficult position to obtain. Furthermore, any player who is too aggressive with their drive may find a massive bunker in the left/center of the fairway, leaving a sand blast from an awkward distance.•	#3: This par five is relatively straightforward if one chooses to make it a three shot hole, but being too conservative may leave a downhill lie on the third shot to a uniquely pronged putting surface.•	#4: While the fourth may seem plain, I found the approach shot to be terrifying. Playing from a slightly downhill lie, the most common miss is thin, though there is no room at all behind this green banked into a pond. Once again, Ross showcases his genius by creating fear without moving any dirt on this flowing two shotter.•	 #5: The tee shot at the dogleg left fifth is fascinating – a perfect yardage must be achieved from the tee to properly orient your second shot into this oblique putting surface, while also avoiding hanging branches from a large tree.•	#7: The land on this par five is tilted from left-to-right. Of course, on the drive, out-of-bounds and a bunker lurk on that right side.•	#11: The tee shot at the eleventh was intriguing and quite frankly, differs strategically (and correctly, in my opinion) from so many courses I play today. The fairway heads uphill with a slight cant to the right. The best angle into this green is from the left side, but to achieve it, one must carry a fairway bunker on the left. Too often, one sees the opposite – play away from traps for the best angle. Ross’s mindset gives true risk/reward options to the low and high handicapper on this tough hole.•	#12: Similar to the third, the approach at the par five twelfth is provocative. Going for the green in two is an option, but any shot left or long drops off severely and leads to a nearly impossible up-and-down. Laying back is also a possibility, but beware of a massive cross bunker and the forthcoming blind shot with a poor angle into the green.•	#14: While watching the “Donald Ross: Discovering the Legend” DVD, I heard some of Ross’ great holes described as “discovered” rather than constructed. The fourteenth at Mimosa Hills certainly fits the bill. This fairway is absolutely marvelous, and I wish I could hit drives to it with a bucket of balls all day. Severely canted from right-to-left, one must avoid a series of flanking bunkers and then cross bunkers on their journey down this par five’s corridor. Of course, the only angle to the green is from the far right portion of the fairway which is both difficult to stick, and leaves a sidehill lie. The way in which this fairway hugs the land generates both strategic interest and natural beauty.•	#15: The long par four fifteenth offers some respite for the average player, welcoming run-up shots. However, with virtually no room long, golfers must be precise with whichever shot type they pursue.Relative to many other restored Ross courses I have played from this era, I found the putting surfaces at Mimosa Hills to be very small. This made many approach shots to be absolutely frightening for a ball striker of my (poor) caliber – especially with some very long par threes right near the parking lot, driveway, and clubhouse. However, when combined with such a superb routing, it became immediately apparent why so many fantastic players have called Mimosa Hills home. With a plethora of challenges and breathtaking views all mixed into the adventure, I cannot fathom rounds here ever getting old. Additionally, the staff were beyond welcoming, especially head pro Jimmy Piercy who took the time to show me some incredible pieces of golf history from the club. If you receive an invitation to play Mimosa Hills, clear your calendar and make your way to Morganton for a spectacular round ahead!

On a recent trip to the Sandhills, I had the great fortune of playing Pinehurst #9, formerly the National, for the first time. The staff greeting was warm from the moment we drove through the gate, and even on the entryway, one could tell the round would feature some heavily rolling topography.As mentioned by previous reviewers, the course favors those players with a left-to-right shot type. However, even with all of the dogleg rights, there was strong diversity otherwise, including a mix of wide/narrow, types of hazards, how the holes fit over natural landforms, and what side of the fairway was optimal. At first glance, the putting surfaces seemed rather small, but because the greens were bentgrass, I found them to be quite receptive. The oblong shapes and severe tiers on the putting surfaces added interest not just when putting, but also on the approach shots.Many holes at #9 are standouts, including:•	#4: After emerging from three very narrow opening holes, the vista at the fourth is a warm welcome to anyone who sprays the ball like me! The tee shot, though flanked by a pond right, provides quite a bit of width. Furthermore, players can use the naturally contoured slope on the left to run balls back into the fairway. The approach shot is marvelous. Two bunkers bisect the ideal landing zone diagonally. While there is more room to the left, this side provides a horrific angle into a difficult, perched, L-shaped putting surface. The best play is ideally on the right side, and if possible, over the first fairway bunker.•	#5: Playing up and then down a hill, the caddy paired with our group encouraged us all to cut off as much of the corner on the dogleg right fifth as possible. If you can hit a drive over the trees, tee shots can pick up an additional 20-40 yards. This may not be desirable, though, as you can end up on a downhill lie playing uphill to a very shallow green, right over a hazard.•	#6: The green at the par four sixth is a stunner, with a large front tier, and then a massive downward slope to another tier in the back. Depending on pin location, the ideal shot here may be a low runner or a very high-flighted wedge.•	#7: The first hole with natural, sandy waste area is a wonderful reminder about where your round is being played. The best shot from the tee is arguably with a metal or long iron to a much wider landing area; the left side provides a superior angle into this narrow green complex. However, playing downhill, it can be tempting to hit driver. While you can gain a distance advantage and set up a birdie, the landing zone pinches and you may just as easily end up in wiregrass blasting out over more waste area.•	#8: Presenting yet another wildly shaped green, this time sloped hard from left-to-right, pin placement will determine whether or not laying up or going for this putting surface is the smarter play.•	#9: Although the peninsula green at the par three ninth seems tiny, the unique slopes and ridges can be used to funnel balls toward the more tucked pin locations.•	#10: After a pretty benign tee shot, options abound for the approach shot at the tenth. With so many strong contours along the fairway and green, players can attempt to go all aerial, or rope in a ground ball from the left to hit this putting surface in two.•	#16: A very short par four, this hole tempts the player to hit driver. However, the corridor is very narrow on both sides, and the only wide portion of the fairway requires a very conservative lay-up. The sandscape here is yet another charming reminder of the area’s natural scenery.•	#18: Though very challenging – with a downhill, curving tee shot and a lake left of the green – the finisher is also fair, with width, and a bail out area right of the green that leaves a reasonable up-and-down.All in all, I found Pinehurst #9’s green complexes to be the star of the show. Each one featured many severe, unique contours that forced you to think through your tee shots and approaches carefully. While many of the holes were very narrow, there was a good mix of fairways with wider playing corridors. The natural terrain was featured gorgeously in the routing. The only aspects of the course which were repetitive were the dogleg rights, and the hourglass shape of many green complexes. Personally, I prefer Pinehurst #9 to courses #1, #3, and #5, and would consider it roughly in the same ballpark as #7, perhaps slightly more interesting. The bentgrass greens were soft, but necessary, due to the strong undulations.

Aptly described by reviewer Colin Braithwaite below, the Rees Jones designed Pinehurst #7 course is “newer” with a “throwback feel.” With many holes incorporating hilly terrain and the natural sandscape, challenges await players of all skill levels. The course presents a strong mix of half-par holes with risk and reward opportunities, and the many multi-tiered putting surfaces were intriguing. Those holes which stood out most to me include:•	#1: With a large dip in the driving zone, Rees did a great job at implementing visual deception from the first tee shot. The best angle into the green is from the left side of the fairway, but with the natural tilt of the land, it can be difficult to keep your approach there.•	#4: This dogleg right plays over the crest of a hill and requires shot shaping from the tee to avoid a series of deep bunkers. Missing this green right forces a very tough up-and-down from a steep hollow.•	#10: The “turn” at Pinehurst #7 is an especially fitting moniker. This tee shot plays downhill to a fairway that both twists in an crooked shape, and is canted from right to left. The best angle into the green is from the left side of the fairway, and drives can chase here if the player uses the natural slope of the land. From there, the approach is uphill to a two-tiered, deep green complex.•	#12: The twelfth hole at Pinehurst #7 is one of my favorite holes in the Sandhills, let alone on this golf course, as options abound on every single shot. Off the tee, players must avoid being too conservative with a series of bunkers on the right, but cannot get too greedy down the left with more bunkers and thick woods. This guarded left side provides the best potential opportunity of reaching the green in two. From the fairway, it appears there is significant room to the right, but be warned, any shot that misses the green right is totally dead. I found this out the hard way, from the right greenside bunker. Whether hitting from tight fairway, wiregrass, or a bunker, the green is almost certainly too shallow to hit from the right. Instead, on the second shot, players should favor the left side and use the natural slope as a backstop on their lay-up. The putting surface is banked beautifully into a hillside and a false front can reject any short shot back into the fairway. With interesting topography, strategic sand placement, and width, the twelfth is a hole that will never grow old.•	#14 & #15: Playing along the same hill, players can utilize the tilt of the land to position their drives into these guarded green complexes.•	#16: Requiring a well-flighted shot over a massive waste area, the par three sixteenth was a true standout. Using a mid or long iron, this all carry tee shot must find a complex, fascinating green with a dip running through the center portion and two banking tiers.•	#17: With dry conditions, big drives are possible at the severely downhill seventeenth. If you are playing from the proper tees, one must also be careful about the swamp bisecting the fairway. On the approach, one must hit a high, aerial shot over the hazard and bunkers to a perched complex – a very difficult, natural challenge.•	#18: Wide landing areas welcome conservative tee shots and approaches on the finisher, while difficulties await the more aggressive golfer. The latter must avoid out-of-bounds and a large bunker off the tee, and must not go long off a downhill lie on the approach so as to avoid a lake beyond the green complex.These elements and many more left me feeling very positive about Pinehurst #7. While the course was certainly quite difficult, the challenges seemed fair and balanced overall with more moderate holes mixed in among the brutes.In my opinion, there were only two small drawbacks to the architecture presented at the #7 course. First, on six holes, the best line of attack off the tee is to avoid fairway flanking bunkers. This seems like a missed opportunity – should the player not have to challenge those hazards for the best angle into the green? Second, on five holes, one faces a downhill tee shot to an uphill landing area. Many more holes also play to an uphill green. For that reason, while the total yardage of the course is standard, it plays significantly longer as drives hit upslopes and have no run. This frequently downhill/uphill pattern becomes repetitive at points.Despite this, I would rate Pinehurst #7 as a solid Sandhills option. I prefer #7 to courses #1, #3, and #5, and consider it an equal to #9. The golf course follows the topography well to create challenge, opportunity, and strategic interest.

With its enchanting setting, world class putting surfaces, perfectly firm turf, wide corridors, and strategic bunkering, Yeamans Hall left me more stunned after just one round than any other course I have played. My admiration for this Seth Raynor masterpiece has no bounds. The entire property at Yeamans Hall is impressive, allowing one to feel worlds away from everyday life. Crossing the railroad tracks and passing through the front gate, the long, natural entryway passes charming homes, vast fields, ancient trees, and glowing flowers. Almost instantly, the scenery of Yeamans Hall detaches the mind and heart from anything but the round ahead.Prior to my arrival, I had read dozens of reviews and taken countless photo tours of Yeamans Hall. As with many courses seen on television, scale is never captured in virtual imagery, and the massive scope of the property – from greens, to corridors, to bunkering – is impossible to convey electronically. In some ways, playing at Yeamans Hall was an introduction to an entirely new sport. Yeamans Hall honors the tradition of the game’s roots exceptionally. After just a few holes, my definition of the term ‘fairway bunker’ had been turned upside down. No longer does it seem appropriate to refer to traps surrounded by rough, flanking the corridor, as fairway bunkers. The skillfulness with which Seth Raynor laid bunkers through ideal playing lines is both thought-provoking, and entirely contrary to the notion of “fair-way.” Furthermore, given their immense size, contours, and tiering, no course has forced me to think about placement on greens more than those at Yeamans Hall. The combination of these distinctive features allows for infinite pin locations, ultimately altering the challenge that sightline bunkers instill during every round. This diversity is extremely compelling.Raynor clearly made the most of the Yeamans Hall property. The front nine, which is slightly more flat, incorporates amazing marsh views and significant cross bunkering, while the back nine provides a new adventure on a slightly rolling topography. Both enthrall the player start-to-finish. While every hole at Yeamans Hall is worthy of intense study, those which shined most during my round include:•	#1 (Plateau): Although the first tee shot seems benign, knowing the location of the pin may entirely change your strategy. The green is unlike any I have encountered before, with three massive, distinct tiers in a triangular shape and a dip bisecting the center. On any given day, the best route may be a running shot, a high aerial short-iron, or something in between.•	#2 (Leven): For many pin placements, the best angle to the second green is from the right portion of the fairway. This area is guarded by three intimidating cross bunkers and also lengthens the hole.•	#3 (Short): With gorgeous views of the Cooper River, it is easy to be distracted from the tricky shot at hand. The thumbprint green provides loads of interesting pin locations, and seaside winds may grab uncontrolled shots.•	#5 (Alps): The green is bisected into left and right portions by a steep spine, forcing players to consider pin placement off the tee. Players aiming right must either carry or lay-up to a cross bunker, while the left hand route incorporates difficult moguls.•	#6 (Redan): The putting surface at the Redan sixth is world-class. Shallow but wide, bunkers guard the front and back of this hole. The right entrance to the green is angled and steep, and a sharp spine runs along the back portion of the putting surface. Strategies to attack are virtually infinite here, and depending on the location of the pin, one can use the ridges as speed slots or backstops.•	#8 (Creek): A number of Raynor’s bunkers provide visual intimidation off the tee, and two at the eighth force the player’s eyes right when the best angle into this green is from the left. The approach shot on this hole is most likely from a slightly downhill lie which is terrifying, as there is no room to miss thin beyond the green. •	#10 (Cape): The player is presented with new challenges at the turn. While not long, a lone cross bunker directly in the landing zone at the tenth intimidates. Because the green is small, raised, and requires a shot with perfect touch and trajectory, laying-up and leaving a longer approach yardage can be a dangerous prospect. This putting surface has no preferable bail out zone.•	#14 (Knoll): This long par four plays up and over a large hill, and during my round, also was directly into a three club wind. Adding insult to injury, drives may be stunted by the uphill nature of the tee shot. Laying up is a possibility, but because the area of the green sits so far below the hole, any player chipping will not be able to see the immense, raised putting surface.•	#17 (Punchbowl): The most direct line to this handsome punchbowl green is from the right portion of the fairway. Raynor tempts the player strategically with two bunkers crossing the fairway diagonally – the more aggressively one aims to the right, the more potential room there is to hit it long.•	#18 (Home): The more golf courses I play, the more strongly I feel that finishing holes should present a fair test, rather than punish. If you are in a match, would you rather win with a birdie opportunity, or because your opponent fell apart on a brutal hole? If you are about to set your personal record, do you want your mindset to be stepping up to make great shots, or conservatively avoiding double-bogey? And from the course’s standpoint, do you want members to leave feeling deflated or proud? The finisher at Yeamans Hall offers this positive mindset while still providing strategic options. Players must hit a reasonably solid drive to surpass two cross bunkers. The lay-up zone is thought-provoking. More conservative players have a wide area between two sets of bunkers, while more aggressive players can only miss to the right, leaving them with a more difficult angle.On a recent podcast, Andy Johnson of The Fried Egg explained that if a course has eighteen fantastic green complexes, it is destined for greatness. Yeamans Hall fits this description perfectly, and the course is elevated to an elite status thanks to an incredible puzzle of architectural artistry. The sum and the parts are exceptional at Yeamans Hall.When I reflect upon the ~3,500 unique holes I have played to date, there are only a select handful of green complexes that are deeply etched into my memory. Yeamans Hall stands out for providing eighteen putting surfaces that are unforgettable. The challenges showcased vary tremendously from hole-to-hole thanks to the scale of the greens, gentle topography, coastal wind, and breadth of shot options. The course conditioning is immaculate, and the welcome I received from members and staff demonstrated an ingrained culture of generosity. Simply put, Yeamans Hall presents a test rarely experienced in the game today, and for that, it stands out in the top architectural echelon of world golf.

Bottom line up front: Keney Park is the real deal. Do not drive through central Connecticut without stopping to play this phenomenally routed, fabulously restored gem.Growing up and learning the game in the greater Hartford area, my friends and I tried to play as many of the Nutmeg State’s courses as our high school budgets permitted. We always sought out new tracks, and in general, we were not picky. However, even we could not have been tempted to visit Keney Park as teenagers. My hat goes off to the Dusenberry Design team for their intensive work on this Devereux Emmet/Jack Ross masterpiece. Touching up a course with basic restoration techniques is one thing; catapulting a course from the bottom to the top of ranking lists while retaining the basic routing and bones? Incredible.The inherent, classic-era nature of Keney Park’s layout allows the course to stand out from others in the area, and it creates a different adventure during every single loop. One of Keney Park’s shining old-school elements is that holes lay over the natural, rolling terrain, rather than around. Golden age architects did not have the luxury of removing knolls to build flat corridors, and in the case of Keney Park, those fairway slopes are marvelously fun. Another compelling facet are the very large green complexes which present an infinite number of pin placements. At Keney Park, the golfer must think about where to put the ball on the putting surface instead of monotonously playing to the center every time. Finally, on the less compelling topographical holes, Keney Park incorporates thoughtful bunkering and natural hazards, such as streams, rather than forcing an overly manmade appearance. These exquisite features create an adventure that plays differently during every single loop.So many holes at Keney Park are like a business case. There are a number of routes a player can choose to attack, and each poses challenges and opportunities. Weighing those and executing properly are critical. Contemplative moments arise throughout the round on standout holes, including:•	#1: Every inch of Keney Park’s opener is exceptional. The teeing area connects to the practice green beautifully, and the player is greeted with a hole that bounds over three natural humps in the terrain. Introspection is required from your first tee shot at this potentially reachable par four. For the more conservative player, a wide landing area can be found just beyond the second rumple. However, this seemingly safe valley also presents a blind approach into the narrow green, and any ball on the left side must overcome an inferior angle. Taking driver is a more aggressive play, and a long enough shot may catch the third ridge down to the putting surface. However, the corridor near the green narrows. Ironically, the putting surface at the first is more of a Biarritz than the actual ‘Biarritz’ named hole (#7), in my opinion, and it also slopes hard left-to-right. Clearly, the possibilities are limitless, and your round has only just begun.•	#2: Feeling similar in profile to #4 at Bethpage Black, the par five 2nd at Keney Park has S-shaped curvature and continues the riveting start to the front nine. The first test is the tee shot, which plays to a left-to-right canted fairway is guarded by a parallel, bisecting creek. The overwhelming majority of players will find themselves laying up short of this hazard, yet nailing the proper trajectory and yardage with a long iron or metal is critical. Too long down the fairway, and you will be totally blocked from any line at the green. Too short, and you might catch the slope down into the water. On the second shot, conservative golfers can advance their ball down the wider, right side of the hole. However, third shots from this area have a difficult angle and a longer-than-desirable yardage. Aggressive players can take a more direct line at the hole, setting up a good birdie opportunity, but their shot must fly over an absolutely massive waste area on the left. Adding to the difficulty is that most will be playing from a side-hill, downhill lie. This hole is absolutely ingenious – among the best of my ~3,500 played – and yet it so simply laid upon the land.•	#4: The course’s first par four is a blast. Situated on the opposite side of the 2nd’s hill, the player once again faces a left-to-right canted fairway. Strategic players will hit their first shot towards the left rough to keep the ball in the center. A treacherous bunker is located in the ideal driving zone on the right side, quickly snatching up any overly aggressive shot to the middle of this leaning fairway.•	#6: The ‘Short’ at Keney Park is terrifying. With sharp drop offs in the back and left, pot bunkers surrounding, and a massive protruding spine in the front, this hole demands a high, aerial approach which sticks a perfect landing.•	#7-#9: While the final three holes on the front nine are not blessed with the same rolling topography as their predecessors, each varies in length, welcomes a plethora of ground and aerial shots, and features unique bunker styles (Road, Church Pews, etc.). What could have been a yawner of a stretch ends up presenting a diversity of tests.•	#10: The turn at Keney Park showcases another excellent three-shot hole with options galore. The landing area on the drive is extremely wide, but any shot that fades even slightly right will be blocked by trees. Those players will then face the difficult prospect of laying up while avoiding a massive waste bunker about 100 yards short of the green. Players whose drives are on the left portion of the fairway may reach in two, but also play off a slanted lie. The area before the green is tilted to the left, and of course, there is no room for error in the same direction. The baseball-field shaped putting surface is profile I have not encountered elsewhere, and it is interestingly surrounded by bunkers, short grass, and long rough on different sides. Chipping and pitching possibilities here are endless.•	#12: Arguably the most thought-provoking hole on the back nine, the 12th at Keney Park is tremendous. This short par four plays downhill and is drivable for some players. The fairway leading up to the green is wide, but the putting surface is devilish with a hard tilt especially right-to-left. Players can opt to lay-up to the first tier of fairway but must avoid a cemetery on the right. Furthermore, the angle from this conservative right portion of the fairway is inferior due to the cant on the green complex.•	#13: The ‘Redan’ style hole at Keney Park has interesting padding in the front-right portion of the collar which can be used to boomerang your shot onto the putting surface.•	#17: As your round at Keney Park comes to a close, more visual intimidation awaits. A large cross bunker left guards the shortest route to the hole, and a ‘Principal’s Nose’ style bunker forces many to hit a hit, lofted approach shot to a very undulating green. Spin control here is a necessity.So many golf courses in New England have amazing landforms that go unfeatured in the routing. Whether holes play around those elements or if they were razed, many other properties lose character and blend together. Keney Park’s leap from a gloomy past to such a promising future demonstrates yet again that great golf can exist just about anywhere. Look at what a difference simple canted fairways and large putting surfaces make for this club! Keney Park’s layout will keep you on your toes from the 1st tee to the 18th green, even if some stretches fall a little bit flat. Keney Park’s restoration also proves that high caliber, architecturally interesting municipal golf need not cost an-arm-and-a-leg. Every community deserves great golf like Keney Park.Since its restoration, Keney Park has been heralded as one of, if not the best public golf courses in the state of Connecticut. It is high time that ‘public’ qualifier is dropped: Keney Park is one of the best golf courses Connecticut, period. As I said in the beginning and as I reaffirm now, Keney Park is the real deal.

After years of reading about his famous template holes, I finally had the chance to experience my first Seth Raynor design at the Country Club of Charleston. This property provides a striking reminder that even on relatively bland ground, a golf course can be memorable when it presents compelling green complexes and a well-thought-out routing. While the front nine at Charleston may be flat, it is slightly more exposed to coastal wind. Raynor brilliantly routed holes in a variety of directions, changing the challenge day-to-day. On the back nine, Raynor incorporated a knoll into a few green complexes. While I do not believe that all golden age courses are great simply due to the designer’s name, there is inarguable artistry in the way classic architects built courses which stand the test of time without using any modern machinery. The Country Club of Charleston must be such a treat for members who play there regularly because the test varies daily.Perfectly manicured throughout, some of the more notable holes at Charleston for me include:•	#3: The Eden hole at Charleston is visually intimidating off the tee, yet there seems to be reasonable opportunities to miss regardless of the day. Given the wide, shallow nature of the hole, accidentally playing to the opposite side actually provides room for an up-and-down.•	#4: The sharp, angled bunkering at the 4th begs for a right-to-left shaped drive, but be careful to not overcook that tee shot and find Dill Creek.•	#7: My favorite hole on the outward nine, this dogleg presents challenge on both sides off the tee, with four bunkers left and the marshland right. Stepping onto this green, I immediately realized the hype behind Seth Raynor. With plateaus in the back left and right portions of this putting surface, there is no shortage of interesting pin locations on this hole. Do not let the beautiful view on the Maiden distract you from the real showstopper – a one-of-a-kind, beguiling green!•	#11: You often hear that television and photographs cannot capture elevation on a golf course. Nowhere in my golf journey has this been truer than the Redan at the Country Club of Charleston. This scale of this green complex is unbelievably terrifying, and with virtually nowhere to bail out, hitting a precise mid/long-iron is a must. Watching players come up short time and time again at the U.S. Women’s Open here was a stark reminder of its sheer difficulty. In a world of long par threes with bland back-to-front slopes, why do more courses not add variety with masterpiece greens like the 11th at Charleston?•	#13: Playing angles at the 13th were interesting to navigate. The superior viewpoint into the green is from the right, though this area is guarded with bunkers and tree limbs. Although this hole is not long at 356 yards, it could be even more compelling if played as a drivable par four. In that case, players would also have the opportunity to challenge the bunkers which bisect the fairway while also avoiding out-of-bounds long.•	#14: With three distinct, massive tiers, precision and deft wedge play is a must at the 14th. Playing angles also are front of mind with this wide fairway, though three centerline bunkers also must be evaded.•	#15: The sole par five on the back nine, the 15th grabbed my attention with the varying nature of shots required. From the tee, it seems clear that a right-to-left shot is preferred, roping around a large angled bunker. To jump the grass wall and also funnel your shot through the chute of trees, one must do their best to hit a dreaded ‘straight’ shot. Depending on your angle, you may have a challenging approach, or a wide open view at running the ball up onto the green.•	#16: The Lion’s Mouth at Charleston lives up to the hype, but again, photographs completely misguided my expectations. Given the severe nature of the green complex, the actual playing area on this putting surface was quite smaller than I anticipated. For that reason, I assumed the hole would play short. At 450+ yards dead into the wind during my visit, the hole actually became a three shotter…and I did end up having a wedge into the green, for my third! I can only imagine how interesting driving on this hole is downwind, as the fairway is peppered with cleverly staggered bunkers.With diversity in the hole directions, and bold green complexes, Seth Raynor was able to route an absolutely fascinating golf course at the Country Club of Charleston. This course must play drastically different every single day as the wind changes direction. As a golf club member, it is hard to ask for a more compelling adventure than what you will encounter at Charleston.

Dive into any golf architecture forum and you will be hard pressed to find a more polarizing architect than Mike Strantz. Tobacco Road is certainly one of his more controversial designs. Regardless of where you fall on the opinion spectrum, there is no doubt that this property is one-of-a-kind. If you love golf architecture, you must visit this site.As I reflected on my own history with Tobacco Road, as well as the many analyses I have read over the years, I decided to depart from my typical review structure and instead examine why the course is so divisive. My hope is to provide helpful recommendations for those who have never played Tobacco Road, and some bi-partisan critique on this devilish masterpiece.First and most importantly, I feel strongly that no golfer should ever formulate their opinion (let alone publish it) after just one round at Tobacco Road. When reviewing evaluations that claim Tobacco Road is too challenging, it is frequently obvious that most of those writers have only experienced the course a single time. This is evident especially when people complain about the numerous blind shots. The combination of those remarks is completely unfair, in my opinion. A golf hole is only truly ‘blind’ the first time you play it, and beyond the dunes and ridges at this property are some of the widest fairways you will ever encounter. While one may be discouraged by a disappointing result from a well-struck shot on their first go-around, it is highly unlikely they would ever make the same mistake again. Furthermore, the green sizes at Tobacco Road tend to reflect the length of the approach – you usually have a pretty short club in hand to attack the smaller greens, which I believe is a wise and reasonable design aspect.The other reason that it is critical to play the course multiple times before judgment is due to the unpredictability of condition. My first round at Tobacco Road was in 2010, and I left feeling so let-down. When I finally gave Tobacco Road another shot in 2017 (and other times since), I immediately realized why my previous round was so disappointing. Because the course was wet from rain the night prior, roll and bounces off interesting contours had been muted. Additionally, the maintenance of the property has improved on every one of my visits. Shaggy fairways dulled the impact of the rumpled corridors during my first experience.While some players complain that Tobacco Road is too challenging, I have also seen other reviewers criticize the course for being too easy. My gut reaction to those is to wonder when difficulty became the bar for determining architectural merit? Specifically for Tobacco Road, though, I also feel that ‘too easy’ is unfair descriptor which does not capture the full scoring context. Personally, I believe many of those reviewers actually just lack an imaginative spirit. On most holes at Tobacco Road, par is very achievable by playing conservatively – straight, high, and long down each wide fairway. If a strong player has this mindset, I could easily see why they might get bored. What the ‘too easy’ commentary does not encapsulate is that on many holes, birdies are hard to come by without creativity. Depending on pin locations, the only route to go low might be running a ball over a knob, by cutting off a waste area’s corner, or by taking the longer route to the hole with a superior angle. Additionally, saying the course is ‘too easy,’ does not acknowledge that virtually any out-of-place shot can quickly multiply into a big number.Finally, before you consider where you stand on Tobacco Road, realize that like me, your opinion may change over time and that…*gasp*…you may even have extremely polarized views from one hole to the next. The course has that much depth to its variety. For instance:•	#1: My favorite opener of 215+ courses played, this daunting tee shot is actually quite manageable once you realize there is a massive landing area beyond the dunes. The second shot provides endless options. You can lay-up conservatively before the splitting ridge, but then will have to navigate another blind shot. An aggressive metal sweeping left-to-right can run up to this green, though any shot missed right will face a difficult, shallow up-and-down.•	#2: This hole may not jump off the page during your first visit, but the bowled nature of the extremely wide fairway is a blast to experience. It is a great birdie opportunity if and only if you angle your approach appropriately.•	#4: The second of two stellar three-shotters on the front, the approach at the 4th is beyond fantastic. Players can make an easy five here by lengthening the hole from the right with a better angle. The aggressive play over a massive waste area must be exacting, or the player will be left with an awkward sand shot yardage. Both players can bounce a ball into the green using the slope front right.•	#5: This particular par four, despite being so unique, does not resonate with me. There are essentially two routes to the green, and quite frankly, neither is desirable. You can play safe to the fairway right, but that lengthens the hole considerably and adds a blind approach with a mid/long iron. One can instead attempt to drive the green, but even a tiny miss is almost surely leading to a bogey. Even if the aggressive tee shot catches the miniscule patch of fairway short, the chip is very difficult to almost any pin. Every option feels lose-lose.•	#9: Another hole where I struggle to discern best strategy, the tiny nature of the 9th green does not fit well with the grand scale of the uphill approach. The best angle is from the left side, but your shot can easily be blocked out by tree limbs. If anything, the only real option here are two long, straight, high shots – unfitting on a hole with such an interestingly wide fairway and beautifully perched putting surface.•	#10: Like the 2nd, the turn at Tobacco Road grows on me every round. With the opportunity to run up a shot using a bank on the left, I find the approach to be captivating.•	#11: The approach shot on the 11th brings forth untamable internal temptation. Par (and maybe even birdie) on this hole is so easy if one simply lays-up to the wide area left of the green, but going for the putting surface over the deep crater always seems to be just in reach.•	#13: I am still lost as to the appeal on this hole. Unless one can both hit a massive slice (lefty hook) and control their yardage like a video game, the only real option from the tee is a long-iron or metal. I cannot fathom going for this punchbowl green in two, leaving the only real approach route as a pretty bland lay-up. For such a photographed, applauded hole, I have yet to step off the green feeling stimulated.•	#18: The harrowing tee shot over the mine remnants at the finishing hole stirs the soul. Seeing this feature when entering and exiting may be one of the most genius ‘architectural’ aspects for course marketing in the game. That view gets my heart racing upon arrival and leaves me salivating upon departure.Tobacco Road may have features that cause polarizing viewpoints, but that does not mean that one’s overall review must be so extreme. There is room for gray. Playing the course more than once, in different conditions, and with some imaginative shots will ultimately reveal the options and splendor present on this very special routing. With virtually no comparable counterpart, any architecture lover must visit Tobacco Road. Keep an open mind as you navigate this superb golf adventure.

Truthfully, Myrtle Beach does not have the most glamorous reputation as a travel destination. When you hear “Myrtle,” most people probably conjure up hotel-lined beachfront, chain restaurants, and tourist traps. However, the more I visit the area, the more I find charming old eateries, quiet sandy beaches, and real local flavor.Myrtle Beach’s golf scene follows a similar pattern. While Myrtle Beach has a very high quantity of courses, the quality of golf is thought to be fairly modest, with condos lining tight fairways and small, uninteresting green complexes. Again, though, there are exceptions to the rule. The Dunes Club breaks this stereotype for Myrtle Beach golf, and its architectural interest stands the test of time.I was fortunate to play the Dunes a few years ago as a guest of a generous member, and the visit did not disappoint. Having learned the game on a Robert Trent Jones original, and having played most of my college golf on another Jones design, I expected the Dunes Club to have naturally flowing fairways, bold green complexes, and tough bunkering throughout. It delivered on all fronts. The Dunes Club captures the lovely, atypical rolling topography of its site beautifully, and using mixed width fairways, Jones created fascinating corridors on the flatter pieces of the property.The Dunes Club boasts a number of outstanding holes which include:•	#4: A complex, risk-reward par five where players can take one of two routes off the tee. The fairway is wide before making a sharp turn to the left, and one can easily play safe to this area. However, from this wider portion of the fairway, the second shot is difficult, requiring a hard snap hook. The aggressive right-to-left play on the drive can pay off only if the golfer finds an extremely narrow strip of short grass over two menacing traps. To reach the green in two, a player must be able to hit a high, lofted long iron often from a slightly downhill lie.•	#6: Rolling gently over a knoll, players must hit their drives as close to a large bunker guarding the left hand side of this fairway in order to optimize their angle on this long par four.•	#8: Players have tough decision to make on this excellent par five. The fairway is wide for a conservative player both off the tee on the lay-up shot. Aggressive players must avoid a pinched fairway and bunkers left. While a lofted metal shot will be necessary to stick the landing, a collection area is hidden beyond the putting surface and quite frankly, may be a better place to miss. Atypical for a Jones’ course, 40 yards long of this putting surface is arguably better (and easier to achieve) than 40 yards short.•	#9: Opening to the ocean, the long par three 9th is beguiling and complicated due to coastal wind.•	#10: Among the most interesting Jones’ fairways I have encountered, pin placement will dictate strategy at the turn. The initial portion of the fairway is hourglass shaped. The player must navigate wind to choose an exact yardage and side of this oblong shortgrass to provide a strong angle while also avoiding a pond long. Depending on the wind direction and position of the tees, longer hitters may also have a chance to reach a thin piece of fairway beyond the pond. Personally, I think the course should always make this an option, essentially providing three distinct route possibilities day-in and day-out.•	#11: Intricate corridors continue at the 11th as the fairway blossoms into a wide area beyond a bunker left. Playing out to the right provide a much shorter route to the hole, but also can be treacherous with a swamp; aptly played shots to the left can provide a better angle but lengthen an already deep par four.•	#13: The Dunes Club’s crown jewel does not disappoint. With a tapered fairway to start, the more aggressive one is from the tee, the more exacting their drive must be. From there, Jones offers two wider lay-up zones extended into the pond that quite frankly, seem so natural and elegant in person. There are so many risk/reward options on this hole that it could never get old to play.•	#16: From the tee, the player can either choose to play conservatively to a wide fairway, or aggressively by avoiding a bunker right. Surrounded by seven menacing sand traps, this putting surface was my favorite on the course. At this stage in the round, using your last bits of energy to hit such an exacting wedge shot was no easy prospect. (The Dunes Club has an alternate par three that, when in play, makes this the 17th hole)The Dunes Club, steeped in rich tradition, breaks the stereotypical golf norms on the Grand Strand. Mixed wide/narrow fairways, a demand for a variety of shot-shaping techniques, and thoughtful challenges greet players throughout the round. Perhaps the only disappointing factor is that aerial approaches are required on essentially every single hole. This does not honor the Dunes Club’s firm, seaside links ancestors. With that said, if in the area and choosing where to play, I would strongly encourage anyone to check out Jones’ work on this property. Strategic interest abounds regardless of whether or not holes were laid upon rolling or flat terrain.

One of the best pieces of professional advice I have received is “to never just bring problems to your manager, but instead, come prepared with possible solutions.” When I read evaluations of the South Course at Torrey Pines on other forums, I frequently find myself referring back to that career wisdom. In my research, the most common reviewer phrase used to describe Torrey Pines South Course is that “it could be so much better.” Despite the ennui, I rarely uncover explicit reasons for the condemnation or improvement recommendations. I am not an architecture expert, but if nothing else, I hope this write-up provides some specificity in describing my generally positive experience at the South Course.Relative to other reviewers’ stories, the logistics of my trip to Torrey Pines could not have been smoother. I drove down from Los Angeles on a Friday and arrived at the starter booth around noon. The May weather was exceptionally pleasant. After sitting outside of the clubhouse for about 45 minutes, my name was called and my round was off. The course conditioning was terrific, and fortunately for me, the rough was mown a few days earlier.Prior to arriving at Torrey Pines, I had played two other U.S. Open venues in Bethpage Black and Pinehurst #2. The dichotomy of the challenges between those two storied facilities was striking. While Bethpage’s teeth were in the thick rough and length, Pinehurst #2’s difficulty was all on the second shot and around the greens. Torrey Pines South Course followed this trend of unique tough elements, with narrow fairways, small greens, and wind all adding to the overall toil of the test.Having never played golf over cliffs or on the Pacific before, the scenery and setting at Torrey Pines took my breath away. Many of the holes still vividly remain in my mind, including:•	#3: With its majestic view looking south, the backdrop at the 3rd could easily distract anyone from the many perils present. The hole has full exposure to the wind, and thanks to extra hang-time on the downhill tee shot, dialing in the perfect aerial yardage is a beguiling prospect. A miss short right actually leaves a somewhat straightforward recovery.•	#4: This par four is arguably the most interesting on the South. The best angle into the green is from the right hand side of the curving fairway. It is difficult to position your tee shot there due to the cant of the land, and a large bunker. With a tilted shortgrass area right of the green, the 4th is one of the few holes that welcomes a super fun, curling run-up shot. •	#6: The par five 6th incorporates the cliffs well, as longer hitters can cut off some of this lengthy hole by playing aggressively over the abyss.•	#7: Memorable from the Tiger Woods/Rocco Mediate playoff, the shallow green at the 7th is masterfully set against the fairway. Placing your tee shot as far left as possible while avoiding bunkers is a necessity for the best angle.•	#10: Breaking from the trend of stout length on other holes, the 10th presents an interestingly more modest yardage. The green is situated atop a knoll, and for many pin placements, the best tee shot will be a layup short of fairway bunkers. If the tees were moved forward, this could be a precarious, attractive drivable par four.•	#12: This long par four is a beast, especially into the wind. Fortunately, it is one of the only holes that welcomes the ground game, and funneling a ball up to the pin may actually be the best approach.•	#13: From the back tees, players must bite off as much as they can chew over the cliffs to reach this relatively wide fairway. As with many other PGA Tour sites, television does not capture how much this hole dips down from the landing area before steeply rising to the putting surface. Laying up may seem like the safe option, but the blind uphill approach from the valley is so daunting that the aggressive play into the green may actually be the more sensible route.When reviewers say that Torrey Pines South Course “could be so much better” I often wonder what they exactly mean to convey. While the setting atop cliffs is spectacular, the terrain (especially around the front nine) is not as naturally special as many other renowned courses. Furthermore, to my knowledge, Torrey Pines has never branded itself as a walk in the park, so I cannot imagine the property shaving down the rough, removing bunkers, and adopting a more minimalist style any time soon. I commend those Top100 reviewers below who do not simply point out what they feel are the South’s inherent weaknesses, but instead, also suggest what could be done to creatively add interest without compromising difficulty. My own recommendations are simple:•	Torrey Pines South’s greens need more variety and reshaping. None are especially memorable, and for most, the superior angle is often from the opposite side of the cliffs. This is consistent throughout the round. The deep chasms would be at the front of the player’s mind if the preferred angle was nearer to the drop offs.•	The cliffs would also be a more intimidating factor if rough was shaved down to the edges, rather than having long grass act as a barrier. •	Finally, on all but one of the par fours and fives, bunkers pinch the ideal landing area. This is so monotonous. The bunkering schemes along fairways could easily be altered to encourage a range of draws, fades, lay-ups, and aggressive drives, rather than requiring a bland straight’n’long shot off every tee.The South Course at Torrey Pines may not showcase an especially desirable mixture strategic hole corridors, undulating greens, and captivating topography. Even without these features, my round there was a blast from start-to-finish without being too demoralizing of a beat down. While the out-of-town rate was incredibly overpriced, Torrey Pines is no doubt a steal for San Diego locals.

Think of all the golf courses you have played. Now consider the few courses you could play every day for the rest of your life. Do any create a lump in your throat? Do any give you goosebumps? As dramatic as that may sound, chills run through my body every time I imagine myself standing on the first tee at Whitinsville. For me, this Donald Ross masterpiece evokes a deep emotional response.I first learned about Whitinsville in the “Donald Ross: Discovering the Legend” documentary film (http://www.donaldrossfilm.com/). Tom Doak holds very high admiration for the course, as did Donald himself; Ross cited the 9th as one of the finest holes he ever designed. As Doak explains, there are only a few topographical “features” on the Whitinsville property, yet Ross found a way to incorporate them on every hole. Whitinsville, Massachusetts may not have the dramatic setting of a coastal links or a scenic mountain range, but it hugs the contours of the land better than almost all of my other 215 courses played. There is nothing manmade about its appearance. Every one of the few trees, knobs, twists, and turns seem perfectly in place.All nine of Whitinsville’s holes are noteworthy from a strategic standpoint, and each contributes to a round filled with variety and diverse challenges:•	#1: This stout, true three-shot hole is anything but a gentle handshake. From the tee, the landing area is fairly wide. On the second shot, players must avoid a cross bunker left and a deep valley in the fairway. Even if it was possible to reach, going for this volcano-style green in two would be foolish. Raised on all sides, the putting surface slopes from back-to-front and from left-to-right. When one lays up, they must place their shot at a comfortable wedge distance. It is nearly impossible to keep a chip from long or left on the green, and any shot before the green will travel back down the steep front up to 50 yards short. Ross’ architectural genius is already showcased – how many other difficult, true par fives can you think of with just a few bunkers, a wide fairway, and no trees? Talented architects can make difficult holes appear so straightforward.•	#2: The beautifully restored 2nd green feels almost like an island par three. Small in scale and warped in shape, the putting surface is guarded three bunkers which visually intimidate the eye. This short hole demands a high, controlled, aerial mid-iron.•	#3: The short par four 3rd may seem simple, but the fairway plays more uphill than it appears, stopping drives abruptly. The green is so severe in its pitch than any shot spinning too much will easily come right off the front. •	#4: After climbing to the tee box, the drive at the 4th is quite tricky. The best angle to this narrow green complex is from the right side which is guarded by thick rough and out-of-bounds. Should players accidentally overcook their shots to the left, they face moguls and a tree which makes a punch out almost assured.•	#5: The drive off the 5th is blind, blocked by a small ridge roughly 100 yards away from the tee. Three bunkers also sit atop this undulation. It would be easy to assume that these traps are aesthetic, when in fact they are yet another example of Ross’ genius. As the hole bends slightly to the right, these bunkers can guide players’ eyes too far left toward thick rough. Although the green is welcoming to ground shots, being in the short grass is strongly preferred for your approach.•	#6: The approach shot and putting surface at the 6th are wildly fun. Miss short, and your ball can tumble 30 yards backwards, potentially into a lateral hazard. Miss long, and you likely will trickle all the way to the 7th tee box, connected by a collection area. With the wind often blowing in your face, yardage control is critical. While playing left off the tee provides a better angle, it lengthens this already demanding hole.•	#7: The lengthier of Whitinsville’s two par threes, the 7th demands a mid/long iron that sticks on this egg shaped green. The putting surface is wider in the front, though any shot short will easily slide back 30-40 yards.•	#8: Strategy abounds at the 8th. Knowing the pin location can greatly impact planning on your drive. If the pin is on the right side of the green, players must cut the corner as much as possible and pray their shot passes a deep valley. If the pin is on the left, you can play towards the right side of the fairway and hope you are not caught in the pronged bunker. Deceptively rumpled, this is one of the most difficult putting surfaces on the course.•	#9: If ever there was such thing as an “ideal” golf hole (and, ideal land for a golf hole), the 9th at Whitinsville fits the definition. Cut at an angle, players are faced with the option of aiming conservatively left or more aggressively to a deep knoll perpendicular to your drive and a narrower landing zone. Each presents very unique challenges and opportunities. While the left side provides a flat lie, width, and a better look at the putting surface, the approach will require a long iron to a small green with virtually no room to miss. Catch the knoll by playing right, and you can either gain an easy 20-30 yards or be funneled into the swamp. The approach from the right will be blind, but considerably shorter. With the green canted hard from back-to-front and left-to-right, missing to the left creates a nearly impossible up-and-down.Clearly, the rolling terrain of the ground defines the exceptional architecture at Whitinsville. I have played few courses where simple hills and valleys make me reconsider drives, approach shots, chips, and putts alike. The greens range in size, shape, and strategy of attack. If Whitinsville has one weakness, it is that there are only nine holes!!Members who play eighteen at Whitinsville usually use two different sets of tees. Playing nine may rob one of the potential variety in club selection, though windier conditions also create more half-par-length holes.The spiritual nature of my Whitinsville experiences are engrained in my personal golf story. Whitinsville is located in a quiet, small town near the Massachusetts/Rhode Island border. As it would turn out, this quaint area is where my mother was raised and where my extended family all still live today. Growing up, I had visited the town of Whitinsville hundreds of times without ever knowing this masterpiece was just 400 yards away from my relatives’ home. I would like to think that was Donald Ross looking over me, only revealing this gem through the DVD documentary after I had gained a true appreciation for course architecture and his life story.If I even still have your attention after all this time, allow me to promote some of Whitinsville’s wonderful local businesses to complete your trip there:•	Lunch: Pirate’s Cove is a classic New England fried food shack and is a town staple minutes away from the course (74 Providence Rd, Linwood, MA 01525).•	Dinner: For an upscale dining experience using local ingredients, check out the Ux Locale located on a gorgeous farm (510 Hartford Ave W, Uxbridge, MA 01569). For something more casual, Harry’s Pizza is tried and true (6 S Main St, Uxbridge, MA 01569). •	Drinks: The Purgatory Beer Co. is a relatively new brewery specializing in IPAs less than a mile from the course (670 Linwood Ave Building C, Northbridge, MA 01588).

With so many wonderful golf architecture books, blogs, and other resources available with the click of a button, it is rare for me to arrive at a course without having done any prior research. In fact, today, online media determines where I am most likely going to play next.For that reason, my round at the Kiawah Island Club’s Cassique course was a truly uncommon delight in my golf journey. While driving to Charleston for work, I received an impromptu invitation to play as a guest at Cassique. With a tight afternoon schedule, I was a bit hesitant to re-route my GPS all the way to Kiawah with no background whatsoever. Fortunately for me, my playing partner insisted and reaffirmed the special nature of the routing.Passing through the entryway, one immediately knows that the Kiawah Island Club is an extraordinary place. The driveway is charming and provides some peek at the natural landscape and golf course. The staff were beyond welcoming, and the locker room was absolutely luxurious. After warming up on the driving range, my playing partner, caddy, and I were off.As mentioned in other reviews, the front and back nines could not be different. The front nine, particularly on the first six holes, has almost no trees and is a manmade faux-links. The back feels more prototypical Lowcountry (think Hilton Head). The very unique style of the front left a significantly stronger impression on my mind than the back. Despite this, the course was loaded with standout holes, including:•	#1: The 1st provides a preview of front nine challenges to come. The tee shot is visually intimidating with pot bunkers peppered throughout the landing zone. These are true “fairway” bunkers, surrounded by short grass. The left hand side of the fairway provides a slightly better angle to this diagonal green which features a charming chipping area long left.•	#2: The 2nd is a thought provoking par five. If played as a three shotter, there is a wide landing area off the tee with a metal, and lots of room short of the green. Should one want to play aggressively, they must contend with a pond left and bunkers right off the tee, in addition to a tiny creek immediately short of the green. That creek may also complicate a more conservative player, too, sucking in the dreaded ‘flubbed’ wedge shot. Between the manmade mounds, ponds, and line of trees, you would never realize this is the closest hole to the entry road. Cassique does a wonderful job of taking one away from the stresses of everyday life.•	#3: The large dune on the right hand side of the 3rd is intimidating. From the tee, it would appear the best shot is a wrapping left-to-right fade around this mound, when in fact, the left hand side of the fairway provides a far more preferable angle.•	#4/5: There are three possible routings of the 4th and 5th holes using a few tee boxes and green options. During my round, the very short par three 5th ended up being my favorite hole on the entire property. While it was refreshing to have a sand wedge in hand off the tee, the wild swales in the green complex and its surrounds were daunting. My shot, which struck about five feet from the hole initially rode one of this fierce tiers and ended up 10 yards short of the green.•	#6: The par five 6th is visually intimidating from the tee with bunkers scattered throughout the landscape. The long bunker running on the left hand side of the hole into the tidal marsh is so naturally attractive. Seeing small crabs running around while playing golf gave me further appreciation for the way in which this manmade design surprisingly works so well with its ecosystem.•	#8: With the first six holes providing seemingly endless width, the 8th took me by surprise. Off the tee, players must take off as much as they can choose over the Kiawah River to this fairway. However, the actual playing area is an especially small island. Blasting a shot safely out to the right, as I did, was not actually that safe. Landing in thick fescue rough, I had absolutely no opportunity of hitting this tiny green even though it was a mere 75 yards away. Architecturally, despite its reduced scale, this hole was among the most provocative.•	#11: This par five provides challenge from start to finish. From the tees, players must either try to blast their shot over tall trees (and, a massive, blind bunker) or take their medicine and play straight. Even the more conservative path is not straightforward as one must play deep enough into the landing area without going into the woods. The hole location will determine the best angle of approach on the layup – if one needs to play to the left, they must avoid a cross bunker, and if one needs to play right, they must avoid thick woods. Going for the green in two is also an option, but an alligator filled pond awaits any shots which go long.•	#15: Emerging out into the marsh again, the views at the 15th are magnificent. With salt air blowing in various directions, the tee shot must avoid a peppering of pot bunkers. Personally, I found that pocket of bunkers to be a bit overwhelming and somewhat random, rather than strategic, given the quantity. Centerline bunkers complicate the approach shot, also. The best angle of attack into this sharply diagonal green is from the far left hand side of the hole which, consequently, also happens to be the safest play away from the hazard.With so much width, especially on the front, strategy abounds at the Cassique course. While I can understand how the faux-links-style holes might be a turnoff for purists, I found them to be refreshing in context. Perhaps that is why I found some of the back nine holes to be somewhat forgettable. It is too bad they were not constructed with a similar flavor. I found rating Cassique to be very difficult. While the front is easily a 5 on this scale, the back is no better than a 3.5 or 4. Regardless, if one day you receive the same phone call I did, take the invitation immediately and see this amazing golf property yourself!

Growing up in Connecticut, my friends and I actively sought out and played the state’s highest ranked public golf courses. With consistently rave reviews since its opening in 2005, we were thrilled to finally make it down to Oxford Greens a few years ago. At the time, the course was managed by Billy Casper, and given the excellent work we had seen their leadership do at our home club, our expectations were high.Unfortunately, our experience at Oxford Greens could not have been more different than the reviews we had read for years. Our round took over 6 hours, and spots of very long crabgrass emerged all over the fairway and greens, providing a very poor playing surface. Disappointed does not even begin to capture how we felt after making this trip and paying close to $70 in greens fees.Based on some recent reviews, it seems that the conditions at Oxford Greens are today heralded as being top notch which I am glad to hear. While I found most of the holes to be very cookie cutter, northeast residential style golf, I did appreciate a few key features that were used throughout the round including:•	Wide run up areas into difficult greens, such as the 2nd.•	Various bunker styling, from cross bunkers, to visually intimidating centerline traps, to bunker-less holes.•	Some interesting, canted fairways that require depth of thought with the tee shot.•	Honoring of some cool classic features, such as the Redan 13th. I will be the first to admit that writing a review after one round played is not a desirable practice, especially when one’s opinion is so strong. However, with so many other far more affordable, architecturally interesting public options in Connecticut (Shennecossett, Keney Park, etc.), Oxford Greens gave me no reason to return. Clearly, though, not everyone holds this opinion. If you want to play the all of the ‘best’ in Connecticut, you should give Oxford Greens a shot!

On my first trip to Alabama, I was struck by the rolling hills of the Birmingham area. With two rounds up lined for the weekend, I knew that I would need to mentally prepare for side-hill lies. After experiencing Ross Bridge, my playing partner and I headed to the Ridge Course at Oxmoor Valley.Cut through a dense forest over a topographically interesting piece of land, the property itself at the OVRC seems ideal for golf. The course conditions were solid. For me personally, I left my round expecting quite a bit more than what the course delivered given the fabulous terrain.When writing reviews on this website, I usually like to highlight memorable holes that stick with me from my round. Often, those holes’ impression are so strong I can remember features years later. Unfortunately, even after going through a virtual tour of OVRC, and reviewing my notes from the round, few holes stuck with me from an architecture standpoint.The one hole which I found to be unforgettable was the par five 3rd. While the player cannot hit driver off the tee, there is still the important strategic aspect of playing as close to the lake as possible if you want to reach the green in two. Cut out of a quarry, there are three distinct areas to play the second shot up fascinating terraces. I have played almost 3,500 holes and have never seen this type of shelving incorporated into the playing field before. One must think their way through the entire hole. One of my favorite aspects of reading reviews, especially on this site, is comparing and contrasting notes with other golfers. Frank’s write-up below captures the essence of the course well, and I love his admiration for his home club. Bottom line: different golfers have different preferences in golf courses, and that is healthy and normal.Personally, I prefer courses that offer a little more width off the tee for strategy – that absolutely has to do with my game! At OVRC, many tee shots and approaches only have one successful route, and the course is a test of your ball-striking from the first tee to the eighteenth. With almost every putting surface elevated, fronted by bunkers, and surrounded by rough, it is imperative to fly the ball and control your spin. Generally, I prefer a bit more variety in green complexes and enjoy holes with run-up options. Additionally, for such a great piece of land, I thought some of the manmade mounding was unnecessary on certain holes.If you are a shot-shaper who enjoys the challenge of a golf course with exact targets, you will love the Ridge Course at Oxmoor Valley. While this was not necessarily my favorite round, I completely understand why many golfers offer such positive praise.

During my first trip to Alabama, the landing scenery from my airplane window in Birmingham took me by surprise. I had always visualized the state as flat, and witnessing the massive, green rolling hills forced me to recalculate my golf expectations. That enormous scale of the Birmingham experience continued when I was presented with a delicious, heaping plate of smoked meat later that evening at Saw’s BBQ. Ross Bridge furthered my sense of Alabama’s big, brawny nature. Immediately upon arrival, we were impressed by the spacious clubhouse, towering resort, and immense practice facility. Every employee was accommodating, showing us true southern hospitality during our time on the property. Despite the friendly nature of the staff, Ross Bridge is anything but kind if played from the tips, especially with the humidity beating down. Fortunately, the width of many holes provided inherent options which kept us energized and optimistic throughout the otherwise unrelenting round. Some of the more notable include:•	#1: Setting the tone, the 620 yard opener at Ross Bridge is gorgeously framed between thickets of trees and a lake. The tee shot must avoid a deep bunker right and the lake left. The approach is fascinating. Many players will likely need to lay up far right; should one choose this path, they must pick an exact distance as their third wedge shot will need to fly over two menacing bunkers to a shallow green. Going for the green in two is difficult, but playing aggressively to the left patch of fairway over the lake actually provides the best angle into the thin putting surface. •	#2: This dogleg left par four has an interesting, long, diamond shaped green. Hugging the fairway bunkers on the left provides the best position for the approach.•	#3: With a massive hill on the right, many players may bail out right for a favorable bounce back into the fairway at the third. However, aggressively hugging the water and swampy areas left yields a superior angle.•	#4: Many par threes over water lack character and interest, but this bunkerless hole’s multi-tiered, pocketed putting surface changes strategy of attack daily. The stone house in the backdrop is charming.•	#5: The 5th takes the player up a hill to a new part of the property. I took a picture looking back down the corridor at the clubhouse and forested areas, and when I sent it to friends, they asked me if I was in the mountains of Eastern Europe! Clearly, the topography and architecture of the Ross Bridge resort did not cease to surprise others as well.•	#6: This long par three calls for a left-to-right ball shape to a diagonal green, but should anyone slide too far right, they face a very difficult up-and-down. A very safe chipping area left is a strongly preferable miss.•	#7: The tee shot to the downhill, wide fairway at the 7th is an absolute blast to drive. From there, a cross bunker and four greenside traps visually deceive players trying to lay up and those trying to reach the putting surface in two.•	#11: Another long par three, the 11th is absolutely terrifying. Miss short, and face a shortgrass false front that will reject your shot at least 20-30 yards back. Good luck trying to flop something high off the short turf to this shallow green! Miss long, and face bunker shots back down towards that false front. This hole masterfully showcases Ross Bridge’s teeth.•	#13: At 698 yards from the tips, this par five initially seems laughable. However, playing steeply downhill from start to finish, that yardage is misleading. With ample room, players can grip-it-and-rip-it off the tee, then strategically try to carry a fairway bunker on the left for the best angle into this diagonal green complex. This was actually among my favorite holes at Ross Bridge.•	#18: The brute of a finishing hole demands accuracy with your tee shot, avoiding both the lake on the right and bunkers peppering throughout the fairway. The more distance gained on the drive, the better, as an aerial approach will be required to stick it on this green guarded in the front by more bunkers and in the back by a creek.When I left Ross Bridge, my immediate thought was “fun, but definitely not the type of course I would play every day.” In hindsight, that assessment is unfair. Gluttons for punishment, we had chosen to play from the tips for the ‘full’ effect of the course’s 8,000+ yards. Should we have opted for a more appropriate challenge, Ross Bridge would have offered a test of virtually every club in our bag. Perhaps the only ‘weakness’ to the course is the somewhat monotonous demand for aerial shots on virtually every hole. Otherwise, with its fabulously manicured facilities, striking terrain, mix of corridors, and terrific all around amenities, Ross Bridge was a solid, surprising, and bold golf experience.

Mention the word “Residential” to any golf writer today and prepare yourself for an onslaught of negative commentary. “The houses took precedent over using the best land for golf. The corridors are too narrow. Fairways were flattened to provide great backyard views.” Do not even get me started on their retorts if you were to tell them that same course was built between 1960 and 2000.
While many of their criticisms may generally be true, there are always exceptions to the rule. Case in point: Rivermont Golf Club. Situated north of Atlanta in the fairly busy suburb of Johns Creek, Rivermont feels worlds away from the bustle of this densely populated area. Despite its construction in 1973, and its location in a residential community, Rivermont breaks all stereotypes using visually-deceptive, classic golf architecture features throughout its very natural routing. The timeless design seeps the course in strategic interest.
Having played over 200 unique tracks, any course with memorable green complexes always earns my highest esteem. With the sharply slanted 2nd, Redan 4th, Punchbowl 9th, and terrifying false front at the 13th, Rivermont demonstrates that virtually any golf course can stand out simply by using thoughtful shapes and undulations on its putting surfaces.
Rivermont’s balanced routing showcases many notable holes, including:
•	#1: Despite laying on one of the flatter portions of the property, the 1st at Rivermont is made interesting by a meandering creek which starts left off the tee, and then crosses the fairway to the right side of the green. The best angle into this crowned complex is from the left side of the fairway or rough, daring the player to drive as closely to the waterway as possible.
•	#2: The par five 2nd was a blast start to finish. A fairway bunker on the left hand side of the hole forces one’s eye to the right, which in reality, is actually the best angle of approach to this green complex. Aggressive players must work the ball right-to-left to also avoid another cross bunker. The green is among the most memorable on the course sloping severely from left-to-right. Trying to reach in two is made more complicated by a nasty bunker which falsely appears to be greenside, and the fact that there is very little room to miss this green right.
•	#3: Fitting the land perfectly, the fairway at the long par four 3rd slopes hard from left-to-right. It is difficult to keep the ball on the left side of the fairway because of this tilt, and because of a well-paced cross bunker. Of course, the left side also provides the best angle.
•	#4: In order for a golf course to have four different length par threes, at least one must be long. The 4th at Rivermont is a great tribute to the Redan hole and forces the player to hit a sweeping, precise mid/long-iron or hybrid.
•	#5: Visual trickery comes into play again at the 5th’s tee shot. A bunker on the right hand portion of the fairway guides the golfer’s vision left where there appears to be width. However, players must favor the right hand side of the fairway to have any angle into this fairly narrow, deep green.
•	#6: With charming squared off sides and a unique trapezoidal shape, the multi-tiered, complex green at the par three 6th steals the show over the heroic tee shot.
•	#7: Many classic architects favored streams over man-made ponds, and the 7th at Rivermont harkens to that technique. Tight from tee to green, players must avoid streams on the left and across the lay-up area. A bunker short can appear to abut the green when in fact, there is some room to run shots up.
•	#10: The routing of the par five 10th is very unique among my 3,000+ holes played. The tee shot is somewhat narrow, though there is some bail out room left. From there, it seems like an entirely new hole appears with a massively wide corridor and plenty of room right. However, if your tee shot was too conservative (to the left), that layup can be challenging. The same sentiment is true on the third shot: bail out too generously right, and face a tough angle to this well guarded green.
•	#11: Short par fours are, in my opinion, the most fun holes to play in golf. The 11th at Rivermont is an absolute blast. The fairway is canted gently from left-to-right which can funnel shots toward the green. Knowing your carry distances is critical regardless of whether you lay up or play aggressively due to some strategic cross bunkers on the left and right sides of the fairway.
•	#14: In order to have a variety of par three lengths, one also must be short. Kudos to Rivermont for maintaining the integrity of the design in the 14th, a very fun one shotter. With its smaller green, there is really nowhere to miss. It is a wonderful test of nerves at what is usually a critical stretch in any match.
•	#16: Another hole that fits the land perfectly, the par four 16th sweeps down a hill from right-to-left. Should one get their tee shot working on this line, they can pick up speed-slot yardage while avoiding two traps in the landing zone. However, this distance advantage may come at the cost of having a side-hill lie.
•	#17: Early in my golf career, I used to love playing steeply downhill holes. Today, those such as the 17th at Rivermont terrify me. While I used to think the extra airtime was fun to watch, I now realize that any shot even slightly awry has more time to fly further offline. With thick fescue long and left, and tough bunkers around the rest of the green complex, you better bring your best ball-striking to tackle this unique par three.
As you can tell, Rivermont delivers on all compelling architecture fronts. There is a variety of shots needed to play successfully on this course, many of which involve reading the natural flow of the topography both off the tee and on the greens. Despite its routing through a residential area, houses do not intrude on the golf experience. The architects also brilliantly placed some stretches together (1/18, 3-5, 11-13), rather than feeling the need to dig out a single, bland corridor for each hole.
All of these features which make Rivermont so memorable – from deceptive false front bunkers, to holes with bumbling brooks, to a mixture of lengths – could literally be done anywhere. Rivermont is a model for how great golf can be regardless of its setting. As if this was not enough, Rivermont is also a steward of the environment:

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 It is the consummate golf club that so many communities need and deserve.

There is no doubt that the TPC at River Highlands sits comfortably in the top echelon of Connecticut golf courses. While this parkland layout in the Hartford suburbs may seem straightforward through your television screen during the Travelers Championship, any player lucky enough to experience it in person will realize the subtleties which add strategy, challenge, and excitement.Growing up in small town Cromwell myself, I was fortunate to watch pros take on this Pete Dye design every summer. Over time, particularly in the last decade, the field has grown stronger thanks to excellent tournament leadership as well as the high respect players have for this course. Perhaps the biggest testament to the compelling nature of the architecture at TPC River Highlands is the variety of the tournament champions. Past winners include PGA Tour rookie first-timers and 20 year veterans, long ball hitters and shorter shot shapers, even a mix U.S. and international players. The blend of talent succeeding at the Travelers is just one window into the fact that architecturally, there is more than meets the eye at River Highlands.Perfectly maintained with a wide range of green complexes, collection areas, and hazards, the experience at River Highlands is memorable and tough from the first tee to the eighteenth green. Some of the most notable holes include:•	#2: Arguably the best hole on the front nine, the 2nd is a puzzle. The sharply uphill, blind tee shot is reminiscent of holes at other great rolling properties, such as the 9th at Oakmont. Pin placement will determine strategy. When in front, laying up will be critical as a controlled wedge with spin is necessary to stick the approach in the tiny forward portion of the putting surface. When the pin is in the back, players can choose to be more aggressive off the tee; in fact, some longer hitters may even be able to reach with a long right-to-left shot. However, three trees short of the putting surface require players to either lay back, or secure an exact angle. In general, I am all for tree removal on courses, but these three simple features help make this short par four a standout adventure.•	#4: One of the hardest holes on the entire course, this par 4.5 is an absolute brute, especially playing into the (often prevailing) wind. While there is some width in the first half of the hole, any player trying to gain an advantage with length will have to shape the ball left-to-right into a far narrower strip of fairway guarded by bunkers. The green complex is beguiling and can easily reject an iron shot to the chipping area on the right. In fact, the best approach may actually require the opposite shot shape as the drive. •	#5: This intimidating, lengthy par three appears to offer an open area for run-up shots, but with a deceptively raised slope, many still come up short.•	#6: As the only par five on the front nine, the 6th may seem like a break in a very difficult stretch. In fact, the course’s demand for precision only continues. Straightforward off the tee, players face major challenges on the second shot. Trouble starts about 150 yards away from the green with a centerline bunker. Any shots past this face a very tight strip of fairway and bunkers that leave awkward shots into this relatively small green. Should a player go for this putting surface in two and miss, collection areas funnel balls into thick rough and awkward pitch locations.•	#7: Despite being virtually dead straight, the 7th creates interest with features that any course could incorporate. Three fairway bunkers off the tee force the player’s eye left which is lined by out-of-bounds for the entire length. The green complex is extremely difficult with many undulations and no area to bail out.•	#10: Any player starting on their day at the turn must have their A-game prepped. The tee shot is very constrained with thick trees on either side. A solid drive will likely require curvature to avoid a large tree in the left-center of the fairway. From there, players will likely need to adjust strategy and hit as straight of a mid or long iron into a tiny, perched green complex. There is virtually no room for error; the short-grass collection area on the right is so steep that getting up and down to the shallow side of the hole requires superior abilities to bump-and-run, or flop from tight turf.•	#12: When attending the Travelers, I often would spend much of my day watching tour pros tackle the much underrated 12th hole. Using the natural terrain of the land beautifully, any golfer playing from the proper set of tees will have a thought-provoking decision. Some may choose to lay up with a metal to have a flat approach shot with a good view of this tough green, though this route must avoid three bunkers which pinch the landing zone. Others may choose to be more aggressive, and should they succeed, can catch a slope which propels balls 30-40 yards closer to the putting surface. However, this distance advantage comes with the cost of not being able to see the slippery putting surface. As with many great strategic holes, options abound, each with their own challenges and opportunities, welcoming any style of player.•	#13: The back nine’s only par five is no joke. From the tee, any shot must avoid a pond on the right, and more aggressive drives will have to navigate fairway bunkers and a narrower landing zone. Should one succeed, going for the green in two is possible is a player can fly a pond and stop the ball short on this somewhat shallow complex. Laying up right of the pond is no simple task either, especially since the angle into the green may be very awkward. Spinning wedges into to the pond is another real possibility.•	#14: Capturing the natural topography of the land gorgeously, the 14th is an interesting two shotter. The drive is somewhat blind and uphill; a right-to-left shot may also gain additional yardage thanks to the land’s contours. The kidney shaped green is at an interesting angle to the fairway. When the pin is in the front, the best angle is from the right side of the fairway; when in the back, the best approach is from the left.•	#15: Without question, the 15th at TPC River Highlands is among the best risk-reward holes that professional players face throughout the entire PGA Tour season. I once heard a golf announcer say that most professionals could probably hit pitching wedge-pitching wedge into this hole and almost guarantee themselves a birdie, but I believe that assessment is inaccurate. Trouble lurks on virtually every inch of this drivable par four. In reality, there really is no room to lay-up as bunkers pinch this fairway into. Going for the green, or playing closely with a metal are the most common routes, though both bring the lake on the left into play. The gentle Biarritz style green works marvelously for this type of tee shot. While this template was originally meant for long par threes, the ideal intended strategy here is exactly the same – a low running ball on the ground with a driver or metal.•	#17: It is hard to imagine the fear this hole could induce for any player in contention at the Travelers on Sunday, especially since I myself am nervous thinking about playing the 17th for fun! The tee shot is slightly wider if a player lays up, but with fairway bunkers left and the lake right, being aggressive or conservative really does not matter. The player’s first priority is picking a club that they feel most comfortable about keeping on dry land. This green is devilishly pitched back to front. Naturally, a player’s inclination might be to play long, but that would also be a mistake. Another well-placed shortgrass collection area makes recovery to a green sloped away from you extremely difficult.•	#18: With a large hill on the right side of the hole (that can bounce balls left), and a bunker on the left side of the landing area, the ‘easier’ bail out from the tee on the finisher is right. However, the best angle into this thin, deep green is actually from the left. As you have likely seen, this hole has provided some wildly exciting finishes over the years for a fairly straight par four!The TPC at River Highlands may seem conventional on the surface, but it is a joy to play for any member or Connecticut golfer who can do so regularly. There is variety in the shot types necessary to be successful, and the course favors no one type of player. With some of the most incredible practice facilities in all of New England and a newly renovated clubhouse, TPC River Highlands is the consummate golf club.In my opinion, the course only has two weaknesses:•	The first is that 15.5 of the 18 holes run North-South. Given the generally blustery conditions in this part of the state, and prevailing gusts that also run along the same directions, hitting shots directly into or against the wind repeatedly gets old quick.•	Second is that the land from holes 3 – 9 is especially flat and uninspiring relative to other parts of the course and most clubs in the Nutmeg State. Despite this, as you saw above, the architecture does a great job at generating strategic interest and challenge. However, these do not hold TPC River Highlands back from my high esteem. Should you ever receive an invitation to play, accept immediately and gain a new appreciation for the depth and breadth of challenges that PGA Tour players overcome annually at this compelling club!(I was torn between a 4.5 rating and a 5.0 rating. TPC River Highlands is undoubtedly a “6.0” in the context of Connecticut golf, which is average. Because the course is “the best in the region” around greater Hartford-area, I rounded up to a 5.0)

Despite defying the modern movement towards wide playing corridors and massive greens, the Crumpin-Fox Club maintains a unique, enjoyable experience over some varying, wild golf terrain. Crumpin-Fox is conveniently located off I-91 near the Massachusetts/Vermont border. This western part of the state is loaded with fascinating history, and a number of really interesting attractions, including the Yankee Candle Headquarters. Driving up to the clubhouse, the player is greeted with a preview of what is to come as the entryway bisects the 9th hole. Elevation change, dense old forest, and tricky greens are par for the course, literally.The club’s webpage says that the site’s original owner, David Berelson, envisioned a Pine Valley style course. Crumpin-Fox certainly incorporates many aspects of the Pine Valley spirit, placing an emphasis on deft ball-striking and tough challenge throughout. Some of the more notable holes include:•	#1: The tone is set on the 1st. Turning sharply to the right, most players will need to take less than driver off the tee. This further stretches an already lengthy hole.•	#2: Creeping up a hill, the best angle to approach this diagonal green is from the left. This can be difficult to achieve as a sloped patch of rough lines the left hand side. •	#3: The T-shaped green at the very downhill 3rd is made interesting by the front area and false front which sit well below the wider top tier. •	#4: The tee shot at the 4th is a lot of fun, especially if you are a left-handed player with a draw! The fairway captures a sharp natural contour in the land which can either reject tee shots back toward the player, or act as a speed slot for tee shots with enough distance.•	#5: Bursting out from the forest, the player is greeted with a vista of a gorgeous open field on the par five 5th. The tee shot must avoid bunkers which bisect the fairway. Players laying up have two wide areas to lay up, and finding a good yardage is critical. This diamond-like green has four distinct tiers.•	#7: A quirky dogleg left, players must avoid a bunker in play off the tee, and trees which can further impact the approach.•	#8: Playing against a lake for the entire length of the fairway, the ‘candy-cane’ shaped 8th is memorable, albeit a brute. While there is more width than meets the eye off the tee, the rest of the hole is narrow and offers no respite.•	#12: The par four 12th at Crumpin-Fox fits the phrase “discovered, not constructed” that is often used to describe golf holes. Playing from an elevated tee to a diagonal fairway through old glacial rocks, there are an infinite number of ways to succeed, and fail on your drive. Navigating the rumpled land, this is one of the few holes that can allow for a run-up shot to a multi-tiered green complex.•	#14: Once again opening to a wide area, the 14th at Crumpin-Fox offers some interesting playing angle options. For the safe route, any player can lay up off the tee and before the green. However, to reach the green in two, the tee shot must be on the left half of the fairway which is guarded by a bunker. The shot into the green will have to be played right-to-left, over a pond which guards front and left – exactly where an overcooked hook would miss. •	#17: The fourth of four pretty fascinating three shot holes, the compelling aspect of the 17th is the approach. A wide bail out area for those laying up sits on the right side of the fairway, but offers a truly difficult pitching angle over three deep bunkers to a shallow green. Going left provides a superior angle but is guarded by a tree in the fairway. I usually dislike this feature, but given how well this fits the theme at Crumpin-Fox, it just works.•	#18: Unrelenting to the final putt, the long par four 18th plays over a contoured fairway with an approach that must clear a thick swamp. Crumpin-Fox is a shot-shapers dream and a nightmare for anyone spraying it off the tee. Aggressive players can easily lose a few sleeves of balls while the conservative player can just as simply get around without missing a beat. Crumpin-Fox captures its setting perfectly and is unapologetically tough, start-to-finish, with a number of pretty memorable shots.And, while I have your attention, it seems worth mentioning that if you do stop at Crumpin-Fox, you may also be interested in seeing a few other nearby courses:•	The Country Club of Greenfield, MA, just 13 minutes away, was built in 1896 by Alex Findlay. To me, this course feels like it has never once been modified and is an open look back in time to an excellent, turn of the century inland links.•	Hooper Golf Club of Walpole, NH, is lauded on this site, by Tom Doak in his books, and by many others as one of the best 9-hole courses in the country. It is just 45 minutes from Crumpin-Fox.

There are few courses which have exceeded my expectations more strongly than the Okemo Valley Golf Club. This entire property receives my high praise as a memorable, modern gem which fits its setting exquisitely.Despite my New England upbringing, I am not a fan of skiing, snowboarding, or any outdoor winter sports. For that reason, the Okemo Valley Resort was foreign to me until our family took a summer weekend trip to visit. We had an absolute blast – the hotel is beautiful with a number of cool outdoor amenities. The drive out is idyllic, passing through small towns with fascinating old stores, delicious restaurants, and of course, excellent breweries. Rural Vermont is charming in all the ways one could desire. In my opinion, the best golf courses capture their natural terrain and always reflect their environs, wherever they may be. Although it opened in 2000, the contemporary Okemo Valley Golf Club captures the rustic spirit of pastoral Vermont perfectly which takes the playing experience to a whole new level. The clubhouse transports you centuries, and the ambience is a reminder of simpler times. Among the more spectacular aspects of the land is the shine of the golden fescue contrasted against the dark hues of the Green Mountains. In the fall, Okemo is breathtaking.Expecting prototypical “resort-style” golf, I was pleasantly surprised at the superb playing conditions and strategic architectural interest of many holes at Okemo, which is a self-described “heathland” course. Some of those include:•	#2: The par five 2nd is reachable for many, playing slightly downhill. The fascinating perched volcano-esque green complex has an “L” shape which makes the strategy differ depending on pin location. When the flag is on the right, the best angle is from the left half of the fairway which is guarded with well-placed bunkers. When the flag is on the left, the better angle of approach is from the right, but visually, the surrounding greenside bunkers are far more intimidating. This second/third shot hole, depending on your tactics, sets the tone for many thought provoking shots to come.•	#3: The uphill par four 3rd aptly employs clever, yet daunting optics from the tee. Three pot bunkers coerce the player into thinking that short-right is the best route, when in fact, the best angle of approach to this beautifully contoured, narrow, deep diagonal green is from the left. Aggressive right-to-left plays off the tee can pay off handsomely on this tricky two shotter.•	#5: Conversely, bunkering on the par four 5th has the opposite effect as #3. The better angle to the green is from the wider part of this split fairway, to the right. An imprudent player may think an advantage is gained by aggressively aiming down the left, only to find themselves with a more difficult approach (albeit a bit shorter).•	#7: The par five 7th has a fascinating ‘S’ shaped fairway with bunkers that remain top of mind throughout the entire length. From the tee, it is clear that left is a simpler play than right, where three fairway traps await. However, to have any angle at all for the green in two or even a straightforward layup, playing further to the right is essential. Closer to the green, the player must switch mindset and get the ball as far left as possible for the ideal angle. This change of pace all within one hole keeps you engaged at every step.•	#8: Among the most awe-inspiring panoramas I have witnessed in golf, the drop at the 186 yard par three 8th is at least a 2-3 club decrease for most players. The views of the ski resort and mountains in the distance are absolutely stunning.•	#9: True dogleg holes are fairly rare these days. While it may not appear sharp on satellite image, the 9th at Okemo Valley feels like a 90 degree turn to the right. The best play to the green is to keep the ball left and long off the tee; to accomplish this, one must watch out for a nasty pot bunker in the ideal landing zone. A strong left-to-right shot can gain serious yardage here, too.•	#10: Drivable par fours are arguably the most fun in the game of golf, and Okemo’s is no exception. The more heroic one wishes to be off the tee on this 312 yarder, the more danger they will face with increasingly scary bunkers and a hazard left.•	#12: Of my 3,300+ unique golf holes played, the 12th at Okemo sits comfortably in my “Ideal Dream 18.” From an elevated tee, players are immediately confronted with the challenge of a gorgeous, natural brook diagonally bisecting the fairway, in addition to fescue grasses surrounding the rumpled terrain. If playing from the proper tees, this will automatically force you into a difficult club selection – most likely between choking down on a driver or hitting a metal. The fairway itself is narrow, just until you approach the stream when it widens. This beckons players to be as aggressive as possible without accidentally rolling their tee shot into the waterway. Placement is also key here, and the right half of the fairway (which is more narrow for most of the hole) generally provides the best angle of attack. The complexity generated on this hole by the simple use of the natural ground – including a bumbling brook – is ingenious.•	#15: The unique 15th hole is a par four with a two tiered fairway, separated by a thick patch of rough. The massive green allows for infinitely many interesting pin placements, meaning each route may be preferred on a different day. The left side is tighter while the right is guarded by a large bunker.If you cannot tell, Okemo Valley has a special place in my golfing heart. Although it was opened in the modern era, it captures the spirit of Golden Age design in so many ways, offering variety, strategic options, differentiating elevations, beautiful landforms, and fair challenge throughout. In fact, the strategy you think may be the right option on one hole may be completely different a few holes later…or even a few shots later on the same hole! Okemo has all elements of an ‘ideal’ golf course that I can imagine. Additionally, the course conditions were absolutely immaculate when I played, with fairways like carpet. Okemo is well worth the summer or fall New England excursion off the beaten path. It captures its setting perfectly and stands out in the world of resort golf.

The first round I ever played in the Sunshine State was at the Disney Magnolia Golf Course. Given my fairly positive experience at other Arnold Palmer designs, I decided this moderately priced public course would be a solid option. While Disney’s Magnolia may not be topping any architectural lists, the round was still memorable.Having grown up in New England, my trip to the Disney Magnolia course enlightened me to golf on flat land. While the topography was not spectacular, the course was well-maintained, and the pro-shop was full of awesome Disney branded golf gear. Some of the more interesting holes were:•	#6: This par three plays over a lake and is fronted by a bunker shaped like Mickey Mouse. While the strategic value of that trap is debatable, it is certainly one-of-a-kind!•	#9: This medium/long par five is relatively benign from the tee. Visually intimidating bunkers around the green can easily make a player miss left where a pond awaits.•	#10: This par five has an interesting, rumpled fairway. The desired tee shot is left-to-right while the reverse is required on the approach.•	#13: This quirky dogleg left requires thought off the tee. Players must either play sufficiently to the right (where two well-placed bunkers lay) or far enough back to avoid a gorgeous old tree that may block shots to the guarded green.Despite the lack of strong architectural interest, the Magnolia course surprised me in other ways:•	First, the course was unexpectedly full of wildlife. I spotted many rafters of turkey, deer, alligators, and other wild birds and reptiles. This made the course feel very rural in the suburban Orlando jungle.•	Second, being at the resort, you were bound to meet interesting guests. I was randomly paired with two Japanese doctors who were on vacation, and we had such an amazing time playing golf together. How many courses can you interact with people from all around the globe in the pro-shop, on the range, and at the turn?•	Finally, there was just a generally happy spirit at the entire property – some Disney Magic. Everyone was incredibly friendly, and I just felt so positive out on the course. It rubbed off too, as I played the second best round of my career.Thinking about Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course always puts a smile on my face.

The South Carolina Lowcountry is, in my opinion, among the finest settings for golf in the world. My recent visit to the Daniel Island Club only further bolstered that impression. Recently, I was fortunate to play as a guest at the Ralston Creek course. The quality of golf and hospitality of the entire club left a very positive impression on me. My strongest praise goes to Chris Edwards, the Director of Golf Operations, and Joey Franco, Superintendent, who both are clear leaders in their field. From arrival to departure, Daniel Island was great.The course conditions at the Ralston Creek course were beyond phenomenal. The fairways offered tight lies, and the greens were firm. These extended to the practice facilities. Unfortunately, my morning tee time limited the daylight I had to warm-up. Should you ever have a chance to visit the Daniel Island Club, I urge you to arrive at least two hours in advance. With two large putting/chipping greens, a driving range full of quality targets, and even two areas to work on 40-70 yard shots (a rare amenity), the practice facilities were among the most comprehensive I have seen in 210+ courses played.Driving to the course, one passes through the Daniel Island Club neighborhoods. As such, I incorrectly assumed the course would play narrowly through the residential complexes. In fact, the holes had exceptionally wide corridors and housing was never intrusive. Among the more notable for me include:•	#3: Playing to a whopping 618 yards from the tips, this par five is equally as daunting from the forward 500+ yard tees. The preferred angle on the first shot is right, though a well-placed bunker guards that side. A layup is next for most players as the green tucked behind a pond. This putting surface was among the most memorable on the course, set almost like a Biarritz. My approach landed on the front, and putting down and through the valley to a back pin placement was adventurous.•	#8: The fairway at the par four 8th plays nearly perpendicular to play. Players must carry as much marshland as possible while also avoiding bunkers that bank the fairway’s end. An interesting open slot is available for longer hitters who can work the ball from right-to-left. Most important, though, is giving yourself a preferred wedge distance to this multi-tiered putting surface.•	#9: Both beautiful and treacherous simultaneously, the par three 9th plays over a gorgeous stretch of coastal waterway. It appears a run-up option may be possible from the left side, but in fact, this is a true all-carry, do-or-die hole.•	#13: From a strategic architecture standpoint, the 13th at Ralston Creek has to be among my favorite Rees Jones holes, especially given the otherwise uninteresting land on which it was built. From the tee, the hole clearly turns to the left, and players may think their only option is to hit a shorter drive or lay-up metal to a fairway that is pinched by relatively short trees to the left and a massive bunker right/long. However, if one is playing from the proper tees, the better strategy may actually be aggressive over the short clump of trees to a wider area farther down the hole. I love this routing because it is so deceptive with virtually no dirt moved. Should one unsuccessfully attempt to clear the trees, it is still a recoverable hazard. A thought provoking design concept!•	#14: Playing right up against Ralston Creek itself, the tee shot at the 14th was compelling. Players must cut off much of the waterway to reach the diagonal fairway, and the closer one hugs the creek, the better angle they are afforded to this multi-tiered green. An interesting hump in the middle of the fairway added interest, also, as a well-struck drive may catch some tricky bounces.•	#15: Capping off a very exciting stretch of three holes, the 15th departed from the other holes on the course by offering a collection area left of the green. While this bail out was appealing, chipping from the basin was no simple task.•	#17: The very short 17th hole was another strategic, tricky two-shotter. With a wide fairway, having the proper angle into this shallow, broad complex with left and right terraces was essential. Again, breaking from the norm, an interesting chipping area existed on the right side of this green.There are two aspects of the Ralston Creek course that keep it in my ‘solid’ rather than ‘stellar’ category. The first was a lack of variety in distances on its par fours (and to a lesser degree, its par threes). During my round, I hit driver on all 14 par fours, and I used one of three clubs for my approach shots on 12 of the 14. This may have been due to the day’s wind, but by simply moving tee boxes, there could have been far more variety in club selection. Second, the green complexes got a bit repetitive with so many fronted by bunkers and surrounded by rough. Given the firm nature of the greens, any ball that landed near a front pin often bounced at least 5-10 yards past the hole. With bunkers pinching entryways on all but 3 holes, run up shots were not really an option. I believe Ralston Creek could create quite a bit more architectural interest by removing some bunkers and modeling greens after 15 and 17, incorporating more collection areas and rumples.All in all, my round at Ralston Creek was lovely. This property is yet another Lowcountry charmer. If you receive an invitation to play, it is well worth the trip. Then again, who ever needs significant convincing for a Charleston getaway?

Growing up in central Connecticut, most public (and private) golf options were courses built in the middle of the 20th century. In general, these parkland style layouts were designed with minimal earth moved, and were compressed in property with holes running against one another. As one of the first modern routings I had ever played, Fox Hopyard left a big impression on me, breaking my notion of a ‘normal’ course.Situated deep in the woods of eastern Middlesex County, Fox Hopyard’s design stands out with individual hole corridors and unique, man-made hazards and humps lining its fairways. Exceptionally maintained, the course plays over and through a range of landforms with a variety of long/short, hilly/flat, and other diverse setups. Having played 200+ courses since those early years, Fox Hopyard does not still stand out to me today, and in some ways, feels a bit manufactured. However, it remains one of the top courses in the greater southern Connecticut River Valley and can be a great value, depending on the price.Among the more notable holes at Fox Hopyard include:•	#2: The front nine plays up and over a massive ridge on the property, and the second hole is like the start of a roller coaster heading straight up the hill. The somewhat tilted and tiered fairway provides interest off the tee, especially since the right half (which is generally harder to hit) allows for a superior angle into the green.•	#4: Plummeting almost 100 feet from tee to green, the par three 4th is an absolute blast. Interesting pot bunkers guard this “T” shaped green on the front, and dialing in the proper yardage can take many rounds to master.•	#6: As mentioned above, the tee shot at the 6th plays over Cranberry Meadow Creek and players must determine how much to bite off. In fact, what makes the hole most interesting is another three pronged putting surface. On some days, the best angle into the green would involve playing very safe well over the creek to the far edge of the fairway, while others would require a more aggressive drive.•	#7: The fairway at this par four is incredibly unique, shaped like a candy cane. While one can play aggressively toward the part which curls back, the strategically sound option for most pin placements is actually toward the longer stretch.•	#15: The back nine at Fox Hopyard is built over flatter, swampy land, but one exceptional hole is the par five 15th. The tee shot demands a left-to-right shot shape through a forested area, at which point the hole bends right and opens up to farmland. From there, a player can attempt to blast it over wetlands to the green in two, or lay up with the opposite shot shape. This hole never ceases to excite as it offers a wide range of options, landscapes, and favors no one skillset.Despite a handful of strategically interesting holes at Fox Hopyard, many others are forgettable. While the undulations and contours of the greens can be captivating, the complexes themselves also lacked variety. Most had a similar shape, and none offered a run up option, making the course an absolute bear from start to finish with many repetitive aerial iron plays. Even so, one cannot deny that Fox Hopyard’s beautiful conditioning and natural setting are unmatched in this part of the state. While prices can sometimes be high, you can find deals to play online from time-to-time. Fox Hopyard left a big impression on me when I started in my golf journey, and it certainly may do the same for you if you find yourself in the area.

Great River Golf Club was one of the final top tier Connecticut public courses that I checked off my bucket list a few years ago. While the round itself was fun, there was very little memorable about the course architecturally and I have no plans to return soon.Great River feels like a modern private club. With an excellent range, massive clubhouse, technologically equipped carts, and an extremely high price tag, you definitely feel a sense of exclusivity throughout your time on the property.A few holes which I can recall in more detail:•	#3: This long par five takes advantage of a quirky corner on the property. Playing straight for most of its length, the fairway slowly pinches as one approaches the green. The putting surface is set at least 20-30 yards above the fairway, so laying up and dialing in a precise wedge is critical.•	#6: This par five plays alongside the Housatonic River yet feels very sylvan. The landing area for ones’ approach is very wide, and playing left is essential for the best angle. Along that path, though, one must contend with the river and thick rough.•	#9: With a very wide landing area, one can play more aggressively towards the left (and a pond and thick woods) for a better angle and shorter approach, or more safely to the right with a tough iron shot over a pond.•	#10: This mid-length par three plays slightly uphill to an interesting, multi-tiered green with interesting pot bunkers and collection areas.•	#15: The most impressive hole on the course, this par three is listed as being 160 yards from the tips but drops significantly, playing 20-30 yards shorter. Wind is a factor, and the view is spectacular.•	#17: This downhill par five is gorgeous, following the flow of the topography beautifully. A right-to-left shot off the tee is preferred, but a number of options open on the approach shots depending on pin location.While a day at Great River is enjoyable and provides variety in shot selection, the course lacks in strategic architectural interest. This is best highlighted by the following observations:•	17.5 holes at Great River run North-South along this thin property, likely by necessity (the exception being the approach on #9). With the wind blowing southward on the day I played, shots were either directly downwind or right into your face which got old quickly.•	This course is an absolute brute throughout with virtually no breaks in challenge. This may be great for low handicappers (such as local college teams), but I cannot fathom it being especially playable day-in and day-out for mid/high handicappers. The only relatively easy hole was the opener, playing around 350 yards and featuring one of only three greens that allowed run-up shots. This baffled me – usually, a strategic architect would offer such an option when players had long irons in their hands, not wedges.•	The few holes that do offer wide landing areas are actually not especially thought provoking. Holes #4, #9, and #18 each are par fours very generous fairways should the player wish to lay up. However, there is no real room to hit a driver where the fairway narrows – it becomes way too troublesome and narrow. Essentially, there is no risk-reward mindset present. The only sane option is to lay up.Great River’s conditioning is immaculate, and the service level was top notch. However, I would expect these with a $120+ price tag. While many of its greens had interesting rumples and contours, the majority were surrounded by rough and holes blended together. For value, it is hard for me to recommend playing Great River more than once. Great River did not leave a strong impression on me relative to many other far less expensive Connecticut public options.

Growing up in Connecticut, I can distinctly remember the hype when Wintonbury Hills opened for play in the mid-2000’s. As one of only two Pete Dye courses in the Nutmeg State, and the only one open to the public, Wintonbury immediately received rave reviews from virtually all Connecticut and New England golf publications. Although its media praise has been consistent since then, there are many individual raters who strongly dislike the course. As I was reminded during a round at Wintonbury last summer, Dye designs are polarizing. Bottom line up front: Wintonbury is an exceptionally manicured course that completely breaks the ‘norm’ for stereotypical golf architecture in central Connecticut. Whether or not that appeals to the golfer is another question entirely.The Wintonbury Hills property certainly emphasizes the “hills” moniker, but also incorporates other environmental features. Ponds, streams, and other natural wetlands, along with beautiful fescue grasses come into play on most of the holes which fall on flatter, less interesting pieces of the property. In this way, Dye keeps the player thinking throughout the round.Some of the standout holes at Wintonbury Hills include:•	#1: A seemingly bland, flat start to the day, there is more than meets the eye at the opener. Three small pot bunkers guard the right side of the fairway, so laying up provides a wider landing area. However, should one play aggressively left of the traps, there is a ridge that runs fast, potentially adding as many as 30-40 yards to your tee shot. This could be very beneficial, depending on the pin placement at this multi-tied green which also slopes right-to-left.•	#2: The massive fairway at the second plays straight up the property’s main hill and also doglegs left. While the safe option is to bail out right, this also creates a significantly longer approach and must contend with another pot bunker. Playing left provides a better angle, but also forces the player to bite off more of a deep corner which slopes severely.•	#5: From the highest point on the property, the view at the 5th tee is majestic. Playing downhill to a potentially drivable, perched green, the tee shot is enticing. With a fairway that runs off on both sides, and a center/right bunker in the landing zone, keeping it on the short grass with a good angle is imperative for a birdie. This is one of the most memorable risk/reward holes in the region, and it does not even have any water!•	#6: The long par four 6th uses similar features to the 5th, but facing the opposite direction, playing entirely different. The fairway is sloped severely from right-to-left, and expectedly, for some pin placements, the better angle will be on the left. Most players will have to deal with a side-hill lie on the approach over center-line bunkers to an elevated putting surface.•	#8: The par five 8th is a visually intimidating test from start to finish. A swamp runs parallel to this narrow hole down the entire left hand side. Of course, the natural inclination on the tee shot and the approach is to play to the right, but in both cases, difficult pot bunkers await…not to mention a worse angle into the green. •	#9: One of my favorite par threes in the state of Connecticut, the 9th hole at Wintonbury Hills is absolutely gorgeous. When conditioning is at its best, it is impossible to tell the difference between the fairway and the green here, and the two bunkers right (surrounded by rough) are beautifully highlighted. The multi-tiered putting surface seems to call for a left-to-right shot from the tee, but anything lost right faces a near impossible up-and-down from a tightly-mown collection area or the previously mentioned bunkers. It is a blast to play!•	#11: Playing up the hill in parallel to the 2nd, the 11th seems like a hole that turns, but is actually quite straight. This is caused by centerline bunkers which make the play left seem appealing, when in fact, tackling the hole straight on is likely the best route.•	#14: Among the most photographed holes in the state, the tee shot at the par four 14th is fascinating. Banked into a hill, most of the fairway runs hard left-to-right towards a local reservoir. The hole is lengthy, and plays more as a par four-and-a-half. Knowing this, Dye built in a wide landing area short of the green that, for some pin placements, may actually be the smart target on the approach. •	#15: Among the most narrow “feeling” holes on the course, the 15th plays through a dense forest. The real point of interest here is the approach shot. Bunkering well short of the create creates the perception that a left-to-right shot is ideal, when in fact, anything lost right faces gnarly rough, swamp, or sand traps. Anything to the left is an easy up and down from a flat chipping area.•	#16: Using the land expertly, the tee shot on the 16th plays blind up and over a hill to a fairly wide landing area. Knowing the pin placement in advance is helpful, since having a proper angle to this downhill green is key.So many courses in central Connecticut follow the same parkland patterns back-and-forth through thick patches of woods. In this vein, Wintonbury Hills always was and always is refreshing, incorporating strategic wide open vistas, wind impacting most shots, and rumpled texture to both its fairways and greens. Variety is the spice of life, and in so many ways, Wintonbury just stands out.This said, I too acknowledge the course’s most obvious weakness: mirror image holes from 1-4 and 10-13, respectively. Playing across the same landforms with basically the same clubs and strategy is not especially memorable. All things considered, though, Wintonbury is worth the stop if you are in the area, or if you are a local looking for a different golf experience.

While visiting Chicago I made a point to play the now public Ravisloe Country Club after seeing it featured on “No Laying Up” social media. Those particular bloggers argue that it may be the best public course, architecturally speaking, in the greater-Chicago area. While Donald Ross was not the primary designer, his influence on the strategy of bunker placement is pretty evident throughout the property. Arriving at Ravisloe, the player is treated to early views of the course (as the driveway cuts through the 10th) and an impressive, unique Spanish Mission style clubhouse. The staff were very friendly, and the round was reasonably priced.Ravisloe had a number of thought-provoking holes, especially among its collection of par threes. Some standouts for me included:•	#2: This long par five is made interesting by cross-bunkers. On the tee shot, one must content with a left-hand bunker either by playing short, or by playing a fade (lefty-draw). As the hole bends to the left, and a bunker protrudes from the right, the opposite shot type is then required. The green features a massive false front, so laying up to your best yardage is imperative.•	#5: This marvelous par four was a stunner. Three bunkers cut the fairway off into distinct islands. Players who can move the ball left-to-right may be able to gain a 20-30 yard advantage. Longer players with that same shot type may even be able to put their drive near the green! The closer the better, too, as this subtlety tiered putting surface was a doozie to read.•	#6: The very short par three 6th refreshingly only requires a wedge, but bunkering again creates interest. Depending on the pin placement, one may wish to hit a slight draw or fade; should those be overcooked, a difficult up-and-down awaits.•	#7: While playing quite long, the 7th hole offers some relief with beautiful short-grass collection areas short and to the right. The pond and bunkers create visual intimidation when in fact, there are options.•	#8: This same pattern is featured on the length par four 8th hole. The tee shot is blind and must contend with a large fairway bunker (filled with islands of grass). A large cross bunker in front of the green creates the perception that it abuts the putting surface, when in fact, players can easily run a ball up through a tightly mown collar.•	#11: The par three 11th is a fascinating one-shotter. The left portion of the green connects perfectly to the rough, which is a rare sight and daunting characteristic. The right seems far more appealing, as there is at least 10-15 yards of fairway to bail out. Be warned, though, as the up-and-down over a small ridge to a green which runs away in places is not nearly as easy as it might seem.•	#12: With perhaps the widest fairway on the course, the 12th created interest with a centerline bunker. Playing short leaves a lengthy approach, while playing over the trap tightens the fairway. Laying up may be the better option for some players since there is a generous roll-up area short of the green.•	#16: The green at Ravisloe’s 16th hole is absolutely splendid. In the roughly 3,500 holes I have played, I have only seen greens which run away from the player 4 times, and one of them lives at this par four. It is also by far the most severe that I have experienced. Playing an approach into this green could never lose its charm. With tricky collection areas around almost all sides, a player must be mindful about bouncing the ball into the green and not accidentally running off.Despite a few standout features, I would argue that some basic restoration work holds Ravisloe back from being a top tier classic course. A simple Google Earth aerial makes it pretty clear that at one point, hole corridors were significantly wider. So many of the cross bunkers should be surrounded by fairway, but today live in seas of rough. This detracts from strategy. The chutes required to play many holes, like #3, were very constricting for long-hitters. According to the “No Laying Up” video, the new owner of Ravisloe who saved the course is not actually a golfer, but actually is just a lover of trees. This made me think that a full restoration would never occur. Apparently, this is not the case, and the owner has been open to removing many non-native species which hurt the older trees. Kudos to their openness to such important work. Someday, I would welcome the opportunity to return to Ravisloe and play in drier conditions (thunderstorms had soaked the course prior to my visit) to see if other features emerge.

Perplexed. Baffled. Confused. These were the emotions that rushed through my body after putting out on the finishing hole at Worcester Country Club. “How could a club with such a perfect course, designed by Donald Ross, seeping in national and international golf history, fly so under the radar,” I pondered? Even on this website, Worcester only has one review! While I can only guess at the answer to this question, one thing is for certain: if you love Golden Age golf…if you love Donald Ross…drop everything, and get yourself to central Massachusetts immediately. Worcester is the real deal!As discussed in the biography above, Worcester’s contributions to the history of professional golf are simply remarkable. According to its website, Worcester Country Club is only one of three clubs to have hosted such a set of premier national men’s, women’s, and international events. Legendary stories of the game’s heroes are alive and well down Worcester’s fairways.I can only imagine how excited Donald Ross must have been to route on the Worcester Country Club property. Set on a very large hill (in a city known for its hills), Ross incorporated a breadth of directions into the layout so that some holes play uphill, some downhill, some sidehill, and some with a mix of all three! Not once in the round does the player sense that dirt was moved unnaturally. Instead, you must constantly consider the ball’s interaction with the ground, bouncing and rolling, on every single shot you hit.The presentation of Worcester Country Club is very appealing. Manicured perfectly, the course conditions are firm, and fescue flanking most holes shines golden in appearance. According to the member who accompanied me, the course had lost thousands of trees in the past few years, and from certain points on the property, one could see up to 6-7 other holes at a time.With endless variety in the shots required to navigate the course, Worcester was splendid from start to finish. Memorable holes for me include:•	#1: A “deceptive” Ross gentle handshake. The first tee shot of the day at Worcester is wide open, requiring a long iron or metal to a huge fairway that stops short of a meandering brook. While this visual may seem straightforward, the hole is no pushover. Even a well struck tee shot may face a mid-iron, uphill to a tough green. The rough is so thick, that should one miss the fairway, they may need to lay up to the landing area short of the green.•	#2: The par five second hole also incorporates a bisecting stream. From the proper tee, the player will likely need to consider laying up with a metal, or being more aggressive with a driver, possibly putting them past the fairway into dense rough. Reaching this green in two is a possibility, but landing in the cross bunkers short could mean bogey.•	#3: Ross’ routing genius at Worcester really begins to shine at the par four 3rd. With virtually no bunkers in play off the tee, the challenge of this hole is a massive crown in the fairway’s landing area. Stay short, and face a blind shot into this rumpled green; playing over may give you extra yards, but also bring in the possibility of a downhill lie to a putting surface above you. It is amazing to see how Ross assimilated this untouched natural hump in the topography to generate so much strategic interest.•	#4: A quintessential hole on many Ross’ courses, the deep par three 4th demands precision with a long iron or fairway metal to a severely sloped green, also incorporating a brutal false front. •	#6: The famous par three 6th screams ‘old school architecture.’ With the green perched far above the players’ eyesight at the tee, determining the right yardage is beguiling. While Ross offers some relief with a shortgrass collection area, one must also watch out for a tough straight line bunker in the rear, and the possibility of an extremely fast chip should they bail out left.•	#9: Creeping up to the highest point on the course, the fairway at the par four 9th creates interest in two ways. First, in addition to playing uphill, it also is subtlety sloped left-to-right. Extra room on the right is blind from the teeing area, but also provides one of the best angles into the green. One can use the fairway’s natural contours to achieve this angle, but also must be wary to not run out too far to the right and end up blocked by trees.•	#10: In some ways, the par three turning hole feels like a hybrid Raynor-Short and Ross-Volcano. Playing downhill, this hole seems benign from the tee as most players will likely have a wedge in hand. However, hitting the green is no simple prospect as it is one of the smallest putting surfaces on the course, wind impacts the shot, and getting up and down from thick rough on steep flanking slopes or the bunkers is complex. In a way, one might consider this an ‘island green’ since missing essentially incurs a penalty stroke.•	#12: My favorite hole on the entire Worcester property was the long par four 12th. Banked into a side hill, the fairway naturally runs from right-to-left for most of its length. Ending up on the left side of the fairway, as most players do, would offer a view of the green, while any player on the more rare right would have a blind shot but a far superior angle. Cutting out into the fairway roughly 100 yards shy of the green is a cross bunker and a beautiful, natural knoll. Ross’ discovery and incorporation of this feature demonstrates his mastery and artistry as an architect. While not all players may be able to flight the ball aerially to the green in two shots, anyone could use this massive mound to their advantage to roll the ball up easily. •	#13: Among the most beautifully located of any Ross green site I have seen, the par three 13th is banked into a small hill and features both multiple tiers, and a massive false front. Despite its challenge, Ross always thought of the amateur and provided options. After watching my ball trickle down the false front roughly 60 yards short of the green, I was able to use the slope of the tiers to stop a ball right near the cup – a routine par!•	#14: Among the widest fairways on the course, the 14th still provides challenge with a perched, crested fairway that mostly blocks views of the green. Hitting the fairway is not so much of a challenge as strategically placing your shot on the proper side for the best angle.•	#15: While other holes at Worcester challenge the player with strategic angles, water, or sand traps, the long par five 15th gorgeously incorporates the natural golden fescue for challenge. The fairway is narrow on both the tee shot and approach, and anything missed will surely be a punch out. •	#16: An absolute blast to play, the 16th runs straight downhill to a green that also slopes away from you. Though less common in practice today, a wise player may actually land the ball short of the green to keep their shot close to a front pin placement. Expecting this in his time, Ross tests the player’s merits with a short centerline bunker close to the ideal landing area.•	#17: Very similar to the 16th, the downhill par four 17th captures the natural sloping topography expertly, allowing players to run shots close to any flagstick.•	#18: Despite its shorter length, the topsy-turvy finishing hole at Worcester is no simple closer. An even lie in the fairway is a rarity, and with such a small putting surface, keeping the ball on the green is imperative to walk away with a par.Simply put, I cannot think of many courses which both hug the natural contours of their land, and fit perfectly together like a puzzle than Worcester Country Club. This is the type of place someone could play every day without ever losing interest. Ross’ routing appears to have moved no dirt, yet wildly undulating fairways and the ground game challenges are presented to the player throughout almost every hole. There is a mixture of lengths, hazards, bunker styles, width, wind direction, and virtually any other aspect of an architecturally compelling golf course that you can surmise. Worcester is, in a word, delightful.Why then does Worcester Country Club not receive the national attention that, in my opinion, it deserves? Perhaps it is the setting? Truthfully, Worcester as a city simply does not have a strong overall reputation in the northeast, and driving through old neighborhoods to reach the course is not quite as inspiring as say, 17-Mile Drive. Maybe it just falls in the shadow of other great Massachusetts courses near Boston? These geographic challenges are comparable Old Town in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, which also flies severely under the radar. Perhaps Worcester is not as heralded because tree removal and restoration work are so recent? Should they be publicized further, I would imagine the club trending up rapidly in rankings. Maybe, though, for a course that has been so spotlighted over the last century, Worcester simply prefers to be an escape for its members, and not seek such attention.Regardless of the reason, there is no doubt in my mind that Worcester is among America’s finest courses. With seemingly no weaknesses, and such a pure routing, Worcester exceptionally represents the spirit of our pastime in all ways fathomable.

A few years ago, I made a work trip to Chicago and managed to play golf while visiting. A local friend suggested that we go down to the Harborside International Golf Center where he scheduled a round on the Starboard course. When I conducted some research, I saw that it was built in a very industrial area southeast of the city, near the Indiana line, over what appeared to be wasteland previously. An aerial view showed a course that was very clearly manmade and seemingly flat. My expectations architecturally were low, and my mood was sour when Chicago greeted us with a drizzling, 45 degree day in late MayAlas, my preconceived notions about this property were put aside almost immediately upon arrival. Even from the parking lot, towering dunes and interesting land movement were apparent all around the course. With nautical flags whipping through the wind and lush fescue grasses looming, I felt as if I had just stepped overseas to the home of golf. The practice facilities were superb, and on the driving range, I realized that the course drainage was excellent, leaving conditions firm and fast despite the rain. Kudos to the superintendent and their team for perfectly manicured, lush turf throughout our entire day.The Starboard Course had a number of interesting, memorable holes, including:•	#2: The amount of dirt that must have been moved on this property is remarkable. The tee shot on the par four 2nd plays to a wide fairway, but based on the wind, the player may need to only hit a metal. With the narrow, long, bunkerless green down a deep ravine, getting the proper angle is a must.•	#3: My favorite hole on the golf course was the short par four 3rd which played directly downwind. At just 300 yards from the tips, going for this green was fabulously tempting. However, trouble awaits in all directions – penalizing bunkers for 100 yards before the green, menacing sloped rough behind and to the right, and out-of-bounds left. While par and even birdie could be likely by hitting a 175 yard followed by a 125 yard shot, what golfer could possibly take that route with the breeze at their back?!?•	#5: The course used a variety of bunker styles well throughout the round. One such example that is rare on most courses, but effective for developing strategy, are centerline bunkers. The par five 5th incorporates one on the landing area, a devilish prospect when playing directly into the wind.•	#10: Continuing on this theme of sand variety, the par four 10th felt more like something out of Donald Ross’ playbook, incorporating a cross bunker, and a beautiful short grass collection area beyond the green.•	#11: This unique par four reminded me so much of Tobacco Road back in my home state of North Carolina. A massive waste area ran down the entire left side of the hole. The severely sloping green allowed for a wide range of effective shots to reach tucked pins if hit with the proper spin.•	#12: Bunkers used at the par five 12th provide effective visual intimidation. With a series of small traps located on the approach, it ‘appears’ that there are a number of greenside bunkers. In fact, the aggressive player could very well reach this green in two with a running shot, as those bunkers effectively create a false-front appearance. •	#14: This lengthy, 462 par four sits directly on Lake Calumet which runs against the right side of the fairway. Again, fascinating centerline bunkers force the player to think – playing left leaves a longer approach and far worse angle, but safety from the water, while right is risky, but offers the potential for an exceptional award.•	#18: With a tee shot that asks the player to cut-off what they wish, the par five finisher was memorable for providing the opposite challenge as some of the other three shot holes, instead asking for precision, rather than depth or aggressive second shots.For a course that is modern and manufactured from the ground up, Harborside International’s Starboard course set the bar pretty high for my perception of Chicago golf. While I initially dreaded the rainy, windy day we had, I honestly did feel like I had taken a plane overseas; the course played firm and fast, rolled naturally over massive dunes, and had lush fescue grasses throughout. There was SO much variety – in fairway sizes, styles and placement of bunkers, and green complexes – that I had to strategically navigate every hole in a new way. I played shots high in the air and on the ground; I played some holes aggressively, and some conservatively; and I hit every single club in my bag, maybe twice! Kudos to the architects for realizing the importance of wind, and not designing holes repetitively back-and-forth in the same directions.Harborside’s Starboard course was an absolutely delight, far exceeding expectations based on what I had read previously and seen in satellite images. The value was very good for the price, and it is the type of course I would spend a lot of time at practicing and playing if I lived in the area.

My first experiences playing the Ranch Golf Club came as a teenager since the course hosted many Central-CT/Western-Mass. junior tournaments. Since then, I have returned a handful of occasions when I could find tee time deals online. While the Ranch does not fall into the “elite” category of New England golf courses, it is a far more intriguing test than most modern clubs in housing communities.For its convenience to both Springfield and Hartford, the Ranch feels rather rural and rustic. The clubhouse and restaurant ‘barns’ are both incredibly charming, the food and friendliness of the staff are great, and the practice facilities are top notch. Superb playing conditions have been a constant during every single one of my visits to the club, and I cannot sing the superintendent’s praises more highly.The Ranch is built over massive forested hill and swampland, so the hole settings constantly change. Unlikely most community developed courses, corridors are especially wide, adding strategy via playing angles. With many perfectly mown short grass collection areas, options abound.The Ranch has a number of notable holes, including:•	#1: This par five is a wild way to start the day. The wishbone fairway is massive, and players who find the short grass will have a chance to go for the green in two. This prospect is complicated by high swampy grass that blocks your view of the green, and the forthcoming shot over a lake. In reality, any player who wisely lays up to the right is greeted with a continued massive fairway, and a fairly easy pitch-and-putt for a far simpler, equally likely birdie.•	#2: The 2nd features a fairway which runs perfectly perpendicular to play, requiring a right-to-left shot shape with a long iron or fairway metal. This hole is not long, but putting your tee shot in any of the bunkers which backstop the fairway almost guarantee a blast back out onto before proceeding further.•	#3: The uphill 3rd captures interest as a proper play requires a right-to-left shaped shot off the tee, and a left-to-right shape shot to this narrow, interesting green complex.•	#9: The colossal plummet down the fairway on the 9th hole is beyond exciting. A well struck drive can easily pick up 40-50 extra yards. Any player in the fairway is then placed with a beguiling decision. Going for the green in two is an option for many players, and with no bunkers at all and a massive collection area beyond the green, all one needs to do is hit enough club long of the green for an easy up-and-down. However, from such a steep downhill lie, this is not so simple. A massive area of tall grass sits in front of the green and runs almost 100 yards back in the fairway. The tendency from the downhill lie is to hit the ball thin, and if it does not carry over the thick grass, the ‘easy up-and-down’ quickly turns into a bogey or worse. Laying up with this hazard is also challenging given the downward slope. This is a hole one could play over and over again without it ever getting old.•	#10: The difficult par four 10th features a somewhat blind tee shot to a fairway that pinches where longer players would ideally like to put their drives. At almost 450 yards, taking anything less than driver is also a dangerous prospect. Here, the designers wisely left the front of the green open for run up shots.•	#14: Although not the most ‘natural’ looking golf hole, the long 14th twists and turns down a slope to the left. The fairway then ‘double doglegs’ back to the right. The architecturally interesting aspect to this hole is that the better angle to the green, from the right side of the fairway, is also the longest path and most risky with out-of-bounds right.•	#15: The uphill par four 15th is a blast to play. Most times I have visited the Ranch, the tees have been set up to make this hole drive-able, and I wish they would always set the hole up in this manner. There is no room to miss the green, with trees left, a bunker right, and high grass long. A fabulous risk-reward short par four.•	#16: Mirroring the tee shot on the 9th, this second straight downhill par five also presents risk-reward options. Drives can easily bumble an extra 40-50 yards down the fairway, though here, laying up is a far simpler, safer prospect. The narrow green has ponds both left and right.•	#17: This medium-long par three plays over a pond. As with other holes, such as the 10th, the architects built options for the player who thinks their way around the course with a beautiful short grass collection area long. Clubbing up is the smart play here.With all this said, there are still a few aspects of the course which hold it back from receiving higher marks on my end. First, even for its beautiful setting, the Ranch does have many modern, unnatural features (mounting on the sides of holes, etc.) that do not add any strategic merit. Second, many of the more forested holes in the middle of course blend in with one another, and felt like they could be anywhere. Lastly, though this has changed over time, the Ranch can feel a bit overpriced. That is why I typically only play once every few years when I can find deals online.Overall, though, the Ranch Golf Club is undoubtedly among the finest public courses in New England. Kudos to the architects for maintaining strategic integrity with width, and for not letting houses get in the way of building some fabulous holes, especially its riveting set of par fives. For the right price, I would happily play the Ranch anytime!

If you love Golden Age golf, you are likely aware that the overwhelming majority of Seth Raynor courses are very exclusive. One of the few exceptions to this norm is the 9-hole layout at the Hotchkiss School, situated in the bucolic northwestern corner of Connecticut, just a few miles from the Appalachian Trail. The drive up to this gorgeous part of the Nutmeg State is worth the price of admission alone, as your phone will probably drop its signal and you will also lose touch with the hustle and bustle of the more populated cities behind you.Despite its routing circling the campus grounds of one of the most exclusive boarding schools in the world, the Hotchkiss School Golf Course could not be more welcoming. The clubhouse is a small shack, walking costs a mere $15 cash, and if no staff are present, a sign tells you to slip money under the door.One of the best pieces of advice I received before visiting the Hotchkiss School Golf Course was to speak with longtime head professional and manager, Jim Kennedy. Jim’s passion for Hotchkiss was evident immediately, and after my roughly 1 hour round, Jim spent almost 2 hours with me showing off black and white aerial photographs of the course, discussing its evolution, and demonstrating his deep care for hidden-gem, family-owned golf courses all over the nation. Building relationships with amazing stewards like Jim is one of the most rewarding aspects of our sport.With a modest budget, Jim has done his best to preserve and highlight some wonderful Raynor work at the Hotchkiss School. Notable holes for me include:•	#1: The opposite of a ‘gentle handshake’, this stout par four up a massive hill presents uneven lies, and a brutal green with a devilish back tier.•	#2: Previously a par four, the now par three 2nd “Leven” almost feels like a punchbowl with a deceptive mount protruding from the front and banks all around the back.•	#4: Working back into the campus, Raynor masterfully used the right-to-left tilt of the land to reject shots toward inferior playing angles into this green.•	#5: The “Short” at Hotchkiss has an awe inspiring view of surrounding mountains and Wononskopomuc Lake. •	#6: The 6th green was beguiling with rumples galore. Raynor balances this extremely challenging green with a wide open tee shot, testing the merits of the player to find their best yardage. •	#7: Without the ability to move large tracts of land for fairway regrading, many classic architects expertly found the most rolling pieces of terrain to build exceptional holes. The bunkerless par five 7th at Hotchkiss rolls over hills and valleys in this way, providing difficulty without any sand traps. This hole reminded me of the amazing bunkerless par fives Ross built at Roaring Gap.•	#8: The Eden par three 8th also naturally lays over the land, beautifully incorporating some glacial boulders.Over time, the greens at Hotchkiss have shrunk, and due to school expansion, some holes have been lost. In context, especially given a modest budget, it is no short of remarkable to see such the level of preservation we do today. Kudos to amazing historians of the game – people who care – such as Jim Kennedy. My respect for such a humble leader knows no bounds, and my adventure to Hotchkiss was well worth the trip.

If Tom Doak’s admiration for Hooper as a summer “Gourmet Choice” is not testament enough, notice that the two other [very positive!] reviews here were composed by a pair of the most prolific Top100 Golf Courses raters. It is an honor to be in the company of those who have made the trek to play this Wayne Stiles gem.The entire Hooper experience is memorable, starting with the drive to the course. Upon arrival, the buildings on the Hooper property take you back in time. Everything about the club feels “local,” from the conversations you will have with dedicated pro-shop staff, to the inspirational story of how townspeople saved Hooper’s existence. As the sign on the clubhouse says, the “magic” and mystique that encapsulate Hooper are evident even before beginning your round.Hooper’s course is full of charm, strategy, and variety. Reiterating comments below, notable features include:•	#1: An absolute blast of a short par five. From the elevated tee, a right-to-left shot ‘feels’ like the proper play on this slightly bending hole. However, left is deadly the whole way to this rumbled green complex.•	#2: After the feeling of standing on a wide open mountain, the tee shot at the 2nd could not be more different. The setting becomes densely sylvan, and the player enters a tunnel of majestic trees. This lengthy par four demands two excellent shots to reach the green which does provide some relief with a welcoming run-up entrance.•	#3: A fascinating short par four. The tee shot’s narrow chute essentially requires a perfectly straight lay-up, or a right-to-left shaped shot if one plans to go for the green. With steeply separated tiers, having the proper yardage and angle into this green is critical. •	#4: A two tiered green is not necessarily unique, but the additional pitch from right-to-left on this par three requires the opposite shot shape of the 3rd hole.•	#5: This par five is one of the most textbook examples of laying a hole over the natural terrain that I have ever experienced. With multiple dips and swales, Stiles fabulously used what nature had provided to create interest.•	#6: With full exposure to the broadest part of the property, wind becomes a beguiling factor at this medium-long par three.•	#7 - #9: While Doak and others suggest that the final three holes at Hooper do not stand out, I actually thought each had at least one unique element of interest. The 7th green provided some fascinating left-to-right slope which can be used to funnel a shot closer to tucked pins, if the player properly lays up. The 8th, with its downward slope, actually makes the player think about laying up for a more flat lie in the fairway. The 9th, with one of the boldest, large greens on the course, asks the player to hug the out-of-bounds on the left hand side of the hole near Hooper Road for the best angle to most pins locations. Hooper literally has it all. In 9 holes, I hit almost every club in my bag, draws, fades, aerial shots and run ups, often consecutively! I played up and down steep slopes, into a thick forest and across prairies. It is no wonder that the locals stepped up to the plate to save this masterpiece. If every community in America had an inexpensive, playable, high value golf course like this, I cannot fathom the game declining to where we find it today. Hooper’s simplicity, naturalness, and variety make it well worth the excursion.Also worth mentioning was the charming town of Walpole. My family and I had a fabulous lunch at Spencer’s Place after our round and received a 10% discount with our Hooper scorecard – the Garlic Burger was exceptional!It has been said before and is worth saying again: “Hooper is Super!”

The more I have studied golf architecture, the more I have fallen in love with courses from the golden ages, and the elements of those courses found in modern minimalism today. Some of those include width for playing angles, natural grading of fairways over the ground, variety in length, and bold, undulating green complexes. Despite Meadow Brook fitting few of categories, I found myself returning year after year when I still lived in New England!Bottom line up front: Meadow Brook not for the faint of heart. At 7,400 yards from the tips, and lengthy yardages from the other tees, this course is an absolute monster. My close friends and I typically would travel to Meadow Brook at the end of each summer as one final test of our improvements over the season. We were almost always humbled by this beat-down of a golf course.Admittedly, Meadow Brook’s bunker style is bland, the property is fairly flat, and the green complexes are altogether unmemorable. However, the pride from hitting successful heroic shots throughout the round is utterly intoxicating. There is also a hidden secret that makes the course slightly more manageable than the scorecard suggests: wonderfully firm conditions that allow for significant rollout not found on many other area courses.My favorite holes at Meadow Brook include:•	#1: The tee shot on the first feels like a narrow, Augusta-like chute, yet the Meadow Brook veteran knows of a large opening to the right. The next shot plays over the bumbling ‘Meadow Brook’ itself to a green complex a chipping area on the right.•	#2: Despite its fairly flat nature, and proximity to the road, the 2nd provides interest with bunkers guarding the fairway at the perfect driving point, and rumples in the layup area.•	#3: Carved back into the forest, this par four curves beautifully down a slope to a narrow, deep green.•	#4: A 263 par three with a deadly pot bunker fronting the green. Deadly, and yet probably similar to the way so many classic par threes played in the golden ages.•	#5: This slightly uphill par four sits at 481 yards from the tips and is among the narrowest on the course. It is a brutal test.•	#10: The island green 10th appears more challenging than it plays due to the exceptionally large putting surface and rough around the green complex.•	#12: This par five is among my favorite of ~3500 holes played to date. It plays to a whopping 603 yards, but the green is perfectly visible from the tee box. In a way, it is sort of inspiring to literally see what 600 yards looks like, all right in front of you. Fairway bunkers require strategic thinking through the green. •	#15: Among the most narrow holes I have played anywhere, the 649 yard (!!!) par five 15th is memorable for its unrelenting challenging. There is no room to bail out, and virtually no area to lay up either. It is an outrageous test of optimism.•	#18: A fitting end to the round, this hole’s tiny fairway hugs a lake, and the green offers no relief with water in front and pot bunkers behind.Meadow Brook is not a course I would enjoy playing every day, though I am sure it would lower my handicap. Perhaps it might be more highly rated if the holes offered variety in lengths, if bunkering and greens were made more interesting, and if a significant amount of trees were removed. However, these things simply do not align with Meadow Brook’s brand. Meadow Brook owns its identity as a long, difficult, well-manicured test. If you are ready to step up to its challenge, you will find a great value golf course in a very quaint part of Rhode Island.

My golf journey began as a teenager in Connecticut. With wonderful junior golf events sponsored by the CSGA, I was very fortunate to play some of the state’s best courses. The South Course at Lake of Isles (LOI) is certainly a standout.Located at the Foxwoods Resort in the southeastern portion of the state, both LOI courses were carved out of dense forests, a massive lake, and lush swamplands. If you enjoy the feeling of being completely “lost” in the wilderness when playing golf, then this is absolutely your type of course. You will be hard pressed to find more beautiful foliage on a golf course in Connecticut than you will experience at LOI. Of course, this is accomplished in a truly luxurious environment, too. With incredible amenities and world-class resort funding, the LOI courses are exceptionally well-manicured. The South is the private course on the property.Among the most memorable holes at LOI-South include:•	#2: Early in the round, the course earns its namesake with this strong par four playing to an island fairway, and then again over another ravine to the green.•	#4: This long par three set far into the woods has some Redan-esque qualities.•	#8: The long par five 8th is unabashedly beastly. With gorgeous views of the resort from the tee, the player faces peril at every twist and turn through this 600 yard monster. These include a steep ravine that runs down the entire left side of the hole, thick forest to the right, random patches of swampy waste also down the right, and a constricting, narrow fairway as you approach the green. While not the most welcoming to players of all abilities, this hole is a memorable test of length and accuracy.•	#9: The fairway on this hole plays diagonally to the player, requiring a right-to-left shot shape over swamp. The fairway is pinched at the most aggressive line by a strategic bunker, adding extra challenge for low handicappers.•	#10: Architecturally, the 10th at LOI-South is quite unique. The fairway is actually wishbone shaped (!!) with a swampy patch of bushes protruding outward from the green. A strange kidney shaped chipping area is also located beyond the green. The extreme width of this fairway creates fascinating playing angles and departs from virtually any other hole on the course stylistically. For me, this hole was always a blast to experience.•	#11: A bunkerless, do-or-die island green that is among the finest of its kind which I have played.•	#13: This shortish par four fits the naturally sloping right-to-left land perfectly, and a smart player can gain significant yards with the properly played drive.•	#16: Once again set on the lake, the par three 16th has a unique hump which sticks out from the mainland. Lucky shots can play off this patch of rough for a safe bounce onto the green, while others may be rejected into the water.•	#18: Similar to #10, the finisher at LOI-South departs from the typically framed hole corridors with a massive fairway and bunker strategically placed right in the middle. The proper angle is essential to have a shot at landing your approach close.The conditions at LOI-South are expectedly fantastic, and there is solid variety in terms of hole lengths, shot shapes required, and approaches which require aerial versus ground shots. The stretch from #8 - #11, in my opinion, is among the best in the state and probably New England.With that said, LOI-South lacks in same categories as its public, North counterpart. Generally bland bunkering, and a handful holes which feel like they could be anywhere are present throughout the round. While I appreciate the architecturally unique features on some tee and approach shots, I cannot recall a single standout green complex. Given its extreme length, I would find it hard to enjoy playing at LOI-South every single day.In short, if you receive an invitation to play at LOI-South and you also happen to be close and/or planning to make a trip out of it to the resort, hop on the opportunity immediately. From an architecture standpoint, it is not the type of course I personally would place high on my bucket list.

My golf journey began as a teenager in Connecticut. With wonderful junior golf events sponsored by the CSGA, and affordable rates provided for students, I was very fortunate to play some of the state’s best courses. The North Course at Lake of Isles (LOI) certainly falls in the top echelon of public golf in the Nutmeg State.Situated at the Foxwoods Resort in the southeastern portion of the state, both LOI courses were carved out of dense forests, a massive lake, and lush swamplands. If you enjoy the feeling of being completely “lost” in the wilderness when playing golf, then this is absolutely your type of course. You will be hard pressed to find more beautiful foliage on a golf course in Connecticut than you will experience at LOI. Of course, this is accomplished in a truly luxurious environment, too. With incredible amenities and world-class resort funding, the LOI courses are exceptionally well-manicured, demanding a price premium. The North Course has a number of notable holes, especially its solid set of par threes. Those which were most memorable for me include:•	#2: The first dramatic par three with a steep drop. A precise long iron is required here to hit a green with a pond in front and bunkers surrounding.•	#3: This short par four uses the land well with a blind uphill tee shot and a narrowing approach to a green that requires an aerial approach.•	#5: The par five fifth has one of my least favorite features in the game – more ‘leg than dog’ (i.e. more distance after a sharp turn than before). However, for me, this hole works. A shot shaper’s dream, this hole is gettable with a solid left-to-right tee shot. Beautiful short grass chipping areas long and short right of the green also welcome right-to-left approaches for an aggressive second.•	#7: Set over a ravine in the forest, the 7th is a par three which generously welcomes run up shots up a gorgeous collar in the front left.•	#11: One of the most picturesque par three’s I have ever played, the 11th at LOI-North captures the course’s namesake with its setting on an actual island in Lake of Isles!•	#18: With the tee box set in the middle of the lake, the tee shot at the finishing hole is spectacular. Players must literally bite off as much as they can chew to this fairway which is almost perfectly perpendicular to play. A creek adds additional challenge to the approach shot.For such a modern golf course, LOI-North does a lot of things exceptionally well for the amateur player. Many greens welcome running approach shots which is critical given the stout length throughout. While each hole navigates forest, there is decent width throughout most of the property. Of course, the conditions are exceptional.Despite some of the more memorable moments, the other holes at LOI-North tend to blend together. The kidney/modern style bunkering is somewhat bland, and I cannot remember any standout green complexes. Many holes honestly feel like they could be from any course in the country, and for most average golfers, LOI-North will be a beat down with a lot of lost balls. It is not walkable.If money is no object, and you are staying in the area or at the resort, LOI-North is certainly worth the expense. It is arguably one of the top five public courses in the entire state of Connecticut. However, it is not the type of course I would actively seek out and travel to from an architectural standpoint.

In my previous career, I spent a significant amount of time traveling to Atlanta. During one of my last trips, I received a local’s advice to trek up to Woodmont G&CC in Canton. The drive up alone was worth it with stunning fall colors and gorgeous views of the Appalachians.Woodmont’s staff were incredibly welcoming, and I was fortunate to play a quick round despite there being a number of players on the course. This club is definitely modern in its design, and while built around a community, its houses never once felt intrusive.Woodmont’s setting, with wonderfully rolling topography, provided some solid golf holes. Some of the more memorable for me include:•	#1: This stout opening hole offers no gentle handshake. Up and down a hill, curving around a tree and bunker, your game will be immediately tested. An interesting run up option on your approach provides light reprieve.•	#2: Another difficult hole, this lengthy par three is fronted with bunkers, but long is deadly.•	#3-#4: The challenge on this duo of holes comes first on their interesting tee shots. Both play parallel to a creek, and each presents challenges should you try to avoid that creek (#3 has a fairway bunker, and #4 has rolling terrain). Both have bunkerless greens, a refreshing golf course feature, and the narrow #3 green was among my favorite approaches on the course.•	#8: After climbing up a hill, the tee shot on the 8th hole provided a terrific view of the course and property. At 470 yards from the tips, this par four is no joke requiring two deep shots to reach the green.•	#11: Conversely, the par three 11th hole, at 116 yards downhill, could not be more refreshing. Kudos to Woodmont for embracing par threes with a wide range of lengths – each required me to hit a different club. •	#16: This par five is strategically cut thrice by the property’s main creek. The player must first play over, and then short of the creek on the tee shot. It comes into play again up the left hand side of the hole and short of the green, should one consider playing aggressively. I cannot remember another hole where a natural stream came into play from virtually all angles.•	#17: Playing to a peninsular fairway, the 17th’s width gives players options off the tee. There is more room to play safely to the left, but that side also provides a worse angle and possible tree trouble. The right is the option with the best angle, but also the bigger trouble with the lake, and less room to go long.It was not hard to see why locals recommended the trip to Woodmont. The course was a notch above many of the other public courses I had played over the years closer to Atlanta, and while its modern design was evident throughout, houses never felt intrusive, and manmade features did not feel contrived. Overall, this was a solid golf experience.

Having traveled to 42 of the 46 counties in South Carolina, I can honestly say that Clemson as a town and campus is one of the most charming places in the Palmetto State. The hospitality I have experienced there is remarkable, even when visiting as the fan of an opposing football team on game day! That same warm spirit was present when I had the privilege of playing the Walker Course at Clemson. The staff and students I met during my round were incredibly kind, and there really is no ‘rating’ you can place on feeling welcome as a stranger in a new place.The Walker Course was very well manicured and had some standout holes, including:•	#1: Architecturally, this may be the most interesting hole on the property. On the tee shot, players must content with a pond in the front, and then Hunnicutt Creek which naturally meanders both left and across the fairway. That creek comes into play again on the layup shot, while daring players who attempt to go for the green must contend with some small pot bunkers placed at awkward distances from the putting surface.•	#6: After playing through some dense patches of forest, the sixth bursts out of the trees with a very wide fairway. Wind is a factor as the player must use the width to strategically place their tee shot.•	#12: As mentioned in previous comments below, the very narrow 12th green is memorable, and works well with the dense hole corridor.•	#14-#15: Both of these holes use the downward rolling topography to create interest, and their setting far from the clubhouse is peaceful.•	#17: I know many architecture buffs may find this Tiger Paw peninsular green to be an oddity, but these are exactly the types of unique quirks I seek out in my golf journey. I had waited years to finally play this hole and thought it really captured the essence of the moment. •	#18: After #1, this may be the second most compelling hole architecturally on the course – a memorable beginning and end! A difficult tee shot, the player must contend with a manmade pond and Lake Hartwell. Interestingly, the best angle of the green is from the left side of the fairway, but landing here requires both a longer, more challenging drive and also forces you to have a longer iron into the green.While my total experience at Clemson was very enjoyable, and the round was a terrific value, I would not put the course on the same level architecturally as its ACC peers here in the Triangle region, or other collegiate courses I have visited. In my opinion, many of the hole corridors were narrow and overly peppered with unnatural humps. That said, it is one of the best courses I have experienced in the upstate, and if you find yourself with the chance to visit the university or even just the town of Clemson, I would strongly encourage you to hop on the opportunity. After your round, go grab a cold beer and a “Bird Dog” at the Esso Club!

I first learned about the restoration leadership of Dunlop White III years ago when I played at Roaring Gap. As that experience was among my favorite in the state, I knew I had to visit Old Town Club in Winston-Salem. Fortunately, that opportunity presented itself earlier this fall and did not disappoint. Simply put, the land at Old Town is perfect for golf, and thank goodness it was developed in the golden age. Architects from this time were so adept at capturing the natural essence of a property – not narrowing fairways with trees, converting creeks into ponds, and regrading fairways. The praise I have for Perry Maxwell’s masterpiece at Old Town knows no bounds.Considering each hole, those which stand out to me especially include:•	#1: In all of the reviews of Old Town I read prior to arrival, I cannot remember anyone expounding on the merits of the first hole. Personally, I believe it is among the best I have ever played. The tee shot here is beguiling. A natural creek bisects the fairway, forcing the player to determine whether or not to lay up or play aggressively – right in front of all of the other golfers warming up. Any attempt to go for the green is easier on the right side of the fairway, as the stream is at a diagonal. However, this poses two difficulties – first, the fact that the angle of approach is inferior from the right, and second, a massive fairway bunker awaits any ‘too’ aggressive shots over the creek on the right. As if this was not concern enough, laying up to the left is no easy task either, with a medium/long iron approach uphill to a tough green complex. So much for a gentle handshake! From the get-go, my mind was racing through a breadth of options. It is a true stunner, among the finest of the 3500 holes I have played.•	#4: The key question on this par five comes on the approach and again is made more thoughtful by the preservation of a creek that impacts shots just short and those left of the green complex. Going for the green may be possible for a long hitter, especially given its large size and a relatively straightforward trap to the left of the putting surface. However, that option will more than likely not be possible for most amateurs, especially with a misplaced drive. Laying up, however, is no simple prospect, as I found out the hard way. Fairway bunkers flank the ideal layup area to the left, the best angle into the green. Furthermore, most layups will also have a downhill-lie approach into the green. For the best angle and flattest lie, one must lay up far from the green. Precision is demanded not because of severe hazards, but simply by nature of the way the approach was laid upon the land.•	#5: The tee shot, begging the player to ‘bite off as much as they can chew’ over trees and bunkers here was fun, but in my opinion, the green complex, banked into a slope on the left, was the real standout aspect of the hole. In a way, this green almost felt like a bowl, and one would think just throwing shots out to the left would be the proper play. A strategically placed bunker on that side eliminates the easy way out, making this wedge shot truly scary.•	#7: While players get their first ‘vista’ of the property on #4, standing on the #7 really solidified what Old Town was all about for me. With the ability to see play on eight other holes, the view is inspiring. The fairway, firmly laid upon land which slopes left-to-right, provided one of the most thought-provoking tee shots I have ever played. With an angled green, left was certainly the best place for one’s drive to land, but also the hardest to achieve due to tilt, expertly placed bunkers, and a tree. In other reviews, I have described that real artistry in golf architecture comes when the designer can make easy holes look hard, and hard holes look easy. #7 at Old Town looked straightforward on the scorecard, but was anything but when standing on the tee. No water hazards, fairway regrading, or ugly bunkering necessary to make this a true challenge.•	#8: I would love to return to Old Town and play this hole over and over. The blind tee shot is especially compelling, and the firm, short-grass laden grounds funnel balls into tough fairway bunkers. With the first introduction of the double green right over Silas Creek, keeping the ball on the fairway is critical. •	#12: Once again, the sloping fairway and fluctuating width of this hole added fascinating complexity. Choices abound from the tee, though the aggressive player is rewarded here with a larger landing area – a refreshing twist!•	#16: Pinched at the back of the Old Town property, the means by which the 16th rolls over the land is awe-inspiring. Starting low, the player must first navigate a large hill on the tee shot. However, that massive hump is just the first to overcome, as another one approaches to the green. Given this hole’s position on the course, I can imagine other architects taking the easy route and placing it farther to the right. Kudos to Maxwell for taking advantage of this exceptional piece of land to build a remarkable golf hole.•	#17: This long par five represents the culmination of Old Town’s many themes. Silas Creek in play for all shots, a tilted fairway toward the water, and simplicity in the design with no real man-made features interfering with nature. This hole may be a brute late in the round, but it is a reminder of the amazing journey you are wrapping up at Old Town.Admittedly, some of the holes at Old Town which receive praise from other reviewers did not resonate with me as much, including #9, 14, and 15, which seemed to deviate from the width and scale of other holes on the course. Regardless, I would argue that it is imperative for any student of golf architecture to visit Old Town. From a routing perspective, it clearly demonstrates that wonderful land for golf can be found just about anywhere, and that coming in with a bulldozer to create strategically compelling holes is not necessary. So many courses out there should and could easily strive to be more like Old Town.

With all of the excellent information provided by reviewers below, I thought I would deviate from my normal pattern of discuss standout holes and instead elaborate on what I call the “secret sauce” at Pinehurst #2. I wholeheartedly agree with James Ward’s comment that it is unfair to rate Pinehurst #2 after just one round. The genius in the course becomes evident after a few loops.Many writers inaccurately describe Pinehurst #2 as being “classic Ross,” when in fact, the course was unique from virtually any other of his designs. For starters, since he lived off of the third hole for large portions of the year, Ross spent significant time tinkering with the design in a way that he never could at his nearly 400+ other courses. Additionally, the course had sand greens until just a few years before his death, so the development of the greens we see today actually came later in his career. Finally, it is worth mentioning that there are far better tracts of land for golf in the Sandhills, even at Pinehurst resort. Similar to his other designs, though, Ross’ genius as a router shined through here. Pinehurst #2, in effect, has influence from the early, middle, and late Donald Ross, making it a unique architectural masterpiece.What then, are the subtleties that make Pinehurst #2 so wonderful?Perhaps the most important, in my opinion, is Ross’ artistry in the visualization of each hole. In theory, there are four types of golf holes. Easy holes that look easy, hard holes that look hard, easy holes that look hard, and hard holes that look easy. From an architecture standpoint, many modern architects have tended toward the prior categories, and quite frankly, this is not difficult to accomplish (think about the 18th at TPC Sawgrass – a hard hole that looks very hard). It takes true skill, however, to accomplish the latter two categories, and Ross does it exceptionally well with deceptive holes at Pinehurst #2. Take, for example, the 3rd and 13th holes. Shorter par fours with fairly wide fairways, each of these holes seem to be relatively straightforward from the tee. This could not be farther from the truth. Going for the greens with a driver, if possible, can lead to big numbers if missed on the incorrect side. Furthermore, hitting a proper yardage is critical as each green is extremely severe. I once laid up to the middle of the 13th fairway and had roughly 145 yards into the green. Between clubs, I accidentally hit my approach just slightly off the back right. I walked away with a snowman!Conversely, Ross actually provides wonderful options on shots that seem nearly impossible. Take for instance, the 5th hole. Though it is now played a par five, I will always consider it one of the greatest par fours in the world. A properly placed tee shot will leave a sidehill-downhill lie to a green that can devilishly reject shots. However, on this very compelling piece of the property, Ross leaves an opening to approach the green from the right side. While the approach may appear near impossible to stop on the green from the sidehill-downhill fairway lie, it actually is not so complex if you hit a low running draw (or lefty fade), the natural shot shape from the lie anyway.The other components of the secret sauce which make this visual intimidation strategy possible, then, are width, firm playing conditions, and short grass. The game at Pinehurst is meant to be played on the ground in many places. With this in mind, having wide playing corridors to emphasize attack angle into the green is essential. Making a player think about bouncing a ball in and avoiding bunkers that cut into the putting surface is beguiling. In a world dominated by narrow fairways and lush Bermuda rough, Pinehurst #2 is a reprieve that honors the history of our sport. Even the best players must carefully consider tee shots as firm, short grass often runs off into wiregrass waste areas.Pinehurst #2’s routing favors no one, and the variety from tee to green in terms of direction and length is simply outstanding. While one may be quick to judge the property after their first visit, I would urge anyone to give the course another chance. It may be one of, if not the most playable major venue on a day-to-day basis for amateurs out there, yet still offer incredible challenge to the world’s best. This combination, reflecting the entire lifetime of Donald Ross’ style and work, is one-of-a-kind.

In many of my other Top100 reviews, I have made it clear that I generally prefer courses from the classic era over the “dark ages.” Additionally, I have described some North Carolina Tom Fazio designs as “middling.” To top this all off, it feels necessary to mention that I spent a decade of my academic and professional life as a Duke University Blue Devil.For those reasons, you may have guessed where this review is heading…and you would be wrong! Even before I joined the ranks of the Tar Heels for graduate school, I was a BIG fan of the Tom Fazio designed UNC Finley Golf Club. In fact, I consider the course to be among the most enjoyable in the Triangle region of North Carolina, far more playable on a day-to-day basis than many of its university course peers. It only seems fitting to publish this review, then, during rivalry week!The land at Finley does not present the most compelling topography, especially on holes 1-11. Despite this, I believe Tom Fazio captures the player’s interest with variety in the diverse routing, generally large greens, and a plethora of shot options available. In my opinion, the inherent greatness to Finley is that it favors no one type of player. An examination of standout holes illustrates this quality:•	#1: The first hole at Finley introduces course features that the player will encounter frequently throughout their round. With a plateaued fairway, players have the option of hitting a metal straight while contending with bunkers, or playing more aggressively with a driver which requires shot shaping to avoid wetlands. In essence, both routes face risks and rewards. The green is gargantuan, and while generally easy to hit in two, any player on the wrong portion will likely walk away with a three putt.•	#2: The second at Finley is an excellent short par four – one of the best holes on the property. The fairway ends about 75-100 yards from the very steep volcano green complex that is shallow and split into left and right tiers. While a big hitter may think going for the green in one is smart, any slightly errant shot will face severe rough and a difficult up-and-down. With that said, even the player who lays up to find a perfect yardage must play to the proper side of the fairway for a great angle. One again, no player has an outright advantage. •	#4: The theme continues on at the long par four 4th hole. The conservative player who hits a metal may have a wider landing zone, but also will hold a mid-iron into one of the most difficult greens on the course where they cannot go long, left, or right without facing an almost guaranteed bogey. Play more aggressively off the tee, and you contend with fescue left, or a downhill lie in the fairway. For an amateur like me, the question really is “pick your poison.”•	#6: The star of the par five 6th is yet another top notch volcano green. While going for this green in two is generally an option with any decent drive, precision is demanded. The rough left of the hole is deep and thick, there is no room long, and getting a shot up-and-down from the tight collection area right requires an absolutely perfect chip. This diversity makes no two rounds alike.•	#7: The natural contour of the short par four 7th makes for a fascinating tee shot. From the tee, it is clear that the right-to-left slope of the land can be utilized to add distance and even bring long hitters close to reaching the green in one. However, that same slope can kick balls too far left leaving a totally blind shot over a deep pot bunker into this very shallow, complex green. For a hole under 350 yards, the options are limitless, and giving yourself a good angle with potential use for ground game is essential. I wish Finley would just convert this hole into a driveable par four permanently. •	#8: How many giant green, 130 yard par threes do you see these days? Not enough, in my opinion. Kudos to UNC for keeping the increasingly rare short hole in the mix today!•	#9: Among the most demanding holes on the course, the 9th at UNC Finley hides secrets that are not always apparent for newcomers, and even veterans. First, the fairway extends very far to the left for the conservative player, effectively creating a 50+ yard landing area that seems much smaller visually. What is also hidden, though, is the banked left hand portion of the fairway past the turn for the aggressive player which can be used as a backstop for a straight shot, or a speed slot for a right-to-left shot. As a lefty with a draw, I have used this to my advantage in many matches. Two players who hit solid drives may have as much as 100 yards difference into this severely sloping green guarded by a pond if they use or do not use the ground properly.•	#14: The 14th is an unheralded, yet charming par three. With a left and right tier, both sides face challenges – the left with a brook, and the right with a sloped chipping area.•	#15: Perhaps the most photographed hole on the course, the 15th at Finley receives so much attention for the water lined tee shot. However, I believe the green complex is the real star of the show here. While it is so easy to be visually intimidated by the water and large bunker left, they are almost entirely aesthetic. This large green with a wide short grass entrance is incredibly welcoming to shots played on the ground making it accessible to virtually any player. This may not be apparent for first-time players, again showcasing the depth of Finley’s variety, and Fazio’s ability to generate interest on flat ground.•	#16: Similar to the 15th, many may think the star of the 16th is the long carry tee shot over a swamp. However, I believe it is the strong use of the hilly approach and shallow green that really excites. A decent drive from the proper tees leaves only a wedge into this blind putting surface, yet it is so oblong and the player is so far below, hitting it can be a beguiling prospect.•	#17: If you think you have seen a severe slope between two tiers of a green before, I can assure you, there are not many wilder than the 17th at UNC Finley. If a Tobacco Road like contour on a putting surface was not exciting enough, the tiers actually slope away from the player, an unfathomable rarity in most modern architecture. Playing angle is of the utmost importance on this fabulous par five, as well as a bold mindset by any golfer.If it is not clear from the above review, I very strongly admire the UNC Finley Golf Course. I think one reason Finley is [unfairly] not often rated more highly in publications is due to its Bentgrass greens, which run slow in summer. As a New Englander by birth, I find the Bentgrass greens at UNC to be incredibly refreshing. Eight months out of the year, they play truer than local Bermuda, and they always hold well hit shots. Furthermore, I do not think there are many courses with better fairways or rough in the Triangle than UNC Finley.My only reservations at Finley are, in my opinion, a few holes/shots peppered throughout the course that are a tad wacky. These include:•	The tee shot on the 3rd which I have yet to ever conquer. Dogleg holes with more leg than dog (i.e. longer after the turn than before) have always been a personal pet peeve.•	The landing area on the 6th tee shot, which may be 10 yards wide with absolutely no options, reducing strategy.•	And the 10th, which is just impossible for any average golfer tee-to-green. I have been told it is a great “Par 4.5,” but honestly, it feels more like a miserable “Par 6.”Despite this, I want to make it clear that overall, Finley’s strengths outweigh its weaknesses. Players of any ability can go out to UNC’s Finley Golf Course to be both challenged and have opportunities to score, regardless of whether or not they are having a great day or a less than stellar showing. The same is true for top tier collegiate and professional golfers! No one, whether they play aerially or on the ground, conservatively or aggressively, draws or fades, is favored throughout the round at Finley. Day-in and day-out, UNC Finley provides a wonderfully diverse product for its patrons and students: golf architecture that makes the most of the topography, ranging options, and a superintendent who does an incredible job at providing some of the best conditions in the area. I may be a Blue Devil at heart, but boy do I love to play the Tar Heel’s golf course!

Unlike many other cities in North Carolina (and really, the entire nation), there is arguably no outright “best course” in the Research Triangle. In my opinion, Duke University Golf Club (DUGC) is among the strongest contenders for this title, falling short in a few areas discussed below.Having spent ten years of my life at Duke as student and staff, there is no doubt that I bleed the ‘right’ color blue when it comes to athletics on Tobacco Road. In this time, I have also been fortunate to play more than my fair share at DUGC. In fact, Duke ranks third among 200+ courses I have played for most rounds logged. Although you may suspect me of bias, all of this time at DUGC has actually made me objectively critical of the property, constantly reevaluating the routing. DUGC’s early history is fascinating, as Perry Maxwell laid out plans pre-WWII for a course on the same site. To me, the DUGC topography is very similar to Old Town in Winston-Salem, but we will always have to wonder what “could have been” if the Maxwell plans had been built. In their place, a routing done by Robert Trent Jones was constructed and opened in 1957 with significant alterations throughout the years by Rees Jones. Most recently, in 2013, the course converted from Bentgrass to Bermuda greens.There are a number of standout holes at DUGC, especially among the par fives. Those most notable to me include:•	#2: This dogleg hole gives players a few options off the tee – a layup to a wider area with a metal or long iron, or a more aggressive play requiring a hard right-to-left shot. The green is very shallow, and potentially taking the more daunting route and catching the slope could mean the difference between a short wedge and a mid-iron on the approach. Recently, I played in an event where I was asked to hit a shot from the third tee box to the second green, which gave me a new appreciation for the angle. This putting surface is truly excellent with three distinct tiers left to right.•	#5: While this par four may seem straightaway, determining the proper strategy off the tee is critical. The green is bisected into two distinct left/right tiers, and securing a solid angle into the hole should be top of mind. Interestingly, at the far end of the driving zone there is a large slope which can easily add 50 yards to a solid tee shot. However, this also likely funnels your ball to the right, and leaves the player with about 75 yards to the green. If the pin is in the front of the green, or on the wrong tier, it is virtually impossible to spin an approach from this area close to the green, making that extra yardage ‘advantage’ a real curse.•	#7: Among my favorite holes on the course, this par five is incredibly picturesque. The tee shot teases players to cut over a series of bunkers for a more aggressive line, or play safely to the left, guaranteeing a layup. The second shot over Sandy Creek captures the natural landscape beautifully, yet the terrifyingly sloped green will quickly require the player to refocus on the challenges ahead.•	#9: This sweeping dogleg left presents interesting challenges and opportunities from the tee. A layup to a very wide fairway can still leave a player with a decent shot at bringing home the second shot in two. However, if the rough is not too thick, a solid drive moving right-to-left can also catch 100 more yards if it tumbles down the hill to a flat fairway, leaving 150 yards; anything stuck in the rough, though, would be an almost guaranteed layup from a downhill lie to a green 50 feet above the player. The addition of a new back bank in 2013 created many interesting, safer options for approach shots.•	#11: Another beautifully sylvan, picturesque par five, the 11th ambles down rolling terrain. Big drives are possible on this downhill hole, but any attempt to reach the green must carry a wide creek from a downhill lie. The temptation is very real despite a generous layup area.•	#12: This short par three over water often feels like an island green when the pin is perched in front. For all the hype around the tee shot, the green rarely receives the praise it deserves for its beguiling undulations. Having multiple tiers, being on the putting surface is only a small part of the strategic battle at #12.•	#14: While this par five may seem bland on a scorecard, the subtle contours of the land add options. The fairway has many distinct tiers in the landing zone, and just prior to the green is land that feeds a running shot from left-to-right onto to large, distinct, angled putting surface.The full array of amenities at DUGC add a lot of value to the overall experience. There is fine dining, upscale casual, and even a terrific halfway house with the best egg sandwiches and grilled cheese you will find on campus (seriously – just watch the line of students build up Saturday mornings!). The putting and chipping areas are massive, and the driving range is always well-manicured.Why then, with all this, would a Blue Devil like me not argue that Duke is *the* best course in the Triangle? As an objective rater of course architecture, DUGC’s updates have reduced variety and eliminated strategy in so many places. In my opinion, some alterations which would significantly enhance the property include:•	Reshaping Green Complexes: As they stand today, every single green complex at DUGC is raised, surrounded by rough and bunkers, and slopes back-to-front. There is only one green that truly open to a run-up shot (15), and none have interesting short grass collection areas. This means that on the majority of holes, the “strategy” is simply to hit the ball long, hit the ball straight, and hit the ball high. This is a yawner for architecture fans, and an unwelcoming place for beginners/moderate players.•	Softening Green Complexes: In addition to reshaping, many of the greens have become so severe with the new Bermuda that they eliminated risk/reward shot opportunities. One such example is #7, among my favorite holes. Because the green is now so small, severely sloped from back-to-front and right-to-left, and has no bailout areas on any side, going for it in two is virtually impossible and unwise for almost any player. Trying to putt down slopes on holes such as #4, #6, and #16 with the grain can yield easy 3- and 4- putts, a truly demoralizing result.•	Rediscovering Natural Land Contours: At some point in its history, DUGC lost many of the natural landforms, instead replacing them with flat, tiered fairways. Some of the ugliest are on the first, second, and ninth hole which have sharp, unnatural edges that reject even slightly errant tee shots. Having cart-paths cross the landing area, such as the one on the eleventh, really detracts from an otherwise natural environment.•	Reconsider Bunker Placement: Certain bunkers on the course actually detract from strategy, such as the large trap on the right side of the third hole. Forcing players to hit left actually gives a worse angle into the green, and laying up is not an option for any amateur. The hole becomes lose-lose, and who on earth would want to play that every day?I do not make these comments to dissuade you from trekking to Durham to experience DUGC. In fact, my admiration for the staff at DUGC really knows no bounds – how they are able to meet the needs of an entire university community, two world-class varsity teams, members, hotel guests and so many other constituents is mind-boggling.Rather, I simply point these out to demonstrate my passion for Duke, and my firm belief that with the right architect, DUGC could be the best course in the Triangle, and arguably among the top echelon of college/university courses in the world. It is a special place that is and always will be very dear to my heart.

Pound-for-pound, Providence and its home of Rhode Island stack up among some of the best cities/states for golf, especially if one loves classic designs. With moderate local economy, a population that is quickly exiting, and the high demand for real estate, it is no surprise that even some of the best New England courses have fallen on hard times.Metacomet is one of those historic clubs that has struggled in the supersaturated Providence market. Early in 2019, though, a ray of hope shined through when former PGA professional Brad Faxon purchased the course with plans to revamp the property. With this news, and the announcement of some additional public tee times, I jumped at the opportunity to play last summer. Very sadly, this week, the course announced its likely sale after a failed experimental year. I feel compelled to write this review today so that any Ross lovers out there journey to the Ocean State to experience Metacomet before it is too late.Looking at Metacomet from a satellite view, it is clear that the course was routed masterfully by the genius Donald Ross into this compact property. In this sense, it mirrors neighbor Wannamoissett for its ability to make the most out of a piece of land which is now cramped by housing and development on its borders. Ross more than delivered on this fabulously rolling property just a few hundred yards from the Providence River. A brisk, salty breeze and seaside views capture the players’ senses throughout the round.Although course layout is far more important to me than immaculate conditions, Metacomet’s pristine playing surfaces from tee to green are worth noting upfront. I am a sucker for courses with true/fast greens, perfect collars, tight fairways, and lush rough, and Metacomet delivered on all accounts. Of all 210 courses I have played, Metacomet’s conditioning was the second best I have ever experienced – my praise goes out to the superintendent and their staff.Notable holes at Metacoment for me include:•	#1: Ross’s ‘gentle handshake’ is a thrill ride at Metacomet. The tee shot plays to a downhill fairway sloping from right to left, feeding some shots back into a more preferred landing area. The handsome green has a beautiful short-grass collection area to the right and wild undulations. Ross has set the tone for an exciting day at Metacomet already.•	#2: This par five request a metal or iron off the tee, followed by a similar shot should one want to reach the massive green in two. The chocolate drop mounting in front of and behind the green can be deceptive when determining yardage. Playing alongside Metacomet Brook and Watchemoket Cove was so peaceful.•	#3: Arguably my favorite hole on the course, the third is a dogleg right par four with a green that is frighteningly perched into a steep hill. Like I am sure many others have before me, I succumbed to the massive false front by leaving my approach just a yard short, ultimately watching my ball funnel about 80 yards back into the fairway. The design is elegant, yet devilish – playable every single day without losing its charm.•	#4: Another dogleg right but with totally different challenges than the 3rd, the 4th requires the player to contend with a brook off the tee and a massive flanking bunker shy of the green. This is Ross’s first of many stout par four’s on the course.•	#5: The par three 5th presents players with a challenging uphill shot to what appears as a green in an island of rough. Ross strategically included bail out areas left and long for the smart, seasoned veteran of Metacomet.•	#7: The other front nine part three, the 7th at Metacomet may be the most photographed hole on the course. With beautiful views and an interestingly sloped green from left-to-right, it was so easy to feel ‘lost’ in nature on this hole despite being just a stone’s throw away from bustling neighborhoods.•	#8: The par four 8th has a delightfully squared off fairway, as well as a strategically placed bunker which the player must content with off the tee. Ross clearly maximized this far reaching part of the property by incorporating a ravine and forced carry. This is another hole where home knowledge would be critical in a match.•	#11: This par four is actually bisected by the entrance driveway, a feature I have rarely experienced. It also doubles as the driving range. Despite these disturbances, strategy abounds. The fairway narrows and out-of-bounds lurks left, challenging some of the better angles into this undulated, back-to-front sloping green.•	#14: Another standout hole on the property, the very long 14th’s blind tee shot maximizes the gently sloping terrain. Now contending with a downhill lie, hitting the green with deceptive bunkering short and long is no joke. Visually, this hole is a real stunner from the architecture standpoint.In my opinion, Metacomet had just two weaknesses. The first was a lack of a large driving range. This was somewhat expected due to the lack of land. Initially, I was a bit perturbed by the 11th hole doubling as a range, but I found this practice to be in place at other local clubs, also. The second was the somewhat less compelling back nine. As you can tell by the holes which stood out to me above, the front’s variety stuck with me more than some of the back-and-forth stretches of par fours on the back nine. The staff at Metacomet were more than welcoming during my visit last summer, presenting hospitality one would normally expect down south. From the immaculate course conditions to the amazing scenery in the midst of an urban neighborhood, Metacomet left a strong impression in my mind that will last for years to come. It is heartbreaking to see this course close, and I would urge you to stop in soon to experience this gem if at all possible.

Composing a review for Scotch Hall Preserve was extremely fun and wildly challenging at the same time. My entire day at Scotch Hall and courses in the surrounding area was unlike any other golfing trip I have experienced in North Carolina (80+ courses played in state). The unique atmosphere, layout, and setting of Scotch Hall make it incomparable and therefore, both exciting and difficult to rate.Although I have lived in North Carolina for a decade, I knew very little about Scotch Hall outside of beautiful photographs in local golf advertisements, that it occasionally held CGA events, and that the few reviews available on GolfClubAtlas were surprisingly strong. When I saw the course offering $25 greens fees through GroupGolfer, I decided it was time to make my first trek from the Triangle to the Inner Banks, a roughly 2.5 hour drive.Playing on a cool, windy, and drizzly day in the spring, I arrived at Scotch Hall to find the entire course to myself. Upon entering the front gate, one immediately is struck by the vast stretches of undeveloped real estate. Since even my GPS struggled to find a signal, it was somewhat unsurprising to see that home sales were not as high as the course obviously anticipated. Of course, selfishly, as a golfer, this rural setting without a housing community was a major positive!The Arnold Palmer designed course at Scotch Hall is solid throughout with a number of strategic holes that fit the coastal landscape handsomely. My favorites include:•	#1: This medium length hole sets the tone for your round at Scotch Hall. With a gentle dogleg right and playing generally downwind, players must carefully consider club selection from the first shot. The green is surrounded by short grass with interesting chipping collection areas. I hooked my first tee shot into what I thought was rough and was pleasantly surprised to find a natural area with seashells. From the get-go, I knew I was in for a special day.•	#4: This shortish par four played into the wind when I visited. Two bunkers flanking the fairway challenge any daring player to hit driver; if not, you could be faced with a long iron into a deep green with trouble right. Psychologically, I thought it was fascinating to play this hole – just looking at the yardage, I did not expect to be hitting a mid-iron into the green.•	#5: I find true par fives to be refreshing in the game today, and the fifth at Scotch Hall is a brute. With the fairway pinched through the middle of the hole, both the tee shot and layup must be precise. The green is severely pitched and even a short third shot requires a deft wedge on your approach.•	#6: The tee shot at this par four represents more of what golf needs. A funky bunker in the middle of the fairway forces players to strategically think through their tee shot in a way that you rarely find in golf today. Playing to the right yardage is critical, too, due to the shallow nature of the green.•	#7: With your first true peek at Albemarle Sound, the 7th is a tough par three test into the wind with absolutely no room to bail out. The ocean waves were beautiful, but not relaxing on this difficult one shot hole.•	#8: When I visited Scotch Hall, this par five was playing downwind. Fairway bunkers come into play off the tee, but the more interesting aspects of the hole come on the approach. Players who lay up to the right give themselves a terrific angle into a multi-contoured green. Because the hole was playing downwind, though, going for the green in two is more than tempting. With that said, missing anywhere long or left was almost a guaranteed lost ball, and with the wind at your back, that play could be a dangerous prospect.•	#13: This par four provides so many options off the tee. Daring players can try to blast shots over two fairway bunkers for a better angle but must contend with out-of-bounds while those who lay up have a very wide fairway, but may contend with trees.•	#17: The signature ocean par three at Scotch Hall is a true stunner. Even when playing 35 mph into the wind, I still found myself struck by the amazing view, interesting bunkering, and L-shaped green complex. With its lack of houses and beautiful setting, it is so easy to get lost in nature at Scotch Hall. Though it may not be the easiest course to walk, I found that the framing and routing of each hole provided a fitting ‘escape’ from the toils of everyday life. Before arriving, I did not know about the rentable cottages lining the 13th hole. Scotch Hall would be an incredible place for a buddies golf trip, and again, is truly unlike anything else I have experienced in North Carolina.My reservations on Scotch Hall are minor. First, I played the course in wet conditions, and I think to get the full experience, one should attempt to play when the turf is dry and bouncy. Second, for all the advertisements of the 17th hole on the water, the course really does not take advantage of the Albemarle Sound as much as I would have hoped. In other words, it felt like they could have done a little better with the land. That said, I understand the challenge with selling seaside real estate vs. building more ocean-facing holes. Finally, as it currently stands, the club house is almost a mile away from the driving range and first tee. Navigating the community was a bit of a struggle, though the employees at Scotch Hall were always helpful.My review of Scotch Hall seems incomplete without adding details of the rest of my trip to the Edenton area:•	First, if you have time, be sure to check out downtown Edenton itself. It is one of the most charming North Carolina towns I have visited with wonderful local shops and restaurants. The historic homes are unbelievably stunning, and apparently, around Christmas, are a major tourist attraction.•	On your way to Scotch Hall (coming from the West), you will pass a 9-hole golf course called Cashie Golf and Country Club. I stopped in at Cashie to play on my way home, and boy was I surprised. Built in the 1950’s, the routing at Cashie screams ‘golden age’ design. Though conditions are modest for this cash-only club, the turtle-back greens surrounded by fairway made me think that just maybe, an architect such as Donald Ross may have significantly influenced the designers. It would be a great place to warm up before arriving at Scotch Hall.•	On the same day, I hit another 18 at the locally owned Links at Mulberry Hill. While the architecture was not noteworthy, it made me proud to support the wonderful staff at the course and see the great product they provide clientele. There is a golf course for everyone, and the Links at Mulberry Hill fills a need for local residents. Plus, the view on 18 at sunset was unmatched (even by Scotch Hall).All things considered, if you are a fan of golf adventures, throw Scotch Hall on your list. I was pleasantly surprised by the golf course itself and my entire day in the Inner Banks.

Local residents are blessed to have such an affordable Ross gem sitting right in the middle of town at the Wilmington Municipal Golf Club. In fact, for its size, Wilmington is fortunate to have two great historical Ross courses in Wilmington Municipal and Cape Fear Country Club. Most literature I have reviewed suggests that ‘experts’ feel WMGC is stronger than CFCC. Personally, I feel each has individual strengths and that in both cases, Ross’ routing expertise shines through.The topography of the WMGC site is hillier and far more compelling than the land at CFCC, and for that reason, I think the best holes at WMGC are stronger than the best holes at CFCC, though I slightly prefer the overall package at CFCC.For me, the most memorable stretch at WMGC is early in the round from holes 2 – 4. The 2nd is a stout par five with a natural creek bisecting the fairway; even with a great drive, going for two is challenging with woods left and OB right. The 3rd is a wild, dog leg par four with massive fairway tilt and a blind tee shot into a valley, and back up to the crest where a perched green awaits. The standout hat-trick ends on a truly excellent, intimidating Ross Volcano on the 4th. Ross’ genius to fit such compelling holes into the edge/corner of this property is marvelous.Even without playing the course, you can tell you are in for a diverse round when looking at an aerial of WMGC. The holes run in pretty much every direction imaginable, which is important given the breezy coastal conditions. There are greens and tee shots with such fascinating cross bunkering (or no bunkering!) that call for draws, fades, run-ups, aerial shots, and more. Hole lengths vary considerably, and while I did not especially appreciate the 16th’s 260 yard par three tee shot, I was glad to hit every single club in my bag (probably twice!) throughout my round.The conditions at WMGC are just as they should be – fitting to the natural, sandy environs of this coastal city. Personally, I think the club should adopt even more of the Pinehurst like sandscape and eliminate all rough, since the least well-maintained parts of the course were the last remaining Bermuda rough patches.I found my greens fee as an out-of-towner to be a little steep for the overall experience. That said, WMGC is worth the stop for a relatively inexpensive Ross gem, and a fun round in an already wonderful seaside community.

During the summer of 2012, I had the great fortune to serve as a USGA P.J. Boatwright intern for the Carolinas Golf Association which was then headquartered ten miles away from Southern Pines in West End. Living in the Sandhills for a summer was such a blessing, and of course, I spent as much time as I possibly could at the Pinehurst Resort. My direct supervisor continually told me throughout the summer that if I wanted to experience the best Ross greens in the area, I ought to get down to Pine Needles, advice that I never heeded. Ironically, the CGA relocated to the Pine Needles resort a few years after my internship.Having played Pine Needles a few times since, I believe that my old boss’s statement had real validity. With 83 courses played in North Carolina, Pine Needles easily sits in my top 5 driven primarily by some of the most memorable Ross green complexes I have experienced. Prior to playing, I honestly did not expect to appreciate Pine Needles as much as I actually do today. Knowing that much of the course was routed through houses, I assumed that the property would be narrow and that holes would be too bland due to the “championship” nature of the design. In fact, in my opinion, the bold scale of the course and width of the fairways actually provides strategy, options, and diversity in shots required throughout the day, forcing me to hit every single club in my bag with a wide range of flights. Despite the challenging nature of some holes, the course felt very playable – one which I could enjoy every day.There are so many memorable holes at Pine Needles. Some of the standouts for me include:•	#1: The elevation changes on the first hole at Pine Needles are very compelling. With the first shot playing up a steep ridge, a player has to carefully think through their next shot. The fairway first dips before rising again to the green, and any shots missed to the right will surely find out-of-bounds; this challenge is compounded by the tumbling fairway. This tough opener sets the tone for a round that will continue to be mentally and emotionally stimulating. •	#2: This strong par four first plays downhill with a blind tee shot. The very large green is raised, but also welcomes run up shots which can be necessary due to the forward cant of the fairway. On a recent podcast, I heard Bradley Klein, a Ross expert, mention that the true best approach to this interesting green is a clubbed-up shot which lands short and bounces once or twice. That type of thinking and shotmaking is all but obsolete in the modern era!•	#3: This par three is not simply photogenic! With many different tees, no two days will play alike. In the same way that many classic architects often ‘hid’ hazards from the players’ sightline, Ross expertly concealed a welcoming collection area behind this green for the ‘safe’ play to avoid all water and bunkers.•	#4: Like the 4th at Mid Pines, this slightly canted fairway fights the golfer’s desire to keep the ball on the left side. From there, a harrowing approach shot to a green with a scary false front awaits.•	#8: While this hole routed through home sites may seem bland at the surface, I found the tee shot to be thought provoking. An aggressive shot has to content with a fairway bunker down the left while a safer play may be impacted by overhanding limbs. Stepping up to the tee, a player may assume this is an easy driver/wedge, but Ross shows that even the seemingly mundane can be transformed into greatness.•	#9: I have a soft spot for tightly mown collection areas, and the deep swales surrounding most of the 9th green at Pine Needles are among my favorite of 3500 unique holes played. One of the items on my golf bucket list is to literally take a basket of balls and chip all day around this green. Bump and runs, pitches, banked shots, and even little flops are all possibilities. All this variety in what seems like an ordinary straight hole!•	#10: After the exciting tee shot to the big left turn, a player is left to decide whether or not to try to reach this green. Usually, that decision can be made challenging by water, bunkers, or other hazards. In this case, it is complicated by the steeply raised ‘mini-volcano’ green itself.•	#11: My favorite hole on the property, the 11th fairway is pinched by a beautiful sandy waste area. While a lay up shot to the wider part of the fairway may seem like the safe play, the rolling topography of this hole can actually deaden that shot upon landing. The reward for the aggressive player can, conversely, be even greater. The green is large and again offers many chipping options with its shortgrass surrounds.•	#12: Blind shots can be polarizing, but in general, Ross incorporated them skillfully into many of his designs. At Pine Needles, the blind shot at #12 makes sense with the natural flow of the land, and the inviting green welcomes any number of flight types.•	#18: The finishing hole at Pine Needles is a real stunner. A properly shaped shot can pick up extra yards on this handsomely sloping fairway. While the green is set well below the player, it welcomes run up shots or aerial approaches, either of which may be appropriate depending on pin placement. Seeing the clubhouse, it is so easy to get lost in the history of the property, especially thinking about the champions who have walked the fairway before you.Pine Needles is a real superstar in a land filled with superstar golf courses. Its deep-rooted tradition of supporting Women’s Golf further builds my admiration for the entire resort. It provides challenges, options, and variety from tee to green, demanding every shot shape and just about every type of chip/pitch/flop/etc. shot in your bag. Who would not want to play this type of course every day?On other forums, I have seen debates of how players might split 10 rounds at the Mid Pines/Pine Needles resort. Truthfully, my own preference has wavered over time, and quite frankly, I feel that any combination of the 10 rounds could be argued and justifiable. That said, I generally would lean towards 6-4 or 7-3 Pine Needles. To me, the larger scale of the course – despite being routed through homes – actually provides more variety and interesting shot options. If you are making your way to the Sandhills, especially for the first time, Pine Needles and Mid Pines should BOTH be on your list of must-play designs. My older supervisor was right – these may be some of the best Ross greens anywhere.