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GolfClubAtlas.com => Golf Course Architecture => Topic started by: Jim Colton on December 18, 2009, 10:22:14 AM

Title: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Colton on December 18, 2009, 10:22:14 AM
Ground Rules: Post your personal top 25, ranked in order. No alphabetical cop out lists.  Should generate a lot of critique and discussion, but you can only critique IF you post your own top 25. I'll be the guinea pig.

Rank
1 Pine Valley
2 National Golf Links of America
3 St Andrews (Old)
4 Cypress Point
5 Ballyneal
6 Shinnecock Hills
7 Royal Dornoch
8 Oakmont
9 Merion (East)
10 Pacific Dunes
11 Pinehurst (No. 2)
12 Riviera
13 Friars Head
14 Sand Hills
15 Los Angeles CC (North)
16 Crystal Downs
17 North Berwick
18 Bandon Trails
19 Old Macdonald
20 Kingsley Club
21 Dismal River (Doak/Red)
22 Bandon Dunes
23 Castle Stuart
24 Blackwolf Run (River)
25 Kingsbarns
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Dan_Callahan on December 18, 2009, 10:24:08 AM
Well that's a kick in the nuts ... your #25 is better than my #1.

Ouch.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jon Heise on December 18, 2009, 10:30:13 AM
1- Pebble Beach
2- Greywalls
3- Pinehurst No. 2
4- Pine Needles
5- Crystal Downs
6- Tanglewood Park
7- Torrey Pines South
8- Augusta Country Club
9- Kiawah Island Ocean Course
10- Kingsley Club
11- Forest Dunes
12- Tobacco Road
13- Palmetto Golf Club
14- Dunes Golf and Beach Club
15- True North
16- Timberstone
17- Arcadia Bluffs
18- Grosse Ile G&CC
19- Eagle Eye
20- Otsego Club Tribute
21- University of Michigan GC
22- Southern Pines
23- Rock Barn
24- Mid Pines
25- Raisin River GC, Monroe MI
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: David Egan on December 18, 2009, 10:53:04 AM
1   Cypress Point
2   Pine Valley
3   Ballybunion (Old)
4   Merion
5   Chicago
6   Lahinch
7   SFCC
8   Shoreacres
9   Carnoustie
10   Whistling Straits (Straits)
11   Olympic (Lake)
12   Bethpage (Black)
13   LACC (North)
14   Skokie
15   Olympia Fields (North
16   Blackwolf Run (River)
17   Ridgewood
18   TPC Sawgrass (Stadium)
19   Lost Dunes
20   Portmarnock
21   Estancia
22   Ocean Forest
23   Arcadia Bluffs
24   North Berwick
25   Sea Island (Seaside)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on December 18, 2009, 11:03:19 AM
My Favourite 25 - see page 44

www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,42584.1075.html (http://www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,42584.1075.html)

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on December 18, 2009, 11:09:09 AM
1.  Royal County Down
2.  St. Andrews (Old)
3.  Pacific Dunes
4.  Ballybunion
5.  Pinehurst #2
6.  Fisher's Island
7.  Riviera
8.  Winged Foot West
9.  Carnoustie
10. Pebble Beach
11. Bethpage Black
12. Lahinch
13. Kingsley Club
14. Yale
15. Prestwick
16. Shoreacres
17. Portmarnock
18. Bandon Trails
19. Lawsonia
20. Wnged Foot East
21. Waterville
22. Lost Dunes
23. Olympia Fields North
24. Skokie
25. Turnberry

Honerable Mention:  Bandon Dunes, Island, Pine Needles, County Louth, Dunes Club, Fenway, Black Sheep, WeKoPa Saguaro, Talking Stick North, Tamarack
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on December 18, 2009, 11:14:22 AM
Jim-

Whistling Straights and Blackwolf River over Kingsley and Pinehurst #2? not obvious my friend! and i'll give 10-1 that TDoak doesn't rock his list here.... ;)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Shane Wright on December 18, 2009, 11:20:20 AM
1. Royal County Down
2. Ballybunion
3. Pacific Dunes
4. Muirfield
5. TOC
6. Sand Hills
7. Royal Dornoch
8. Prairie Dunes
9. Royal Portrush
10.Waterville
11. Lahinch
12. North Berwick West
13. Tralee
14. Carnoustie
15. Kingsbarns
16. European Club
17. Whistling Straits - Straits
18. Bandon Dunes
19. Bandon Trails
20. Bethpage - Black
21. Wildhorse
22. Medinah
23. Colonial
24. Giant's Ridge
25. Portmarnock
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Colton on December 18, 2009, 11:22:47 AM
Jim-

Whistling Straight and Blackwolf River over Kingsley and Pinehurst #2? not obvious my friend! and i'll give 10-1 that TDoak doesn't rock his list here.... ;)

Jud,

Honestly, I have a hard time figuring out where to slot Whistling Straits. I need to revisit my list. I do have an affinity for BWR-River though. Probably a lot of sentimental value. Nobody said a personal top 25 had to be rational.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: George Freeman on December 18, 2009, 11:25:51 AM
Aberdovey
Addington
Beau Desert
Brora
Cavendish
Co Sligo
Enniscrone
Harborne
Harlech
Huntercombe
Kington
Lakewood Shores Gailes
Lederach
North Berwick
Old Town Club
Pennard
Prestwick
Portrush Valley
Rye
St Enodoc
Southerndown
Tenby
Tobacco Road
University of Michigan
Woking

Close but no cigar: Merion, Sandwich, Ballybunion, Dornoch, Woodhall Spa, Formby, Burnham & Berrow, Carne, Saunton East, Notts, Machrihanish, Castletown, Prestbury, Dunbar, Perranporth, Shepherd's Hollow & Burnham & Berrow Channel Course

Ciao

Sean,

Wow.  Lakewood Shores Gailes over Merion, Ballybunion and Dornoch.  Didn't see that one coming.  I have not played any of them but not in my wildest dreams would I have expected Gailes to be listed over those three courses...

To each their own!

Cheers
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott Warren on December 18, 2009, 11:31:31 AM
Royal St George's
TOC

New South Wales
Walton Heath (Old)
Royal Zoute
North Berwick (West)
Royal Cinque Ports
West Sussex
Swinley Forest

Newcastle
Co. Louth
Woking
The Addington
Rye
Huntercombe

St Enodoc
Royal Canberra
New Zealand
Terrey Hills
Praia d'el Rey

The Lakes (not played since redesign)
Trevose
The Vintage
Royal Sydney
The European
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Dub_ONeill on December 18, 2009, 11:37:24 AM
1.  Royal County Down
2.  Portrush Dunluce
3.  Royal Dornoch
4.  Muirfield
5.  Old Course
6.  Pacific Dunes
7.  The Golf Club
8.  Pinehurst #2
9.  Ballybunion Old
10. Royal Birkdale
11. Lahinch
12. Porthcawl
13. Royal Aberdeen
14. Lytham
15. Cruden bay
16. Ailsa
17. Gleneagles Kings
18. Western Gailes
19. Portmarnock
20. Muirfield village
21. Pine Barrens
22, Baltray
23. Brora
24. Whistling Straits
25. Prestwick
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JC Jones on December 18, 2009, 11:37:54 AM
1- Pebble Beach
2- Greywalls
3- Pinehurst No. 2
4- Pine Needles
5- Crystal Downs
6- Tanglewood Park
7- Torrey Pines South
8- Augusta Country Club
9- Kiawah Island Ocean Course
10- Kingsley Club
11- Forest Dunes
12- Tobacco Road
13- Palmetto Golf Club
14- Dunes Golf and Beach Club
15- True North
16- Timberstone
17- Arcadia Bluffs
18- Grosse Ile G&CC
19- Eagle Eye
20- Otsego Club Tribute
21- University of Michigan GC
22- Southern Pines
23- Rock Barn
24- Mid Pines
25- Raisin River GC, Monroe MI

Greywalls over Crystal Downs?  I also did not see that one coming.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jeff Tang on December 18, 2009, 11:42:01 AM
1   Pacific Dunes
2   Ballyneal Golf and Hunt Club
3   St. Andrews (Old)
4   Sand Hills
5   Blackwolf Run (River)
6   Whistling Straits (Straits)
7   Pebble Beach Golf Links
8   Arcadia Bluffs
9   Bandon Dunes
10   Kingsbarns
11   Princeville Resort (Prince)
12   Kapalua (Plantation)
13   World Woods (Pine Barrens)
14   Paa-Ko-Ridge
15   Carnoustie (Championship)
16   Kingsley Club
17   Greywalls
18   Eagle Ridge (The General)
19   Links at Spanish Bay
20   Sea Island (Seaside)
21   St. Andrews (New)
22   Spyglass Hill
23   Blackwolf Run (Meadow Valleys)
24   Wild Horse
25   Black Mesa
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Anthony Gray on December 18, 2009, 11:45:18 AM


  Cruden Bay  1-25

  Anthony
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Chaplin on December 18, 2009, 11:45:29 AM
Berkshire Red (4)
Chicago (2)
Cypress Point Club (1)
Flossmoor (3)
Formby (1)
Kingston Heath (1)
Machrihanish (4)
National Golf Links of America (1)
New South Wales (2)
North Berwick (2)
Oakland Hills (2)
Old Elm (1)
Pine Valley (3)
Prestwick (2)
Royal Adelaide (1)
Royal Birkdale (1)
Royal Cinque Ports (200+)
Royal Dornoch (1)
Royal Melbourne West (7)
Royal St Georges (50+)
Sunningdale New (10)
Sunningdale Old (10)
The Country Club (2)
The Old Course (1)
Walton Heath Old (10+)
Woodhall Spa (3)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Greg Krueger on December 18, 2009, 11:47:12 AM
Wow, that was tougher than I thought it would be! Never had put it on paper before......

1) Royal Dornoch
2) St. Andrews (Old)
3) Wade Hampton
4) Pinehurst #2
5) Hazeltine National
6) Peachtree
7) Interlachen
8) Shoal Creek
9) Long Cove
10) East Lake
11) Portmarnock
12) Tobacco Road
13) Nairn
14) Mid Pines
15) Minikahda Club
16) Bay Hill
17) Pinehurst #4
18) Sea Island (Seaside)
19) St. Andrews (New)
20) Doonbeg
21) Southern Pines
22) Minneapolis Golf Club
23) Wayzata C.C.
24) Raleigh C.C.
25) Golden Horseshoe (Gold)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on December 18, 2009, 11:51:00 AM
Aberdovey
Addington
Beau Desert
Brora
Cavendish
Co Sligo
Enniscrone
Harborne
Harlech
Huntercombe
Kington
Lakewood Shores Gailes
Lederach
North Berwick
Old Town Club
Pennard
Prestwick
Portrush Valley
Rye
St Enodoc
Southerndown
Tenby
Tobacco Road
University of Michigan
Woking

Close but no cigar: Merion, Sandwich, Ballybunion, Dornoch, Woodhall Spa, Formby, Burnham & Berrow, Carne, Saunton East, Notts, Machrihanish, Castletown, Prestbury, Dunbar, Perranporth, Shepherd's Hollow & Burnham & Berrow Channel Course

Ciao

Sean,

Wow.  Lakewood Shores Gailes over Merion, Ballybunion and Dornoch.  Didn't see that one coming.  I have not played any of them but not in my wildest dreams would I have expected Gailes to be listed over those three courses...

To each their own!

Cheers

George

What can I say.  I likem' unusual and competitively priced. 

Chappers - Love for Oakland Hills?  It seems only you and the USGA.  Mind you, that set of greens is second to none.

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jaeger Kovich on December 18, 2009, 12:02:51 PM
1 - Friars Head
2 - The Old Course
3 - Winged Foot West
4 - Pinehurst #2
5 - The Ocean Course
6 - Quaker Ridge
7 - Kingsbarns
8 - Bethpage Black
9 - Carnoustie
10 - Old Macdonald
11 - Yale
12 - Winged Foot East
13 - Bandon Trails
14 - Ridgewood
15 - Tobacco Road
16 - Queenwood
17 - Baltusrol Upper
18 - Fenway
19 - Bandon Dunes
20 - Pine Needles
21 - Southern Pines
22 - Stanwich
23 - Bayonne
24 - Mid-Pines
25 - Bethpage Red

And #26 Trump National Old (Bedminster)


Alphabetical lists are a cop out!!!!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on December 18, 2009, 12:07:02 PM
Sean,

No way U of M is better than any of the courses on your close but no cigar list....and I'm an alum!!!!   ;D
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jason Topp on December 18, 2009, 12:14:32 PM
1.   Sand Hills
2.   Royal Melboune West
3.   Dornoch
4.   The Old Course
5.   Ballybunion
6.   Kingston Heath
7.   Lahinch
8.   Pacific Dunes
9.   North Berwick
10.   Pebble Beach
11.   Turnberry
12.   Bandon Trails
13.   The Ocean Course at Kiawah
14.   Wildhorse
15.   Black Mesa
16.   Barnbougle
17.   New South Wales
18.   TPC Sawgrass
19.   Woodlands
20.   Kingsley Club
21.   Sutton Bay
22.   Bandon Dunes
23.   Harvester
24.   Pasatiempo
25.   Western Gailes


Probably the best way to spark discussion would be to identify courses you considered but left off the list.  I really like each of the following courses but could not identify a course I wanted to eliminate:

Big Fish
Carnoustie
Estancia
Fiddlesticks
Golden Valley
Interlachen
Minnikahda
Northland
Palmetto
PGA West Stadium
Rustic Canyon
Shadow Creek
Somerset
Spyglass
StoneEagle
Texarkana CC
Tobacco Road
Wakonda
Wolrd Woods – Pines Barrens
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Keith Buntrock on December 18, 2009, 12:18:25 PM
I envy these lists.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on December 18, 2009, 12:19:11 PM
Sean,

No way U of M is better than any of the courses on your close but no cigar list....and I'm an alum!!!!   ;D

Jud

I probably agree with you, but nobody mentioned anything about "better".  These are my personal top 25 as of today.  A Best list or a list of recommendations would be quite different.  

BTW You should see my not even close list!

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jason Topp on December 18, 2009, 12:20:56 PM

How good is Arcadia Bluffs?  There is a lot of negative talk about the course on here.

Ciao

It largely depends on your view of a very artificial looking course in a great location. I enjoyed it but did not consider it seriously for my list.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on December 18, 2009, 12:23:08 PM
It didn't make my honerable mention list....
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Anthony Gray on December 18, 2009, 12:24:47 PM
I envy these lists.


  Keith,

  Just stick around on the site.......your list will get better.

  Anthony

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott Warren on December 18, 2009, 12:27:41 PM
Sean, can we see a Top 25 from you that removes cost/value from the equation?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on December 18, 2009, 12:44:59 PM
JonH- I think you need to play Torrey again to reevaluate your lofty ranking-ideally on someone else's dime!!!! ;)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jaeger Kovich on December 18, 2009, 12:52:44 PM
I see a few WFW's out there.... no love for the East course? or is this because most have only played the west?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Melvyn Morrow on December 18, 2009, 12:54:31 PM

Whip it out and get arrested are you mad. Anyway, it takes too long to unwind the python these days.

As for the top 25, well I will again decline as I feel it inappropriate to ask my ‘Pretties’ to parade in front of a bunch of Easygolfers (i.e. aid assisted cart riding, “please do not make it difficult” players) thus encouraging them to take a closer looks. In addition, screwing up the time it takes to play a round with the parties of Americans seeking (but never finding) the holy grail of golf.

Anyway, I suspect that most would not want to know as you would have to walk and the only markers are the deposits the sheep leave. Yet I feel that I am walking in the footsteps of God himself.

All I need to do is get this back of mine sorted to resume the orgasmic pleasure of traditional golf in God’s own land.

Melvyn   

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on December 18, 2009, 12:55:50 PM
Sean, can we see a Top 25 from you that removes cost/value from the equation?

Scott

Man, why did I know you were gonna ask that question?  See my Links 100 ranking. 

Ciao

 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on December 18, 2009, 12:59:50 PM
Sean,

I think most folks would be quite content with your "Close but no cigar" list!   8)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Emil Weber on December 18, 2009, 01:07:46 PM
1. Barnbougle Dunes
2. Royal Dornoch
3. St Andrews Beach
4. Rustic Canyon
5. Kingston Heath
6. St Enodoc
7. European
8. Burnham & Berrow
9. Saunton East
10. World Woods PB

But the list changes everyday, I could easilly swap them all around
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Lou_Duran on December 18, 2009, 01:10:21 PM
1   DALLAS NATIONAL   
2   ESCONDIDO   
3   KARSTEN CREEK   
4   SHADOW CREEK   
5   VICTORIA NATIONAL   
6   CARLTON WOODS-FAZIO   
7   TRUMP NATIONAL-BEDMINSTER-OLD   
8   WORLD WOODS GC- PINE BARRENS   
9   BRIGGS RANCH   
10   BARTON CREEK- CANYONS   
11   THE PRESERVE   
12   FLINT HILLS NATIONAL   
13   RIVER COURSE   
14   MEMBERS CLUB AT ALDARRA   
15   VAQUERO   
16   CAMP CREEK   
17   THE GOLF CLUB OF OKLAHOMA   
18   BARTON CREEK- FOOTHILLS   
19   BERKELEY HALL-SOUTH   
20   REYNOLDS PLANTATION-NATIONAL   
21   CHAMPIONS- JACK RABBIT   
22   GLEN CLUB   
23   WORLD WOODS GC- ROLLING OAKS   
24   OSPREY POINT   
25   STONEBRIAR- FAZIO   

 ;)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on December 18, 2009, 01:16:00 PM


Emil,

The European Club #7?, I assume this means you've only played 10 courses?   ;)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Roger Wolfe on December 18, 2009, 01:18:13 PM
Wonderful trip down memory lane... the ranking is a b-tch.  Notice I have never played golf overseas or in Michigan (May 2010).  What is interesting are the big dog courses that do not make your Top 25!

1   Sea Island Seaside
2   Upper Cascades
3   Primland
4   RTJ
5   Kinloch
6   Pinehurst #2
7   Augustine Golf Club circa 2000
8   Troon North Pinnacle
9   TPC Sawgrass Stadium
10   Diamond Creek
11   Quail Hollow Club
12   Congressional Blue
13   Carolina Golf Club
14   Roaring Gap
15   Golden Horseshoe Gold
16   Mimosa Hills
17   Palmetto Golf Club
18   Southern Pines
19   Pine Needles
20   Charlotte CC
21   Whistling Straits
22   Ocean Course
23   Doral Blue Monster
24   Greenbrier Old White
25   Penn National Founders

Honorable Mention (alphabetical)   
   Bayville
   Blackwolf Run
   Black Butte Ranch
   Boulders
   Broadmoor
   Caledonia
   Camden CC
   Carmel CC
   CC of Virginia
   CC of Salisbury
   CC of Spartanburg
   Club at Longview
   Dominion Club
   Doral White
   Draper Valley
   Emerald Dunes
   Farmington CC
   Golden Horseshoe Green
   Grayhawk
                Hogneck
   Hermitage Sabot
   Keswick Hall CC
   Kingsmill River
   Meadows Farms
   Members Club at Four Streams
   Mid Pines
   Mt Mitchell Golf Club
   Myers Park CC
   Pinehurst #4
   Pinehurst #7
   Presidio Golf Club
                Queenstown
Tanglewood
   The Plantation (Ponte Vedra)
   TPC Scottsdale
   Royal New Kent
   RTJ Golf Course at Cornell
   Seaside Plantation
   Sedgefield CC
   Shenandoah Golf Club
   Swan Point
   Tidewater
   Tokatee
   Virginia National
   We Ko Pa Cholla
   We Ko Pa Saguaro
   Wintergreen
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill_McBride on December 18, 2009, 01:32:19 PM
1   DALLAS NATIONAL   
2   ESCONDIDO   
3   KARSTEN CREEK   
4   SHADOW CREEK   
5   VICTORIA NATIONAL   
6   CARLTON WOODS-FAZIO   
7   TRUMP NATIONAL-BEDMINSTER-OLD   
8   WORLD WOODS GC- PINE BARRENS   
9   BRIGGS RANCH   
10   BARTON CREEK- CANYONS   
11   THE PRESERVE   
12   FLINT HILLS NATIONAL   
13   RIVER COURSE   
14   MEMBERS CLUB AT ALDARRA   
15   VAQUERO   
16   CAMP CREEK   
17   THE GOLF CLUB OF OKLAHOMA   
18   BARTON CREEK- FOOTHILLS   
19   BERKELEY HALL-SOUTH   
20   REYNOLDS PLANTATION-NATIONAL   
21   CHAMPIONS- JACK RABBIT   
22   GLEN CLUB   
23   WORLD WOODS GC- ROLLING OAKS   
24   OSPREY POINT   
25   STONEBRIAR- FAZIO   

 ;)


You're killing me (re Barton Creek).......LOL  ;D
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott Warren on December 18, 2009, 01:32:56 PM
Jud: I'm pretty sure he has played NSW (not listed), and if TEC is a better course than NSW I'll give the game away!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Dan Herrmann on December 18, 2009, 01:34:41 PM
My top 25 that I've played:
1.  Merion East
2.  Pacific Dunes
3.  Bandon Dunes
4.  Lancaster
5.  Bandon Trails
6.  Highlands Links
7.  Rolling Green
8.  French Creek
9.  Waverly
10.  Gulph Mills
11.  Lehigh
12.  Aronimink
13.  Hidden Creek
14.  Portland Golf Club
15.  Applebrook
16.  Monroe GC
17.  Bulls Bay
18.  Glen Abbey
19.  Belgrade Lakes
20.  Merion West
21.  Tobacco Road
22.  Torrey Pines South
23.  Columbia-Edgewater
24.  Sheridan Park Municipal (top for fun!)
25.  Whirlpool


I've been fortunate enough to walk Pine Valley and Augusta National, which were simply amazing.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill_McBride on December 18, 2009, 01:37:57 PM
In no particular order, I hate rankings........

Cypress Point
Pebble Beach
Olympic Club Lake
Monterey Peninsula Shore
Pasatiempo
Valley Club of Montecito
Meadow Club
Oakmont
National Golf Links
Kingsley Club
Crystal Downs
St Andrews Old
North Berwick West
Muirfield
Dornoch
Alwoodley
Hoylake
Sandwich
Deal
Rye
Pacific Dunes
Cuscowilla
Friars Head
Beau Desert
Royal Porthcawl
Capilano
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tim Leahy on December 18, 2009, 01:38:07 PM
1   DALLAS NATIONAL   
2   ESCONDIDO   
3   KARSTEN CREEK   
4   SHADOW CREEK   
5   VICTORIA NATIONAL   
6   CARLTON WOODS-FAZIO   
7   TRUMP NATIONAL-BEDMINSTER-OLD   
8   WORLD WOODS GC- PINE BARRENS   
9   BRIGGS RANCH   
10   BARTON CREEK- CANYONS   
11   THE PRESERVE   
12   FLINT HILLS NATIONAL   
13   RIVER COURSE   
14   MEMBERS CLUB AT ALDARRA   
15   VAQUERO   
16   CAMP CREEK   
17   THE GOLF CLUB OF OKLAHOMA   
18   BARTON CREEK- FOOTHILLS   
19   BERKELEY HALL-SOUTH   
20   REYNOLDS PLANTATION-NATIONAL   
21   CHAMPIONS- JACK RABBIT   
22   GLEN CLUB   
23   WORLD WOODS GC- ROLLING OAKS   
24   OSPREY POINT   
25   STONEBRIAR- FAZIO   

 ;)


Sherwood doesn't make your list Lou?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on December 18, 2009, 01:44:03 PM
Bill M,

Seriously, If that's all you've got, you really need to get out more.... ::)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jon Heise on December 18, 2009, 01:45:12 PM
Quote
Jon H - Raisin River?  Never heard of Rock Barn.  Whats the story?

How good is Arcadia Bluffs?  There is a lot of negative talk about the course on here.

Sean, yup.  Raisin River.  Obviously not a big name that nobody out of Downriver (or even Monroe) will never hear of, but its my go-to, fun, close, value course.  I think it makes a lot of good use out of super flat land.  Love it!  Rock Barn is an RTJ Jr course near Charlotte.  They play a Champions Tour event there.  Very enjoyable, and was a pleasant surprise to me and my group.  Arcadia lives up to the hype.  Maybe not the GCA hype as there are some artificial aspects to it.  It's as spectacular as any I've ever played.  It took a couple rounds up there for me to really warm up to it (didnt like at first), but now I really, really love it.



Quote
Greywalls over Crystal Downs?  I also did not see that one coming.

JC, ABSOFREAKINGLUTELY.  Crystal is as good as it gets, but I see Greywalls is so incredibly underrated.  Until I played Pebble a month ago, GW was easily my #1.  I think a lot has to do with it being new, kind of getting a chance to "discover" it and fall in love with it.  I have played it much more than Crystal, too.  Kingsley gets the most praise out of Mike's courses around here, but I'll argue all day and night that Greywalls is better.



My list actually looks like this:

Pebble









Greywalls








Everything else...
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill_McBride on December 18, 2009, 01:46:16 PM
Bill M,

Seriously, If that's all you've got, you really need to get out more.... ::)

I working on it.

I had to leave out Black Mesa and Painswick.   :'(

EDIT:  Damn it, I forgot Capilano.  That's definitely a top 25 personally.  Will make the change.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Doug Sobieski on December 18, 2009, 01:51:44 PM
1  Cypress Point
2  Oakmont
3  Pine Valley
4  Ballyneal
5  Crystal Downs
6  Pacific Dunes
7  Sand Hills
8  Pinehurst #2
9  San Francisco Golf Club
10 The Golf Club
11 The Ocean Course
12 The Kingsley Club
13 Wild Horse
14 Olympic (Lake)
15 Oakland Hills
16 Whistling Straits
17 Camargo
18 Mountain Lake
19 Old Town
20 The Dunes Club
21 Cuscowilla
22 TPC Sawgrass
23 Wolf Run
24 Indianwood (Old)
25 Muirfield Village
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Adam Clayman on December 18, 2009, 01:52:49 PM

Sherwood doesn't make your list Lou?

I think Lou is having some fun.

They are all Fazio
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tim Leahy on December 18, 2009, 02:01:46 PM
1. Olympic-Lake
2. Pebble Beach
3. Riviera
4. LACC-North
5. Spyglass Hill
6. Kapalua-Plantation
7. Stone Eagle
8. Sherwood
9. Torrey Pines-South
10. Fort Ord-Bayonet-old
11. Palos Verdes CC
12. Lake Merced CC
13. California CC
14. Pasatiempo
15. La Purisima
16. Sandpiper
17. Ko'olau
18. Montreaux
19. Rustic Canyon
20. TPC-San Francisco-Stonebrae
21. Poppy Hills
22. Meadow Club
23. Yocha de he
24. Rancho Murieta CC-North
25. Rancho San Marcos
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jay Cox on December 18, 2009, 02:02:13 PM
Not as well traveled as many others:

1.  Yale
2.  Pacific Dunes
3.  French Lick Springs Hill
4.  Highlands Links
5.  Pebble Beach
6.  The Country Club (MA)
7.  Bethpage Black
8.  The Ocean Course
9.  Bandon Dunes
10.  Taconic
11.  Spyglass Hill
12.  Red Tail
13.  Portsmouth
14.  Stanford (pre-changes)
15.  Tokatee
16.  Pinehills Nicklaus
17.  Sultan's Run
18.  The Shattuck
19.  Spanish Bay
20.  Crosswater
21.  Shaker Hills (MA)
22.  Old Silo
23.  Four Seasons Nevis
24.  Waverly Oaks
25.  Poppy Hills
  
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jeff Tang on December 18, 2009, 02:03:59 PM

How good is Arcadia Bluffs?  There is a lot of negative talk about the course on here.

Ciao

It largely depends on your view of a very artificial looking course in a great location. I enjoyed it but did not consider it seriously for my list.

For me I include Arcadia in my list because I just think the course is really a lot of fun to play.  I know the course isn't considered great architecture like the classics or some of the modern classics but I think there are some really interesting holes.  Plus, there's the possibility to use the slopes on the greens to get the ball close to the hole which I really like.  There's a good mix of some longer holes and shorter ones.  You throw in the setting and the conditioning and it's one of my favorite courses.

I think the course partially gets criticism because it doesn't play as firm and fast as a lot on this site like.  It looks linksy but doesn't really play like a true links.  Also, I think the green speeds can be a bit excessive for the contours on the greens.  The pace of play is normally awful and there's a huge price tag to play the course.  Plus there's the artificiality of the course as previously mentioned.





Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Thornton on December 18, 2009, 02:11:24 PM
1.   Merion (East)


2.   Shinnecock Hills
3.   Pine Valley
4.   Sand Hills
5.   Cypress Point Club
6.   Royal Dornoch
7.   Oakmont
8.   Pebble Beach Golf Links
9.   National Golf Links of America
10.   Fishers Island
11.   The Old Course
12.   Ballybunion
13.   Prairie Dunes
14.   Muirfield
15.   Myopia Hunt Club
16.   Los Angeles Country Club (North)
17.   Winged Foot (West)
18.   Teeth of the Dog
19.   The Country Club
20.   Bethpage Black
21.   Boston Golf Club
22.   Friar’s Head
23.   Interlachen
24.   Garden City Golf Club
25.   California Golf Club
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jin Kim on December 18, 2009, 02:14:29 PM
1. Sand Hills
2. St Andrews Old
3. Prestwick
4. Pacific Dunes
5. Carne
6. Royal County Down
7. Bandon Dunes
8. Ballybunion
9. Western Gailes
10. Lahinch
11. Ocean Course
12. Bayonne
13. Honors Course
14. TPC Sawgrass
15. Black Wolf Run
16. Whistling Straits
17. Cruden Bay
18. Turnberry
19. Carnoustie
20. Royal Portrush
21. Tobacco Road
22. Chambers Bay
23. Pinehurst #2
24. Waterville
25. Bethpage Black

This was a difficult exercise.  I know what #1 is.  I think the top five is pretty set.  The rest for the most part could be in almost any order.  I do know that I enjoyed all of the 25 listed courses more than Pebble Beach.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Carl Nichols on December 18, 2009, 02:24:04 PM
Off the top of my head:

1. Royal County Down
2. Pacific Dunes
3. Merion
4. Winged Foot West
5. Ocean Course
6. Portrush (Dunluce)
7. Portmarnock
8. Bandon Trails
9. Olympic Lake
10. Shoreacres
11. Bethpage Black
12.  Kinloch
13. Bandon Dunes
14. Cuscowilla
15. Robert Trent Jones
16. Mar del Plata
17. Harbourtown
18. Long Cove
19. Sea Island (Seaside)
20. Homestead (Cascades)
21. County Louth
22. Desert Forest
23. European Club
24. We-Ko-Pa Sagauro
25. The Island (Dublin)

Close but not quite (and in no particular order):  Jockey Club (Colorada), Laurel Valley, Congressional Blue, Ocean Forest, Atlanta Athletic Club (Highlands), Columbia CC, Portstewart, Winged Foot East, Yale
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: mike_malone on December 18, 2009, 02:26:37 PM
    Atlantic City, Ballybunion, County Louth, County Sligo, Gulph Mills, Huntington Valley, Island, Lahinch , Lancaster,
Merion, Myopia, NGLA, N.Berwick,  Pennard, PINE VALLEY,  Plainfield, Portmarnock, Portstewart, Rolling Green, Royal Cinque Ports, Royal County Down,  
 Royal Porthcawl,  Rye, TOC, Yale    


   After seeing Plainfield listed I added it.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Peter Ferlicca on December 18, 2009, 02:28:21 PM
1. Pacific Dunes
2. Ballyneal
3. The Old Course
4. Old MacDonald
5. Rock Creek Cattle Company
6. Bandon Trails
7. Rivieria
8. Cabo Del Sol
9. Stone Eagle
10. Wolf Run
11. Meadow Club
12. Pasatiempo
13. Chambers Bay
14. Olympic Lake
15. Tumble Creek
16. Wine Valley
17. Crooked Stick
18. Rancho Sante Fe
19. The Preserve
20. Members Club at Aldarra
21. The Club at Black Rock
22. Bandon Dunes
23. Pronghorn Nicklaus
24. Essex County Country Club
25. Idaho Club
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Michael Blake on December 18, 2009, 02:40:13 PM
Aberdovey
Addington
Beau Desert
Brora
Cavendish
Co Sligo
Enniscrone
Harborne
Harlech
Huntercombe
Kington
Lakewood Shores Gailes
Lederach
North Berwick
Old Town Club
Pennard
Prestwick
Portrush Valley
Rye
St Enodoc
Southerndown
Tenby
Tobacco Road
University of Michigan
Woking

Close but no cigar: Merion, Sandwich, Ballybunion, Dornoch, Woodhall Spa, Formby, Burnham & Berrow, Carne, Saunton East, Notts, Machrihanish, Castletown, Prestbury, Dunbar, Perranporth, Shepherd's Hollow & Burnham & Berrow Channel Course

Jon H - Raisin River?  Never heard of Rock Barn.  Whats the story?

How good is Arcadia Bluffs?  There is a lot of negative talk about the course on here.

Ciao


WOW!  Lederach is in you top 25 and Merion is 'close but no cigar.'
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Moore II on December 18, 2009, 02:41:00 PM
My top 25 courses played, in alphabetical order. I'm not even going to attempt to rank them numerically. #1 on the list is easy, I could most likely give a top 5, but pretty much 2-5 would be interchangeable. Comment away.

Bryan Park (Champions)
CCNC (Dogwood)
Duke Golf Club
Eagle Point
Forest Creek (North)
Foxfire (Original)
Mid Pines
Mid South
Moose Run (River)
NCSU Lonnie Poole
The Neuse
Park Ridge
PGA (Dye)
Pinehurst #1
Pinehurst #2
Pinehurst #5
Pine Needles
The President  (Eagle)
Riverfront
Southern Pines
Tanglewood Park (Champions)
Thanksgiving Point
Tobacco Road
Wilmington GC
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Kalen Braley on December 18, 2009, 02:45:25 PM
My top 25 played...very much a west coast oriented list.

1   Cypress Point
2   Pacific Dunes
3   Ballyneal
4   Rock Creek Cattle Club
5   Pasatiempo
6   Wine Valley
7   MPCC - Shore
8   Gozzer Ranch
9   Black Rock Golf Club
10   Lakota Canyon
11   Idaho Club
12   Sanctuary Golf Course
13   Redlands Mesa
14   Pete Dye - Promontory
15   Saddle Creek
16   Murphy Creek
17   Circling Raven
18   Jack Nicklaus - Promontory
19   South Mountain
20   Thanksgiving Point
21   Stevinson Ranch
22   Indian Canyon
23   Beechtree
24   Jeremy Golf Club
25   The Hideout
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: David_Madison on December 18, 2009, 02:52:43 PM
Reasonably in order:

Oakmont
Pebble Beach
NGL
Merion East
Shinnecock
Portmarnock
Pinehurst #2
Sebonac
Olympic
The Ocean Course
Winged Foot West
Aronimink
Mountaintop
Wade Hampton
Garden City
Bethpage Black
Cuscowilla
Ridgewood
Oakland Hills
TPC Sawgrass
Old Town
Shadow Creek
Mayacama
Harbour Town
Jupiter Hills
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tony Weiler on December 18, 2009, 02:53:51 PM
I need to get out more.  I stopped at 20.   :(

1.   Sutton Bay
2.   Torrey Pines (South)
3.   Interlachen
4.   We Ko Pa (Saguaro)
5.   Hazeltine Nat’l
6.   Hawktree
7.   Vista Verde
8.   Grayhawk (Talon)
9.   Deacon’s Lodge
10.   Couer d’Alene C.C.
11.   Links of N.D.
12.   Pelican Hill (South before Renovations)
13.   TPC Scottsdale
14.   Old Works
15.   Bully Pulpit
16.   Eagle Bend
17.   Raven at So. Mt.
18.   We Ko Pa (Cholla)
19.   Whirlwind (Devil’s Claw)
20.   Prairie Green

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Moore on December 18, 2009, 02:54:22 PM
Top 10 in no order

Pinehurst #2
Franklin Hills
Indianwood Old
Crystal Downs
Pine Needles
Tobacco Road
Arcadia Bluffs
Kingsley Club
Mid Pines
Cape Kidnappers

the rest are hard to sort from each other
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ian Andrew on December 18, 2009, 03:02:41 PM
Pine Valley  George Crump, H.S. Colt, 1918 Pine Valley, N.J. US
National Golf Links of America C.B. Macdonald, 1911 Southampton, N.Y. US
Royal County Down Old Tom Morris, 1889 Newcastle N. Ireland
Royal Melbourne (West) Alister Mackenzie, 1926 Melbourne Australia
Cypress Point Alister Mackenzie, 1928 Pebble Beach, Calif. US

Shinnecock Hills William Flynn, 1931 Southampton, N.Y. US
St. Andrews (Old Course) Nature, St Andrews Scotland
Merion (East) Hugh Wilson, 1912 Ardmore, Pa. US
Royal Dornoch Old Tom Morris, 1886 Dornoch Scotland
Crystal Downs Alister Mackenzie, Perry Maxwell, 1932 Frankfort, Mich. US

Riviera George C. Thomas, Jr., Bill Bell Sr., 1926 Pacific Palisades, Calif. US
Royal Portrush (Dunluce) H.S. Colt, 1929 Portrush N. Ireland
Pacific Dunes Tom Doak, 2001 Bandon, Ore. US
Seminole Donald Ross, 1929 Juno Beach, Fla. US
Pebble Beach Jack Neville, Douglas Grant, 1919 Pebble Beach, Calif. US

Muirfield Old Tom Morris, 1891 H.S. Colt, 1925 Gullane Scotland
Pinehurst (No. 2) Donald Ross, 1907 Pinehurst, N.C. US
Prestwick Tom Morris, 1878 Prestwick, Scotland
San Francisco A. W. Tillinghast, 1918 San Francisco, Calif. US 62.14
Kingston Heath Des Soutar, 1925 Alister MacKenzie, 1928 Melbourne Australia

Friar's Head Bill Coore, Ben Crenshaw, 2003 Baiting Hollow, N.Y. US
Barnbougle Dunes Tom Doak, 2004 Bridport Australia
Highland Links Stanley Thompson, 1935 Ingonish Beach, Nova Scotia Canada
Turnberry (Ailsa) Willie Fernie, 1909 Mackenzie Ross, 1951 Turnberry Scotland
Carnoustie (Championship) Robertson, 1842, Morris, 1872 Carnoustie Scotland
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Roger Wolfe on December 18, 2009, 03:46:01 PM
Pine Valley  George Crump, H.S. Colt, 1918 Pine Valley, N.J. US
National Golf Links of America C.B. Macdonald, 1911 Southampton, N.Y. US
Royal County Down Old Tom Morris, 1889 Newcastle N. Ireland
Royal Melbourne (West) Alister Mackenzie, 1926 Melbourne Australia
Cypress Point Alister Mackenzie, 1928 Pebble Beach, Calif. US

Shinnecock Hills William Flynn, 1931 Southampton, N.Y. US
St. Andrews (Old Course) Nature, St Andrews Scotland
Merion (East) Hugh Wilson, 1912 Ardmore, Pa. US
Royal Dornoch Old Tom Morris, 1886 Dornoch Scotland
Crystal Downs Alister Mackenzie, Perry Maxwell, 1932 Frankfort, Mich. US

Riviera George C. Thomas, Jr., Bill Bell Sr., 1926 Pacific Palisades, Calif. US
Royal Portrush (Dunluce) H.S. Colt, 1929 Portrush N. Ireland
Pacific Dunes Tom Doak, 2001 Bandon, Ore. US
Seminole Donald Ross, 1929 Juno Beach, Fla. US
Pebble Beach Jack Neville, Douglas Grant, 1919 Pebble Beach, Calif. US

Muirfield Old Tom Morris, 1891 H.S. Colt, 1925 Gullane Scotland
Pinehurst (No. 2) Donald Ross, 1907 Pinehurst, N.C. US
Prestwick Tom Morris, 1878 Prestwick, Scotland
San Francisco A. W. Tillinghast, 1918 San Francisco, Calif. US 62.14
Kingston Heath Des Soutar, 1925 Alister MacKenzie, 1928 Melbourne Australia

Friar's Head Bill Coore, Ben Crenshaw, 2003 Baiting Hollow, N.Y. US
Barnbougle Dunes Tom Doak, 2004 Bridport Australia
Highland Links Stanley Thompson, 1935 Ingonish Beach, Nova Scotia Canada
Turnberry (Ailsa) Willie Fernie, 1909 Mackenzie Ross, 1951 Turnberry Scotland
Carnoustie (Championship) Robertson, 1842, Morris, 1872 Carnoustie Scotland


Now THIS is an impressive list.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Pete Lavallee on December 18, 2009, 03:52:15 PM
I like Ian's format so much, I'll use it too:

Cypress Point (1)
TOC (8)
Royal Dornoch (3)
Pacific Dunes (3)
Pebble Beach (1)

Royal County Down (2)
Ballyneal (2)
Ballybunion Old (4)
Riviera (1)
Pasatiempo (12)

Rustic Canyon (15)
Lahinch (4)
Bethpage Black (8)
The Addington (1)
St Enodoc (2)

West Sussex (1)
Banff (2)
Jasper Park (3)
Cucscowilla (2)
Wild Horse (1)

Turnberry (1)
Kiawah Ocean Course (1)
MPCC Shore (2)
Carnoustie (2)
Kittansett (2)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Rick on December 18, 2009, 04:04:59 PM
In alphabetical order:

BALLYBUNION
BANDON DUNES
BUENOS AIRES COUNTRY CLUB
CABO DEL SOL
CAJUILES (Teeth of the Dog)
CARNOUSTIE
CROWBUSH COVE
GREENBRIER
HARBOUR TOWN
HIGHLAND LINKS
JASPER
NEW SOUTH WALES
PEBBLE BEACH
PORTMARNOCK
ROYAL BIRKDALE
ROYAL COUNTY DOWN
ROYAL DORNOCH
ROYAL MELBOURNE WEST
ROYAL PORTHCAWL
ROYAL PORTRUSH
SPYGLASS
THE NATIONAL  (Australia)
TURNBERRY
VICTORIA  (Melbourne)
WAIRAKEI
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jaeger Kovich on December 18, 2009, 04:22:43 PM
Jim Thorton - BPB ahead of Friars Head?! If for no other reason than green contours, there are practically none on the black. I'll give you that BPB is a better driving course, FH #2, 6, 9, 14, 15 aint to shabby either!


Jim Kim - Bayonne #12 ahead of: Honors Course, Whistling Straits, Cruden Bay, Carnoustie, Royal Portrush, Chambers Bay, #2 and BPB?
... Listen, I had a fun experience there, but really?!! What do you like so much about the place that it is ahead of all of these? I can understand if you are a scratch and like challenging layouts... but there is Carnoustie, BPB and Whistling Straights. Ok maybe you like the imagination to build the place... but there is Sawgrass, Whistling straights and TR... Maybe its the views?!! is liberty national and the Castle Course #1 on your wish list!!!!  ;D ;D
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Andrew Bertram on December 18, 2009, 04:52:14 PM
1. Cypress Point
2. Shinnecock Hills
3. Royal Dornoch
4. Royal melbourne West
5. The Old Course

6. Royal County Down
7. Merion
8. National Golf Links
9. Oakmont
10. Ballybunion Old

11. Kingston Heath
12. San Francisco
13. Morfontaine
14. Muirfield
15. Barnbougle Dunes

16. Swinley Forest
17. Winged Foot West
18. Pacific Dunes
19. Pinehurst No 2
20. Turnberry

21. Royal Portrush
22. California Club
23. Sunningdale Old
24. Riviera
25.Cruden Bay


Near Misses: Valley Club, The Golf Club, Pebble Beach, Victoria (Melb), Bethpage Black, Fontainebleau
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Phil McDade on December 18, 2009, 04:54:57 PM
Lordy, lordy -- all the usual suspects. You people need to get out more.

My list is a top-20:

1) Lawsonia
2) Machrihanish
3) Fraserburgh
4) West Bend CC's front nine
5) Beverly
6) Boat of Garten
7) Shiskine at Blackwaterfoot
8th) Balcomie Links at Crail
9) Blackhawk CC
10) Flossmoor
11) Spring Valley
12) Old Hickory
13) Cullen
14) Dunaverty
15) Ozaukee CC
16) Traigh
17) Peterhead
18) Inverallochy
19) Kettle Moraine
20) Country Club Estates

It goes without saying that the Reverse Jans cannot be included on such a list, as its Brigadoon-like standing in the world of golf renders it beyond the realm of such a listing.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tim Gavrich on December 18, 2009, 04:59:52 PM
Man, this is difficult.  Nonetheless...

FIRST FIVE
- Yale GC / New Haven, CT / CB Macdonald/Seth Raynor
- Palmetto GC / Aiken, SC / Alister Mackenzie
- Sunningdale (Old) / Surrey, England / Willie Park, Jr.
- St. Andrews (Old) / St. Andrews, Scotland / Mother Nature, then Old Tom Morris
- Shelter Harbor GC / Charlestown, RI / Mike Hurdzan and Dana Fry

SECOND FIVE
- Pinehurst (No. 2) / Pinehurst, NC / Donald Ross
- Newport CC / Newport, RI / William Davis, then Donald Ross, then AW Tillinghast
- The Greenbrier (Old White) / White Sulphur Springs, WV / Seth Raynor, then Lester George
- The Homestead (Upper Cascades) / Hot Springs, VA / William Flynn, fixed up by Wayne Morrison and Tom Paul
- Cuscowilla on Lake Oconee / Eatonton, GA / Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw

THIRD FIVE
- Caledonia G&FC / Pawleys Island, SC / Mike Strantz
- CC of Farmington / Farmington, CT / Devereux Emmet
- Tobacco Road GC / Sanford, NC / Mike Strantz
- The Golf House Club, Elie / Elie, Scotland / Old Tom Morris
- Pawleys Plantation G&CC / Pawleys Island, SC / Jack Nicklaus

FOURTH FIVE
- Hartford GC / West Hartford, CT / Donald Ross
- Scotscraig GC / Tayport, Scotland / James Braid
- Barefoot Resort (Dye Club) / North Myrtle Beach, SC / Pete Dye
- The Governors Club / Chapel Hill, NC / Jack Nicklaus
- Doral GC (Blue Monster) / Miami, FL / Dick Wilson

FIFTH FIVE
- Duke GC / Durham, NC / Robert Trent Jones, Sr., then Rees Jones
- The Cliffs at Lake Keowee / Ninety Six, SC / Tom Fazio
- Crail Golfing Society / Crail, Scotland / Old Tom Morris
- Callaway Gardens Resort (Mountain View) / Pine Mountain, GA / Dick Wilson
- True Blue Plantation / Pawleys Island, SC / Mike Strantz

JUST OUTSIDE THE CUT
- Pinehurst (No. 8) / Pinehurst, NC / Tom Fazio
- Lundin GC / Leven, Scotland / Old Tom Morris, then James Braid
- Tanglewood Park (Championship) / Clemmons, NC / Robert Trent Jones, Sr.
- The Ranch GC / Southwick, MA / Damian Pascuzzo
- Columbia CC (Original 18) / Blythewood, SC / Ellis Maples
- The Greenbrier (Greenbrier) / White Sulphur Springs, WV / Jack Nicklaus
- Gillette Ridge Golf Club / Bloomfield, CT / Arnold Palmer
- Shennecossett GC / Groton, CT / Donald Ross

With fingers crossed, I hope to add Pine Valley and Ballyhack to the list sometime in 2010.  But for roughly 12 years of playing golf seriously, I will take it.

Cheers.

--Tim
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: PThomas on December 18, 2009, 05:00:32 PM

It goes without saying that the Reverse Jans cannot be included on such a list, as its Brigadoon-like standing in the world of golf renders it beyond the realm of such a listing.

Herb Wind couldnt have stated that any better Phil... ;)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt Bosela on December 18, 2009, 05:00:50 PM
Quite a bit of Canadian content on my list - a bit less travelled than most:

Oakmont CC, Oakmont, PA (H. Fownes - 1903)
Riviera CC, Pacific Palisades, CA (G. Thomas - 1927)
Sagebrush Golf & Sporting Club, Quilchena, BC, CAN (R. Whitman, R. Zokol & A. Suny - 2008)
Westmount GCC, Kitchener, ON, CAN (S. Thompson - 1931)
St. Thomas GCC, Union, ON, CAN (S. Thompson - 1922)

Princeville - Prince Course, Princeville, HI (R. Trent Jones Jr - 1990)
Glen Abbey GC, Oakville, ON, CAN (J. Nicklaus - 1976)
Brantford GCC, Brantford, ON, CAN (S. Thompson - 1906)
Muskoka Bay GC, Gravenhurst, ON, CAN (D. Carrick - 2006)
Bigwin Island, Baysville, ON, CAN (D. Carrick - 2001)

Eagles Nest, Maple, ON, CAN (D. Carrick - 2004)
Oviinbyrd, Footsbay, ON, CAN (T. McBroom - 2004)
Warren GC at Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN (B. Coore & B. Crenshaw - 1999)
Devil's Pulpit, Caledon Village, ON, CAN (Dr. M. Hurdzan & D. Fry - 1990)
Tanglewood Park - Championship, Clemmons, NC (R. Trent Jones - 1956)

Burlington GCC, Burlington, ON, CAN (S. Thompson - 1922)
Lookout Point CC, Fonthill, ON, CAN (W. Travis - 1922)
Cog Hill - Dubsdread, Lemont, IL (D. Wilson & J. Lee - 1964)
Taboo, Gravenhurst, ON, CAN (R. Garl - 2002)
Osprey Valley - Heathlands, Caledon, ON, CAN (D. Carrick - 1992)

Tobiano, Kamloops, BC, CAN (T. McBroom - 2007)
Rosedale GCC, Toronto, ON, CAN (D. Ross - 1893)
Bear Mountain - Mountain Course, Victoria, BC, CAN (J. Nicklaus & S. Nicklaus - 2005)
Hammock Beach - Ocean Course, Palm Coast, FL (J. Nicklaus - 2000)
Osprey Valley - Hoot (Wasteland), Caledon, ON, CAN (D. Carrick - 2001)

Honourable Mentions:

Royal Colwood GCC, Victoria, BC, CAN (A.V. Macan - 1913)
Deer Ridge GC, Kitchener, ON, CAN (T. McBroom - 1990)
Wooden Sticks, Uxbridge, ON, CAN (R. Garl - 2000)
Deerhurst - Highlands, Huntsville, ON, CAN (T. McBroom & R. Cupp - 1990)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: David_Madison on December 18, 2009, 05:39:01 PM
Not one Augusta National yet...
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: George Freeman on December 18, 2009, 05:41:23 PM
In any other circle I would be considered extremely well traveled in golf.  Here I am nothing more than a blip!

With no specific order within each tier:

Tier 1
Oakmont
St. Andrews (Old)
Crystal Downs
Pacific Dunes
Kingsley Club

Tier 2
Bandon Trails
Franklin Hills
Indianwood (Old)
Ocean Course
Greywalls

Tier 3
Lawsonia
Skokie
Bandon Dunes
Arcadia Bluffs
Lost Dunes
Black Sheep

Tier 4
Olympia Fields (North)
Beverly
Inverness
Barton Hills
CC of Detroit
Orchard Lake CC

Tier 5
Forest Dunes
We-Ko-Pa (C&C)
Point O'Woods
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on December 18, 2009, 05:51:55 PM
In no particular order, I hate rankings........

Cypress Point
Pebble Beach
Olympic Club Lake
Monterey Peninsula Shore
Pasatiempo
Valley Club of Montecito
Meadow Club
Oakmont
National Golf Links
Kingsley Club
Crystal Downs
St Andrews Old
North Berwick West
Muirfield
Dornoch
Alwoodley
Hoylake
Sandwich
Deal
Rye
Pacific Dunes
Cuscowilla
Friars Head
Beau Desert
Royal Porthcawl
Capilano


I don't know, Ace has quite an attractive list so far as I am concerned.  

One thing I am not noticing on these lists, and one of my little things which I love to praise courses for, is being very short (from the tips) by today's standards, but still being a good challenge for the handicap player.  I reckon I listed 4 (Addington, Swinley, Rye & St Georges Hill), with St Georges Hill being the longest at ~6500 yards and a fifth, Woking, coming around 6600 yards.    


Michael B - While an awesome course, Merion is very dear for a game of golf.  Lederach can be enjoyed each week.  At either place I will be smiling as I finish.

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Melvyn Morrow on December 18, 2009, 05:55:35 PM

Ian

A minor point re Muirfield. It was designed in 1890 not 1891.

It was opened in May 1891 but the actual course was designed in the last few months of 1890. This helps understand the confusion some have with thinking Hall Blyth was involved with the design concept of the golf course due to his course map of 1891. The map was produced from the layout of the 1890 course and I believe it was for the use of the Members of Muirfield.

We see more architectural maps starting to be produced from this date due to the new Members of various clubs becoming more interested in the design elements having qualified as engineers, surveyors etc. Importantly they could produce and understand maps, which previous Committees Members seemed to have difficulty understanding. The producers of these initial maps were not generally the course designer in the Victoria Age, just tended to use their engineer’s background to prepare the modern course map for their club.

Melvyn 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Cristian on December 18, 2009, 06:06:51 PM
......(updated after Bandon travel)

Alwoodley
Ballybunion
Bandon Dunes
Bandon Trails
Casa de Campo (Dentes)
De Pan
Haagsche
Kennemer
Machrihanish
Morfontaine
Noordwijk
Old Macdonald
Pacific Dunes
Pasatiempo
Royal Cinque Ports
Royal County Down
Royal Dornoch
Royal Lytham
Royal Portrush (Dunluce)
Royal St George's
Royal Zoute
St George's Hill
Swinley Forest
The Berkshire red
Walton Heath Old
Waterville

I notice:
Fewer people travel across the Atlantic regularly than I would have thought (I am in Bandon early June, so trying to do my part).
The Surrey / London Heathlands are overlooked.

Ian A, Bill M, Jim T, Andrew B; winners of most impressive lists for me!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Keith Buntrock on December 18, 2009, 06:17:42 PM
I'm going to give this a try.

In no particular order.

Whistling Straits - Straits
Blackwolf Run - The 2009 Composite Course
Erin Hills
The Bull at Pinehurst Farms
Sand Ridge (Cleveland)
PGA National - Champion
Mission Inn - El Campeon
University Ridge (WI)
U of New Mexico
Twin Warriors
Talking Stick - North
Talking Stick - South
Ocotillo Golf Resort
Purgatory
Otter Creek
The Sagamore (IN)
Greywalls
Meadows at Grand Valley St. U
Grosse Ill Country Club (Detroit - Donald Ross)
Blue Mound Golf & CC (Raynor)
Pine Hills Country Club (WI)
Kenosha CC (Ross)
Brown Deer Park
Hidden Glen at Bentdale Farms
The Club at Strawberry Creek (WI)
A few holes on the Blue Monster at Doral

Augusta National ;) I wish
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on December 18, 2009, 06:21:55 PM
There seems to be some sort of ground swell for Grosse Ile.  Its hard to believe two guys listed this course.  I know its very good and severely under-rated in Michigan, but as I grew up on the course I never quite know how to rate it.  So much of my formative experiences about the game took place at Grosse Ile.  I sure do have a lot of time for the place.

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill Brightly on December 18, 2009, 06:37:09 PM
National
Royal County Down
Pine Valley
Merion
Oakmont
Ballybunion
Royal Portrush
Lahinch
Waterville
Pebble
Ballyliffin Old
Ridgewood
Saucon Valley Old
Plainfield
Aronomink
Yale
Stone Eagle
Saucon Valley Weyhill
Harbor Town
Galloway
Essex County NJ
Tidewater
Baltustrol
TPC Stadium
Trump National: Bedminster NJ
Spyglass

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Andrew Thomson on December 18, 2009, 06:51:34 PM
Not really in any specific order after the first 5.

1. Royal County Down
2. Royal Dornoch
3. Royal Melbourne West
4. Royal Portrush
5. North Berwick West

6. The Old Course
7. Pebble Beach
8. Kingston Heath
9. Bethpage Black
10. Barnbougle Dunes
11. Sunningdale Old
12. Muirfield
13. Swinley Forest
14. Machrihanish
15. Royal Cinque Ports
16. Royal St. Georges
17. NSW
18. Woodlands
19. Royal Adelaide
20. St. Andrews Beach
21. Cape Kidnappers
22. Paraparaumu Beach
23. Lahinch
24. Royal Birkdale
25. Valderamma

The moment I reached 25 and realised I hadn't put down Kingsbarns, Carnoustie, Troon, Turnberry, Porthcawl, Newcastle, Victoria, Wairieki, Royal Melbourne East and even Sawgrass I realised I hadn't spent much time thinking about it.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Richard Choi on December 18, 2009, 06:56:52 PM
1. Pacific Dunes
2. Old Macdonald
3. Ballyneal
4. Chambers Bay
5. Plainfield
6. Bethpage Black
7. Bandon Dunes
8. Bandon Trails
9. Baltusrol (Lower)
10. Kapalua (Plantation)
11. The Challenge at Manele
12. Wine Valley Golf Club
13. PGA West (Stadium)
14. Gold Moutain - Olympic Course
15. Sagebrush
16. La Quinta Resort (Mountain)
17. Crosswater at Suriver
18. Sherwood Country Club
19. University of Michigan Golf Course
20. The Members Club at Aldarra
21. Doral - Blue Monster
22. Rustic Canyon
23. Wailea - Gold
24. Pumpkin Ridge - Ghost Creek
25. The Reserve Vineyards (South)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: David Royer on December 18, 2009, 07:09:00 PM
Oakmont
Pacific Dunes
Pinehurst #2
Ballyneal
Lahinch
Ballybunion
Doonbeg
Kirtland Country Club
Kapalua (Planation)
Muirfield Village
Cabo del Sol (Ocean)
Scioto Country Club
Bandon Dunes
Brookside Golf & C.C. (Columbus)
Holston Hills Country Club
Dooks
Talking Stick (North)
Mahoney's Point  (Killarney)
Ohio State Scarlet
Torrey Pines  (South)
Austin Country Club
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Pete_Pittock on December 18, 2009, 07:38:05 PM
My first tier
Cypress Point                   Oakmont               Pebble Beach                  Pacific Dunes          St Andrews (Old)
Royal Dornoch                  Carnoustie             Royal Melbourne (West)   Crystal Downs         Muirfield
Ballybunion (Old)              Kingston Heath      Pinehurst #2                   Prairie Dunes           Turnberry (Ailsa)
Kiawah Island (Ocean)      TPC Sawgrass        Casa de Campo (TotD)      Olympic (Lake)        Ballyneal
Royal Birkdale                  Sunningdale (Old)  Royal Lytham & St Annes   Old Macdonald           North Berwick (West)

My second tier 25 (not necessarily in order)
Prestwick                New South Wales              Woodhall Spa             Bandon Dunes        Kingsbarns  
Ganton                      Royal Adelaide                 Harbour Town               Chambers Bay           Royal Liverpool  (Hoylake)  
Pasatiempo         Royal St Georges          Rock Creek Cattle Company   Clear Creek Tahoe    Sagebrush
Rustic Canyon       Monterey Peninsula (Shore)        Bandon Trails            Pronghorn (Fazio)       Pumpkin Ridge (Witch Hollow)

Dropped from second tier 8/22/10:
Waterville             Royal Porthcawl                  Desert Forest              Royal Troon
Red: Added 8/22/10
Green Dropped from 1st tier 8/22/10
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Dan King on December 18, 2009, 07:53:35 PM
I dislike rankings, so here on my fav courses:

Ballybunion
Ballyliffin
Bel-Air
County Sligo
Cruden Bay
Cypress Point
Gullane No. 1
Kingsbarn
Monterey Pennisula Shore Course
Muirfield
North Berwick
Olympic
Pacific Dunes
Pacific Grove
Pacific Trails
Pasatiempo
Pebble Beach
Preston Trails
Prestwick
Riviera
Royal Dornoch
San Francisco
Seminole
St. Andrews TOC
Stanford
Talking Stick North
The Machrie
TPC Sawgrass
Valley Club of Montecito

Hasn't anyone else played The Machrie?

Cheers,
Dan King
Quote
Falsity cannot keep an idea from being beautiful; there are certain errors of such ingenuity that one could regret their not ranking among the achievements of the human mind.
 --Jean Rostand
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Pete_Pittock on December 18, 2009, 08:03:02 PM
Dan,
I played two rounds at The Machrie. It didn't make my top 50. But their bar did.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Alex Miller on December 18, 2009, 08:19:25 PM
Just wanna say, this is the most depressing thread I've seen. At least I'm young...


Rustic Canyon
LACC North
Riviera
Bandon Dunes
Pacific Dunes
Bandon Trails
Lake Merced GC
Turtle Bay Palmer
Pelican Hill North
PGA West Stadium
Torrey South
Barona Valley
Koolau
Sandpiper
Wolf Creek (NV)
Golden Horseshoe
Palos Verdes GC
La Purisima
The Grand Del Mar
Kapalua Plantation
Harding Park Golf Course
Industry Hills (Ike)
Brentwood CC
Maderas
North Ranch CC
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bob_Huntley on December 18, 2009, 08:28:09 PM
In no particular order.

Pine Valley
Western Gailes
Royal Birkdale
The Old Course
Royal County Down
Royal Dornoch
Cypress Point
Pebble Beach
Augusta National
Fishers Island
Royal Melbourne W.
NGLC
Shinnecock
Royal Portrush
Morfontaine
Riviera
Nchanga
Kingston Heath
Carnoustie
Gullane No.1
Muirfield
Turnberry
MPCC Dunes
Kingsbarns
Sunnindale Old


Bob
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Chris Cupit on December 18, 2009, 08:34:29 PM
OK, here's my list (in order :D):
FWIW I think they are all great examples of architecture but my ordering is based on how I would rank the courses in an order of which I would most want to play again.

1.  National Golf Links of America
2.  Augusta National Golf Club
3.  Royal County Down
4.  The Old Course at St. Andrews
5.  Pine Valley Golf Club
6.  Merion Golf Club
7.  Royal Dornoch
8.  Shinnecock
9.  Winged Foot (West)
10.  Camargo
11.  Walton Heath
12.  North Berwick
13.  Cuscowilla
15.  Muirfield Village (Ohio)
16.  Peachtree GC
17.  Winged Foot (East)
18.  The Honors Course (home course)
19.  The Homestead (Upper)
20.  Baltusrol (Lower)
21.  Monroe GC (Pittsford, NY)
22.  Muirfield (I have to give it another chance but I'm unimpressed thus far) :o
23.  Wallassey  (ugly backdrop on #1 but I had a blast there)
24.  Oak Hill (West)
25.  Rivermont (the course I own/operate) :D 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Pete_Pittock on December 18, 2009, 08:42:36 PM
Bob,
No MPCC-Shore?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on December 18, 2009, 08:46:25 PM
I salute those who can post so quickly their top 25 layouts played.

I've watched the posts with interest.

Now I need to do some serious thinking and take the plunge myself.

I'd love to know from those who posted Baltusrol -- either Lower and / or Upper what makes them feel that way about the layout ?

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Dan Herrmann on December 18, 2009, 08:54:08 PM
Not one Augusta National yet...

It's an amazing place that I've waked twice, but not played.  Therefore, I couldn't mention it.


Alex - don't worry.  When I was 18, my list would have been  (all in metro Buffalo):
Brighton Park Muni
Sheridan Park Muni
Beaver Island State Park
Elma Meadows County Golf Course
Whirlpool (this IS a good course)
Creekside Golf & Bowling Center - (later closed due to toxic waste).

Yes - I've come a helluva long way, but let me tell you - those were fun days!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bob_Huntley on December 18, 2009, 10:09:11 PM
Bob,
No MPCC-Shore?

Bob,
No MPCC-Shore?

Peter,

My first love has always been the the Dunes. The Shore is stunningly beautiful but the congruence of the 4th green, the fifth and seventeenth tees causes me much angst. New tees have been built and quite frankly, the result looks like a railroad junction.

Bob
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Stewart Abramson on December 18, 2009, 10:12:31 PM
Favorite 25 played at the moment (alpha order)

Bethpage Black
Caledonia
Cambrian Ridge
Garden City
Golden Horseshoe Gold
Olympic Lake
Paiute Wolf
Pasatiempo
Prestwick - Old
Royal New Kent
Sleepy Hollow (post restoration)
Southern Dunes
St George's Hill
Sunningdale New
Sunningdale Old
The Country Club
Turnberry Ailsa
Walton Heath New
Walton Heath Old
We-Ko- Pa Saguaro
Western Gailes
Whistling Starits - Straits
Woking
Wolf Creek
Wykagyl (post renovation)

Others that I've enjoyed a lot

Angeles National
Augustine
Beechtree
Bethpage Red
Blackwolf Run
Boulders
Broadmoor
Bulle Rock
Century
Chaska Town
Dunes
Fossil Trace
Glasgow Gailes
Green valley
Harmony Preserve
Knoll - West
Lassing Point
Manhattan Woods
Metropolis
Moorland
Moose Ridge
Murphy Creek
New Zealand
North Shore CC
Old Oaks
Orange County National
Quaker Ridge
Red Tail
Reflection Bay
Riverdale Dunes
Rustic Canyon
Sagamore
Shaker Hills
Spanish Bay
Stone Ridge
Sugarloaf Mtn
Talking Stick - both
Torrey Pines - both
Troon North - bothy
True Blue
World Woods - both
Worthington Manor
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Kevin Pallier on December 18, 2009, 10:15:42 PM
Played: (no specific order)

St. Andrews (Old)
Cypress Point
Shinnecock Hills
Royal Melbourne (Composite)
Royal County Down

Muirfield
Royal Dornoch
Pacific Dunes
Old Macdonald
Merion (East)

Kingston Heath
Royal St. George's
Sunningdale (Old)
Swinley Forest
North Berwick (West)

Friars Head
Fishers Island
New South Wales
Barnbougle Dunes
Woodhall Spa (Hotchkin)

St. George's Hill
Ballybunion (Old)
Royal Portrush
Carnoustie
Bandon Trails
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Kevin Pallier on December 18, 2009, 10:19:50 PM
My first love has always been the the Dunes. The Shore is stunningly beautiful but the congruence of the 4th green, the fifth and seventeenth tees causes me much angst. New tees have been built and quite frankly, the result looks like a railroad junction.

Bob

It didn't cause you much angst the day we played it ?  ;D

I'll bet there's some great stories for every one of those 25 you listed  ;)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Alex Miller on December 18, 2009, 10:28:32 PM
Not one Augusta National yet...

It's an amazing place that I've waked twice, but not played.  Therefore, I couldn't mention it.


Alex - don't worry.  When I was 18, my list would have been  (all in metro Buffalo):
Brighton Park Muni
Sheridan Park Muni
Beaver Island State Park
Elma Meadows County Golf Course
Whirlpool (this IS a good course)
Creekside Golf & Bowling Center - (later closed due to toxic waste).

Yes - I've come a helluva long way, but let me tell you - those were fun days!

Thanks Dan


I'm 20 and I had the "misfortune" of being raised in the relatively weak southern california (in terms of GCA, and NOTHING else).   8)

Hopefully when I graduate college, I will be able to bolster this list with a trip to Scotland!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ben Sims on December 18, 2009, 10:32:02 PM
It's embarrassing how much I need to see before I die.  The only redeeming thing is that 95% of this list is 2009 alone.

1. Sheep Ranch
2. Pacific Dunes
3. Crystal Downs
4. Ballyneal
5. Riviera
6. Old Macdonald (even in ten holes it's one of my fave yet.  Can't wait to see how high it'll go after all 18)
7. Pasatiempo
8. Bandon Trails
9. Kingsley Club
10. Stone Eagle
11. Lookout Mountain
12. Peachtree
13. Bandon Dunes
14. Olympic (Lake)
15. We-Ko-Pa Saguaro
16. Longshadow
17. Eisenhower Golf Club (Blue) - USAFA, CO
18.  Brackenridge Park
19.  Presidio (San Francisco)
20.  Saddle Creek
21.  The Frog
22.  The Republic (San Antonio)
23.  Haggin Oaks
24.  Pecan Valley
25.  Wildhorse (Davis, CA)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ed Oden on December 18, 2009, 10:56:21 PM
Deleted.  
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: David Lott on December 18, 2009, 11:18:23 PM

Not ranked by “quality.” Ranked in order of enjoyment of play, determined by the detail of memory of the courses and the general tone of the memories.  I’ve played all of these courses at least three times (except the two Bandon courses) and several of them scores of times. There are courses I’ve played that probably or certainly “rank” higher than some on the list, but I didn’t particularly enjoy playing them. (eg, Carnoustie, Whistling Straits, Blackwolf Run, Doral.)


Old Course
Fox Chapel
Shoreacres
Machrihanish
North Berwick
Eagles Mere
Crail (Balcomie)
Sunset Ridge C.C. (Northfield)
Old Tabby Links
Eden (St. Andrews)
Peninsula Park (Wisconsin)
Onwentsia
Gleneagles Kings
Blue Mound
Bandon Dunes
Pacific Dunes
Pasatiempo
Oakmont
Pinehurst #2
New Course St. Andrews
Milwaukee
Craighead
Ladybank
Lundin
Lawsonia


Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jaeger Kovich on December 18, 2009, 11:30:22 PM
Matt - Re: Baltusrol Upper in my top 25...
1. I just turned 23 a month ago, and having only been playing for 8 years now. While I have played about 100 golf courses, 22 that appear on various top-100 lists, I've also played a lot of poor layouts; its hard to find your way into the private clubs, especially in NYC!
2. The greens. I know... "everything slopes away from the mountain"... but thats not entirely true, nor does it make the icy fast greens or big contours any less fun to play on
3. The par 3's I thought were more than solid.
4. Tilly is my favorite! and there is plenty of classic tilly design features inside these walls.
5. I'm sure the prestige of the club influenced me... Its hard not too, have you been in that locker room?! and it always helps when i get to play with my father, he doesn't play much.

if you let me go back and redo my list i might try to find a way to add knoll west on there somewhere, but im pretty happy with my list. especially since 15 came this year alone
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt Harrison on December 18, 2009, 11:44:15 PM
A good thread, with a very accurate title!  As others have said, very tough to rank, but it was fun to think for a few minutes on this.  Here's mine:

1.  Pine Valley
2.  Cypress Point
3.  Royal County Down
4.  Royal Dornoch
5.  Ballybunion
6.  Seminole
7.  Pacific Dunes
8.  Sand Hills
9.  The Old Course
10.  Crystal Downs
11.  Muirfield
12.  Lahinch
13.  Pinehurst
14.  Pebble Beach
15.  Chicago Golf
16.  Royal Portrush
17.  Bandon Trails
18.  Cruden Bay
19.  North Berwick
20.  Turnberry
21.  Bandon Dunes
22.  LACC
23.  Whistling Straits
24.  Calusa Pines
25.  The Dunes Club

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Rob Rigg on December 19, 2009, 12:01:04 AM
I can barely post a top ten that belongs in the same area code as anything that has been posted thus far - "you poopies!" as my son would say (when mom is not around).

Chapeau gents, some fantastic work!

My Limp List (I keep telling myself that I am still fairly young and there is hope for me yet)

1. Ballybunion
2. Lahinch
3. Pac Dunes
4. Old Macdonald (Yes, I only played 10 holes, but give me a break, I need all the help I can get)
5. Pasatiempo (Yes, I barely played it since it was raining so hard Noah's Ark floated by, this course is awesome!)
6. Bandon Trails
7. Bethpage Black
8. Bandon Dunes
9. Chambers Bay
10. The Summit (Ont)

I am excited about some great courses on the agenda for 2010 - I might be able to whip out twenty next year - yippee!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill_McBride on December 19, 2009, 12:08:22 AM
Just a thought - aren't we Americans truly lucky that Pacific Dunes, Bandon Dunes, Bandon Trails, Cuscowilla, Pasatiempo, and Pebble Beach are accessible even if pricey?  These courses appear on many of these lists which highlight hard to access private clubs.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bob_Huntley on December 19, 2009, 12:23:52 AM
With apologies to Gene Greco..... an addendum, Sand Hills at the top of the list, replacing Nchanga.


Bob
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Rob Rigg on December 19, 2009, 12:43:43 AM
Bill,

I think the GBI guys are lucky - almost any great course over there is in play for the public and there are often tons of wonderful courses within a small area.

I agree that Americans are lucky to have a place like Bandon Dunes where you can play (soon to be) four of the best courses on the continent in one location. BDGR is world class.

But it seems like other great publics (or semi-privates) like Pasa, Wild Horse, Chambers, Bethpage, etc. are either pricey or isolated from other courses of similar caliber. Unless you can get on a few private courses, it seems challenging to put together a one week or two week trip containing great golf at the level you can get in Ireland, England or Scotland (if that is even possible over here).

What do you think?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Pete_Pittock on December 19, 2009, 01:48:20 AM
I have revised my lists in reply 81
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Brad Fleischer on December 19, 2009, 05:08:23 AM
In no order and since I goy an email asking here goes...

Augusta National J/K  Hey I wanted to be the first .

Kingsley
cabo del sol
diente del perro
ocean course (kiawah)
carne
lahinch
enniscrone
bandon
pacific
pine needles
black mesa
ballyneal
skibereen
accc
bethpage black
crystal downs
caledonia
dunes club
koolau
world woods
belvedere
arcadia
sligo
grossingers
eugene cc
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tony_Muldoon on December 19, 2009, 06:21:54 AM
I don’t much like these threads but following by ‘the rules set at the beginning of the thread it seem the only way to get

GANTON

included is to post it with 24 others.

By region – courses I dream of my next round on.

Portrush x 2
RCD
Lahinch
Rosses Point
Rossapenna New
Pennard
Turnberry
Dornoch
Cruden Bay
TOC
TNC
North Berwick
See above
Alwoodley
Brancaster
Addington
Swinley
St Georges Hill
Woking
Hainault Forrest –composite*
Deal
Sandwich
Burnham & Berrow
Chiberta

*1-13 the lower. Tee off on 14 playing to Upper course 14 green, and then 15-18 for a magnificent finish. This is only possible on an early season twighlight.  I am only one of two people known to have played this course and the other one was extremely nervous when we did it as your tee shot on 16 must be played to the 8th fairway which I have christened ‘No Man’s land’.  At that point you have to pray no one suddenly appears on the tee for 16 Upper.  Well worth the risk IMO.  Actually the Lower nearly makes it on it's own just pipped by Sunny Old.

Is everyone who's submitted one of these carrying a nagging doubt that therir memeory is not what it should be.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Steve Lapper on December 19, 2009, 06:41:00 AM
In a top secret  :o order:


Sand Hills
Royal Melbourne (Composite & West)
Pine Valley
Cypress Point
Royal County Down
Royal Portrush
Royal Dornoch
Muirfield
St. Andrews Old Course
Royal St. Georges
Ballybunion
Oakmont
Shinnecock
NGLA
Merion
Pacific Dunes
Kingston Heath
Alisa (Turnberry)
Fishers Island
Sunningdale (Old)
Friars Head
New South Wales
Crystal Downs
San Francisco Golf Club
LACC-North

Oops...Prairie Dunes is tied with a good lot of them!!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Donnie Beck on December 19, 2009, 08:28:06 AM
1. Shinnecock
2. Fishers Island
3. NGLA   
4. Garden City
5. Maidstone
6. Newport
7. Pine Valley
8. Oakmont
9. Friar's Head
10. Los Angeles CC (North)
11. CC of Fairfield
12. Somerset Hills
13. Lookout Mountain
14. Fox Chapel
15. Mountain Lake
16. Yale
17. Bethpage Black
18. Pinehurst #2
19. Shennecossett GC
20. Boston GC
21. Atlantic
22. The Creek
23. The Knoll
24. Black Creek
25. Morris County
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: James Boon on December 19, 2009, 10:05:12 AM
Here is my list in cop out alphabetical format...

Askernish
Beau Desert
Brora
Burnham & Berrow
Castle Stuart
Cavendish
Colonial
County Louth (Baltray)
Gleneagles Kings
Golden Horseshoe
Hunstanton
Huntercombe
North Berwick
Notts (Hollinwell)
Painswick
Royal County Down
Royal Dornoch
Royal Portrush
Royal West Norfolk (Brancaster)
Saunton East
Sherwood Forest
St. Enodoc
Sutton Coldfield
Walton Heath Old
Woodhall Spa

These threads only remind me of some of the gaps in my playing experience, damn it!  ;)

Cheers,

James


Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on December 19, 2009, 10:16:20 AM
Jaeger:

Thanks ...

Frankly, I can easily make a case that their are 25 better overall course simply in the NYC metro area than either of the two layouts in Springfield.

I do agree regarding the access elements you mentioned. Tough to get on when having limited contacts. Maybe I can change that for you this year !

The Lower is a long slog for most people -- it also benefits from having hosted mega events over the years -- never hurts to have JN's name attached to your roster -- twice.

I played the Upper this year and thought what was done there works really well. I see it as the better overall architectural layout between the two. Although, I still see other layouts that are dotted throughout the greater metro area as better alternatives than either of the two at Baltusrol.

Jaeger, if you need to hook up for a game -- you can always reach me. Happy to expand the boundaries of your personal list.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott Warren on December 19, 2009, 10:21:44 AM
Here is my list in cop out alphabetical format...

Askernish
Beau Desert
Brora
Burnham & Berrow
Castle Stuart
Cavendish
Colonial
County Louth (Baltray)
Gleneagles Kings
Golden Horseshoe
Hunstanton
Huntercombe
North Berwick
Notts (Hollinwell)
Painswick
Royal County Down
Royal Dornoch
Royal Portrush
Royal West Norfolk (Brancaster)
Saunton East
Sherwood Forest
St. Enodoc
Sutton Coldfield
Walton Heath Old
Woodhall Spa

These threads only remind me of some of the gaps in my playing experience, damn it!  ;)

Cheers,

James




Nairn doesn't crack it for a spot?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: James Boon on December 19, 2009, 10:33:17 AM
Here is my list in cop out alphabetical format...

Askernish
Beau Desert
Brora
Burnham & Berrow
Castle Stuart
Cavendish
Colonial
County Louth (Baltray)
Gleneagles Kings
Golden Horseshoe
Hunstanton
Huntercombe
North Berwick
Notts (Hollinwell)
Painswick
Royal County Down
Royal Dornoch
Royal Portrush
Royal West Norfolk (Brancaster)
Saunton East
Sherwood Forest
St. Enodoc
Sutton Coldfield
Walton Heath Old
Woodhall Spa

These threads only remind me of some of the gaps in my playing experience, damn it!  ;)

Cheers,

James


Nairn doesn't crack it for a spot?


Scott,

I considered putting Nairn in the list, as I did a few others. Nairn is a good course but when I look back, its not with the same love as some of the lesser known courses such as Cavendish or Painswick.

Cheers,

James
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean Leary on December 19, 2009, 11:47:29 AM
I salute those who can post so quickly their top 25 layouts played.

I've watched the posts with interest.

Now I need to do some serious thinking and take the plunge myself.

I'd love to know from those who posted Baltusrol -- either Lower and / or Upper what makes them feel that way about the layout ?



You have been threatening to post your list for years. Just do it.  :)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on December 19, 2009, 11:58:07 AM
Sean:

Thanks ... why would anyone care ?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean Leary on December 19, 2009, 12:05:15 PM
Matt,

A) You are well traveled
B) You are very opinionated about other peoples lists when they do them.
c) See B.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on December 19, 2009, 12:08:29 PM
Sean:

Fair enough ...

suffice to say, I've listed a top 50 metro NY area a short time ago.

My overall listing doesn't vary much from the others who have traveled a good deal.

Although I do have a few surprises ... I'll think about inserting them.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Gary Slatter on December 19, 2009, 12:09:49 PM
difficult task, my 25 favourites of the ones that I have played:
1. Cypress
2. St Georges
3. Royal Aberdeen
4.Prestwick
5. Highland Links
6. The National
7. Banff
8. Royal County Down
9. Capilano
10. Ballybunion
11. St Thomas Ontario
12. Ville d'Este
13. Congressional
14. Muirfield
15. Carnoustie
16. Old Course
17. Pinehurst #8
18. Seminole
19. Cog Hill
20. Maidstone
21. Royal Dornoch
22. Shinecock
23. Turnberry Ailsa
24. Westmount
25. Canouan Island - Trump Intenational at Raffles Resort     Just moved here and the course is dramatic
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Andrew Hastie on December 19, 2009, 12:43:21 PM
My List.

Cypress Point
St Andrews (Old Course)
Royal County Down
Royal Portrush
Pacific Dunes

Royal Dornoch
Friar's Head
Kingston Heath
Royal Melbourne (East)
Royal St George's

New South Wales
Baltusrol (Lower)
Portmarnock
Olympic (Lake)
Quaker Ridge

Maidstone
Kingsbarns
Bandon Dunes
Bandon Trails
Swinley Forest

Sunningdale (New)
The Creek
Castle Stuart
Plainfield
Valderrama

What would be really cool is to play all the courses again!

Andrew
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Adkisson on December 19, 2009, 01:05:12 PM
My all Oregon USA list (due to lack of traveling much with sticks):

1. Pacific Dunes
2. Bandon Trails
3. Tetherow
4. Bandon Dunes
5. Columbia Edgewater
6. Pumpkin Ridge-Ghost Creek
7. Tokatee
8. Heron Lakes-Great Blue
9. Sunriver-Crosswater
10. Aspen Lakes
11. Bandon Crossings
12. Juniper-New
13. Quail Run
14. Oswego Lake
15. Eastmoreland
16. Riverside
17. Oregon Golf Club
18. Elkhorn Valley
19. Arrowhead
20. Gearhart Golf Links
21. OGA
22. Ocean Dunes
23. Sunriver-Meadows
24. Reserve-South
25. The Mighty Rose

Looking forward to OM being added to the top of the list.

honorable out of state mentions: Bethpage Black and Red, Chambers Bay, Troon North P & M, Dove Mountain, Coral Canyon, Entrada, Torrey N & S.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill_McBride on December 19, 2009, 01:42:30 PM
Bill,

I think the GBI guys are lucky - almost any great course over there is in play for the public and there are often tons of wonderful courses within a small area.

I agree that Americans are lucky to have a place like Bandon Dunes where you can play (soon to be) four of the best courses on the continent in one location. BDGR is world class.

But it seems like other great publics (or semi-privates) like Pasa, Wild Horse, Chambers, Bethpage, etc. are either pricey or isolated from other courses of similar caliber. Unless you can get on a few private courses, it seems challenging to put together a one week or two week trip containing great golf at the level you can get in Ireland, England or Scotland (if that is even possible over here).

What do you think?

I agree 100% with what you are saying, although I do think Pasatiempo is definitely worth $150 to play.  Pine Barrens at World Woods and its neighbor, the Dunes at Seville, were great public bargains at the 2008 Dixie Cup. 

But yes, it's hard to do a week trip with several  affordable and interesting courses in a given area if you can't mix in a private and a high-priced public.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JC Jones on December 19, 2009, 02:05:35 PM
I agree.  The ability to mix public/private is imperative for a good golf week these days.  I am planning a Ballyneal trip next summer and am looking to bookend the trip with golf.  Right now Wild Horse is tops on the list but I am struggling to find others. 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jordan Wall on December 19, 2009, 03:11:09 PM


Although I do have a few surprises ... I'll think about inserting them.

Matt,

We don't care that much.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill_McBride on December 19, 2009, 03:52:54 PM
I agree.  The ability to mix public/private is imperative for a good golf week these days.  I am planning a Ballyneal trip next summer and am looking to bookend the trip with golf.  Right now Wild Horse is tops on the list but I am struggling to find others.  

Jason, I got a lot of good advice on my Colorado Golf (en route to Ballyneal) thread last week.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on December 19, 2009, 04:16:26 PM
Jordan:

And happy holidays to you too ! :P
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jonathan Cummings on December 19, 2009, 04:29:21 PM
Okay - I'll show you mine.... :)

Steve's list is hard to beat.  From the courses I've seen I'm going to tweek his excellent list (mine are not in order [ no way PVGC is second to anything])

Sand Hills   
Royal Melbourne (Composite & West)   
Pine Valley   
Cypress Point   
Royal County Down   
Royal Portrush   Lahinch
Royal Dornoch   
Muirfield   
St. Andrews Old Course   
Royal St. Georges   
Ballybunion   
Oakmont   
Shinnecock   
NGLA   
Merion   
Pacific Dunes   
Kingston Heath   
Alisa (Turnberry)   
Fishers Island   Barnbougle
Sunningdale (Old)   
Friars Head   
New South Wales   
Crystal Downs   Chicago Golf
San Francisco Golf Club   Cape Kidnappers
LACC-North   
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Michael Dugger on December 19, 2009, 04:31:24 PM
1. Pac Dunes
2. Bandon Trails
3. Pronghorn Faz
4. Bandon Dunes
5. Barona Creek
6. Chambers Bay
7. Wine Valley
8. Tetherow
9. Pumpkin Ridge Witch Hollow
10. Pronghorn Nicklaus
11. Eugene Country Club
12. Members at Aldarra
13. Pumpkin Ridge Ghost Creek
14. Columbia Edgewater CC
15. Bandon Crossings
16. The Reserve South Course
17. Heron Lakes Great Blue
18. Juniper GC
19. Brasada Ranch
20. Aspen Lakes
21. Stone Creek
22. Sunriver Woodlands
23. Black Butte Big Meadow
24. Camas Meadows
25. Emerald Valley GC
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mike_Trenham on December 19, 2009, 04:34:56 PM
My favorite 25 in alphabetical order.


Ballybunion
Ballyneal
Bandon Trails
Carne
Eastward Ho!
Biderman
Fishers Island
Five Farms
Gulph Mills
Kirtland
Lahinch
Lancaster Country Club
Lehigh Country Club
Merion
Newport CC
Oakmont
Pacific Dunes
Pine Needles
Pine Valley
Plainfield
Portsalon
Sommerset Hills
The Old Course
TPC Sawgrass
Yeaman's Hall
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: G Jones on December 19, 2009, 06:19:06 PM
1. National Golf Links of America
2. Pine Valley
3. Shinnecock
4. Oakmont
5. Merion
6. Augusta National
7. North Berwick
8. St Andrews Old
9. The Country Club (brookline)
10. Muirfield
11. Carnoustie
12. Chicago Golf
13. Pebble Beach
14. Royal Cinque Ports
15. Walton Heath (old)
16. Peachtree
17. Bethpage (black)
18. East Lake
19. Royal Dornoch
20. Oakland Hills (south)
21. Newport CC
22. The Course at Yale
23. Pinehurst (no.2)
24. Cruden Bay
25. MPCC (shore)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JC Jones on December 19, 2009, 07:21:31 PM
I agree.  The ability to mix public/private is imperative for a good golf week these days.  I am planning a Ballyneal trip next summer and am looking to bookend the trip with golf.  Right now Wild Horse is tops on the list but I am struggling to find others. 

Jason, I got a lot of good advice on my Colorado Golf (en route to Ballyneal) thread last week.

I should read that .... :)

edit:  Ok, I read it and its all Colorado.  I'll be coming from MI and dont intend to travel that far west.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Rob Rigg on December 19, 2009, 09:57:51 PM
Bill - I agree that Pasa is worth the $150 to play ($250 out of state gets steep - but it is worth putting up the cash at least once to play it - if the weather is good) - Pasa is the best inland course I have ever played (and I could barely play it bc of the weather). That place is very special.

Seeing all of the PNW lists makes me wonder how it is possible that the courses around Seattle and Portland are so inferior to other larger cities? Maybe bc these cities were fairly small when the ODGs were putting down tracks like Riv, Cypress, SFGC, etc. in Cali and courses like Capilano, Victoria, Shaughnessy up in BC?

Almost all of the "great" courses in the PNW are outside of the big cities on the coast or in smaller towns - BDGR, Pronghorn, Tetherow, Chambers, Wine Valley, Eugene CC, - and aside from ECC, they were all built in the last 10 years. It's fascinating considering the great golfing climate here.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ash Towe on December 19, 2009, 10:03:22 PM
In no particular order:

Cypress Point
Ballyneal
Sand Hills
Pacific Dunes
SFGC
Plainfield
Muirfield
St Andrews Old
Carnoustie
Royal Birkdale
MPCC Shore
Alwoodley
Ganton
Moortown
Olympia Fields North
Cape Kidnappers
Royal Melbourne West
Royal Melbourne East
Kingston Heath
Barnbougle
National Moonah
Parkstone
Royal Lytham
Spyglass Hill
Paraparaumu

When finished and if I get the opportunity OLd MacDonald and Lost Farm could get in.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ron Csigo on December 20, 2009, 12:21:53 AM
My Top 25 Played:

1. Royal County Down
2. TOC
3. Oakmont
4. Muirfield
5. Royal Portrush (Dunluce)
6. Pebble Beach
7. Ballybunion (Old)
8. Winged Foot (West)
9. Carnoustie
10. Lahinch
11. Prairie Dunes
12. Bethpage Black
13. Carnoustie
14. Olympic Lake
15. Fishers Island
16. Pasatiempo
17. Ballyneal
18. Plainfield
19. Kingsbarns
20. Baltimore CC - Five Farms
21. Winged Foot (East)
22. Yale
23. Portmarnock
24. Quaker Ridge
25. Somerset Hills
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Arata on December 20, 2009, 12:37:02 AM
In no particular order:

Cypress Point
Prairie Dunes
Pacific Dunes
Fishers Island
Pebble Beach
Crystal Downs
Pasatiempo
Kingsley Club
Yale
Cal Club
The Old Course
Royal Dornoch
North Berwick
SFGC
Riviera
Rustic Canyon
Atlantic City
Plainfield
Pinehurst #2
Fenway
Murifield
Bethpage Black
Castle Stuart
Lawsonia Links
MPCC Shore
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ronald Montesano on December 20, 2009, 02:23:11 AM
Here's my non-entry to this pissing contest, in NPO:

Pete Dye Golf Club
Tobacco Road
Pinehurst #2
Taconic
The Orchards

(that's five...I think I can, I think I can)

Bandon Dunes
Bandon Trails
Pacific Trails
Whistling Straits Straits
Blackwolf Run River

(that's ten...I think I can, I think I can)

Blackwolf Run MV
LeatherStocking
Fox Chapel
Victoria Hills
Crag Burn

(that's fifteen...running out of gas, running out of gas)

Country Club of Buffalo
Lookout Point
Cherry Hill (ontario)
Tullymore
Southern Pines

(that's twenty...I know I can, I know I can)

The Old Course, St. Andrews
The New Course, St. Andrews
Kebo Valley
Arcadia Bluffs
Old Town Club

(that's twenty-five...might caca, I did it.)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jimmy Chandler on December 20, 2009, 02:54:06 AM
So I'm in with the group that feels like my list is quite lacking compared to some, but here goes anyway.  Hopefully I can add 1-3 worthy, world-class courses per year, starting with my Ballyneal trip in June.  My criteria is simple: what did I enjoy the most and what do I want to return to.

To start, my top two are far and away the best courses I've ever played.  Nothing else is close.

1 Pacific Dunes
2 Kingsley Club

This next group could be in any order -- and if I was lucky enough to play each of them again, I'm sure the order would change.

3 Bandon Dunes
4 Caledonia -- might deserve to be higher, only played it once at a dreadfully slow, 5+ hour pace
5 Longshadow
6 Beechtree (NLE) -- I wish I could have played it more
7 Laurel Hill
8 Athens CC
9 Pinehurst #3
10 The Mines
11 Pacific Grove Muni
12 True Blue
 
The rest of my list are probably not worthy of this thread, though many are quite fun and interesting to play, just not up to the world-class standards of most of you jet-setters:

13 Scotland Run
14 Torrey Pines North
15 Pinehurst #4
16 Devil's Knob (Wintergreen) -- site of my first round of golf
17 Shenandoah Valley Golf Club (27 holes)
18 Twin Lakes (Oaks) -- my home course
19 Raspberry Falls
20 Torrey Pines South
21 Stonewall (VA)
22 Whiskey Creek
23 Eagle's Landing (MD) -- haven't played here in years, may not actually be worthy
24 Westfields
25 Glenn Dale

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mike Wagner on December 20, 2009, 02:26:08 PM
No particular order:

Bandon
Pacific
Trails
Seattle Golf Club
Ballyneal

Cypress
Pebble
Spyglass
WFW
WFE

Chambers
Skyridge
Pumpkin
Southshore LLV
Broadmoor GC

Whistling - both
Erin Hills
Torrey Pines South
Arizona CC

Vintage
Blue Mound
The Palms
PGA West Stadium

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Chris Cupit on December 20, 2009, 02:36:49 PM
Matt--here's my Baltusrol analysis:

I think it has a really strong (if not flashy) collection of par fours, a unique and quirky finish with two terrific par 5s and I never found it a long "slog".  It plays much shorter than Winged Foot (West) and the playing cooridors are much mmore generous.  Had WF not wisely gone on their clear cutting expedition several years ago, I think it had become so overgrown that it risked being as great as it could be.  Ten years ago while I loved to compete at both courses the experience at Baltusrol was far more enjoyable and playable.  

Anyway, WF did the right thing, eliminated thousands of trees that were ruining the course and I rank it higher.  I do think Baltusrol is a fine exampe of excellent architecture as well.

My least favorite holes at Baltusrol (Lower) are #1 and #4.
#1  Converted par 5s as fours never seem to work that great.  This is a bit of a slog up the hill.
#2  Terrific driving hole to the plateau that then opens up a view into the green.  The cross bunkering simply looks good to my eye.
#3  Another good driving hole that is very difficult because you must get the ball in the fairway to have any real chance to play into that green.  Pretty backdrop with the clubhouse.
#4  Least favorite hole despite all the hype.  Worst, most out of character green on the property.  
#5  A terrific straight away par 4 with a great green set up high on the hill.  The huge oak (?) tree right behind the green is a beautiful target to aim at.  This might be heresy but would the hole be better without the old tree and with a skyline type green?  
#6  Another strong par 4.  Interesting fairway movement, great bunkering around the green that allows/demands a run up shot to get close to a front hole location.
#7  Interesting drive angle and another long to mid iron approach.  Unique wide green that is huge.  You can fall asleep and just be hapy to be putting and then realize you have a 60 footer.
#8  Night short par four that plays a bit longer than the yardage.  Anotehr well bunkered green that seems to my eye to "nestle" very well among the bunkers
#9  Good strong par 3--Tillie doesn't make many bad ones does he?
#10  I'll admit the next two holes aren't my favorites.  Another long par 4 that [plays uphill to a somewhat hidden green--OK a little bit of a snoozer
#11  Sharp dogleg.  Seems a bit out of place given the severity of the dogleg.  Fairly unique green but the drive seems poorly defined
#12  Of the three Tillie par 3s my least favorite
#13  Really intersting drive over the angled creek.  Many options off the tee and yet another shot into a green that seems perfectly nestled into its surrounds.
#14  Good, straightish par 4 with some interesting green movement--another good driving hole.
#15  The second shot on this par 4 reminds me of #5 a bit.  Crowned and elevated green that makes it play very small.  I really like #5 and #15 greens.
#16  Pretty downhill par three surrounded by sand.  With the elevation change I don't mind the approach requiring one to carry the ball onto the green.  Just another ho hum, terrific Tillie par 3 (I mean that as a compliment)
#17-#18  Unique and quirky finish with two really great par 5s.  The sahara hazard on 17 really puts pressure on hitting the fairway when coming out of the narow chute of trees.  Elevated green with the massive oak (from #5 green?) helps provide a backdrop on the uphill third shot.  The final hole is reachable and the creek down the left and crossing mean you have tons of choices, options and obstacles no matter where you drive the ball.

I think part of Tillinghast's genius is a course that on paper seems one dimensional (lots of long straightish par 4s) actually has 18 very unique holes that play nothing alike.  I really like the par 5 finishers and the wider playing corridors than similar "man sized" courses like WF.

I am not as well traveled as Matt but I'll stick by my choice.   :)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on December 20, 2009, 02:58:46 PM
Hi Chris:

Thanks for such a detailed reply / re: Baltusrol Lower.

I have posted below all of your top 25 courses below.

Let me say this clearly -- I am not suggestign that Baltusrol -- either of the two layouts is not worth a round for those who have not played there -- the issue is whether the Lower rises to the level of "great" status and rightly belong among the small elite number of stellar tour de force layouts.

Much of that discussion rests squarely on the portfolio of courses one has played.

I can't speak to how diverse a grouping of courses you have played but my omission of Baltusrol Lower from even a top 25 in the metro area of NYC is really about the qualities of other courses being beyond the emphasis on length for length's sake that you see at the Lower and the less than breathtaking property the course occupies.

Chris, my use of the word "slog" means more about the same pattern of shots required with a simple add-on of additional length that's been done over the years. In terms of what you find more enjoyable -- no doubt your are entitled to see BL as the better choice when held against WF/W. However, WF/W is the supreme differential type course in that it will squeeze any potential error to the surface and frankly most people don't like to be held to that high a standard in first class shotmaking. People don't love WF/W as much as other courses --- but it demands one's utter respect for the man-sized theme that Tillie provided there.

Your use of the word "excellent architecture" is clearly your opinion and I respect that. As I said at the outset such a usage is likely tagged to the sheer number / exposure to other top tier courses.

One final item -- best hole for me at The Lower -- is the 3rd. Just a great par-4 -- ditto the 6th with its turtle-top fairway falloffs.















1.  National Golf Links of America
2.  Augusta National Golf Club
3.  Royal County Down
4.  The Old Course at St. Andrews
5.  Pine Valley Golf Club
6.  Merion Golf Club
7.  Royal Dornoch
8.  Shinnecock
9.  Winged Foot (West)
10.  Camargo
11.  Walton Heath
12.  North Berwick
13.  Cuscowilla
15.  Muirfield Village (Ohio)
16.  Peachtree GC
17.  Winged Foot (East)
18.  The Honors Course (home course)
19.  The Homestead (Upper)
20.  Baltusrol (Lower)
21.  Monroe GC (Pittsford, NY)
22.  Muirfield (I have to give it another chance but I'm unimpressed thus far)
23.  Wallassey  (ugly backdrop on #1 but I had a blast there)
24.  Oak Hill (West)
25.  Rivermont (the course I own/operate)   
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Chaplin on December 20, 2009, 04:16:46 PM
Gordon Jones - You need to get out more!!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Lance Rieber on December 20, 2009, 04:55:06 PM
Hard to do but here are the best 25 I have played, have to jog some of the memory banks.  Looking at others list I am very jealous.
 Pebble Beach
Pasatiempo
Olympic
Meadow club
Bel Air
Spyglass Hill
Nanea
Bandon Dunes
Hokuli'a
Mauna Kea
Medalist
Headwaters Club
Aldarra
Crosswater
Lake Merced
Outlaw
Eisenhower(Air Force)
Stevinson Ranch
Quarry
Eugene CC
Pumpkin Ridge
Vistoso
Darkhorse
Poweder Horn

The rest , including the last couple are ones that blend in with each other

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ben Sims on December 20, 2009, 06:21:30 PM
Hard to do but here are the best 25 I have played, have to jog some of the memory banks.  Looking at others list I am very jealous.
 Pebble Beach
Pasatiempo
Olympic
Meadow club
Bel Air
Spyglass Hill
Nanea
Bandon Dunes
Hokuli'a
Mauna Kea
Medalist
Headwaters Club
Aldarra
Crosswater
Lake Merced
Outlaw
Eisenhower(Air Force)
Stevinson Ranch
Quarry
Eugene CC
Pumpkin Ridge
Vistoso
Darkhorse
Poweder Horn

The rest , including the last couple are ones that blend in with each other



Right on!!  Another mention for the Eisenhower back at The Blue Zoo. 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on December 21, 2009, 04:29:35 AM
Trawling through these posts I am acutely aware of the following.

1. I need to give Co Louth another go.  Perhaps I was too hard on the old girl.

2. Doug Sobieski has played a load of good courses and he has Wild Horse & Indianwood listed - Indianwood in particular intrigues me.  I don't have a very good memory of this course - perhaps I should try to see it again.

3. Cristian Willaert listed a fine eclectic of courses, the one which stood out was Royal Zoute.  Can anybody comment on this course and/or link me to a photo thread?

4. Andrew Bertram seems to have gotten around a bit and he listed Morfontaine.  In fact, Bob Huntley did as well.  Can anybody comment on this course and/or link me to a photo thread?

5. Pete Lavallee listed Kittanset.  This course intrigues me in the same way Myopia and Maidenhead do.  I hear about them and wonder how good they can be.  I suspect all three are just up my alley.

6. LAWSONIA - I was surprised how many people listed this course.  I have to see it one day. 

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Cristian on December 21, 2009, 04:46:50 AM
Trawling through these posts I am acutely aware of the following.

1. I need to give Co Louth another go.  Perhaps I was too hard on the old girl.

2. Doug Sobieski has played a load of good courses and he has Wild Horse & Indianwood listed - Indianwood in particular intrigues me.  I don't have a very good memory of this course - perhaps I should try to see it again.

3. Cristian Willaert listed a fine eclectic of courses, the one which stood out was Royal Zoute.  Can anybody comment on this course and/or link me to a photo thread?

4. Andrew Bertram seems to have gotten around a bit and he listed Morfontaine.  In fact, Bob Huntley did as well.  Can anybody comment on this course and/or link me to a photo thread?

5. Pete Lavallee listed Kittanset.  This course intrigues me in the same way Myopia and Maidenhead do.  I hear about them and wonder how good they can be.  I suspect all three are just up my alley.

6. LAWSONIA - I was surprised how many people listed this course.  I have to see it one day. 

Ciao


3. http://www.golfarchitecturepictures.com/Web%20Galleries/Belgium/Royal%20Zoute/index.html
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: ChipRoyce on December 21, 2009, 08:51:59 AM
Here's my top 26 - couldn't stop at 25  :)

Hope a few would stir up some disputes

1. Pine Valley

2. Royal Dornoch

3. NGLA

4. North Berwick

5. Pacific Dunes

6. Cruden Bay

7. Seminole

8. Bandon Dunes

9. Myopia Hunt

10. Bethpage Black (Pre-redesign - current would rate lower)

11. Spyglass Hill (tie)

11. Gullane #1 (tie)

13. Pebble Beach

14. Mid Ocean

15. Nairn

16. Pinehurst #2

17. Bandon Trails

18. Essex County Club

19. Riviera

20. Tobacco Road

21. Baltusrol (Lower)

22. Brora

23. Talking Stick

24. We-ko-Pa (Saguro)

25. Meadowbrook Club

26. Tain
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Chip Gaskins on December 21, 2009, 11:34:01 AM
No real internal grouping order other than Shinnecock being my favorite.

1-5
(pretty much head and shoulders above the rest)
Shinnecock Hills
Pine Valley
Cypress Point
Royal County Down
St. Andrews (Old)

5-10
Oakmont
Augusta National
National Golf Links of America
Prairie Dunes
Ballyneal

10-15
Sand Hills
Crystal Downs
Chicago
Merion (East)
Royal Portrush (Dunluce)

15-20
Ballybunion (Old)
Cal Club
Pebble Beach
Pacific Dunes
San Francisco

20-25
Pine Needles
Pasatiempo
Piping Rock
Tobacco Road
Bandon Trails
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on December 21, 2009, 11:40:39 AM
Love these lists.

Particularly the courses listed that aren't on the Top 100 lists.  Hidden gems?  Probably!!

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tim Leahy on December 21, 2009, 03:48:43 PM
It's embarrassing how much I need to see before I die.  The only redeeming thing is that 95% of this list is 2009 alone.

1. Sheep Ranch
2. Pacific Dunes
3. Crystal Downs
4. Ballyneal
5. Riviera
6. Old Macdonald (even in ten holes it's one of my fave yet.  Can't wait to see how high it'll go after all 18)
7. Pasatiempo
8. Bandon Trails
9. Kingsley Club
10. Stone Eagle
11. Lookout Mountain
12. Peachtree
13. Bandon Dunes
14. Olympic (Lake)
15. We-Ko-Pa Saguaro
16. Longshadow
17. Eisenhower Golf Club (Blue) - USAFA, CO
18.  Brackenridge Park
19.  Presidio (San Francisco)
20.  Saddle Creek
21.  The Frog
22.  The Republic (San Antonio)
23.  Haggin Oaks
24.  Pecan Valley
25.  Wildhorse (Davis, CA)


Haggin Oaks in Sacramento? Really?  :o You have to get out more, next time you are in Sacto, IM me and I can show you at least ten better courses in the area. ;D
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott Warren on December 21, 2009, 04:03:48 PM
Trawling through these posts I am acutely aware of the following.

1. I need to give Co Louth another go.  Perhaps I was too hard on the old girl.

There are some flat holes, IMO, but the likes of 3-8 and 12-16 make up for that.

Quote
3. Cristian Willaert listed a fine eclectic of courses, the one which stood out was Royal Zoute.  Can anybody comment on this course and/or link me to a photo thread?

My pic tour from here: http://golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,39403.0/

My review from my blog: http://theglobalgolfer.blogspot.com/2009/04/royal-zoute.html
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Andrew Mitchell on December 22, 2009, 12:56:50 PM
After giving it some thought, and listed on the basis that the courses within each band are interchangeable in terms of placing:

Top tier
The Old Course
Royal Dornoch
Muirfield
Royal St George's

Second tier
Ballybunion (Old)
Royal Birkdale
Ganton
Woodhall Spa
Turnberry
Carnoustie
Kingsbarns

Third tier
North Berwick
Royal Lytham & St Annes
Royal Liverpool
St Enodoc
Silloth upon Solway
Cruden Bay
Royal Cinque Ports

Fourth tier
Rye
Royal Aberdeen
Notts (Hollinwell)
Alwoodley
Nairn
Beau Desert
Goswick (Berwick upon Tweed)


Narrowly missing out
Wentworth (West)
Monte Rei
The European Club
Gullane No 1

I reserve the right to change my mind at a moment's notice!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean Leary on December 22, 2009, 01:00:26 PM
Sean:

Fair enough ...

suffice to say, I've listed a top 50 metro NY area a short time ago.

My overall listing doesn't vary much from the others who have traveled a good deal.

Although I do have a few surprises ... I'll think about inserting them.

Still waiting.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Handley on December 22, 2009, 01:34:05 PM
1. Royal County Down
2. Cypress Point
3. Muirfield
4. St. Andrews, Old Course
5. Pebble Beach
6. Turnberry Ailsa
7. Royal Portrush
8. Pacific Dunes
9. California Golf Club of San Francisco
10. Pinehurst #2
11. Riviera CC
12. Bandon Dunes
13. Royal Troon (Old)
14. Los Angeles CC (North)
15. Kingsbarns
16. Bandon Trails
17. Loch Lomond
18. San Francisco GC
19. Carnoustie
20. Portmarnock (Old)
21. Olympic Club (Lake Course)
22. Whistling Straits (Straits)
23. Cabo Del Sol (Ocean)
24. Nanea
25. Pumpkin Ridge (Witch Hollow)

Honorable Mentions:
Spyglass Hill
TPC Stadium Course
Blackwolf Run (River Course)
Shadow Creek
Vaquero
Kapalua Plantation
Princeville (Prince Course)
North Berwick
Maidstone
Homestead Cascades
Arcadia Bluffs
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jeff Spittel on December 22, 2009, 01:58:20 PM
This is depressing. I need to get out of the office more.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Phil McDade on December 22, 2009, 02:07:29 PM
This is depressing. I need to get out of the office more.

Or lower your standards...
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Roger Wolfe on December 22, 2009, 02:24:48 PM

25 Glenn Dale


All hail mighty Glenn Dale.  Played it 1,000 times in the early 90's.  Loved it and should have put it on my list!  Can you still
hit your tee shot over the driving range on #18?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jeff Spittel on December 22, 2009, 02:52:48 PM
This is depressing. I need to get out of the office more.

Or lower your standards...

I play every weekend thanks to the wonderful winter climate in SE Texas. Not exactly a hot bed of world class tracks though.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Phil McDade on December 22, 2009, 03:39:54 PM
This is depressing. I need to get out of the office more.

Or lower your standards...

I play every weekend thanks to the wonderful winter climate in SE Texas. Not exactly a hot bed of world class tracks though.

Jeff:

I'm pretty sure my list has a higher unknown-to-known ratio of any posted on this thread. But I tend to revel in the less-seen, the less-revered, the less-traveled. Listing Pine Valley on this kind of thread is on the order of sun-rising-in-the-East. "Really? I wasn't aware of Pine Valley's virtues as a golf course..."

Tell us about your East Texas courses; I'd love to hear about them. Even played Texarkana? It's a little-known Langford, I believe.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jason Topp on December 22, 2009, 04:05:43 PM


. . .  Even played Texarkana? It's a little-known Langford, I believe.

Phil - I created this thread after I played there

http://golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,17134.msg301447/topicseen/#msg301447

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Moore II on December 22, 2009, 06:07:41 PM
ChipRoyce: You have a real good list of courses there, but Pinehurst #1? Given the other really top level courses on your list, can I assume you listing #1 as a top 25 means you haven't played #2?? Because I can't say I'd rate #1 anywhere near #2, and I've played them both.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt MacIver on December 22, 2009, 06:36:22 PM
Here are mine...loosely grouped...five US privates so not the best list, just the ones that I've played and think IMHO are the best of the bunch and/or I would want to play firstly again:

Kingsbarns (Philips)
Pacific Dunes (Doak)
TOC (nature)
Bandon Trails (Coore & Crenshaw)
Turnberry (MacKenzie, Steele)

Bethpage Black (Tillinghast)
#2 (Ross)
Black Mesa (Spann)
Mid-Pines (Ross)
Prestwick (OTM)

Gleneagles - Kings (Braid)
Musgrove Mill (Palmer/Seay, local)
Pine Needles (Ross)
Tobacco Road (Strantz)
Carnoustie (Braid, OTM, Robertson)

Troon (various)
Ocean Course (Dye)
Mayacama (Nicklaus)
TPC Sawgrass  (Dye)
Harbour Town (Dye)

Bandon Dunes (Kidd)
Cassique (Watson)
Devil's Paintbrush (Hurdzin & Frye)
Quail Hollow (Cobb, Fazio)
Charlotte CC (Ross, Spence)

Just missed:
#4 (Ross)
Western Gailes (Morris et al)
Red Sky - Norman
The River Course (Fazio)
Paa-Ko Ridge (Ken Dye)
Old North State (Fazio)
Bulle Rock (Fazio)
Secession (Dye, Devlin)
Arrowhead (RTJ Jr)
PB Dye (PB Dye)
Paiute - Sun (Dye)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: ChipRoyce on December 22, 2009, 07:04:33 PM
ChipRoyce: You have a real good list of courses there, but Pinehurst #1? Given the other really top level courses on your list, can I assume you listing #1 as a top 25 means you haven't played #2?? Because I can't say I'd rate #1 anywhere near #2, and I've played them both.

Thanks John for pointing that out - was certainly a typo - meant #2
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on December 22, 2009, 08:04:38 PM
Chip:

Curious to know if you have played Shinnecock ... didn't see it listed.

Why the love for Baltusrol ?

Have you played Plainfield or Ridgewood or either of the two at Winged Foot ?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sven Nilsen on December 22, 2009, 09:42:07 PM
First time poster, thought this would be an appropriate way to jump into the mess.

RCD
Ballybunion
Lahinch
Portmarnock
Pebble Beach
Spyglass
Yale
Sleepy Hollow
East Lake
Harbour Town
Butler
Beverly
Skokie
Olympia Fields (North)
Pac Dunes
Bandon Dunes
Bandon Trails
Whistling Straits
Blackwolf Run (River)
The Ocean Course
Erin Hills
Kingsley Club
Wild Horse
Glen Mills
Thunderhawk

Honorable Mention:  Doonbeg, Cog Hill, Arcadia Bluffs, Kiawah River, Warren Course, Lakota Canyon, Bayside, Teddy Rhodes (Nashville)

Would love to be able to add Chicagoland's most exclusive course to the list, but am not quite sure how access to the RJ is obtained.


Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ed Oden on December 22, 2009, 10:04:11 PM
Matt Ward, why the fixation with Baltusrol?  Is it not reasonable that either or both of the Lower and/or Upper would be on someone's top 25 courses played?  Did you see any list where you felt Baltusrol was grossly misplaced in the context of the other courses listed?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Steve Lang on December 22, 2009, 10:15:49 PM
 8) in no particular order other than temporal

before 2001 (gca.com)

Ottawa Park
Inverness
TOC
Ganton
The Elks at Southern Pines
Pine Needles
Tobacco Road
Black Forest
High Pointe
Oak Tree

post 2001 gca.com
Whispering Pines (Trinity, TX)
Blaketree (when it was sweet)
Black Mesa
Tot Hill
Kingsley
Paa-Ko Ridge
Banff Springs
Jasper
Rustic Canyon
Bakersfield CC
Barona Creek
Greywalls
Champions
Wild Horse
Ballyneal
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Colton on December 22, 2009, 10:38:02 PM
Sven,
Welcome to the board. Are you referring to Rich Harvest?  I doubt it'd make your top 25.

First time poster, thought this would be an appropriate way to jump into the mess.

RCD
Ballybunion
Lahinch
Portmarnock
Pebble Beach
Spyglass
Yale
Sleepy Hollow
East Lake
Harbour Town
Butler
Beverly
Skokie
Olympia Fields (North)
Pac Dunes
Bandon Dunes
Bandon Trails
Whistling Straits
Blackwolf Run (River)
The Ocean Course
Erin Hills
Kingsley Club
Wild Horse
Glen Mills
Thunderhawk

Honorable Mention:  Doonbeg, Cog Hill, Arcadia Bluffs, Kiawah River, Warren Course, Lakota Canyon, Bayside, Teddy Rhodes (Nashville)

Would love to be able to add Chicagoland's most exclusive course to the list, but am not quite sure how access to the RJ is obtained.



Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean Leary on December 22, 2009, 10:42:44 PM
Sven,
Welcome to the board. Are you referring to Rich Harvest?  I doubt it'd make your top 25.

First time poster, thought this would be an appropriate way to jump into the mess.

RCD
Ballybunion
Lahinch
Portmarnock
Pebble Beach
Spyglass
Yale
Sleepy Hollow
East Lake
Harbour Town
Butler
Beverly
Skokie
Olympia Fields (North)
Pac Dunes
Bandon Dunes
Bandon Trails
Whistling Straits
Blackwolf Run (River)
The Ocean Course
Erin Hills
Kingsley Club
Wild Horse
Glen Mills
Thunderhawk

Honorable Mention:  Doonbeg, Cog Hill, Arcadia Bluffs, Kiawah River, Warren Course, Lakota Canyon, Bayside, Teddy Rhodes (Nashville)

Would love to be able to add Chicagoland's most exclusive course to the list, but am not quite sure how access to the RJ is obtained.




The Reverse Jans of course.

Jim did you see that you made Jason Sobels column on ESPN about best courses played in 2009? Assuming you did, but if you didn't.....
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Colton on December 22, 2009, 10:58:41 PM
Sean,

Ahh. reverse Jans. Completely over my head.

I did see Sobel's column. Pretty cool.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Kevin Cahoon on December 23, 2009, 12:10:38 AM
First time poster.

Shore Acres
Prairie Dunes
Muirfield
Old Course
Prestwick
Austin Golf Club
Loch Lomond
Flossmoor Country Club
Bandon Trails
Lawsonia Links Course
Western Gailes
Pacific Dunes
Leven Links
Medinah #3
Bandon Dunes
Harrison Hills
Kittansett
Olympia Fields North
Cumaquid
Blackwolf Run River
Kingsbarns
Royal Troon
Turnberry Ailsa
North Shore CC Glenview IL
The Fort Indianapolis

 


Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sven Nilsen on December 23, 2009, 12:57:57 PM
Sean,

Ahh. reverse Jans. Completely over my head.

I did see Sobel's column. Pretty cool.

Jim:

Thanks for the welcome.  As Sean deciphered, I was referring to the course in Evanston that appears to be open only one day a year.  Although RHF does appear to be a wonderful course, the RJ may stand alone in the world of golf as a singular experience.

Sven
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jeff Spittel on December 23, 2009, 12:58:11 PM
This is depressing. I need to get out of the office more.

Or lower your standards...

I play every weekend thanks to the wonderful winter climate in SE Texas. Not exactly a hot bed of world class tracks though.

Jeff:

I'm pretty sure my list has a higher unknown-to-known ratio of any posted on this thread. But I tend to revel in the less-seen, the less-revered, the less-traveled. Listing Pine Valley on this kind of thread is on the order of sun-rising-in-the-East. "Really? I wasn't aware of Pine Valley's virtues as a golf course..."

Tell us about your East Texas courses; I'd love to hear about them. Even played Texarkana? It's a little-known Langford, I believe.

Phil,

I live in Houston, which has some pretty respectable, under the radar courses. There aren't many golden age designs, but there are some fun tracks.

My home club is BraeBurn, which was originally a Bredemus design. From what I understand, the Carlton Gipson reworked the course fairly dramatically during the 1991 redesign.

Another local favorite is Westwood, which is an amalgam of Bredemus, Plummer and Keith Foster work. Memorial Park is another great place to play and apparently much of Bredemus' original work is fairly intact.

I've never made it up to Texarkana but I've heard good things.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Chaplin on December 23, 2009, 02:49:22 PM
Welcome Kevin! I'll be interested to see if your list is different this time next year.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: ChipRoyce on December 23, 2009, 03:43:32 PM
Chip:

Curious to know if you have played Shinnecock ... didn't see it listed.

Why the love for Baltusrol ?

Have you played Plainfield or Ridgewood or either of the two at Winged Foot ?

Hi Matt;
I marshalled at the '94 open @ Shinnecock, but didn't play it (and left it off the list). Not having played, I don't want to venture a place on the list. As for the 4 courses you listed, no haven't played but would love to. I grew up @ Southward Ho (nice Tillinghast) on Long Island and always enjoyed his designs - wish I saw more of them.
As for Baltusrol - was one of my first GCA tracks - liked it a lot but just doesn't sit as high as some of the others. Are you surprised I have it lower down my list?






Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on December 23, 2009, 03:49:54 PM
So when is the much mythologized 2010 RJ Open? :)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Kevin Cahoon on December 23, 2009, 06:30:21 PM
Welcome Kevin! I'll be interested to see if your list is different this time next year.


Mark,

Thanks for the welcome. I am sure my list will look differently in a years time. One of the joys of golf, for me, is exploring an array of courses.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ronald Montesano on December 23, 2009, 07:25:07 PM
This thread is my jumping-off point for 2010.  I want to add to my top 25 courses.  That would be a subsequent step to this thread:  which would be your bottom five courses that would drop off first?  I imagine that, for all but a few, this is a fairly succinct process.  My bottom five would depend on the mood I was in.  For now, I would drop Tullymore, Southern Pines, Arcadia Bluffs, Victoria Hills and Cherry Hill
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Steve Lang on December 23, 2009, 07:37:49 PM
 8)  Jeff S.

it was Carlton Gibson...

are you ready to ride with the 30th Parallel Gang?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Cory Lewis on December 23, 2009, 07:58:07 PM
Wow, reading this thread I'm shocked by how much my list looks like other peoples.  These courses must be that good if so many agree:

Royal Dornoch
Royal County Down
Cypress Point
Pebble Beach
Royal Portrush
St. Andrews
Fishers Island
North Berwick
NGLA
Bandon Dunes
San Francisco
Kingsley
Pinehurst No.2
Bethpage Black
Friar's Head
Crystal Downs
Merion
Garden City
Shinnecock
Oakmont
Pacific Dunes
Camargo
Maidstone
TPC at Sawgrass
Meadow Club
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: David Egan on December 24, 2009, 04:38:21 PM
First time poster, thought this would be an appropriate way to jump into the mess.

RCD
Ballybunion
Lahinch
Portmarnock
Pebble Beach
Spyglass
Yale
Sleepy Hollow
East Lake
Harbour Town
Butler
Beverly
Skokie
Olympia Fields (North)
Pac Dunes
Bandon Dunes
Bandon Trails
Whistling Straits
Blackwolf Run (River)
The Ocean Course
Erin Hills
Kingsley Club
Wild Horse
Glen Mills
Thunderhawk

Honorable Mention:  Doonbeg, Cog Hill, Arcadia Bluffs, Kiawah River, Warren Course, Lakota Canyon, Bayside, Teddy Rhodes (Nashville)

Would love to be able to add Chicagoland's most exclusive course to the list, but am not quite sure how access to the RJ is obtained.




Sven, I see no reason why we can't run out and play the Reverse Jans sometime this winter.  Seems like a good February project.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Robert Thompson on December 24, 2009, 05:01:58 PM
In no order:

1 Highlands Links
2St. George's
3Royal St. George's
4Royal Dornoch
5Old Course
6Kingsbarns
7Muirfield
8Turnberry
9Carnoustie
10Merion
11Pine Valley
12Cypress Point
13Pebble Beach
14Pacific Dunes
15NGLA
16Shinnecock
17Friar's Head
18 Royal County Down
19 Royal Portrush
20 Portmarnock
21 Pinehurst No. 2
22 Seminole
23 Oakland Hills
24 Sunningdale Old
25 Cruden Bay
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Phil McDade on December 24, 2009, 05:37:06 PM
So when is the much mythologized 2010 RJ Open? :)

Stay tuned; my advice is to watch the board and keep a flexible schedule these next few weeks...

Weather lately has been promising; a torrential mid-winter rainstorm is getting rid of most of the snow that had been covering the course.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Steve Lang on December 26, 2009, 12:46:01 AM
 8) Jim C..  here's some accounting for you.. over 700 courses cited by folks, (though probably some bogies)

Accc
Addington
Aldarra
Alwoodley
Applebrook
Arcadia Bluffs
Arizona CC
Aronomink
Arrowhead
Askernish
Aspen Lakes
Athens CC
Atlantic
Atlantic City
Augusta National Golf Club
Augustine Golf Club Circa 2000
Austin Country Club
Austin Golf Club
Bakersfield CC
Balcomie Links At Crail
Ballybunion
Ballybunion (Old)  
Ballyliffin
Ballyliffin Old
Ballyneal
Baltimore Cc Five Farms
Baltusrol (Lower)
Baltustrol
Bandon Crossings
Bandon Dunes (Kidd)
Bandon Trails (Coore & Crenshaw)
Banff Springs
Barefoot Resort (Dye Club) / North Myrtle Beach, Sc / Pete Dye
Barnbougle Dunes Tom Doak, Bridport Australia
Barona Creek
Barona Valley
Barton Creek Canyons  
Barton Creek Foothills  
Barton Hills
Bayonne
Bear Mountain Mountain Course, Victoria, Bc, Can (J Nicklaus & S Nicklaus 0
Beau Desert
Beaver Island State Park
Beechtree (NLE)
Belair
Belgrade Lakes
Belvedere
Berkeley Hallsouth  
Bethpage Black (Pre-Redesign - Current Would Rate Lower)
Beverly
Biderman
Bighorn Canyons
Bigwin Island, Baysville, On, Can (D Carrick 0
Black Butte Big Meadow
Black Creek
Black Forest
Black Mesa (Spann)
Black Rock Golf Club
Black Sheep
Blackhawk CC
Blackwolf Run Mv
Blackwolf Run River
Blackwolf Run The Composite Course
Blaketree (When It Was Sweet)
Blue Mound Golf & Cc (Raynor)
Boat Of Garten
Boston Golf Club
Brackenridge Park
Brancaster
Brantford Gcc, Brantford, On, Can (S Thompson 0)
Brasada Ranch
Brentwood CC
Briggs Ranch  
Brighton Park Muni
Broadmoor GC
Brookside Golf & Cc (Columbus)
Brora
Brown Deer Park
Bryan Park (Champions)
Buenos Aires Country Club
Bulls Bay
Bully Pulpit
Burlington Gcc, Burlington, On, Can (S Thompson )
Burnham & Berrow
Butler
Cabo Del Sol
Cabo Del Sol (Ocean)
CAJUILES (Teeth Of The Dog)
Cal Club
Caledonia G&Fc / Pawleys Island, Sc / Mike Strantz
California CC
California Club
California Golf Club Of San Francisco
Callaway Gardens Resort (Mountain View) / Pine Mountain, Ga / Dick Wilson
Calusa Pines
Camargo
Camas Meadows
Cambrian Ridge
Camp Creek  
Canouan Island Trump Intenational At Raffles Resort     Just Moved Here And The Course Is Dramatic
Cape Kidnappers
Capilano
Capitol Hill Judge
Carlton Woods - Fazio  
Carne
Carnoustie (Braid, Otm, Robertson)
Carolina Golf Club
Casa De Campo (Dye's Teeth Of The Dog)
Cassique (Watson)
Castle Stuart
Cavendish
CC Of Detroit
CC Of Fairfield
CC Of Farmington / Farmington, CT / Devereux Emmet
CC of NC (Dogwood)
Chambers Bay
Champions
Champions Jack Rabbit  
Charlotte Cc (Ross, Spence)
Cherry Hill (Ontario)
Chiberta
Chicago
Chicago GC
Circling Raven
Cog Hill Dubsdread, Lemont, Il (D Wilson & J Lee )
Colonial
Columbia Cc (Original ) / Blythewood, Sc / Ellis Maples
Columbia Edgewater
Congressional
Congressional Blue
Couer D'alene Cc
Country Club Estates
Country Club Of Buffalo
County Louth
County Louth (Baltray)
County Sligo
Crag Burn
Craighead
Crail (Balcomie)
Crail Golfing Society / Crail, Scotland / Old Tom Morris
Creekside Golf & Bowling Center (Later Closed Due To Toxic Waste)
Crooked Stick
Crosswater At Suriver
Crowbush Cove
Cruden Bay
Crystal Downs Alister Mackenzie, Perry Maxwell, Frankfort, Mich Us
Cullen
Cumaquid
Cuscowilla On Lake Oconee / Eatonton, GA / Bill Coore And Ben Crenshaw
Cypress
Cypress Point Alister Mackenzie, Pebble Beach, Calif Us
Dallas National  
Darkhorse
De Pan
Deacon's Lodge
Deal
Desert Forest
Devil's Knob (Wintergreen) Site Of My First Round Of Golf
Devil's Paintbrush (Hurdzin & Frye)
Devil's Pulpit, Caledon Village, On, Can (Dr M Hurdzan & D Fry
Diamond Creek
Diente Del Perro
Dooks
Doonbeg
Doral Gc (Blue Monster) / Miami, Fl / Dick Wilson
Dornoch
Duke GC / Durham, NC / Robert Trent Jones, Sr, Then Rees Jones
Duke Golf Club
Dunaverty
Dunes Club
Eagle Bend
Eagle Point
Eagle's Landing (MD) Haven't Played Here In Years, May Not Actually Be Worthy
Eagles Mere
Eagles Nest, Maple, On, Can (D Carrick 0
East Lake
Eastmoreland
Eastward Ho!
Eden (St Andrews)
Eindhoven
Eisenhower Golf Club (Blue) Usafa, Co
El Saler
Elkhorn Valley
Elma Meadows County Golf Course
Emerald Valley Gc
Enniscrone
Erin Hills
Escondido  
Essex County Country Club
Eugene Country Club
European Club
Fenway
Fishers Island
Five Farms
Flint Hills National  
Flossmoor Country Club
Fontainebleau
Forest Creek (North)
Forest Dunes
Fort Ord Bayonet Old
Four Seasons Nevis
Fox Chapel
Fox Chapel
Foxfire (Original)
Franklin Hills
Fraserburgh
French Creek
French Lick Springs Hill
Friar's Head Bill Coore, Ben Crenshaw, 00 Baiting Hollow, Ny Us
Galloway
Ganton
Garden City Golf Club
Gearhart Golf Links
Gillette Ridge Golf Club / Bloomfield, Ct / Arnold Palmer
Glen Abbey Gc, Oakville, On, Can (J Nicklaus )
Glen Club  
Glen Mills
Gleneagles Kings (Braid)
Glenn Dale
Gold Moutain Olympic Course
Golden Horseshoe
Golden Horseshoe Gold
Goswick (Berwick Upon Tweed)
Gozzer Ranch
Grayhawk (Talon)
Greenbrier
Greenbrier Old White
Greywalls
Grosse Ill Country Club (Detroit Donald Ross)
Grossingers
Gullane #
Gulph Mills
Haagsche
Haggin Oaks
Hainault Forrest -Composite*
Hammock Beach Ocean Course, Palm Coast, Fl (J Nicklaus 00
Harbour Town (Dye)
Harbourtown
Harding Park Golf Course
Harrison Hills
Hartford Gc / West Hartford, Ct / Donald Ross
Hawktree
Hazeltine Nat'l
Headwaters Club
Heron Lakes Great Blue
Hidden Creek
Hidden Glen At Bentdale Farms
High Pointe
Highland Links Stanley Thompson, Ingonish Beach, Nova Scotia Canada
Hillcrest
Hokuli'a
Holston Hills Country Club
Homestead (Cascades)
Honors Course
Hoylake
Hunstanton
Huntercombe
Huntingdon Valley
Idaho Club
Indian Canyon
Indianwood (Old)
Industry Hills (Ike)
Interlachen
Inverallochy
Inverness
Island
Jack Nicklaus Promontory
Jasper Park
Jeremy Golf Club
Juniper GC
Juniper New
Jupiter Hills
Kampen
Kapalua (Plantation)
Karsten Creek  
Kebo Valley
Kennemer
Kenosha Cc (Ross)
Kettle Moraine
Kiawah Island (Ocean)      TPC Sawgrass        Casa De Campo (Totd)      Olympic (Lake)        Ballyneal
Kingsbarns
Kingsbarns (Philips)
Kingsley Club
Kingston Heath Des Soutar, Alister Mackenzie, Melbourne Australia
Kinloch
Kirtland Country Club
Kittansett
Koolau
La Purisima
La Quinta Resort (Mountain)
Lacc North
Ladybank
Lahinch
Lake Merced Gc
Lakota Canyon
Lancaster
Lancaster Country Club
Laurel Hill
Lawsonia Links Course
Leatherstocking
Lehigh Country Club
Leven Links
Links Of ND
Loch Lomond
Long Cove
Longshadow
Lookout Mountain
Lookout Point Cc, Fonthill, On, Can (W Travis )
Los Angeles Country Club (North)
Lost Dunes
Lundin
Lundin GC / Leven, Scotland / Old Tom Morris, Then James Braid
Machrihanish
Maderas
Mahoney's Point  (Killarney)
Maidstone
Mar Del Plata
Mauna Kea
Mayacama (Nicklaus)
Meadow Club
Meadowbrook Club
Meadows At Grand Valley St U
Medalist
Medinah No
Members At Aldarra
Merion (East) Hugh Wilson, Ardmore, Pa Us
Merion West
Mid Ocean
Mid Pines (Ross)
Mid South
Milwaukee
Mimosa Hills
Mission Inn El Campeon
Monroe Gc (Pittsford, Ny)
Monterey Peninsula Cc - Dunes
Monterey Pennisula Cc - Shore Course
Montreaux
Moortown
Moose Run (River)
Morfontaine
Morris County
Mountain Lake
Mountaintop
Muirfield Old Tom Morris, Hs Colt, Gullane Scotland
Muirfield Village (Dublin, Ohio)
Murphy Creek
Musgrove Mill (Palmer/Seay, Local)
Muskoka Bay Gc, Gravenhurst, On, Can (D Carrick 00)
Myopia Hunt Club
Nairn
Nanea
National Golf Links Of America CB Macdonald, Southampton, NY US
National Moonah
Nchanga
Ncsu Lonnie Poole
New Course St Andrews
New South Wales  
Newport CC / Newport, RI / William Davis, Then Donald Ross, Then AW Tillinghast
Noordwijk
North Berwick
North Berwick West
North Ranch Cc
North Shore Cc Glenview Il
Notts (Hollinwell)
Oak Hill (East)
Oak Hill (West)
Oak Tree
Oakland Hills
Oakland Hills (South)
Oakmont Cc, Oakmont, Pa (H Fownes
Ocean Course At Kiawah
Ocean Dunes
Ocotillo Golf Resort
Oga
Ohio State Scarlet
Old Hickory
Old Macdonald (Even In Ten Holes It's One Of My Fave Yet  Can't Wait To See How High It'll Go After All 1)
Old Silo
Old Tabby Links
Old Town
Old Town Club
Old Works
Olympia Fields North
Olympic
Olympic Club (Lake Course)
Olympic Lake ?
Onwentsia
Orchard Lake Cc
Oregon Golf Club
Osprey Point  
Osprey Valley Heathlands, Caledon, On, Can (D Carrick )
Osprey Valley Hoot (Wasteland), Caledon, On, Can (D Carrick 0
Oswego Lake
Ottawa Park
Otter Creek
Outlaw
Oviinbyrd, Footsbay, ON, CAN (T Mcbroom 0
Ozaukee CC
Paako Ridge
Pacific
Pacific Dunes (Doak)
Pacific Grove Muni
Pacific Trails
Painswick
Paiute Wolf
Palmetto Gc / Aiken, Sc / Alister Mackenzie
Palos Verdes Gc
Paraparaumu
Paraparaumu Beach
Park Ridge
Parkstone
Pasatiempo
Pawleys Plantation G&Cc / Pawleys Island, Sc / Jack Nicklaus
Peachtree GC
Pebble Beach Golf Links, Jack Neville, Douglas Grant, Pebble Beach, Calif Us
Pecan Valley
Pelican Hill (South Before Renovations)
Pelican Hill North
Peninsula Park (Wisconsin)
Penn National Founders
Pennard
Pete Dye Golf Club
Pete Dye Promontory
Peterhead
Pga (Dye)
Pga National Champion
Pga West (Stadium)
Pine Hills Country Club (Wi)
Pine Needles (Ross)
Pine Valley  George Crump, Hs Colt, Pine Valley, Nj Us
Pinehills Nicklaus
Pinehurst
Pinehurst (No2 ) Donald Ross, 0 Pinehurst, Nc Us
Pinehurst, Nc / Tom Fazio
Piping Rock
Plainfield
Point O'woods
Poppy Hills
Portland Golf Club
Portmarnock
Portmarnock (Old)
Portrush (Dunluce)
Portrush X
Portsalon
Portsmouth
Portstewart
Powder Horn
Prairie Dunes
Prairie Green
Presidio (San Francisco)
Preston Trails
Prestwick Tom Morris, Prestwick, Scotland
Primland
Princeville Prince Course, Princeville, Hi (R Trent Jones Jr
Pronghorn (Fazio)
Pronghorn Nicklaus
Pumpkin
Pumpkin Ridge (Witch Hollow)
Pumpkin Ridge Ghost Creek
Pumpkin Ridge Witch Hollow
Purgatory
Quail Hollow (Cobb, Fazio)
Quail Hollow Club
Quail Run
Quaker Ridge
Quarry
Rancho Murieta Ccnorth
Rancho San Marcos
Rancho Sante Fe Gc
Raspberry Falls
Raven At So Mt
Red Tail
Redlands Mesa
Reserve South
Reynolds Plantation National  
Ridgewood
River Course  
Riverfront
Rivermont (The Course I Own/Operate)  
Riverside
Riviera Cc, George C Thomas, Jr, Bill Bell Sr, Pacific Palisades, Calif Us
Roaring Gap
Robert Trent Jones
Rock Creek Cattle Club
Rolling Green
Rosedale Gcc, Toronto, On, Can (D Ross )
Rossapenna New
Rosses Point
Royal Aberdeen
Royal Adelaide
Royal Birkdale
Royal Cinque Ports
Royal County Down Old Tom Morris, Newcastle N Ireland
Royal Dornoch Old Tom Morris, Dornoch Scotland
Royal Liverpool
Royal Lytham & St Annes
Royal Melbourne (Composite)
Royal Melbourne (East)
Royal Melbourne (West) Alister Mackenzie, Melbourne Australia
Royal New Kent
Royal Porthcawl
Royal Portrush   Lahinch
Royal Portrush (Dunluce) Hs Colt, Portrush N Ireland
Royal St George's
Royal Troon
Royal Troon (Old)
Royal West Norfolk (Brancaster)
Royal Zoute
Rtj
Rustic Canyon
Rye
Saddle Creek
Sagebrush Golf & Sporting Club, Quilchena, Bc, Can (R Whitman, R Zokol & A Suny 00)
San Francisco Gc, A W Tillinghast, San Francisco, Calif Us
San Gabriel
Sanctuary Golf Course
Sand Hills
Sand Hollow
Sand Ridge (Cleveland)
Sandpiper
Sandpiper
Sandwich
Saucon Valley Old
Saucon Valley Weyhill
Saunton East
Scioto Country Club
Scotland Run
Scotscraig Gc / Tayport, Scotland / James Braid
Sea Island (Seaside)
Seattle Golf Club
Sebonac
Seminole Donald Ross, Juno Beach, Fla Us
Shadow Creek
Shaker Hills (Ma)
Sheep Ranch
Shelter Harbor GC / Charlestown, RI / Mike Hurdzan And Dana Fry
Shenandoah Valley Golf Club ( Holes)
Shennecossett Gc / Groton, Ct / Donald Ross
Sheridan Park Muni
Sherwood Country Club
Sherwood Forest
Shinnecock Hills William Flynn, Southampton, Ny Us
Shiskine At Blackwaterfoot
Shoreacres
Silloth Upon Solway
Skibereen
Skokie
Skyridge
Sleepy Hollow
Sleepy Hollow (Post Restoration)
Sligo
Somerset Hills
South Mountain
Southern Dunes
Southern Pines Cc (The Elks Club , Ross)
Southshore LLV
Spanish Bay
Spring Valley
Springdale GC
Spyglass Hill
St Andrews (Old) / St Andrews, Scotland / Mother Nature, Then Old Tom Morris
St Andrews Beach
St Enodoc
St George's
St George's Hill
St Thomas Gcc, Union, On, Can (S Thompson )
Stanford
Stanford (Prechanges)
Stevinson Ranch
Stone Creek
Stone Eagle
Stonebriar Fazio  
Stonewall (VA)
Sultan's Run
Sunningdale (Old) / Surrey, England / Willie Park, Jr
Sunningdale New
Sunriver Crosswater
Sunriver Meadows
Sunriver Woodlands
Sunset Ridge Cc (Northfield)
Sutton Bay
Sutton Coldfield
Swinley Forest
Taboo, Gravenhurst, On, Can (R Garl 0
Taconic
Tain
Talking Stick North
Talking Stick South
Tanglewood Park (Championship) / Clemmons, Nc / Robert Trent Jones, Sr
Tetherow
Thanksgiving Point
The Addington
The Berkshire Red
The Bull At Pinehurst Farms
The Challenge At Manele
The Cliffs At Lake Keowee / Ninety Six, SC / Tom Fazio
The Club At Strawberry Creek (WI)
The Country Club (Brookline)
The Country Club (Ma)
The Creek
The Dunes Club
The Farms Gc
The Fort Indianapolis
The Frog
The Golf Club
The Golf Club Of Oklahoma  
The Golf House Club, Elie / Elie, Scotland / Old Tom Morris
The Governors Club / Chapel Hill, Nc / Jack Nicklaus
The Grand Del Mar
The Greenbrier (Greenbrier) / White Sulphur Springs, Wv / Jack Nicklaus
The Greenbrier (Old White) / White Sulphur Springs, WV / Seth Raynor, Then Lester George
The Hideout
The Homestead (Upper Cascades) / Hot Springs, VA / William Flynn, Fixed Up By Wayne Morrison And Tom Paul
The Honors Course (Home Course)
The Island (Dublin)
The Knoll
The Machrie
The Members Club At Aldarra
The Mighty Rose
The Mines
The National
The National  (Australia)
The Neuse
The New Course, St Andrews
The Orchards
The Palms
The Preserve
The President  (Eagle)
The Ranch Gc / Southwick, Ma / Damian Pascuzzo
The Republic (San Antonio)
The Reserve South Course
The Reserve Vineyards (South)
The Reverse Jans ( Of Course, Fertile Minds)
The Sagamore (In)
The Shattuck
The Summit (Ont)
Thunderhawk
Tidewater
Tnc
Tobacco Road Gc / Sanford, Nc / Mike Strantz
Tobiano, Kamloops, BC, CAN (T Mcbroom 00)
Tokatee
Torrey Pines North
Torrey Pines South
Tot Hill
TPC At Sawgrass
Tpc San Francisco Stonebrae
Tpc Sawgrass  (Dye)
Tpc Scottsdale
Tpc Stadium Course
Traigh
Trails
Troon (Various)
Troon North Pinnacle
Trophy Club
True Blue Plantation / Pawleys Island, Sc / Mike Strantz
Trump National: Bedminster Nj
Tullymore
Turnberry (Ailsa) Willie Fernie, 0 Mackenzie Ross, Turnberry Scotland
Turnberry (Mackenzie, Steele)
Turtle Bay Palmer
Twin Lakes (Oaks) My Home Course
Twin Warriors
U Of New Mexico
University Of Michigan Golf Course
University Ridge (Wi)
Upper Cascades
Valderrama
Valley Club Of Montecito
Vaquero
Victoria  (Melbourne)
Victoria Hills
Victoria National  
Ville D'este
Vintage
Vista Verde
Vistoso
Wade Hampton
Wailea Gold
Wairakei
Wallassey  (Ugly Backdrop On # But I Had A Blast There)
Walton Heath New
Walton Heath Old
Warren GC At Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN (B Coore & B Crenshaw )
Waterville
Waverly
Waverly Oaks
We Ko Pa (Cholla)
We Ko Pa (Saguaro)
West Bend CC's Front Nine
West Sussex
Western Gailes
Westfields
Westmount Gcc, Kitchener, On, Can (S Thompson )
Whirlpool (ON , S. Thompson)
Whirlwind (Devil's Claw)
Whiskey Creek
Whispering Pines (Trinity, Tx)
Whistling Straits (Straits)
Wild Horse
Wildhorse (Davis, Ca)
Wilmington GC
Wine Valley Golf Club
Winged Foot (East)
Winged Foot (West)
Woking
Wolf Creek
Wolf Run
Woodhall Spa (Hotchkin)
Woodlands
World Woods Gc Pine Barrens  
World Woods Gc Rolling Oaks  
Wykagyl (Post Renovation)
Yale Gc / New Haven, Ct / Cb Macdonald/Seth Raynor
Yeaman's Hall
Yocha De He
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tony Weiler on December 26, 2009, 09:51:49 AM
It appears we get around a bit!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ronald Montesano on December 26, 2009, 01:42:28 PM
And those are just the good courses...Has there ever been a thread "Worst 25 courses played"?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sven Nilsen on December 26, 2009, 03:25:29 PM
First time poster, thought this would be an appropriate way to jump into the mess.

RCD
Ballybunion
Lahinch
Portmarnock
Pebble Beach
Spyglass
Yale
Sleepy Hollow
East Lake
Harbour Town
Butler
Beverly
Skokie
Olympia Fields (North)
Pac Dunes
Bandon Dunes
Bandon Trails
Whistling Straits
Blackwolf Run (River)
The Ocean Course
Erin Hills
Kingsley Club
Wild Horse
Glen Mills
Thunderhawk

Honorable Mention:  Doonbeg, Cog Hill, Arcadia Bluffs, Kiawah River, Warren Course, Lakota Canyon, Bayside, Teddy Rhodes (Nashville)

Would love to be able to add Chicagoland's most exclusive course to the list, but am not quite sure how access to the RJ is obtained.




Sven, I see no reason why we can't run out and play the Reverse Jans sometime this winter.  Seems like a good February project.


David:

The current ground covering may need to ice over a bit, don't see us getting much roll at the moment.

Happy Holidays.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on December 27, 2009, 06:13:26 AM
Scott & Cristian - thanks for the links to Royal Zoute. 

Jon - I am still perplexed by Raisin River, but hey, you gotta right.

Ciao

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Cory Lewis on December 27, 2009, 07:36:25 AM
And those are just the good courses...Has there ever been a thread "Worst 25 courses played"?

I can't recall there ever being one.  That's actually a great idea.  Remembering my worst 25 courses is much easier than trying to rank my best 25.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim_Coleman on December 27, 2009, 07:42:28 AM
Pine Valley
Oakmont
Merion
Pebble Beach
Pacific Dunes
Winged Foot
Bethpage Black
Garden City
Pinehurst #2
TPC Sawgrass
Yale
Teeth of the Dog
The Old Course
Muirfield
Dornoch
Woodhall Spa
Royal St. Georges
Turnberry
Balibunion
Carnoustie
Royal County Down
Royal Portrush
Rolling Green
Sunningdale Old
Mid Ocean

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Don_Mahaffey on December 27, 2009, 09:41:16 AM
The Old Course at St. Andrews
Kingsley Club
Prestwick
Cypress Point
Apache Stronghold (circa 2000)
Pacific Dunes
Riviera
LACC North
Wolf Point
Bandon Dunes
Carnoustie
High Pointe
The New Course at St Andrews
PGA West Stadium
Western Gails
Wakonda
Stone Canyon
Ventana Canyon-Mountain
Crosswater
Pronghorn
Des Moines Golf and Country Club
Talking Stick - North
The Quarry
The Rawls Course @ TT
Turnberry
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mike Hendren on December 31, 2009, 02:07:38 PM
Why not:

1. Shinnecock Hills
2. The Old Course
3.  Pebble Beach Golf Links
4.  Sand Hills
5.  National Golf Links of America
6.  Crystal Downs
7.  Cypress Point Club
8.  Carnoustie
9.  San Francisco Golf Club
10. TPC Sawgrass
11. Bandon Trails
12. Ballyneal
13. North Berwick West Links
14. Chambers Bay
15. Blue Mound
16.The Honors Course
17. Lawsonia Links
18. Kingsley Club
19. Holston Hills
20. Whistling Straits
21. Beverly CC
22. Pasatiempo
23. Lehigh CC
24. Cascades
25. LuLu CC

P. S.  Pacific Dunes should have been ranked 9th.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JESII on December 31, 2009, 03:15:28 PM
You were in the area for Lehigh and LuLu and didn't see Huntingdon Valley?  We're going to have to rectify that...although I might be jumping ahead of myself...
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: George Freeman on December 31, 2009, 03:24:27 PM
Why not:

1. Shinnecock Hills
2. The Old Course
3.  Pebble Beach Golf Links
4.  Sand Hills
5.  National Golf Links of America
6.  Crystal Downs
7.  Cypress Point Club
8.  Carnoustie
9.  San Francisco Golf Club
10. TPC Sawgrass
11. Bandon Trails
12. Ballyneal
13. North Berwick West Links
14. Chambers Bay
15. Blue Mound
16.The Honors Course
17. Lawsonia Links
18. Kingsley Club
19. Holston Hills
20. Whistling Straits
21. Beverly CC
22. Pasatiempo
23. Lehigh CC
24. Cascades
25. LuLu CC


Mr. Hendren,

Am I to assume you went all the way to Bandon and didn't play Pacific Dunes?  If not, what gives?

Hope all is well!

George Freeman
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mike Hendren on December 31, 2009, 03:34:31 PM
George,

Pacific Dunes should have been 9th.  Thanks for calling that to my attention.

Bogey (now you know why!)

Jim, I was invited to play Lehigh (I miss Redanman) and LuLu - not so with Huntingdon Valley.  LuLu isn't as great as my ranking might suggest - it's simply everything a golf course should be in my opinion - nothing more,  nothing less.

Happy New Year.

Mike
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on December 31, 2009, 08:03:11 PM
MY TOP 25 USA ...

In 5 sections of fives ...

I jotted these down very quickly -- may have one or two others to insert and then drop off a few others ...

a work in progress ...

First Five

Shinnecock Hills -- the first among equals for me
Cypress Point -- just pure magic and beauty
Merion / East -- nothing packs as much design punch as this layout
Oakmont -- should be a major host every 7-8 years whether US Open or PGA. Just the supreme parksland layout of first rate
Sand Hills -- surreal setting with golf at its core. nuff said.

Second Five

Pine Valley -- needs to get rid of some trees and the underbrush to move up for me.
Ballyneal -- pure fun, entertainment and never a dull moment -- only measurably so-so element for me was the final two par-4's.
Rock Creek -- simply loved the layout -- only weak hole for me the finale. the best collection of Doak par-4 holes I have ever played
NGLA -- any design student needs to see it -- awesome in all senses of the word for the scope of what it provided. citizen kane golf
Winged Foot / West -- the most intense and discerning course that elicits the least amount of love.

Third Five

Crystal Downs -- the toughest short course one can play.
Prairie Dunes -- when wind is up -- the yardage becomes immaterial -- great greens and the 8th is on my short list for great holes.
Pebble Beach -- when firm and fast and the wind up it's everything and more. still has a few so-so holes that keep it down for me.
Fisher's Island -- hard to beat on a sunny summer afternoon -- the best of the Raynor layouts for me.
Pinehurst #2 -- when firm and fast and with ample fairway widths works for me -- takes more than one play to "get it"

Fourth Five

Black Mesa -- just a superb public facility for those unable to get to the ones listed above it. Superb scenery and range of holes.
The Kingsley Club -- likely should be higher but would need a second visit to confirm my original lovefest for it.
Riviera -- love when the course plays firm -- incredible range of decisions for player to decide upon. 18th is everything they say & more.
The Ocean Course / Kiawah -- often thought of as a unrelenting beast -- the course has such a range of elasticity and even playability
Pacific Dunes -- wonderful setting and the best ending with a par-4, par-3 and par-5 closing.

Fifth Five

Plainfield -- one of the most underrated layouts in the metro area and flies way too low nationally.
Bayonne -- just totally man created and works well even when in tight quarters -- goes beyond shadow creek in such a similar category
Mauna Kea -- great upgrade from Rees Jones and likely the best RTJ course I have played. The 11th is one of the best long par-3 holes
Bethpage / Black -- don't like many of the post changes -- the 18th especially -- but still a top notch design and test.
Red Ledges -- gets little attention but Jack's most striking layout with UT scenery and design elements that are first rate.


p.s. Have notplayed ANGC or Friar's Head which likely would compete for a mention
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on December 31, 2009, 08:08:07 PM
Matt...

Thanks for sharing.  Great to see the courses, in their tiers, with some commentary.

Happy New Year!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: mark chalfant on December 31, 2009, 09:14:32 PM
Boston GC
California GC
CC  of Buffalo
Desert Forest
Essex County, Ross
Galloway
Newport
North Berwick
NCR


Oklahoma City
Olympia Fields  South
Pasatiempo
Prairie Dunes
Shady Oaks
Saint Georges, Thompson
CC  Pepper Pike
Wakonda
White Bear Yacht

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Garland Bayley on January 01, 2010, 12:31:42 AM
...
Flossmoor Country Club
...

That place must be lousy with dentists.

I guess, I need to at least add my #1 here

Jawbone Creek Country Club, also popular with dentists and their sons.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on January 01, 2010, 09:02:54 AM
Matt,

Thanx for sharing.  Nice color and good points about conditioning.  Fisher's above Pac Dunes.. ::)  Happy New Year....
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Stuart Kidon on January 01, 2010, 09:07:32 AM
1) Saint Andrew's old Course
2) Trump International Canouan Island
3) St. Georges G&CC
4) Jasper Park Lodge
5) Victoria Golf G&CC
5) Tobiano
6) Banff Springs
7) Caledonia
8) Devils Paintbrush
9) Bear Mountain Golf Resort
10) Mississauga G&CC

Mostly all Canadian Golf courses...couldnt think of 25....
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Cristian on January 01, 2010, 09:18:14 AM
Welcome to the site!

Did you not play any other courses in Scotland?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on January 01, 2010, 02:36:18 PM
Jud:

I said I might change a few -- possibly add one or two and possibly demote one or two.

I really like Pac Dunes but there are a few holes that are so-so for me -- FI is just a great place to play and provides a total elasticity to all levels of players. Frankly, the private layout gets little real attention because of its relative remoteness and its penchant for privacy.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Dale Jackson on January 01, 2010, 02:39:28 PM
1) Saint Andrew's old Course
2) Trump International Canouan Island
3) St. Georges G&CC
4) Jasper Park Lodge
5) Victoria Golf G&CC
5) Tobiano
6) Banff Springs
7) Caledonia
8) Devils Paintbrush
9) Bear Mountain Golf Resort
10) Mississauga G&CC

Mostly all Canadian Golf courses...couldnt think of 25....

Stuart welcome.  I assume you must be Canadian - if so, where in this vast land?  Tobiano #5, Bear Mountain #9?  We need to get you to some more courses
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on January 01, 2010, 03:01:35 PM
Matt:

Thanks for posting your list with comments ... it is a nice break from the hypnotic effect of the other lists, which all start to blend together after a while. 

And thanks also to Steve Lang for compiling the master list.

I have avoided making a list myself because I'm already on the record about nearly all of these courses; the only new information would be to try and figure out which of my own courses I would be bold enough to include in a top 25.  I have witnessed other architects rank several of their own courses among the top 50 in the world, and they have never managed to look good doing it, so I won't try.  I am very happy though to see so many of our courses show up on one person's list or another's.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jkinney on January 01, 2010, 03:47:52 PM
My list goes from east to west, to wit...

TOC
County Down
Shinnecock
NGLA
Augusta
Oakmont
Sand Hills
Stone Eagle
LACC North
Cypress Point

It's only 10, but to me they're all 10's.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Michael Taylor on January 01, 2010, 08:13:30 PM
Here we go:

1: National Old - Absolutely the craziest greens I've ever seen. Could never tire of playing here.
2: Kingston Heath - Very solid course with a great finish. Awesome bunkering.
3: New South Wales - Some amazing holes mixed in with some poor ones.
4: Royal Queensland - Options, fun, variety, elegance. Just a wonderful, wonderful course.
5: Royal Melbourne West - Love the green complexes and especially the 6th hole. One of my favorites anywhere.
6: Royal Sydney - Good solid course. Nothing special.
7: Elanora CC - I have a soft spot for the place. Love some holes and the condition is impeccable.
8: Magenta Shores - Just a nice place to play golf. It's one of the toughest courses I've played.
9: Royal Canberra - Like number 7. Not a 'great' course but a very enjoyable place to play nevertheless.
10: The Lakes - Unusual start with 6 par 4's in a row. I love some holes here but like NSW, I believe it has too many poor ones/over the top.
11: Alice Springs GC - Desert course in the center of Australia. Absolutely loved it.
12: Newcastle GC - Nice Apperly course with a very solid F9.
13: Pennant Hills GC - Nice members course.
14: Avondale GC - 10th hole is one of my favorites anywhere. However it must be the most humid place in Sydney.
15: Monash GC - Good finish but would just be an average course if it weren't for the greens.


I could go up to 25 but the quality of courses would be minimal, so I'll stop at 15.  :)

Update: Played Royal Queensland today and it amazed me.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on January 01, 2010, 09:18:51 PM
Michael:

Welcome, and prepare to meet Brian Phillips.  ;)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tony Weiler on January 01, 2010, 10:17:31 PM
Heck with it Tom D., post your Top 25.  We promise not to tell any of your clients, and we'll take it with a grain of salt if you put your own courses too high.   ;D
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Wade Whitehead on January 01, 2010, 10:50:06 PM
The original post asks for my "personal" top 25.  That list includes at least ten courses that have far less architectural merit than others I've played, but which hold some other meaning to me.

A couple are nine holers (one of which no longer exists) on which I learned to play the game.

One is a place I play with my father- and brothers-in-law each year, and which I know I'll always remember fondly.  It's got a grass airstrip between two par fours.

I love a great golf course; however, more than one dog track holds a special place in my "personal" list.

WW
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mike Erdmann on January 01, 2010, 11:14:39 PM
In rough semblance of order:

1.   Pine Valley
2.   Royal County Down
3.   St. Andrews – Old
4.   Royal Dornoch
5.   Pacific Dunes
6.   Royal Portrush
7.   Oakland Hills
8.   Plainfield
9.   Muirfield
10.   Sebonack
11.   Carnoustie
12.   North Berwick
13.   Pinehurst #2
14.   Cruden Bay
15.   Machrihanish
16.   Paraparaumu Beach
17.   Yale
18.   Inverness
19.   Bandon Trails
20.   Lehigh
21.   Mountain Lake
22.   TPC Sawgrass
23.   Interlachen
24.   Kingsbarns
25.   Bandon Dunes

A few I couldn't find room for on my list:  Saucon Valley - Old, Royal Aberdeen, Minikahda, Beverly, Skokie, Congressional, Chambers Bay, Desert Forest, Brora, World Woods - Pine Barrens, Eugene, Cog Hill #4, Columbia, Pine Needles, Crosswater, St. Andrews - New
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tim Bert on January 01, 2010, 11:23:53 PM
Like many others here, I think of courses in tiers as opposed to absolute ranks.  Unlike some others, I'm not going to use equal tiers of five.  I'm grouping my favorite 25 courses in clusters of courses that I consider to be of similar quality.  By the way, my top 25 includes 26 since I can't quite distinguish a "worst" in the last tier.

Tier 1:
Cypress Point Club - Although I find it hard for anyone to pass judgment based on one play, CPC stands out to me as the course that surpasses all others I've played.

Tier 2:
Pacific Dunes - I've played this one more than any other on my list and it gets better with each play.  Looking forward to May/June 2010!
Ballyneal - The greens and surrounds take a great site and a great course to another level.
Sand Hills - Everything that it is hyped up to be and more.  A must play for any serious student of modern golf course architecture.
Kingsley Club - Should be no surprise to anyone that has read my comments on this course.  Not the popular opinion here or elsewhere, but I remain convinced that DeVries improved upon his original inspiration.

Tier 3:
Pebble Beach - I think most of the magazines have this over-rated, but it is still a wonderful golf course.
Pasatiempo - Fun, Fun, Fun!
Yale Golf Course - After the first time around the course, I thought "What the hell was that?!?!?"  After a few more plays, I can't get enough of it.
Bandon Dunes - Most on this site will agree that this one doesn't belong in this company, but I really like the course quite a bit.
Crystal Downs - This is a world class golf course no doubt, but I don't think it carries as much weight for me as others perhaps because I was still star struck with Kingsley when I played it.
Pinehurst #2 - Wish I had played it when everything was still fairway.

Tier 4:
MPCC Shore - The best firm and fast show going on the peninsula in the two rounds I've enjoyed there.
Bandon Trails - The middle stretch just doesn't do it for me like the start and the finish
The Honors Course - For some reason Pete Dye courses tend not to blow me away.  This is his best effort that I've played.
Ekwanok CC - Hard not to give credit for the surroundings when you stand on the first tee and take in the amphitheater effect here.  The course stands on its own even without the beautiful setting.
Banff Springs - Might qualify for this tier on the strength of the five par 3s alone!
Holston Hills - Based on the the way the courses were maintained when I played them, this was as enjoyable as Pinehurst #2, even if holes #8 and #9 were a bit too easy.
Long Shadow - Perhaps the firmest and fastest course I've played.  Even if it was drought driven, it was a load of fun.  I could have just stood on the 17th tee and hit shots all day.
MPCC Dunes - Bookend MPCCs.  If I played these two courses every day, I'd probably have a different favorite course and hole each day.

Tier 5:
Belvedere CC - Thank you Mike DeVries for recommending this gem!!
Wild Horse - What a splendid course this town has at its disposal.
Whistling Straits (Straits) - My opinion of this course has diminished as the time since I played it grows, but I can't put my finger on the reason.  It's probably time to get back and give it a second shot.
Links at Spanish Bay - I had heard enough bad things about this that I avoided it on my first trip to Monterey.  The second time around I played it multiple times, and I enjoyed it much more than I expected based on the reviews.
Spyglass Hill - A terrific golf course that is a wee tad too hard for this lefty's game.
Olympia Fields (North) - Much like Spanish Bay, I went to this course expecting to be under-whelmed and came away pleasantly surprised.  A brief walking tour of the South led me to believe I might enjoy it even more than the North.
Beverly CC - A great mix of holes on a nice piece of property.  I felt like I was playing golf in New England instead of Chicago.

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on January 02, 2010, 05:03:44 AM
MY TOP 25 USA ...

In 5 sections of fives ...

I jotted these down very quickly -- may have one or two others to insert and then drop off a few others ...

a work in progress ...

First Five

Shinnecock Hills -- the first among equals for me
Cypress Point -- just pure magic and beauty
Merion / East -- nothing packs as much design punch as this layout
Oakmont -- should be a major host every 7-8 years whether US Open or PGA. Just the supreme parksland layout of first rate
Sand Hills -- surreal setting with golf at its core. nuff said.

Second Five

Pine Valley -- needs to get rid of some trees and the underbrush to move up for me.
Ballyneal -- pure fun, entertainment and never a dull moment -- only measurably so-so element for me was the final two par-4's.
Rock Creek -- simply loved the layout -- only weak hole for me the finale. the best collection of Doak par-4 holes I have ever played
NGLA -- any design student needs to see it -- awesome in all senses of the word for the scope of what it provided. citizen kane golf
Winged Foot / West -- the most intense and discerning course that elicits the least amount of love.

Third Five

Crystal Downs -- the toughest short course one can play.
Prairie Dunes -- when wind is up -- the yardage becomes immaterial -- great greens and the 8th is on my short list for great holes.
Pebble Beach -- when firm and fast and the wind up it's everything and more. still has a few so-so holes that keep it down for me.
Fisher's Island -- hard to beat on a sunny summer afternoon -- the best of the Raynor layouts for me.
Pinehurst #2 -- when firm and fast and with ample fairway widths works for me -- takes more than one play to "get it"

Fourth Five

Black Mesa -- just a superb public facility for those unable to get to the ones listed above it. Superb scenery and range of holes.
The Kingsley Club -- likely should be higher but would need a second visit to confirm my original lovefest for it.
Riviera -- love when the course plays firm -- incredible range of decisions for player to decide upon. 18th is everything they say & more.
The Ocean Course / Kiawah -- often thought of as a unrelenting beast -- the course has such a range of elasticity and even playability
Pacific Dunes -- wonderful setting and the best ending with a par-4, par-3 and par-5 closing.

Fifth Five

Plainfield -- one of the most underrated layouts in the metro area and flies way too low nationally.
Bayonne -- just totally man created and works well even when in tight quarters -- goes beyond shadow creek in such a similar category
Mauna Kea -- great upgrade from Rees Jones and likely the best RTJ course I have played. The 11th is one of the best long par-3 holes
Bethpage / Black -- don't like many of the post changes -- the 18th especially -- but still a top notch design and test.
Red Ledges -- gets little attention but Jack's most striking layout with UT scenery and design elements that are first rate.


p.s. Have notplayed ANGC or Friar's Head which likely would compete for a mention


Matt

Take the plunge and include courses not in USA for the list - if there are any.

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tony_Muldoon on January 02, 2010, 07:32:27 AM

NGLA -- .... citizen kane golf


Wonderful comment ;)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on January 02, 2010, 11:45:48 AM
Tim Bert:

Putting Belvedere and Wild Horse together in your rankings is genius ... I have never seen anyone compare the two, but they are blood brothers.  [Having them in the same group as Whistling Straits ... priceless!]

I'll help with your problem of having 26 courses.  Throw out Spanish Bay.  Wasn't that easy?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tim Bert on January 02, 2010, 01:42:57 PM
Tom

I figured most observers would throw out Spanish Bay from that list.  I just can't do it. The re problem will be if Old Mac lives up to expectations I might need to toss two out of this list. Which would be your second to go from my list?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on January 02, 2010, 02:19:00 PM
I haven't ever played Beverly or Whistling Straits, just walked them.  Based on what I saw, I'd throw out Whistling Straits, but that was before it even opened.  If I had to throw out one I've played, Spyglass.

If Old Macdonald does not bump one of those three off your list, I'll be pissed.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JC Jones on January 02, 2010, 02:30:52 PM
Tim Bert:

Putting Belvedere and Wild Horse together in your rankings is genius ... I have never seen anyone compare the two, but they are blood brothers.  [Having them in the same group as Whistling Straits ... priceless!]

I'll help with your problem of having 26 courses.  Throw out Spanish Bay.  Wasn't that easy?

Why are Belvedere and Wild Horse blood brothers?  I've only seen one of them (though many, many times).  Is it just because they are public and both Doak 6's?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on January 02, 2010, 02:32:11 PM
Sean:

Fair enough.

I'll put together such a list with a bit of time to think it through. I don't have any Asian or Aussie / NZ selections but will throw together something by early in the week.

The bulk of such couses will come from UK / Ireland, Canada, the island off North America and Mexico, to name just a few other places.

Sean, be curious to see your USA only listing of the top 25.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ronald Montesano on January 02, 2010, 02:33:21 PM
Reprise with commentary, listed INPO

Pete Dye Golf Club--A private reserve in West Virginia with perhaps one weak hole, that being a par three on the back side, but I'd have to play it again to confirm/deny.  Par four holes make or break a course for me and this course has an incredible variety of great one, moving right to left and left to right, utilizing slant fairways and true doglegs.

Tobacco Road--A perfect example of how sensory deprivation works.  You overload the visual and the CNS falls apart.  If this describes you, get your distance and trust your swing.  You'll need it on 18 from the tips.

Pinehurst #2--Played it in 1982 as a high school junior at the Jesse Haddock Golf Camp (thanks, Coach!)  Had absolutely no idea WHY it was supposed to be good, but it made me think about nearly every shot, on nearly every level.

Taconic--The first "unknown-great" course I believe I played.  Given the nature of the hills, I first became aware of how the property could influence the golf course.  The motto of the club, (medio tutissimus ibis/safest in the middle) was my first exposure to strategic play, a concept I have abandoned in my forties...How can you not hit the driver?!?!?!

The Orchards--Taconic's cousin.  After hearing about it for years and seeing it on the tube (US Women's Open) I took a chance and got on in 2009.  Not as dynamic a piece of property as Taconic, but Ross built a collection of memorable pasture holes.  If by chance you come to the last triumvirate of holes at +2, know that it is possible to lose 5 or 6 shots to par on those holes, docile as they might appear.

(that's five...I think I can, I think I can)

Bandon Dunes
Bandon Trails
Pacific Trails--These three go together.  Wife asked "where go 40th birthday?" assuming I'd say "monterrey."  Nope.  In contrast to others on this site, I found not a single weak hole among the 54.  The guys I went round with (players and caddies alike) were equally as enthusiastic about the ground game as I.

LeatherStocking--Evidence that Dev Emmett needed more canvases on which to paint.  Targets are slightly masked by bunkering, fairways roll enough to force alterations to flat-surface iron play, and putting flats demand your attention from start to finish (except for 16 and 17, which aren't his.)

Fox Chapel--The only template course I've played to date, coupled with the fastest greens I've ever putted.  One course that I felt was strong enough to defeat me from beginning to end, from the easy holes (Punch Bowl and Short) to the most challenging.  Playing the Biarritz properly (#17) was my saving grace.


(that's ten...I think I can, I think I can)

Whistling Straits Straits
Blackwolf Run River
Blackwolf Run MV--These three also go together, for obvious reasons.  Straits had the reputation and the lakeside holes lived up to it.  The inland holes, while less authentic (irony?), still demanded planning and proper execution.  River is very challenging but has fewer memorable holes that its neighbor.  As I reconsider, it would be one of the first to leave this list.  Meadow Valleys begins in absolutely unremarkable, forgettable fashion, then rises to a finish with some of the best of the 72 holes in Koehler.

Victoria Hills--One of many great surprises of 2009.  Sandhills course north-east of Orlando that offers rumpled fairways, varied green targets and honorable putting challenges.

Crag Burn--RTJ influenced three courses near Buffalo.  Two are originals and one is a re-do.  Crag Burn is a wonderful piece of work on a property with one literal high point.  Its par five holes are all strong, attractive and architecturally sound.  The par threes are varied (with two strong and two fairly weak) and the par fours are diverse and inspired.  Not the heroic course you'd expect from him.

(that's fifteen...running out of gas, running out of gas)

Country Club of Buffalo--Donald Ross meets Merion.  Give a man a quarry and step back.  Excellent one-shotters, very good two-shotters and decent three-shotters.

Lookout Point--A Travis design I played once.  Remarkable piece of land in Ontario that Travis had the good sense to leave unaltered.  Has ascending, descending and traversing hill holes and a number of flatland ones, along with the cutest short par five (and tiniest postage stamp green) I've played.

Cherry Hill (ontario)--A Travis design I know well.  Unremarkable piece of land in Ontario that Travis utilized to the best of his abilities.  Credit Ian Andrew for his recent work.  The course now places more of a premium on driving, allowing the superintendent to utilize thick, unforgiving rough a lot less.

Tullymore--My first and only exposure to Jim Engh.  I'd call it sexy golf, as the splashy bunkering, the use of elevation switches and fairway movement created quite a memory for me.  Fortunately, I had a good ball-striking day.

Southern Pines--There is often a category in high school yearbook polls called "Talks least, says most."  Southern Pines talks least, says most.  PLEASE don't look at the scorecard and hole yardages and think you will go low.  Many drives go straight into hillsides, killing forward momentum.  Those that don't, leave downhill and sidehill approaches that demand precision or bust from the swing.

(that's twenty...I know I can, I know I can)

The Old Course, St. Andrews
The New Course, St. Andrews--Can't separate them.  My first and only exposure to the ground game of Scotland.  The courses giveth and the courses taketh away.  If you are great, they will allow you to be great.  If you are so-so, you will combine greatness with pathos.
 
Kebo Valley--One of those hidden New England treats, a la Myopia, Taconic, Orchards, Eastward Ho!, et al.  Not long, but tricky.  Hit driver too often and you'll have lots of wedge approach shots from rough and bunkers.  Hard to hold elevated, small, firm greens, even with those short clubs.

Arcadia Bluffs--I liked it.  Simply put, I liked it.  It's not a links course, but it has features of a links course.  It demands a few heroic carries, but not so many that you feel burdened and beat down.  I played with a guy who didn't get out-brawned by the course, just out-strategized.  Time and time again we said to him "You don't have to carry it 210...just hit it 130 down there and have a sand wedge in."  The corridors are there; you just have to find them.

Old Town Club--I failed to do two things at Wake Forest:  take a Maya Angelou course and caddie at Old Town.  This course comes back to me in dreams.  First double green I ever saw, only Maxwell course I've been on (although I didn't understand its importance at the time) and relentless if you're not thinking and aiming well.

(that's twenty-five...might caca, I did it.)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on January 02, 2010, 02:35:44 PM

Why are Belvedere and Wild Horse blood brothers?  I've only seen one of them (though many, many times).  Is it just because they are public and both Doak 6's?


Zero earthmoving in the fairways and roughs -- check.
Relatively sparse bunkering [less than 50 total] -- check.
Lots of little humpy contours in the greens making short game difficult -- check.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JC Jones on January 02, 2010, 02:38:23 PM

Why are Belvedere and Wild Horse blood brothers?  I've only seen one of them (though many, many times).  Is it just because they are public and both Doak 6's?


Zero earthmoving in the fairways and roughs -- check.
Relatively sparse bunkering [less than 50 total] -- check.
Lots of little humpy contours in the greens making short game difficult -- check.

Well, I can't wait to play Wild Horse then. 

What is more interesting is that a certain poster on here, whom I respect greatly, thinks Wild Horse is a "must play" and Belvedere is a wasted round.  Of course I vehemently disagree with him on the latter.

Also, the number of bunkers at Belvedere is increasing due to recommendations from Renaissance....and I'm glad this is so.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mike Hendren on January 02, 2010, 03:14:52 PM
Tim Bert:

Putting Belvedere and Wild Horse together in your rankings is genius ...

Oh my, Tom - don't encourage the lad.  I fear you just created your first colon boy!

Continued success in the New Year.

Mike
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: ed_getka on January 02, 2010, 04:59:59 PM
Tim Bert:

Putting Belvedere and Wild Horse together in your rankings is genius ...

Oh my, Tom - don't encourage the lad.  I fear you just created your first colon boy!

Continued success in the New Year.

Mike

Most definitely the funniest post of the year. ;D
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tim Bert on January 02, 2010, 05:23:56 PM

Oh my, Tom - don't encourage the lad.  I fear you just created your first colon boy!

Continued success in the New Year.

Mike

Most definitely the funniest post of the year. ;D

Ed - don't encourage him. Bogey is already like my personal GCA paparazzi.   ;D
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: ed_getka on January 02, 2010, 05:42:00 PM
Sorry have to go with Mike on this one C.B. :)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on January 02, 2010, 07:02:55 PM
Sean:

Fair enough.

I'll put together such a list with a bit of time to think it through. I don't have any Asian or Aussie / NZ selections but will throw together something by early in the week.

The bulk of such couses will come from UK / Ireland, Canada, the island off North America and Mexico, to name just a few other places.

Sean, be curious to see your USA only listing of the top 25.

Matt

I mean a combo list with the best courses you have seen regardless of where they are. 

There isn't much point in me listing 25 USA courses as I haven't seen enough to bother. 

Belvedere is a lovely course and with some TLC it could be a real eye opener.  It is certainly one of the sleepers in Michigan.

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on January 02, 2010, 08:03:11 PM
Sean:

Humor me -- put together your top 25 USA listing -- I'll be sure to compile a listing of my best international alone and my best one combined.

thanks ...
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on January 02, 2010, 08:16:37 PM
After giving my choices a bit more thought -- I'd have Mauna Kea drop to a position of my second best 25 in the USA.

The best desert course I have played and one that would be included is Whisper Rock -- the original 18 by Gary Stephenson and Phil Mickelson. The course flies considerably under most people's radar and has a range of desert design elements that make it, for me at least, the 21st century updated version of what Desert Forest first did years ago.

WR is quite playable but the holes work their way in concert with the desert -- you don't see all the flashy stand apart elements that so many others provide. Great natural fall-offs for any wayward approaches and the site lines are tough to adjust to when teeing off as so many of the landing areas are hard to see which is also a strength.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on January 02, 2010, 08:43:50 PM
Sorry Matt

Changed my mind.  I just don't want to do a best of.

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on January 03, 2010, 01:55:13 AM
Sean:

Mainly Pennsy and MI courses.

Curious to know what you liked so much at OH/S.

Thanks ...
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on January 03, 2010, 04:50:25 AM
Sean:

Mainly Pennsy and MI courses.

Curious to know what you liked so much at OH/S.

Thanks ...

Matt

The greens at Oakland Hills are superb and one of the very best sets I have ever seen.  Its a shame the course has been littered with so many fairway bunkers and harsh rough.  Both serve to restrict play and I believe essentially reduce the effectiveness of the greens.  Meaning the really awkward angles of approach are eliminated because recovery shots for the handicap player have to go back to the fairway rather than sometimes having a go at the green.  The course was better when I was a teenager.  As it stands now, OH is not really one of my favourites which when you think about it is crazy given the greens and rolling land.  

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ronald Montesano on January 03, 2010, 11:07:18 AM
That's the first I've heard about the Oakland Hills greens.  Are they original Ross/his partners greens or did RTJ have at them back in the 1950s?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Anthony Butler on January 03, 2010, 11:57:29 AM
Better late than never. In order of enjoyment:

1. CPC (If heaven exists, you would be a lifetime member at this course)
2. RMW (Most fun greens to putt, bar none)
3. Pebble Beach (coming over the hill at 6, and for the next hour and half, better than sex)
4. WFW (didn't find it hard as some. suits my long game and the caddies are unbelievable green readers)
5. St. Andrews (Amazing so many architectural concepts sprung from one course. Perhaps higher if not always played during a Scottish monsoon)
6. Morfontaine (If you play golf to relax, this is the place.)
7. NSWGC (Nature meets Nurture)
8. Riviera (Best course on a piece of property where houses border some holes.)
9. Pine Valley (I appreciate it, I really do. Not how sure many times I could stomach a 73-74 turning into 84 due to a couple of bad kicks.)
10. Quaker Ridge (underrated. only a lick behind WFW)
11. Congressional Blue (ditto. Not sure how many US Opens it takes before it gets it due. Anti-RTJ bias keeps it lower in the rankings?)
12. Olympic Club (Gruelling, but not monotonous)
13. Oakmont (What it must be like learning how to putt again after a stroke)
14. Pinehurst #2 (Land overrated. Course less so.)
15. Kingston Heath (One of the few sandbelt courses that could be improved.)
16. Muirfield (Hard to see the appeal while you're playing it admittedly)
17. Muirfield Village (really nothing like the course above, good on it's own terms)
18. Royal Adelaide (Second best Mackenzie course in Australia)
19. Pasatiempo (Kind of an awkward piece of property, there would be more good holes otherwise)
20. National Moonah (Mostly dislike Norman courses, except for this one)
21. Oak Hill East (The acme of an American tree-lined private course.)
22. Essex County Club (Better than the Member's course at The Country Club. Period)
23. TPC Sawgrass (Like a Golfing thrill ride. Put your $150 in the slot and away you go.)
24. Carnoustie (Forget a ball, I almost lost a club in the rough in June '99. Drove it the same place as Van de Velde on 18 and made 5 the smart way.)
25. The Shattuck (New Hampshire's Pine Valley, minus $5 million.)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean Leary on January 03, 2010, 12:21:56 PM
Anthony,

The Shattuck? Really?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on January 03, 2010, 12:34:34 PM
Anthony:

Interesting you say QR is just a "lick behind" WF/W.

Did you ever play WF/E because it's big brother the West is a good ways ahead of QR in my mind. The reason many people don't see it that way is that the West simply provides so little love and hugs. The East has also some of the finest green surfaces but often gets lost in the shadow of its big brother. QR is the junior-lite version. Be curious to know if you have ever played Fenway -- more bite than many might imagine.

You'll also have to explain the Congressional choice. Where is the architecture compelling -- save for the finale which is the only hole of note I can see there. Tough. No doubt. Worthy of architectural interest? Hardly.

Can you explain your Pinehurst #2 statement -- "land overrated - course less so." Who ever said the land was "overrated?"

Thanks ...
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Anthony Butler on January 03, 2010, 12:44:51 PM
Anthony:

Interesting you say QR is just a "lick behind" WF/W.

Did you ever play WF/E because it's big brother the West is a good ways ahead of QR in my mind. The reason many people don't see it that way is that the West simply provides so little love and hugs. The East has also some of the finest green surfaces but often gets lost in the shadow of its big brother. QR is the junior-lite version. Be curious to know if you have ever played Fenway -- more bite than many might imagine.

You'll also have to explain the Congressional choice. Where is the architecture compelling -- save for the finale which is the only hole of note I can see there. Tough. No doubt. Worthy of architectural interest? Hardly.

Can you explain your Pinehurst #2 statement -- "land overrated - course less so." Who ever said the land was "overrated?"

Thanks ...

Have not played either WFE, or Fenway although I have heard good things about it. My ex-wife worked at an investment bank in Greenwich CT, so when we got divorced in 1997, my access to many of these courses through her co-workers was cut off.

I could just as easily put Stanwich on the list too. Quaker Ridge is to me is an interesting comparison to a course nearby my current home, Belmont Country Club insofar as it sits in the Shadow of other better known courses in the area, but certainly holds it's own. I have a feeling Sleepy Hollow would best all those courses, but I have only walked around it before the latest renovation... although my interest was mainly in trying to spot Bill Murray on the property, not the finer points of each hole.

re: Pinehurst #2: All that 'sandhills of the Carolinas' stuff. Yeah it's good for building a course course on, but I'd hardly say it's a spectacular piece of property. In fact, if you were presented with a choice between the piece of land where #2 is versus #8 these days, I'd think 9 out of 10 designers would pick #8 to build a course.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Anthony Butler on January 03, 2010, 12:47:54 PM
Anthony,

The Shattuck? Really?

Yes. Really. I guess there's a bunch of courses I could have put there... but The Shattuck is definitely the most unique and hardest of these courses.

Even though it's only in good condition for about 3 weeks of the year. Although with 'climate change' it seems that period is getting longer. It was spectacular during October this year and has the advantage of being only 8 miles from the in-laws' front door.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean Leary on January 03, 2010, 12:50:24 PM
Anthony,

The Shattuck? Really?

Yes. Really. I guess there's a bunch of courses I could have put there... but The Shattuck is definitely the most unique and hardest of these courses.

Even though it's only in good condition for about 3 weeks of the year. Although with 'climate change' it seems that period is getting longer. It was spectacular during October this year and has the advantage of being only 8 miles from the in-laws' front door.

Unique from the other courses on your list for sure    ;)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Anthony Butler on January 03, 2010, 01:12:34 PM
Anthony,

The Shattuck? Really?

Yes. Really. I guess there's a bunch of courses I could have put there... but The Shattuck is definitely the most unique and hardest of these courses.

Even though it's only in good condition for about 3 weeks of the year. Although with 'climate change' it seems that period is getting longer. It was spectacular during October this year and has the advantage of being only 8 miles from the in-laws' front door.

Unique from the other courses on your list for sure    ;)

I meant unique from the other courses I could have listed at #25. But The Shattuck is still harder than at least 10 courses on my list. If the green complexes were the average speed and condition of the other 24, it would be just behind Pine Valley and Oakmont.

That said, I'm nothing if not a contrarian.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on January 03, 2010, 01:13:19 PM
Anthony:

The genuis of #2 is that the land is NOT the story. It's the manner by which the angles provided can determine greatly your success.

#2 doesn't provide the scenic thrills but succeeds INSPITE of that -- provided -- it plays firm and fast and the width of the fairways is not compromised by US Open requirements.

Your comments initiall were the land at #2 is "overrated" -- you need to tell me who actually says it's that good to start.

Still curious on your take on Congressional.

Do agree that Sleepy Hollow is a course you should play -- ditto Fenway and WF/E.

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Anthony Butler on January 03, 2010, 01:33:54 PM
Anthony:

The genuis of #2 is that the land is NOT the story. It's the manner by which the angles provided can determine greatly your success.

#2 doesn't provide the scenic thrills but succeeds INSPITE of that -- provided -- it plays firm and fast and the width of the fairways is not compromised by US Open requirements.

I think we are in agreement on this. If you're approaching from certain angles, no matter how good a shot you hit the green will reject it.

The greens are certainly unique. I liken it to putting on top of the hood of VW Beetle... everything seems to fall away from you. It's really hard to pick up the internal contours.

For the style of the course, I think Congressional has a lot of variety. And the water hazards really affect the play on each hole. I have a fond spot for Congressional because the funniest thing happened to me during the US Open in '97.

While perusing the parking options along River Rd before the first round (every resident other than the Shrivers had turned their front yards into parking lots for the week) I noted the south side of the street was charging $5 more than the north side. When I asked the Shriver's neighbor why that was so, he repled "... well if you lived around here, you'd know this side of the street is far more desirable."

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott Warren on January 03, 2010, 01:39:17 PM
24. Carnoustie (Forget a ball, I almost lost a club in the rough in June '99.

;D
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean Leary on January 03, 2010, 01:55:42 PM
Anthony,

The Shattuck? Really?

Yes. Really. I guess there's a bunch of courses I could have put there... but The Shattuck is definitely the most unique and hardest of these courses.

Even though it's only in good condition for about 3 weeks of the year. Although with 'climate change' it seems that period is getting longer. It was spectacular during October this year and has the advantage of being only 8 miles from the in-laws' front door.

Unique from the other courses on your list for sure    ;)

I meant unique from the other courses I could have listed at #25. But The Shattuck is still harder than at least 10 courses on my list. If the green complexes were the average speed and condition of the other 24, it would be just behind Pine Valley and Oakmont.

That said, I'm nothing if not a contrarian.

I think The Shattuck is harder than PV myself.  I just don't think its very good... :)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Richard Choi on January 03, 2010, 02:06:54 PM
If Old Macdonald does not bump one of those three off your list, I'll be pissed.

LOL! Looks like we have the conversation topic #1 for the Old Mac opening night dinner at Bandon.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sandy Smith on January 03, 2010, 02:40:01 PM
 PV is the best but there is nothing like playing Amen Corner or walking up 18 at TOC.

Pine Valley
ANGC
TOC
CPC
Ballybunion
Royal County Down
Pebble Beach
Spyglass Hill
Pasatiempo
Atlantic City CC
Bandon Dunes
Pacific Dunes
Capilano
Western Gails
Turnberry
Prestwick
Royal Lytham
Royal Birkdale
Stadium Course Sawgrass
North Berwick
National GC Toronto
Royal Troon
Minikada
Royal Colwood
Bandon Trails
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on January 03, 2010, 03:12:41 PM
Anthony:

I don't doubt Congressional can be a tough test -- but where is the compelling architecture ?

It's more of the RTJ / post Rees set-up that provides for narrow driving down the same chute of holes followed by greens that are of the same type and configuration.

How do you place it ahead of the likes of Pinehurst #2, Oakmont and Muirfield ?

Puzzling indeed.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Anthony Butler on January 03, 2010, 05:01:06 PM
Anthony:

I don't doubt Congressional can be a tough test -- but where is the compelling architecture ?

It's more of the RTJ / post Rees set-up that provides for narrow driving down the same chute of holes followed by greens that are of the same type and configuration.

How do you place it ahead of the likes of Pinehurst #2, Oakmont and Muirfield ?

Puzzling indeed.


On reflection, Congressional and Quaker Ridge should be moved down a few spots... still, I think it has at least 7-8 really strong holes. I would love to think I could push it down the list even further, because that would mean I get to play some really good courses.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tim Bert on January 03, 2010, 05:11:21 PM
If Old Macdonald does not bump one of those three off your list, I'll be pissed.

LOL! Looks like we have the conversation topic #1 for the Old Mac opening night dinner at Bandon.

You are eating dinner?!?  We are planning to play our third round.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on January 03, 2010, 05:44:57 PM
Anthony:

Thanks -- but frankly Congressional is more than a few spots away when held against the likes of Pinehurst #2, Oakmont and Muirfield. It's OK to back pedal -- I did it with Mauna Kea and have it replaced by a better choice with the Lower at WR.

On a Doak scale Congressional is likely no more than a 6-7 for me -- Pinehurst #2, Oakmont and Muirfield are all in the 9-10 categories depending upon personal preferences.

On the flip side -- hats off to you on the selection of WF/W. Gets little love from the group here -- likely because of all the butt kickings it provides.



Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Anthony Butler on January 03, 2010, 10:53:33 PM
Anthony:
On a Doak scale Congressional is likely no more than a 6-7 for me -- Pinehurst #2, Oakmont and Muirfield are all in the 9-10 categories depending upon personal preferences.


Tom Doak's analysis of golf courses is similar to Bill Simmons' writing on sports... incredibly well-informed,  insightful and occasionally amusing. That said, they're both trying to provide shock value, so I don't agree with everything either of them said.

I lost my photocopy of Doak's book a couple of moves ago, but it struck me that, beyond the 7-8 courses everyone agrees on (CPC, PV, etc...) the courses he rates most highly are mostly famous for their greens + surroundings.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on January 04, 2010, 07:49:22 PM
Anthony:

No disrespect-- but you have not really explained how Congressional can be ahead of the likes of Pinehurst #2, Oakmont and Muirfueld.

I don't doubt Congressional can be hard for the Joe Sixpacks of the world -- but Tiger and company torched theplace at last year's AT&T event.

Help me out with this one -- OK ?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on April 06, 2010, 06:12:35 PM
Sean:

Fair enough.

I'll put together such a list with a bit of time to think it through. I don't have any Asian or Aussie / NZ selections but will throw together something by early in the week.

The bulk of such couses will come from UK / Ireland, Canada, the island off North America and Mexico, to name just a few other places.

Sean, be curious to see your USA only listing of the top 25.

Matt

What happened?  Cat got yer tongue? 

Anybody else loosened their tongues yet?

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Arata on April 06, 2010, 06:24:32 PM
In no particular order...25 usa

1Cypress Point
2Prairie Dunes
3Pacific Dunes
4Fishers Island
5Pebble Beach
6Crystal Downs
7Pasatiempo
8Kingsley Club
9Yale
10Cal Club
11SFGC
12Riviera
13Pinehurst #2
14Rustic Caynon
15Atlantic City CC
16Plainfield
17Olympic Club
18MPCC Shores
19Olympic Club - Lake
20Southern Hills
21Fenway
22Fallen Oak
23Shadow Creek
24Lost Dunes
25Lawsonia Links
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean Leary on April 06, 2010, 06:37:04 PM
In no particular order...25 usa

1Cypress Point
2Prairie Dunes
3Pacific Dunes
4Fishers Island
5Pebble Beach
6Crystal Downs
7Pasatiempo
8Kingsley Club
9Yale
10Cal Club
11SFGC
12Riviera
13Pinehurst #2
14Rustic Caynon
15Atlantic City CC
16Plainfield
17Olympic Club
18MPCC Shores
19Olympic Club - Lake
20Southern Hills
21Fenway
22Fallen Oak
23Shadow Creek
24Lost Dunes
25Lawsonia Links


17 and 19 are the same. No Flint Hills?
Title: Top 25
Post by: Patrick Glynn on April 06, 2010, 06:43:31 PM
My Top 25, in order are: (edit to include rounds played)

1. Royal County Down (2)
2. Sand Hills (15+)
3. Pine Valley (1) (though in all fairness, I think these 3 are pretty much perfect)
4. Muirfield HCEG (4)
5. Crystal Downs (3)
6. Lahinch (500 :-p)
7. Pacific Dunes (6)
8. San Francisco Golf Club (1)
9. Pasatiempo (35)
10. The Old Course, St. Andrews (6)
11. Ballybunion Old (2)
12. Shoreacres (1)
13. Bandon Trails (5)
14. Franklin Hills (3)
15. Carnoustie (1)
16. Royal Portrush (2)
16. Erin Hills circa 2008 (1)
17. Portmarnock (2)
18. Oakland Hills South (1.5)
19. The Castle Course, St. Andrews (1)
20. Lookout Mountain (20)
21. Bandon Dunes (4)
22. Holston Hills (1)
23. Meadow Club (2)
24. Bayonne (1)
25. Olympia Fields South (6)


Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Terry Lavin on April 06, 2010, 10:34:24 PM
1. Sand Hills
2. Pacific Dunes
3. Cypress Point
4. Riviera
5. Prairie Dunes
6. Bandon Dunes
7. Pebble Beach
8. LACC North
9. Olympia Fields North
10. Shoreacres
11. Olympic Club
12. Spyglass
13. Butler National
14. Medinah #3
15. Pinehurst #2
16. Beverly
17. Chicago Golf Club
18. Shadow Creek
19. Cherry Hills
20. TPC Sawgrass
21. Long Cove
22. Harbourtown
23. Whistling Straits
24. Shoal Creek
25. Old Tabby Links

Honorable Mention:  Dunes Club, which is only 9 holes
Most likely upcoming courses to sneak into the Top Ten: Old MacDonald and Oakmont
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Arata on April 07, 2010, 10:53:45 AM
Sorry, I was moving stuff around......

Would probably throw World Woods in, but I did like Flint Hills........would have thrown Beechtree in there if it still existed!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Brad Tufts on April 07, 2010, 12:25:25 PM
Here goes, in order, with # of plays:

Shinnecock Hills (1)
Cypress Point (1)
Merion Golf Club-East (2)
The Old Course (2)
Prestwick Golf Club (2)
Ballyneal (1)
Prairie Dunes (5)
Pacific Dunes (3)
Royal County Down (1, in a maelstrom)
Royal Portrush - Dunluce (1)
Ballybunion (Old) (1)
Pebble Beach (1)
The Country Club (Composite Course, which I played twice in the Mass Am last year)
Essex County Club (25ish)
Myopia Hunt Club (50ish)
Bethpage (Black) (1)
Royal Dornoch (Champ) (1)
Pinehurst (No. 2) (2)
Turnberry (1)
Cruden Bay (Champ) (1)
Bandon Dunes (3)
Kapalua Resort (Plantation) (3)
Monterey Peninsula CC (Shore) (1)
Newport (1)
Salem Country Club (5)

My "next ten" are Sebonack, County Louth, Plainfield, Carne, Olympic (Lake), Barona Creek, LACC-North, Bandon Trails, Winged Foot (West) and Ekwanok.  All of those are one play save for Barona and Ekwanok, which are two plays each.

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Pat Burke on April 07, 2010, 01:26:51 PM
It will become obvious that it is an "area specific" list, with a couple of exceptions.
It will also become obvious, that considering I played for 8 years on tour, I wasn't impressed by too many
courses out there.  Australia Tour played much better courses on average

1  CPC
2  Kingston Heath
3  Royal Melbourne
4  TOC
5  Pebble Beach
6  Plainfield
7  New South wales
8  NGL
9  Winged Foot
10 Victoria (Melbourne)
11 Ridgewood
12 Ridgewood  (any combos ;D)
13 Hollywood
14 Mountain Ridge
15 Royal Adelaide
16 Riviera
17 Forsgate
18 TPC sawgrass
19 Carnoustie
20 Essex County
21 Whipporwil
22 Montclair
23 Banff
24 Quaker Ridge
25 Somerset hills
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Arata on April 07, 2010, 01:36:54 PM
nice call on Essex County, should have put that on mine.........

Where in Jersey are you from Pat? I grew up in Wayne......
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Pat Burke on April 07, 2010, 02:25:47 PM
nice call on Essex County, should have put that on mine.........

Where in Jersey are you from Pat? I grew up in Wayne......

Grew up, errr..was raised ;)  on the Jersey Shore.
Dad was a long time Head pro at Deal.    Moved to California in '81 when I was 19.

Having parents and a grandfather that were golf pros made access pretty good for a snot nosed kid!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Michael Wharton-Palmer on April 07, 2010, 02:39:21 PM
In no certain order..many I cannot seperate..

Royal Birkdale
Merion
Pine Valley
Cypress Point
Old course
Pebble Beach
San Fransisco Golf
Kingsley
Ballyneal
Sand Hills
Western Gailes
Pacific Dunes
Woodhall Spa
Royal Cinque Ports
Desert Forest
Oakmont
Kiawha Ocean
Inverness
Oak Hill...despite the Fazio touches
Royal Troon
Portmarnock
Hillside
Garden City
Fishers Island
Betpage Black
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Chip Gaskins on April 07, 2010, 02:56:32 PM
In no certain order..many I cannot seperate..

Royal Birkdale
Merion
Pine Valley
Cypress Point
Old course
Pebble Beach
San Fransisco Golf
Kingsley
Ballyneal
Sand Hills
Western Gailes
Pacific Dunes
Woodhall Spa
Royal Cinque Ports
Desert Forest
Oakmont
Kiawha Ocean
Inverness
Oak Hill...despite the Fazio touches
Royal Troon
Portmarnock
Hillside
Garden City
Fishers Island
Betpage Black

Michael-

Where is Hillside?

Chip
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: scott anderson on April 07, 2010, 03:10:53 PM
1   Pine Valley      
2   Pebble Beach      
3   Chicago Golf Club      
4   Sand Hills      
5   Merion      
6   San Francisco Golf Club      
7   Pacific Dunes      
8   Winged Foot West      
9   Olympic Club Lake      
10   Monterey Peninsula Shore      
11   World Woods Pine Barrens      
12   Medinah      
13   Spyglass      
14   Interlachen      
15   The Quarry LaQuinta
16   Kiawah Ocean
17   White Bear Yacht Club
18   Stanford
19   Pasatiempo
20   Somerset
21   Cal Club
22   Greenbrier Old White
23   Whistling Straits
24   Northland
25   The Reserve Palm Desert
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mike_Clayton on April 07, 2010, 09:31:29 PM
15. Kingston Heath (One of the few sandbelt courses that could be improved.)


Anthony,
I am assuming you mean 'one of the few sandbelt courses that could not be improved'
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Andy Troeger on April 08, 2010, 12:23:39 AM
Oh why not...here goes.

Alpha Order

The Alotian Club
Baltimore CC East (Five Farms)
Black Mesa
Black Rock (ID)
Blackwolf Run River
Castle Pines
Chambers Bay
Crystal Downs
Cypress Point
Forest Highlands Canyon
The Golf Club (OH)
Gozzer Ranch
Kingsley Club
Muirfield Village
Pasatiempo
Pebble Beach
Prairie Dunes
Riviera
Rock Creek Cattle Company
Spyglass Hill
TPC at Sawgrass Stadium
Valley Club of Montecito
Victoria National
Whistling Straits
Wolf Run
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on April 08, 2010, 04:07:10 AM
In no certain order..many I cannot seperate..

Royal Birkdale
Merion
Pine Valley
Cypress Point
Old course
Pebble Beach
San Fransisco Golf
Kingsley
Ballyneal
Sand Hills
Western Gailes
Pacific Dunes
Woodhall Spa
Royal Cinque Ports
Desert Forest
Oakmont
Kiawha Ocean
Inverness
Oak Hill...despite the Fazio touches
Royal Troon
Portmarnock
Hillside
Garden City
Fishers Island
Betpage Black

Michael-

Where is Hillside?

Chip

Chip

Next door to Birkdale.

http://golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,35092.0/

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Franklin on April 08, 2010, 12:41:15 PM
Oh why not...here goes.

Alpha Order

The Alotian Club
Baltimore CC East (Five Farms)
Black Mesa
Black Rock (ID)
Blackwolf Run River
Castle Pines
Chambers Bay
Crystal Downs
Cypress Point
Forest Highlands Canyon
The Golf Club (OH)
Gozzer Ranch
Kingsley Club
Muirfield Village
Pasatiempo
Pebble Beach
Prairie Dunes
Riviera
Rock Creek Cattle Company
Spyglass Hill
TPC at Sawgrass Stadium
Valley Club of Montecito
Victoria National
Whistling Straits
Wolf Run

Come on Andy, numerical order. We know you have numbers for these courses too ;D.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on April 09, 2010, 10:07:37 AM
Sean A:

Speaking of cat grabbing their tongue -- where is your USA only top 25 listing that I asked for some time ago.

Inquiring minds want to know. :o

I'll be sure to present my overall top 25 shortly ... if you behave ! ;D
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on April 09, 2010, 10:37:00 AM
Sean A:

Speaking of cat grabbing their tongue -- where is your USA only top 25 listing that I asked for some time ago.

Inquiring minds want to know. :o

I'll be sure to present my overall top 25 shortly ... if you behave ! ;D

Its a bitch when yer memory fades.  At least my suspicion that the list I presented wasn't very memorable proved to be true.

"Sean:

Mainly Pennsy and MI courses.

Curious to know what you liked so much at OH/S.

Thanks ..."

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on April 09, 2010, 11:49:29 AM
Sean:

Love your tap dance of avoidance -- just post your top 25 USA listing.

You want mine worldwide -- happy to oblige -- when you fork something over too. ;D
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on April 09, 2010, 12:09:56 PM
delete
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on April 09, 2010, 01:13:24 PM
Sean:

I like the diversionary tactics -- but push all the smoke aside -- you want to see my all-world top 25 -- fair enough.

Post your top 25 USA only listing as you've been asked several times now.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Franklin on April 09, 2010, 01:23:31 PM
Matt -

If I list mine, will you list yours? I will even take a PM version as I am curious. Thanks.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on April 09, 2010, 01:24:42 PM
delete
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on April 09, 2010, 01:32:04 PM
Sean:

You can huff and puff all you want -- your top USA listing is missing. Hello anybody home ?

Mainly PA and MI courses. OK -- provide them in some sort of listing. Geeze Sean, what's the problem in cooperating ? ::)

Jim:

Yes, throw yours forward -- happy to oblige someone like youself.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Franklin on April 09, 2010, 01:41:24 PM
1. Cypress Point
2. NGLA
3. Pine Valley
4. The Old Course
5. Shinnecock Hills
6. Rock Creek Cattle Co
7. Sand Hills
8. Pacific Dunes
9. Merion
10. Oakmont
11. Prairie Dunes
12. Victoria National
13. San Francisco GC
14. Fishers Island
15. Ballyneal
16. Winged Foot - West
17. Sebonack
18. Friars Head
19. Pebble Beach
20. The Alotian
21. Crystal Downs
22. Turnberry (Ailsa)
23. Chicago GC
24. Pete Dye GC
25. Wade Hampton
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on April 09, 2010, 01:45:08 PM
delete

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on April 09, 2010, 01:47:27 PM
Seany:

Yeah, rank them. You want mine -- then do likewise.

Stop with the hemming and hawwing routine. It's getting really tiring putting up with the drivel.

I'm happy to post mine.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jonathan_becker on April 09, 2010, 01:59:06 PM
Jim Franklin,

Seeing what you have ranked behind your #6 makes me want to get out and see #6 even more!!  Yourself, Shivas, Kalen and analysis by others that have played RCCC has been very insightful for someone like myself that's never been out there.  :) 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on April 09, 2010, 02:03:58 PM
Seany:

Yeah, rank them. You want mine -- then do likewise.

Stop with the hemming and hawwing routine. It's getting really tiring putting up with the drivel.

I'm happy to post mine.

Wardy

Thanks for posting your list.


Ciao  
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on April 09, 2010, 02:08:31 PM
Jim F:

Wade Hampton 25th ?

Seany:

Love the explanation -- should I say tap dance around what was asked of you from me.

You can list them anyway you like -- highlighting or emphasizing any element you believe is noteworthy.

But, please nuff of the song and dance show about not being able to do so.

I'll forward mine shortly ...
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on April 09, 2010, 02:29:13 PM
Jim F:

Wade Hampton 25th ?

Seany:

Love the explanation -- should I say tap dance around what was asked of you from me.You can list them anyway you like -- highlighting or emphasizing any element you believe is noteworthy.

But, please nuff of the song and dance show about not being able to do so.

I'll forward mine shortly ...

Wardy

Ooops, I mistook Jim's list for yours.  Sorry.

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on April 09, 2010, 02:50:29 PM
Seany:

You're right -- that's life in the cowards's city -- nothing like extending oneself ... ::)

*****

Jim F:

Here was my States listing ...

will include my foreign side of things too -- mostly from the UK / Ireland and possibly a few other locations as well.

First Five

Shinnecock Hills -- the first among equals for me
Cypress Point -- just pure magic and beauty
Merion / East -- nothing packs as much design punch as this layout
Oakmont -- should be a major host every 7-8 years whether US Open or PGA. Just the supreme parksland layout of first rate
Sand Hills -- surreal setting with golf at its core. nuff said.

Second Five

Pine Valley -- needs to get rid of some trees and the underbrush to move up for me.
Ballyneal -- pure fun, entertainment and never a dull moment -- only measurably so-so element for me was the final two par-4's.
Rock Creek -- simply loved the layout -- only weak hole for me the finale. the best collection of Doak par-4 holes I have ever played
NGLA -- any design student needs to see it -- awesome in all senses of the word for the scope of what it provided. citizen kane golf
Winged Foot / West -- the most intense and discerning course that elicits the least amount of love.

Third Five

Crystal Downs -- the toughest short course one can play.
Prairie Dunes -- when wind is up -- the yardage becomes immaterial -- great greens and the 8th is on my short list for great holes.
Pebble Beach -- when firm and fast and the wind up it's everything and more. still has a few so-so holes that keep it down for me.
Fisher's Island -- hard to beat on a sunny summer afternoon -- the best of the Raynor layouts for me.
Pinehurst #2 -- when firm and fast and with ample fairway widths works for me -- takes more than one play to "get it"

Fourth Five

Black Mesa -- just a superb public facility for those unable to get to the ones listed above it. Superb scenery and range of holes.
The Kingsley Club -- likely should be higher but would need a second visit to confirm my original lovefest for it.
Riviera -- love when the course plays firm -- incredible range of decisions for player to decide upon. 18th is everything they say & more.
The Ocean Course / Kiawah -- often thought of as a unrelenting beast -- the course has such a range of elasticity and even playability
Pacific Dunes -- wonderful setting and the best ending with a par-4, par-3 and par-5 closing.

Fifth Five

Plainfield -- one of the most underrated layouts in the metro area and flies way too low nationally.
Bayonne -- just totally man created and works well even when in tight quarters -- goes beyond shadow creek in such a similar category
Mauna Kea -- great upgrade from Rees Jones and likely the best RTJ course I have played. The 11th is one of the best long par-3 holes
Bethpage / Black -- don't like many of the post changes -- the 18th especially -- but still a top notch design and test.
Red Ledges -- gets little attention but Jack's most striking layout with UT scenery and design elements that are first rate.

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Greg Tallman on April 09, 2010, 06:58:25 PM
Pardon me for interrupting this rather entertaining back and forth but here goes...

Pinehurst #2
The Ocean Course - Kiawah
Cabo del Sol - Ocean
Diamante
Muirfield Village
Mid Ocean
Pete Dye
TPC Sawgrass
Laurel Valley
Grandfather
World Woods Pine Barrens
Fox Chape
lLong Cove
Troon North
May River
Querencia
Emerald Dunes
Southern Dunes (zero housing)
Bahia del los Sueños
Bay Hill
World Woods Rolling Oaks
Fiddlesticks Long Mean
Bonita Bay - Bay Island
Olde Mill GC

I need to get out more!

I suppose taking those up on invites to Cypress, LACC, MPCC and others is a must as well as getting to Bandon after June 3.











Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Andrew Cunningham on April 09, 2010, 09:53:53 PM
Cypress Point Club
Pebble Beach
Oakland Hills
Oakmont
Riviera
LACC
Winged Foot West
National Golf Club of Canada
SFCC
Sagebrush
Olympic CC
St. Georges (Canada)
Bethpage Black
Pinehurst No.2
Sebonack
Plainfield CC
Butler National
Banff Springs
TPC Sawgrass
Inverness
Kittansett
Devil's Paintbrush (Canada)
Mayacama
Sahalee
Rich Harvest Links

Bonus course to take your wife on a surprise trip - Farimont Montebello, QC
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Brian Potash on April 09, 2010, 09:57:30 PM
CPC
Oakmont
Shinnecock
LACC North
NGLA
Seminole
Friars Head
Prairie Dunes
Ballyneal
Plainfield
Merion 
Bethpage Black
Quaker Ridge
Sleepy Hollow
Somerset Hills
Wannamoisett
Streamsong Blue
Kittansett
Hollywood
Whipporwill
Riviera
Oak Hill - East
Sebonack
Kinloch
Yale



Brian
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Andy Troeger on April 09, 2010, 11:54:56 PM
Here goes and will be fun to compare 10 years from now.

No particular order

Merion East
Oakmont
Quaker Ridge
Teeth of the Dog
Seminole
Hudson National
Sleepy Hollow
Metedeconk
Broadmoor East
Bethpage Black
Bethpage Red
Tamarack
Metropolis
Kapalua Plantation
Makena North/South
We Ko Pa (Cholla)
Red Sky Ranch - Norman
Sebonack
Prince Course
Wailea - Emerald (first time to break 90)
University of Michigan
Caledonia Golf and Fish
Engineers
North Shore CC
Ballyowen

This coming summer-

Maidstone
Century

Brian

Brian,
I can literally say that not one single course from my top 25 just FIVE years ago makes my current top 25. Only three of those courses make my current top 50: Crooked Stick, Point O'Woods and South Bend CC.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: V. Kmetz on April 10, 2010, 12:26:27 AM
I'll bite...

1.  I never reveal but it is the least covered Raynor-Banks course

The rest are in no particular order...

Yale
Fishers Island
Winged Foot East
(and West)
NGLA
Shinnecock
Tallgrass (long island)
Mohansic (Westchester county public)
Siwanoy
CC of Fairfield
Century
Garden City
Fairchild-Wheeler Red Course (public in Bridgeport CT)
Stanwich
Bethpage Black
(and Red)
Inwood
Apawamis
Quaker Ridge
Baltusrol (lower)
Morefar
Hotchkiss school course
Millbrook (9-holer Greenwich CT)


i'll leave #25 for the future
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Brent Carlson on April 10, 2010, 01:53:55 AM
As of 7/14

In groups, no order within

First 5

Royal Dornoch
Muirfield
The Old Course
Ballybunion
Royal County Down

Second 5

Crystal Downs
Pacific Dunes
Pebble Beach
Old MacDonald
Royal Portrush

Third 5

Dismal Red
Ballyneal
Chambers Bay
Pasatiempo
North Berwick

Fourth 5

Portmarnock
Kingsley Club
Arcadia Bluffs
High Pointe
Lahinch

Fifth 5

French Lick Ross
Rustic Canyon
Lawsonia Links
Forest Dunes
Erin Hills
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on April 10, 2010, 08:40:41 AM
What's interesting in observing the listing of courses people have posted is that with the exception of the really elite old time classic courses the bulk of what is being mentioned are newer layouts. Candidly, I see the range of newer courses getting more air time on this thread than you see being outlined by the major mags themselves.

I think there are way too many courses from the bygone era -- deemed to be "great" that are frankly only "great" because they happen to reside in the same general vicinity as more legitimate big brother and sister layouts.

We may not look at the existing time frame and extending back to say 1990 or so as a great period for course development but the impact is certainly there given what people are listing. Just a few thoughts to ponder ...
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JR Potts on April 10, 2010, 09:15:55 AM
1. Shoreacres
2. San Francisco
3. Medinah #3
4. Erin Hills
5. Whistling Straits
6. Riviera
7. Spyglass
8. Pebble Beach
9. Beverly
10. Butler National
11. Chicago Golf
12. Olympia Fields North
13. Shoal Creek
14. Pine Needles
15. Isleworth
16. Blackwolf Run (River)
17. Pinehurst #4
18. Pinehurst #2
19. Lost Dunes
20. Lake Nona
21. Old Overton
22. Blackwolf Run (Meadows Valley)
23. Greyhawk (Raptor)
24. Troon North
25. PGA National
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Terry Lavin on April 11, 2010, 08:54:10 AM
And those are just the good courses...Has there ever been a thread "Worst 25 courses played"?

OK, I'll bite at this:

Tamarack

Forward Jans

Wilmette

Indian Valley

Seven Bridges

Monster 9 at Rob Roy

Arlington Lakes

Glendale Lakes

Nordic Hills

Countryside

Evergreen

Arlington Park's course

Hilldale

Oak Brook Hills

Oh, what is the name of that really crappy course in Vernon Hills?

Cress Creek

Klein Creek

Chick Evans

Rolling Green

Ravinia Greens

Thunderbird

Arboretum  GC

Palatine Hills

Mission Hills

I tried, but I have to stop....I'm getting sick to my stomach...





Evergreen (where I learned to hack-slap-and-chop finally makes a list on GCA.  I might puke as well!  BTW, at least eight of my worst ever are on here.  Well done.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sven Nilsen on April 11, 2010, 01:38:46 PM
Dave:

Do the Links at Carillon make that list?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Moore II on April 11, 2010, 08:43:46 PM
My top 25 courses played, in alphabetical order. I'm not even going to attempt to rank them numerically. #1 on the list is easy, I could most likely give a top 5, but pretty much 2-5 would be interchangeable. Comment away.

Bear's Best Atlanta
Bryan Park (Champions)
CCNC (Dogwood)
Duke Golf Club
Eagle Point
Forest Creek (North)
Foxfire (Original)
Golden Horseshoe (Gold)
Mattaponi Springs
Mid South
Moose Run (River)
NCSU Lonnie Poole
Park Ridge
PGA (Dye)
Pinehurst #1
Pinehurst #5
Pine Needles
The President  (Eagle)
Riverfront
Southern Pines
Tanglewood Park (Champions)
Thanksgiving Point
Tobacco Road
TPC Wakefield Plantation
Wilmington GC


Edit from before, I've played some good courses here recently and I've really thought about some other courses. Taking off #2 because I haven't played the whole course, just 1/3 of it and walked the rest. So I'm taking that one off. Updated courses in RED.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Wade Whitehead on April 11, 2010, 09:16:46 PM
Alphabetically:

Ballyhack
Bryan Park (Champions)
Cascades
Conewango Valley Club
Countryside
Dunes Golf Club [Seville]
Glen Mills
Greenbrier (Old White)
Harbor Town
Holston Valley
Kinloch
Lost Canyons (Sky)
The Olde Farm
Pete Dye River Course of Virginia Tech
Philadelphia Cricket Club (Wissahickon)
Pine Hill
Primland (Highlands Links)
Redlands Mesa
Roanoke Country Club
Royal New Kent
Snowshoe (Raven)
Spring Island (Old Tabby Links)
Tobacco Road
The Virginian
World Woods (Pine Barrens)

Some receive universal praise and others are listed for personal or quirky reasons.  Two are now closed.  One is arguably the worst-conditioned golf course I've ever seen.

WW
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jeff Martz on April 12, 2010, 12:00:14 AM
I envy these lists.


  Keith,

  Just stick around on the site.......your list will get better.

  Anthony


Whew!  That's good to hear.  I only have two courses that I feel comfortable posting, and they were both on the same trip.

1. Crystal Downs
2. Kingsley Club
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Nugent on April 12, 2010, 02:24:35 AM
Ryan Potts, a couple of your rankings may raise some eyebrows.  I'm thinking of:

*  WS so high, and above Riviera, Pebble, and Pinehurst #2
*  Spyglass over Pebble.

Any comments?   

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Franklin on April 12, 2010, 10:25:34 AM
Jim F:

Wade Hampton 25th ?


I went and checked my wall (that's where I rank my courses from 1-100 in my ball rack) and Wade Hampton was not #25, Kingsley Club was. Wade was actually #28 with two Idaho courses in between. With that said, I loved Wade Hampton. I played it in early October on a beautiful day and the course was majestic. I can't wait to play it again.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Chris Roselle on April 12, 2010, 11:03:40 AM
Brand new member, first post ever, here goes:

The order fluctuates from day to day......

1. Pine Valley
2. Merion
3. Shinnecock
3. Oakmont
4. Pebble Beach
5. Chicago GC
6. Southern Hills
7. Ballybunion
8. Lahinch
9. Old Head
10. Southern Hills
11. Gulph Mills GC
12. Portmarnock GC
13. Waterville
14. Saucon Valley (Old)
15. Aronimink
16. Pinehurst #2
17. Peachtree GC
18. Atlanta Athletic Club
19. Country Club of Detroit
20. Galloway National Golf Club
21. The European Club
22. Baltusrol (Lower)
23. Stonewall (Old)
24. Rosses Point (Sligo)

and last but not least, the course I learned the game on....

25. Overbrook Golf Club

Honorable Mention (could be on the list depending on the day)
26. Rolling Green
27. East Lake
28. Harbor Town GL
29. Hollywood GC
30. Philadelphia Cricket Club (wissahickon)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JR Potts on April 12, 2010, 11:46:00 AM
Ryan Potts, a couple of your rankings may raise some eyebrows.  I'm thinking of:

*  WS so high, and above Riviera, Pebble, and Pinehurst #2
*  Spyglass over Pebble.

Any comments?    



A lot of these reankings raise some eyebrows.   :)


This is a list of MY personal Top 25.  I have always loved Whisting Straits.  As a midwest guy that doesn't travel a ton to play , it is an abosulte marvel that it is 2 hours from my front door.   I find the golf course to be extremely challenging and since they replanted all the green surrounds with bent instead of fescue, very playable.  I'm not in love with the 5th hole but besides that I don't see a weak hole on the course.

Why above Pebble?  I thought there were some rather pedestrian holes on the course.  It was also pouring rain and very very wet so I ddin't get the full experience.

Why above Riviera?  I absolutely loved Riviera.  I thought it was enjoyable, had the appropriate level of nuance but it didn't wow me like WS.  I think the 18th hole is one of if not the finest par 4s I've ever played but the 12th-17th hole ever just merely above average for me....not great.

And why above #2?  I think I may have overrated #2.  I thought the the first 5 holese at #2 were great.....and then I was disappointed for the next 10 holes.  I didn't get #2 - as a whole.  The fairways were just strange and the width of the course didn't look right to me.  I thought the greens were fun and challenging but it didn't wow me at all.  I really look forward to seeing what C&C do....as from what I've read, it is going to make a huge difference in my perception and enjoyment of the course.

And Spyglass over Pebble?  Absolutely.  I'm a big golf course kind of guy.  Spyglass, when it turns into the trees is just awesome.  Juxtoposed against the starting 4 holes, it is even better.  I don't think that Spyglass had a bad hole on the course.  It really passed the "eye test" for me.

Those are my opinions.  And sorry for any grammar and spacing issues...my comupter is really making it hard to type on this site.  I need to get it fixed as I can't see what I'm typing.

EDIT - Oh, and I forgot Shadow Creek....probably falls around 15....above #2.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Moore II on April 12, 2010, 07:10:23 PM
I envy these lists.


  Keith,

  Just stick around on the site.......your list will get better.

  Anthony


Whew!  That's good to hear.  I only have two courses that I feel comfortable posting, and they were both on the same trip.

1. Crystal Downs
2. Kingsley Club

Just go ahead and post a full top 25 list. Don't be worried. Just look at my top 25, nothing special there. I'm not ashamed of it, just how it works, some people have better connections than others. I personally have basically no connections... :-\
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Wyatt Halliday on April 20, 2010, 12:30:21 PM
*
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matthew Petersen on April 20, 2010, 01:14:52 PM
This is quite sad compared to the marvelous places so many here have played, but nonetheless ... off the top of my head and not necessarily in any order ...

Challenge at Manele
Princeville Prince Course
Kapalua Plantation
Bear Dance
Eisenhower Blue
Southern Dunes
Reflection Bay
Grayhawk Raptor
Ventana Canyon Mountain
Mt. Woodson
WeKoPa Saguaro
WeKoPa Cholla
Raven Verrado
Murphy Creek
Saddle Rock
Green Valley Ranch
Emerald River [NLE]
Wildfire Faldo
Troon North Pinnacle
Wailea Gold
Stone Ridge
Troon North Monument
Talking Stick North
del Lago
Estrella
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tony_Chapman on April 20, 2010, 02:03:40 PM
Let me see if I can even get to 25 on this thing....

1. Sand Hills
2. Ballyneal (I'd probably put Ballyneal #1 if I'd have grown up in Colorado, but I'm Husker through and through)
3. Prairie Dunes
4. Pebble Beach
5. Pinehurst #2
6. Pasatiempo
7. Wild Horse
8. Tobacco Road
9. Mid Pines
10. Firethorn

(Others in no order: Caledonia Fish Club, Raliegh CC, Sand Creek Station, Pinehurst #8, Pinehurst #7, Hawktree, Red Hawk Ridge, Breckenridge GC, Chaska Town Course, San Juan Oaks) That's enough....I need to expand my horizons a little bit.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jason Topp on April 20, 2010, 03:32:21 PM
What's interesting in observing the listing of courses people have posted is that with the exception of the really elite old time classic courses the bulk of what is being mentioned are newer layouts. Candidly, I see the range of newer courses getting more air time on this thread than you see being outlined by the major mags themselves.

I think there are way too many courses from the bygone era -- deemed to be "great" that are frankly only "great" because they happen to reside in the same general vicinity as more legitimate big brother and sister layouts.


Matt - I suspect the biggest reason you do not see the US classic courses on lists is the difficulty involved in getting access to them.  When I check, I usually have played more courses on the world top 100 lists than the US lists.

I probably could figure out a way to play many of the US courses but have almost no interest in making the necessary effort.


Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Simon Holt on April 20, 2010, 04:09:32 PM
Not sure if I can get to 25......in fact I am going to throw caution to the wind and list them in order of how much fun I have/had playing there.  Some may be 'better' courses in terms of GCA but these put a smile on my face which is what its all about.

In paranthesis my top 10 in GCA terms

1. North Berwick  (6)
2. Cypress Point  (2)
3. Royal Dornoch  (5)
4. Pine Valley  (1)
5. TOC  (4)
6. Muirfield  (3)
7. Pasatiempo (8)
8. Renaissance Club  (7)
9. Kingsbarns (10)
10. Royal Troon (9)
11. Spyglass Hill
12. Hoylake
13. Bethpage Black
14. Gullane No. 1
15. Loch Lomond
16. Kilspindie
17. Leven
18. Dunbar
19. Champions
20. Shadow Hawk
21. Brora
22. Elie
23. Crail (Balcomie)
24. Leven
25. Stanwich

I need to play more courses!!!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott Warren on April 20, 2010, 04:11:22 PM

I need to play more courses!!!

It's not a bad Top 10 as it is!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Simon Holt on April 20, 2010, 04:18:32 PM
From where I am sat typing I can see about 4 of those (albeit some across the Firth of Forth!!) and if I stood on my roof with binos I could probably see 11!!  Local bias going on...
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill Shamleffer on April 20, 2010, 07:38:42 PM
St. Andrews, New Course   (St. Andrews, Scotland) (municipal)
St. Louis C.C.   (St. Louis, Mo.) (private)

Westwood C.C.   (St. Louis, Mo.) (private)
Fox Run   (St. Louis, Mo.) (private)
Crooked Stick   (Carmel, Ind.) (private)

Algonquin G.C.   (St. Louis, Mo.) (private)
A.L. Gustin   (Columbia, Mo.) (University of Missouri course)
Swope Park   (Kansas City, Mo.) (municipal)
Annbriar   (Waterloo, Ill.) (within St. Louis metropolitan area) (public)
Cog Hill   (Lemont, Ill.) (public)

George Wright   (Boston, Ma.) (municipal)
Normandie   (St. Louis, Mo.) (public)
Alvamar   (Lawrence, Kan.) (public)
Brackenridge   (San Antonio, Tex.) (municipal)
Crescent Farms   (St. Louis, Mo.) (private)

Norwood C.C.   (St. Louis, Mo.) (private)
Waveland Golf Course   (Des Moines, Iowa) (municipal)
Seminole Golf Course   (Tallahassee, Fl.) (Florida State University course)
Forest Park Golf Course   (St. Louis, Mo.) (municipal)
Crystal Highlands   (Festus, Mo.) (within St. Louis metropolitan area) (NLE)

Hulman Links   (Terre Haute, Ind.) (municipal)
St. Johnsbury C.C.   (St. Johnsbury, Vt.) (public)
Eagle Creek   (Indianapolis, Ind.) (municipal)
Oak Hills   (Jefferson City, Mo.) (municipal)
Highland Links   (Truro, Ma.) (municipal)

[12 government owned, with six other daily fee courses]


On an additional note, I would love to spend a summer in the UK playing only the courses on Sean Arble's list.  Also, I am very surprised than only a couple of lists included St. Andrew's New Course.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Joel Zuckerman on April 20, 2010, 08:13:24 PM
St. Andrews, New Course   (St. Andrews, Scotland) (municipal)
St. Louis C.C.   (St. Louis, Mo.) (private)

Westwood C.C.   (St. Louis, Mo.) (private)
Fox Run   (St. Louis, Mo.) (private)
Crooked Stick   (Carmel, Ind.) (private)

Algonquin G.C.   (St. Louis, Mo.) (private)
A.L. Gustin   (Columbia, Mo.) (University of Missouri course)
Swope Park   (Kansas City, Mo.) (municipal)
Annbriar   (Waterloo, Ill.) (within St. Louis metropolitan area) (public)
Cog Hill   (Lemont, Ill.) (public)

George Wright   (Boston, Ma.) (municipal)
Normandie   (St. Louis, Mo.) (public)
Alvamar   (Lawrence, Kan.) (public)
Brackenridge   (San Antonio, Tex.) (municipal)
Crescent Farms   (St. Louis, Mo.) (private)

Norwood C.C.   (St. Louis, Mo.) (private)
Waveland Golf Course   (Des Moines, Iowa) (municipal)
Seminole Golf Course   (Tallahassee, Fl.) (Florida State University course)
Forest Park Golf Course   (St. Louis, Mo.) (municipal)
Crystal Highlands   (Festus, Mo.) (within St. Louis metropolitan area) (NLE)

Hulman Links   (Terre Haute, Ind.) (municipal)
St. Johnsbury C.C.   (St. Johnsbury, Vt.) (public)
Eagle Creek   (Indianapolis, Ind.) (municipal)
Oak Hills   (Jefferson City, Mo.) (municipal)
Highland Links   (Truro, Ma.) (municipal)

[12 government owned, with six other daily fee courses]


On an additional note, I would love to spend a summer in the UK playing only the courses on Sean Arble's list.  Also, I am very surprised than only a couple of lists included St. Andrew's New Course.


Bill,

Considering where you live, and the lack of "all-stars" on your list, I'm surprised Crumpin-Fox isn't on your list..
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Joel Zuckerman on April 20, 2010, 08:20:10 PM
Seany:

You're right -- that's life in the cowards's city -- nothing like extending oneself ... ::)

*****

Jim F:

Here was my States listing ...

will include my foreign side of things too -- mostly from the UK / Ireland and possibly a few other locations as well.

First Five

Shinnecock Hills -- the first among equals for me
Cypress Point -- just pure magic and beauty
Merion / East -- nothing packs as much design punch as this layout
Oakmont -- should be a major host every 7-8 years whether US Open or PGA. Just the supreme parksland layout of first rate
Sand Hills -- surreal setting with golf at its core. nuff said.

Second Five

Pine Valley -- needs to get rid of some trees and the underbrush to move up for me.
Ballyneal -- pure fun, entertainment and never a dull moment -- only measurably so-so element for me was the final two par-4's.
Rock Creek -- simply loved the layout -- only weak hole for me the finale. the best collection of Doak par-4 holes I have ever played
NGLA -- any design student needs to see it -- awesome in all senses of the word for the scope of what it provided. citizen kane golf
Winged Foot / West -- the most intense and discerning course that elicits the least amount of love.

Third Five

Crystal Downs -- the toughest short course one can play.
Prairie Dunes -- when wind is up -- the yardage becomes immaterial -- great greens and the 8th is on my short list for great holes.
Pebble Beach -- when firm and fast and the wind up it's everything and more. still has a few so-so holes that keep it down for me.
Fisher's Island -- hard to beat on a sunny summer afternoon -- the best of the Raynor layouts for me.
Pinehurst #2 -- when firm and fast and with ample fairway widths works for me -- takes more than one play to "get it"

Fourth Five

Black Mesa -- just a superb public facility for those unable to get to the ones listed above it. Superb scenery and range of holes.
The Kingsley Club -- likely should be higher but would need a second visit to confirm my original lovefest for it.
Riviera -- love when the course plays firm -- incredible range of decisions for player to decide upon. 18th is everything they say & more.
The Ocean Course / Kiawah -- often thought of as a unrelenting beast -- the course has such a range of elasticity and even playability
Pacific Dunes -- wonderful setting and the best ending with a par-4, par-3 and par-5 closing.

Fifth Five

Plainfield -- one of the most underrated layouts in the metro area and flies way too low nationally.
Bayonne -- just totally man created and works well even when in tight quarters -- goes beyond shadow creek in such a similar category
Mauna Kea -- great upgrade from Rees Jones and likely the best RTJ course I have played. The 11th is one of the best long par-3 holes
Bethpage / Black -- don't like many of the post changes -- the 18th especially -- but still a top notch design and test.
Red Ledges -- gets little attention but Jack's most striking layout with UT scenery and design elements that are first rate.


Matt---I assume you've played more GC's than pretty much anyone on this site, and you put Red Ledges on your Top 25 All Time??  Amazing stuff!  Top 25 in greater Park City, definitely.  Top 25 in Utah, without a doubt.  Top 25 in the Rockies, more than likely.  But Top 25 on the peripatetic Matt Ward's all-time list of best courses??  Hard to believe.  The mind strains to find an appropriate analogy...perhaps Christian Laetner's inclusion on the Original Dream team??

You gotta be on their payroll..... ;)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Harvey Dickens on April 20, 2010, 09:31:07 PM
Jason,
It's bad enough to see the top 25 list. Now your gonna rub it in by telling us the courses that didn't make your top 25! ;)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill Shamleffer on April 21, 2010, 12:30:08 PM
St. Andrews, New Course   (St. Andrews, Scotland) (municipal)
St. Louis C.C.   (St. Louis, Mo.) (private)

Westwood C.C.   (St. Louis, Mo.) (private)
Fox Run   (St. Louis, Mo.) (private)
Crooked Stick   (Carmel, Ind.) (private)

Algonquin G.C.   (St. Louis, Mo.) (private)
A.L. Gustin   (Columbia, Mo.) (University of Missouri course)
Swope Park   (Kansas City, Mo.) (municipal)
Annbriar   (Waterloo, Ill.) (within St. Louis metropolitan area) (public)
Wintonbury Hills   (Bloomfield, Conn.) (municipal)

Cog Hill   (Lemont, Ill.) (public)
George Wright   (Boston, Ma.) (municipal)
Normandie   (St. Louis, Mo.) (public)
Alvamar   (Lawrence, Kan.) (public)
Brackenridge   (San Antonio, Tex.) (municipal)

Crescent Farms   (St. Louis, Mo.) (private)
Norwood C.C.   (St. Louis, Mo.) (private)
Waveland Golf Course   (Des Moines, Iowa) (municipal)
Seminole Golf Course   (Tallahassee, Fl.) (Florida State University course)
Forest Park Golf Course   (St. Louis, Mo.) (municipal)

Crystal Highlands   (Festus, Mo.) (within St. Louis metropolitan area) (NLE)
Hulman Links   (Terre Haute, Ind.) (municipal)
St. Johnsbury C.C.   (St. Johnsbury, Vt.) (public)
Eagle Creek   (Indianapolis, Ind.) (municipal)
Highland Links   (Truro, Ma.) (municipal)

[12 government owned, with six other daily fee courses]


On an additional note, I would love to spend a summer in the UK playing only the courses on Sean Arble's list.  Also, I am very surprised than only a couple of lists included St. Andrew's New Course.


Bill,

Considering where you live, and the lack of "all-stars" on your list, I'm surprised Crumpin-Fox isn't on your list..

Joel:

Since I have moved to Springfield, Mass. from St. Louis I have been very busy with my family, work and night classes in graduate school, so my golf has greatly suffered.  Some of the big must plays for me in the next few years include Crumpin-Fox, The Ranch, Taconic, Hotchkiss, and Shenecossett.

I actually should add to my Top 25 played list Wintonbury.  It should go in my third 5 and I would probably drop Oak Hills from my bottom 5.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on April 21, 2010, 12:39:55 PM
What's interesting in observing the listing of courses people have posted is that with the exception of the really elite old time classic courses the bulk of what is being mentioned are newer layouts. Candidly, I see the range of newer courses getting more air time on this thread than you see being outlined by the major mags themselves.


Matt:

Is this not partly a function of advertising?  The new courses get a lot of press when they open.  An older, private course like Canton-Brookside or Camargo gets none, so people tend to forget those when compiling a list off the top of their heads.

I'm not saying there aren't a lot of modern courses that are very good, I just think there are an equal number of older ones which get overlooked.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on April 21, 2010, 12:45:54 PM
Chris R...

Which course at Atlanta Athletic are you putting in your top 25.  Just curious.

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jonathan_becker on April 21, 2010, 12:54:37 PM
.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Brian Cenci on April 21, 2010, 12:59:55 PM
#1  - Crystal Downs
#2  - Kiawah (Ocean Course)
#3  - Whistling Straits (Straits)
#4  - Prairie Dunes
#5  - Oakmont
#6  - Bandon Dunes
#7  - Pacific Dunes
#8  - Pete Dye Golf Club
#9  - Bandon Trails
#10 - Kingsley Club
#11 - Arcadia Bluffs
#12 - Kinloch
#13 - Wolf Run
#14 - Greywalls
#15 - Holston Hills
#16 - Lost Dunes
#17 - The Honors Course
#18 - Dunes Club
#19 - Yeamans Hall
#20 - Pine Needles
#21 - Inverness Club
#22 - Pinehurst No. 2
#23 - Blackwolf Run (River)
#24 - Harbour Town Golf Links
#25 - Black Diamond (Quarry)

HM's:
* Franklin Hills
* Forest Creek (North)
* Wolf Creek
* World Woods (Pine Barrons)
* Cuscowilla
* Bull’s Bay
* Oakland Hills
* Victoria National
* Tobacco Road
* Crooked Stick


Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Steve Strasheim on April 21, 2010, 01:19:46 PM
If you don't mind, I'll take this opportunity to try to make my first ever ranking list.

1. Sandhills
2. Turnberry
3. Wild Horse
4. Blackwolf Run River
5. Whistling Straits
6. Queensltown NZ
7. St. Andrews New
8. Muriwai Beach NZ
9. Blue Canyon, Phuket
10. Waireki NZ
11. St. Mellion
12. Vista Verde
13. Star Pass
14. La Paloma
15. Firethorn
16. Arbor Links
17. Tiffany Greens
18. Baker National
19. Links at Northfork
20. Old Kinderhook
21. The Wilds
22. Bayside (should be about 10, but forgot for a moment)
23. Champions Club Omaha
24. Quarry Oaks
25. Woodland Hills

Rating based on overall enjoyment as well as course quality.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Chris Roselle on April 21, 2010, 01:24:47 PM
Chris R...

Which course at Atlanta Athletic are you putting in your top 25.  Just curious.



Mac, the Highlands Course is my favorite of the two.  They are both great but I like Highlands alittle more.  It was in alittle better condition compared to Riverside.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill Shamleffer on April 21, 2010, 01:36:56 PM
Not one Augusta National yet...

Augusta National finally made a couple of later lists.  However, in my reading of these lists it does appear that August National may be the hardest great course to obtain playing access.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: David Amarnek on April 21, 2010, 01:43:44 PM
Let me preface this list with the fact that I have yet to take advantage of the opportunity to play on Long Island, which I am confident would alter it substantially.

Geographically speaking:

Oakmont  #3
Pine Valley #2
Merion  #4
Gulph Mills
Huntington Valley

St. Andrews Old  #5
Prestwick  #9
Muirfield  #10
Turnberry
North Berwick
Carnoustie

Pebble Beach
Pasatiempo

Royal County Down #1

Portmarnock
The Island

Mid Ocean

Sunningdale Old  #6
RSG  #7
RCP
Swinley Forest  #8
Rye

St. Louis
Westwood (Home course)
Old Warson



Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mike Kosak on April 21, 2010, 06:05:58 PM
Top 25 played:

1.  Cypress Point
2   San Francisco Golf Club
3.  Brook Hollow
4.  Pebble Beach
5.  Secession
6.  Cape Kidnappers
7.  Pacific Dunes
8.  Northland Country Club
9.  Pasatiempo
10.  Forest Highlands (Canyon)
11.  Wade Hampton
12.  Interlachen
13.  Whistling Straits (Straits)
14.  Olympic Club (Lake)
15.  Cherry Hills
16.  Desert Highlands
17.  Atlanta Athletic Club (Highlands)
18.  Bandon Trails
19.  Shadow Creek
20.  TPC Sawgrass
21.  Sonoma Golf Club
22.  Jack's Point
23.  Bandon Dunes
24.  Preston Trail
25.  Hazeltine
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: erichunter on April 21, 2010, 07:03:39 PM
The favorite (for various reasons) 25 golf courses I have played:

Augusta National
Cypress Point
Royal Dornoch
Pinehurst # 2
Pine Valley
Pebble Beach
Old Course - St. Andrews
Shoreacres
Cabo Del Sol - Ocean
Dunes (MI)
Canterbury
Baltusrol - Lower
Palmetto
Waterville
TPC Sawgrass
Mid Pines
Pine Needles
Austin Golf Club
Harbour Town
Tobacco Road
Point O' Woods
Sage Valley
Cog Hill - Dubs
Old Head
Lundin Links

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean Leary on April 21, 2010, 07:42:20 PM
Not necessarily in order, more by tiers:

Pine Valley

Cypress Point
Royal County Down
Royal Portrush
Merion
Pebble Beach
Prairie Dunes
Lahinch
Ballybunion
Royal Dornoch
TOC St Andrews
Pacific Dunes

Ballyneal
LACC
SFGC
Portmarnock
Turnberry

Bandon Trails
Bandon Dunes
North Berwick
Eastward Ho!

Pasatiempo
Banff
Jasper Park
Kiawah (Ocean)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Steve Salmen on April 21, 2010, 09:07:12 PM
I originally did not want to read this post because I thought it would be exactly that: "Whip it out".  However, if everyone is honest there can be really good debate and a lot can be learned through discussion.  When I have time, I'd like to read everyone's thoughts, ask questions and make comments.  After a glance, I did a few, "Oh Yeah, that's a really good course I've played".  I liked the idea of posting the number of rounds played because multiple experiences makes the evaluation more honest.  I am fortunate to play the game and humbled by it.

1.   Muirfield (20)
2.   Royal Dornoch (200+)
3.   Chicago Golf Club (4)
4.   Dunes Club, MI (3)
5.   Pinehurst #2 (1)
6.   San Francisco Golf Club (2)
7.   Machrihanish (10+)
8.   North Berwick (6)
9.   Pacific Dunes (6)
10. Shoreacres (6)
11. Prestwick (3)
12. Elie (4)
13. Sheep Ranch (1 day)
14. Formby (2)
15. Askernish (2)
16. Carnoustie (6)
17. The Old Course (4)
18. Yale (1)
19. Meadow Club (6)
20. Olympic Lake (1)
21. Nairn (3)
22. Crosswater (2)
23. Skokie (1)
24. Beverly (4)
25. University of Michigan (2)

I had to ask myself this question: If you could be transported to a first tee of any course you've played, which would it be?  This is what I came up with today.  If you ask for this exercise tomorrow, it would probably be a little different.  If anyone thinks I'm smoking low grade crack, I'd love to hear why.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Shane Wright on April 21, 2010, 09:26:15 PM
St. Andrews, New Course   (St. Andrews, Scotland) (municipal)
St. Louis C.C.   (St. Louis, Mo.) (private)

Westwood C.C.   (St. Louis, Mo.) (private)
Fox Run   (St. Louis, Mo.) (private)
Crooked Stick   (Carmel, Ind.) (private)

Algonquin G.C.   (St. Louis, Mo.) (private)
A.L. Gustin   (Columbia, Mo.) (University of Missouri course)
Swope Park   (Kansas City, Mo.) (municipal)
Annbriar   (Waterloo, Ill.) (within St. Louis metropolitan area) (public)
Cog Hill   (Lemont, Ill.) (public)

George Wright   (Boston, Ma.) (municipal)
Normandie   (St. Louis, Mo.) (public)
Alvamar   (Lawrence, Kan.) (public)
Brackenridge   (San Antonio, Tex.) (municipal)
Crescent Farms   (St. Louis, Mo.) (private)

Norwood C.C.   (St. Louis, Mo.) (private)
Waveland Golf Course   (Des Moines, Iowa) (municipal)
Seminole Golf Course   (Tallahassee, Fl.) (Florida State University course)
Forest Park Golf Course   (St. Louis, Mo.) (municipal)
Crystal Highlands   (Festus, Mo.) (within St. Louis metropolitan area) (NLE)

Hulman Links   (Terre Haute, Ind.) (municipal)
St. Johnsbury C.C.   (St. Johnsbury, Vt.) (public)
Eagle Creek   (Indianapolis, Ind.) (municipal)
Oak Hills   (Jefferson City, Mo.) (municipal)
Highland Links   (Truro, Ma.) (municipal)

[12 government owned, with six other daily fee courses]


On an additional note, I would love to spend a summer in the UK playing only the courses on Sean Arble's list.  Also, I am very surprised than only a couple of lists included St. Andrew's New Course.

Bill, Please tell you me you have played Shirkey in Richmond, MO.  I lived in Columbia, MO for 3 years and based on your list, I gotta think you have been there.  If not, get there quick.  One of the best hidden gems in the region.

Shane
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Shane Wright on April 21, 2010, 09:30:12 PM
If you don't mind, I'll take this opportunity to try to make my first ever ranking list.

1. Sandhills
2. Turnberry
3. Wild Horse
4. Blackwolf Run River
5. Whistling Straits
6. Queensltown NZ
7. St. Andrews New
8. Muriwai Beach NZ
9. Blue Canyon, Phuket
10. Waireki NZ
11. St. Mellion
12. Vista Verde
13. Star Pass
14. La Paloma
15. Firethorn
16. Arbor Links
17. Tiffany Greens
18. Baker National
19. Links at Northfork
20. Old Kinderhook
21. The Wilds
22. Bayside (should be about 10, but forgot for a moment)
23. Champions Club Omaha
24. Quarry Oaks
25. Woodland Hills

Rating based on overall enjoyment as well as course quality.


Steve, WOW, Links at Northfork over Quarry Oaks?  WOW.  I'm not making fun, just a little shocked....if you don't mind, would love to hear your reasons.

Shane
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Steve Salmen on April 22, 2010, 12:57:45 AM
I cross referenced my list with Steve Lang's.  Only Simon Holt listed Elie and nobody yet had Formby.  Thoughts?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on April 22, 2010, 01:56:56 AM
I cross referenced my list with Steve Lang's.  Only Simon Holt listed Elie and nobody yet had Formby.  Thoughts?

Steve

I have Formby on my best of list, but not my favourites.  I think the course is not far behind Birkdale in quality and every bit as good as Hoylake - though I prefer it to either.  Formby is a terribly under-rated course by folks on this forum even though it is highly thought of in the UK and I think Doak gave it a 7.  

You have UofM in your list?  Is this for sentimental reasons or for its quality?

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Andrew Mitchell on April 22, 2010, 04:38:37 AM
Not sure if I can get to 25......in fact I am going to throw caution to the wind and list them in order of how much fun I have/had playing there.  Some may be 'better' courses in terms of GCA but these put a smile on my face which is what its all about.

In paranthesis my top 10 in GCA terms

1. North Berwick  (6)
2. Cypress Point  (2)
3. Royal Dornoch  (5)
4. Pine Valley  (1)
5. TOC  (4)
6. Muirfield  (3)
7. Pasatiempo (8)
8. Renaissance Club  (7)
9. Kingsbarns (10)
10. Royal Troon (9)
11. Spyglass Hill
12. Hoylake
13. Bethpage Black
14. Gullane No. 1
15. Loch Lomond
16. Kilspindie
17. Leven
18. Dunbar
19. Champions
20. Shadow Hawk
21. Brora
22. Elie
23. Crail (Balcomie)
24. Leven
25. Stanwich

I need to play more courses!!!

Simon
That's a pretty impressive list, particularly the top 15.

Other than Hoylake have you played much in England?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Simon Holt on April 22, 2010, 05:56:17 AM
Thanks!  Unfortunately not more golf in England than Hoylake.  I only played foursomes (alternate shot) there for 3 days last summer but LOVED it from 7 through 13.  The rest of the course is some way behind in MHO but 'worthy'of my top 25.  Hopefully get some London and Kent golf this year and back to Hoylake in August so intend to hit Wallasey etc.

I grew up in East Lothian and was at Uni at St. Andrews hence the EL and Fife bias.

Steve S- The reason I too lised Elie is that I like the holes down at the bottom and the quirkyness of having a drivable, blind, uphill par 4 which you dont see that many of (good reason!!) there is also a couple on the Gullane courses.  The periscope on the first tee is cool too.

A lot of the RnA members are members there and tend to live in Elie and travel into St A.  Less busy I guess.

My US courses have been a slow process but have been very lucky in the few I have played have been of very high quality.  I am heading up to Trump's development in Aberdeen soon so will report back.  I also took lots of erosion pictures after a huge storm at North Berwick which I will post about.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on April 22, 2010, 06:39:28 AM
Steve,
Great list but why so little love for TOC?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Steve Strasheim on April 22, 2010, 08:43:43 AM
Hi Shane,

Two great experiences at the Links at Northfork. First time I played there, we played over 54 holes in one day and just had a riot. Staff told us to just keep playing as long as we were having a good time. It was a lot of fun golf with nothing too difficult with a good friend. On the next trip, we played there and also brought my friends dad along. He was dying of pancreatic cancer and it was a brilliant day in the sun that I will never forget.

I love Quarry Oaks and think it is the most beautiful golf setting in the state. But, the course itself I believe causes it to rate lower. It's not as fun to play as it should be, but an incredible experience nonetheless. Hope that makes sense.

Regards,

steve


If you don't mind, I'll take this opportunity to try to make my first ever ranking list.

1. Sandhills
2. Turnberry
3. Wild Horse
4. Blackwolf Run River
5. Whistling Straits
6. Queensltown NZ
7. St. Andrews New
8. Muriwai Beach NZ
9. Blue Canyon, Phuket
10. Waireki NZ
11. St. Mellion
12. Vista Verde
13. Star Pass
14. La Paloma
15. Firethorn
16. Arbor Links
17. Tiffany Greens
18. Baker National
19. Links at Northfork
20. Old Kinderhook
21. The Wilds
22. Bayside (should be about 10, but forgot for a moment)
23. Champions Club Omaha
24. Quarry Oaks
25. Woodland Hills

Rating based on overall enjoyment as well as course quality.


Steve, WOW, Links at Northfork over Quarry Oaks?  WOW.  I'm not making fun, just a little shocked....if you don't mind, would love to hear your reasons.

Shane
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jeff Martz on April 22, 2010, 10:06:39 AM
Just by the fact that I have to tell you where these courses are located is enough to label me as 'embarrassed'. :-[

No real order, except for the first two.
Then the rest are just grouped into tiers.

1. Crystal Downs
2. The Kingsley Club

Heather Glen (Myrtle Beach, SC)
Heathlands (Myrtle Beach, SC)
Moorlands (Myrtle Beach, SC)
(when I was at Pinehurst Junior Golf Advantage School - age 13 in 1981)
Pinehurst #1
Pinehurst #3
Pinehurst #4
Pinehurst #5
(I don't think Pinehurst would have let a group of 70+ Junior Golfers on #2 - ages range between 10-16 or so.)
Tidewater (Myrtle Beach, SC)
Oyster Bay (Myrtle Beach area)
Palm and Magnolia courses (Walt Disney World)

Dauphin Highlands (Harrisburg, PA) Municipal course
Pilgrim's Oak (Lancaster County, PA)
Iron Valley (Lebanon County, PA)
Maryland Golf & Country Club
Williamsport CC (Pennsylvania)
Berwick CC (Pennsylvania)
Tyoga CC (Wellsboro, PA)
Bucknell University course (Lewisburg, PA)
Susquehanna Valley CC (Shamokin Dam, PA)
Meadia Heights CC (Lancaster, PA)
Conestoga CC (Lancaster, PA)
Royal Oaks (Lebanon, PA)
Perth Links O'Tay Golf Course (Perth, Ontario) - back when it was a 9 hole course with two different sets of tees.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: David Amarnek on April 22, 2010, 11:55:14 AM
Shane,
Any more information about Shirkey?  I live in St. Louis (Philly native) and have never heard of it (or Richmond, MO for that matter).
I'll have to research the internets.... love those hidden gems!
David
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill Shamleffer on April 22, 2010, 02:05:20 PM
Bill, Please tell you me you have played Shirkey in Richmond, MO.  I lived in Columbia, MO for 3 years and based on your list, I gotta think you have been there.  If not, get there quick.  One of the best hidden gems in the region.

Shane

Shane:

I have NOT played Shirkey.  Thank you very much for the tip.  I will keep this in mind next time I am heading towards or near KC.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill Shamleffer on April 22, 2010, 02:09:17 PM
Shane,
Any more information about Shirkey?  I live in St. Louis (Philly native) and have never heard of it (or Richmond, MO for that matter).
I'll have to research the internets.... love those hidden gems!
David

David:

Richmond, MO is about 30 miles northeast of KC.  Not to be confused with Richmond Heights, Mo. in the St. Louis suburbs.

Bill Shamleffer
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Steve Salmen on April 22, 2010, 02:28:29 PM
Sean,

U of M is partially sentimental.  I love the layout and really enjoy playing the course.  If the course has a weakness, it's on too small a piece of land.  You really run the risk of getting hit by a ball out there, especially the front.  I suppose it could have been replaced by Olympia South, Sunningdale Old, or Pebble Beach.  However, I've always been a U of M fan and my wife is a grad.  It's awesome playing such a fun golf course so close to the Big House.

Jud,

I've played the Old Course four times.  The only circumstance under which I play it is with friends.  I do not particularly enjoy the front nine.  That being said, I think the back has two of my favorite holes in the world, #11 and #16 (if only they would back the tees up so the Principal's Nose comes into play). 

One of the great joys to me is to sit on the steps between #1 tee and #18 green.  I buy my postcards with pictures of the clubhouse and inform the people I'm writing from the steps in the picture.

I also enjoy watching fathers and sons begin and end their rounds.  Everyone smiles regardless of score.  St. Andrews is a magical place.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on April 22, 2010, 02:34:08 PM
Steve,

Thanx.  I like your idea of posting the number of rounds you've played on a given course.  For most of us who are not GCA's, it takes several plays, if not more to really develop an informed opinion.  However, I'm afraid if everyone posted the # of rounds you'd see that the vast majority would be 1 or 2 plays given access, travel etc....
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Gary Slatter on April 22, 2010, 02:56:09 PM
this is too difficult, the list I made last year is different than last weeks, but as of today April 22, 2010 my top 25 played list looks like:
1.  Cypress Point (3)
2.  County Down (2)
3.  Royal Dornoch (3)
4.  Kiawah Ocean (3)
5.  Pebble Beach (7)
6.  Seminole (3)
7.  Shinnecock  (3)
8.  Royal Liverpool (2)
9.  Royal Aberdeen (1)
10.Muirfield (2)
11. Old Course St Andrews (44)
12. Highland Links NS (9)
13. Banff, AB (3)
14. Jasper Park, Ab (1)
15. Congressional (1999) (2)
16. St George's Ontario (150)
17. The National (Toronto) (40)
18. Ville d'este  Como (7)
19. Ballybunion OLd (3)
20. Lucayan CC Bahamas 1970s (400)
21. Lundin (Links) (10)
22. Canouan Island (10)
23. Maidstone (4)
24.  Capilano BC (3)
25.  Huntington Valley (3)

sadly I've annoyed my other favourites including Riviera, Pinehurst, Manchester GC, Cinnamon Hill, Prestwick, Royal Lytham, Porthcawl, Torrance, Westmount, Portmarnock, Islington and others, all tied for 25th

sadly 11, I have a few favourites that don't exist anymore!   York Downs, Northwood, The Emerald, Paradise Island, Berry Islands, Bigwin Inn, tbc
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jonathan_becker on April 22, 2010, 03:03:15 PM
Gary,

I see that you and Brian Cenci both have Kiawah Ocean ranked above some of the usual top picks. 

I can't argue with that as I think it's underrated somewhat.  Probably due to the fact that it's so difficult, but awesome nonetheless.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Gregg Evans on April 22, 2010, 03:16:18 PM
 Here goes.....no particular order

Augusta National
TOC
Ballybunion
LACC
Portmarnock
HarborTown
Doral BLUE MONSTER
Carnoustie
Pebble Beach
Pasatiempo
Old Head
Bethpage Black
Sage Valley
TPC Sawgrass
Long Cove
Seaside
Ocean Forest
Pinehurst 2
Cuscowilla
Chechessee Creek
Bulls Bay
Waterville
Ocean Course
KingsBarns
Legends Course Chateau Elan
SpyglassHill
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: David Amarnek on April 22, 2010, 03:27:31 PM
Bill,
Thanks for the info, too bad it's on the wrong side of the state.
If you ever get back to these parts, let me know!
David
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Gary Slatter on April 22, 2010, 03:51:11 PM
Gary,

I see that you and Brian Cenci both have Kiawah Ocean ranked above some of the usual top picks. 

I can't argue with that as I think it's underrated somewhat.  Probably due to the fact that it's so difficult, but awesome nonetheless.

The last time my wife and I played Kiawah it was very windy and we both loved it - and the pro at our hotel bet me I wouldn't break 90, and I doubled the last hole for 74!    I forgot to add Kingsbarns (20) to my list, tied for 25th.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Steve Salmen on April 22, 2010, 11:15:04 PM
Jud,

I can't take credit for listing the number of rounds.  Someone did it before me and I thought it was a great idea.  You play a course once and you may absolutely love it.  Play it again and it doesn't stand out as much.  The most blatant example in my experience is Gullane #1.  After playing it with my friend (a well traveled golfer), we both loved it and he thought it was better than Maidstone, which I have not played.  The next year we just did not see what we had the year before.  Sort of a letdown.

On the flip side, I thought Elie was a nice course after the first round.  Taking advantage of a return opportunity my opinion got a lot better.  I like that golf course more after each round.  I tell people it's a great gambling course because of the short par 4s.  Chance for 2 or 6.

Muirfield probably had the largest impression on me.  I was 19 when I played it for the first time.  It was my first links course. The first time I pitched my ball onto a green to watch it bounce 20 yards over. 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Moore II on June 24, 2010, 10:00:17 PM
My top 25 courses played, in alphabetical order. I'm not even going to attempt to rank them numerically. #1 on the list is easy, I could most likely give a top 5, but pretty much 2-5 would be interchangeable. Comment away.

Bear's Best Atlanta
Bryan Park (Champions)
CCNC (Dogwood)
Duke Golf Club
Eagle Point
Forest Creek (North)
Foxfire (Original)
Golden Horseshoe (Gold)
Mattaponi Springs
Mid South
Moose Run (River)
NCSU Lonnie Poole
Pensacola Country Club
PGA (Dye)
Pinehurst #1
Pinehurst #5
Pine Needles
The President  (Eagle)
Riverfront
Southern Pines
Tanglewood Park (Champions)
Thanksgiving Point
Tobacco Road
TPC Wakefield Plantation
Wilmington GC


Edit from before, I've played some good courses here recently and I've really thought about some other courses. Taking off #2 because I haven't played the whole course, just 1/3 of it and walked the rest. So I'm taking that one off. Updated courses in RED.

Original courses in Black
April 11 updates in Red.
June 24 updates in Blue.



New lists appreciated from anyone willing to put them down.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JR Potts on June 24, 2010, 10:20:15 PM
New in GREEN - Please move all numbers accordingly

Pine Valley
1. Shoreacres
2. San Francisco
3. Medinah #3
Merion
Erin Hills
4. Whistling Straits
5. Riviera
6. Spyglass
7. Pebble Beach
8. Beverly
9. Butler National
10. Chicago Golf
11. Olympia Fields North
Hidden Creek
12. Shoal Creek
13. Pine Needles
14. Isleworth
15. Blackwolf Run (River)
Shadow Creek
16. Pinehurst #4
17. Pinehurst #2
18. Lost Dunes
Galloway National
19. Lake Nona




Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Moore II on June 24, 2010, 10:29:04 PM
New in BOLD - Please move all numbers accordingly

1. Pine Valley
1. Shoreacres
2. San Francisco
3. Medinah #3
Merion
4. Whistling Straits
5. Riviera
6. Spyglass
7. Pebble Beach
8. Beverly
9. Butler National
10. Chicago Golf
11. Olympia Fields North
Hidden Creek
12. Shoal Creek
13. Pine Needles
14. Isleworth
15. Blackwolf Run (River)
Shadow Creek
16. Pinehurst #4
17. Pinehurst #2
18. Lost Dunes
Galloway National
19. Lake Nona
20. Old Overton




Outstanding new 4 added to the list. Pretty much any course on your lists beats the best on my list... :'( :'(

Hope to change that soon though.  :D
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ryan Admussen on June 24, 2010, 10:39:42 PM
Not quite a real top 25, more like a top 15 with some fillers, oh well lots of time to change that!

Pinehurst #2
Pine Needles
Mid Pines
Tobacco Road
East Lake
Kiawah Ocean Course
Bandon Dunes
Bandon Trails
Pacific Dunes
Bandon Crossings
Rustic Canyon
Barona Creek
Torrey Pines South
Torrey Pines North
Paiute - Wolf
Jasper
Banff
Stewart Creek
Wolf Creek(Alberta)
Red Deer G&C.C.
The National
Kawartha
Tarandowah
Eagles Nest
Osprey Valley - Heathlands


Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Greg Ross on June 24, 2010, 11:13:12 PM
In no particular order...
Carolina Golf Club
Grandfather G & CC
Tanglewood
The Old Course
The New Course
North Berwick
Portmarnock
Carnoustie
Kingsbarns
Bay Hill
Oak Hill
Quail Hollow
Bandon Dunes
Bandon Trails
Pacific Dunes
Princeville
The Ocean Course
Harbour Town
The Dunes Club
Pine Lakes International
Pinehurst #2
Pine Needles
The Country Club
Mission Hills
Southern Pines

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Moore II on June 24, 2010, 11:16:47 PM
In no particular order...
Carolina Golf Club
Grandfather G & CC
Tanglewood
The Old Course
The New Course
North Berwick
Portmarnock
Carnoustie
Kingsbarns
Bay Hill
Oak Hill
Quail Hollow
Bandon Dunes
Bandon Trails
Pacific Dunes
Princeville
The Ocean Course
Harbour Town
The Dunes Club
Pine Lakes International
Pinehurst #2
Pine Needles
The Country Club
Mission Hills
Southern Pines



Greg, I think you are a world traveler who may have resided in North Carolina at some point in time. Yes?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Greg Ross on June 24, 2010, 11:26:06 PM
Yep. Currently in the Queen City and need to get down your way to cross CCNC and Forest Creek off the list.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Moore II on June 24, 2010, 11:29:43 PM
Yep. Currently in the Queen City and need to get down your way to cross CCNC and Forest Creek off the list.

I'd love it if I were still in Pinehurst, but alas, I am not. Currently in Suffolk, VA. Where do you play primarily in Charlotte/are a member?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Greg Ross on June 29, 2010, 11:25:18 PM
Sorry for the delay, John. Yes. I play mostly at Carolina Golf Club. Spence's redo of Donald Ross's original is top notch. Please stop by when you're in town. We'd love to show it off to you.
Greg
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tim Johnson on June 30, 2010, 12:22:07 AM
it was nice to sit back with a couple of beers and think about what is my top 25. I dont have the travel experience of most of the lists posted but I think that is why my therapist keep bringing up his thoughts on my addiction to links golf. He says I should look outside the UK for golf. I think he is an idiot.

Carne
Enniscrone
TOC
The Machrie
Royal Dornoch
Lahinch
Hamilton
Cruden Bay
Royal Portrush
Portstewart
Ballybunion
Royal County Down
Rosapenna Sandy Hills
Prestwick
Ballyliffin Glashedy
Royal Aberdeen
Carnoustie
Muirfield
Gullane #1
Sligo
Whirlpool
Dakota Dunes(the closest I can get to links in Canada that business will pay for)
Clear Lake
Isle de Montreal ( same reason as Dakota but I can pay my own fare, reminds me of Ireland)

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on June 30, 2010, 08:46:10 AM
Tim,

He is an idiot!  Fire him and use the cash you saved to play more links golf!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott Warren on June 30, 2010, 08:52:33 AM
Tim, never been to England for golf?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jason Sloan on June 30, 2010, 01:18:54 PM
In no particular order...

Royal County Down
Royal Portrush
Royal Dornoch
Lahinch
Prestwick
Cruden Bay
Machrihanish
Brora
Tain
Dunbar
Nairn
Dalmahoy East
Fox Chapel CC
Royal Aberdeen
Western Gailes
White Witch
Bedford Springs Resort
Penn State White Course
Iron Valley Golf Club
Lebanon Country Club
Cassique @ Kiawah Island Club
Doonbeg
K Club (Palmer)
Portmarnock Links
Baberton Golf Club
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Fred Yanni on June 30, 2010, 03:42:44 PM
It is impossible for me to rank in order my top 25 - there is something great about every course on this list.  Here goes what I think my top 25 are but there are some great ones that don't make the cut that I love as well.

Top 10 (no order)
Pine Valley
Shinnecock
The Old Course
Merion
Friar's Head
Carnoustie
Oak Hill CC
Ballybunion
National Golf Links
Spyglass

Just Outside - looking IN...
Pebble Beach
The Olympic Club
LACC
Waterville
Winged Foot West
The Golf Club
Inverness
Turnberry
Bethpage Black
Shadow Creek
Scioto
The Creek Club
Lahinch
Chechessee Creek
Meadowbrook










  
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Michael Underwood on June 30, 2010, 04:41:17 PM
The following are my best 25 played.  They are in order of what I enjoyed the most, but to be honest it is a very close call in many cases, therefore, impossible to have an exact order. ??? It is fair to say that I love them all. ;D

International (7)
Royal County Down
Royal Lytham & St. Annes
Royal Portrush (Dunluce)
Portstewart
Portmarnock
Rosses Point (Sligo)
Enniscrone

United States (18)
Ballyneal Golf & Hunt Club
Sand Hills
Pacific Dunes
Old MacDonald
Colonial C.C.
Kiwah (The Ocean Course)
Cherry Hills C.C.
Castle Pines Golf Club
Kansas City C.C.
Bandon Dunes
Sea Island (Seaside)
Bandon Trails
Hiwan Golf Club
Stone Canyon
The Rawls Course
Broadmoor (East)
Pumpkin Ridge Witch Hollow
Denver C.C.



Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tim Johnson on June 30, 2010, 05:32:15 PM
Jud, i think you are right, an hour with him could pay for 2 rounds at Carne.lol

Scott, it has been discussed but they way it evolved with my dad we just havent done an England trip. He wanted to introduce me to Links Golf so we did a 2 week tour in 99 and then got to talking about Ireland/NI and did a 2 week in 04 and went back again in 05 because Ireland was incredible. We basically did the same tour in 05 due to the courses and the cost of the north west coast was too good to pass up.

He is getting on in years and wanted to play TOC and Muirfield with me so we did a 2 week tour of Scotland in 07. From the looks of it our 2 week trip are done due to his age but we are planning Cabot Links next summer.

I will do the England run one day but I need to get back to Carne first and play the new 9....hence the therapist, he helps me detox from the links.
Title: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Nick Campanelli on June 30, 2010, 08:35:04 PM
Here's my top 25 played.  I've been to Europe a few times, but the clubs never made the trip.  Next time it will be different...

01) Mid Ocean Club (3) - Bermuda
02) Bethpage Black (1) - Farmingdale, NY
03) Wannamoisett Country Club (2) - Rumford, RI
04) Troon North GC - Pinnacle Course (1) - Scottsdale, AZ
05) Bass Rocks Golf Club (1) - Gloucester, MA
06) Port Royal Golf Course (4) - Bermuda
07) Farmington Country Club (1) - Farmington, CT
08) Shennecossett Golf Course (1) - Groton, CT
09) Dorado Beach – East Course (2) - Puerto Rico
10) TPC at River Highlands (1) - Cromwell, CT
11) Cape Arundel Golf Club (1) - Kennebunkport, ME
12) Cape Cod Country Club (3) - Falmouth, MA
13) The Patterson Club, The (1) - Fairfield, CT
14) Wethersfield Country Club (1) - Wethersfield, CT
15) Glastonbury Hills Country Club (1) - Glastonbury, CT
16) Tucker’s Point Club (3) - Bermuda
17) Wintonbury Hills Golf Course (1) - Bloomfield, CT
18) Charleston National Country Club (1) - Mount Pleasant, SC
19) Legends Golf Club – Heathland (1) - Myrtle Beach, SC
20) Lely Flamingo Island Club (3) - Naples, FL
21) Shuttle Meadow Country Club (1) - Kensington, CT
22) Cannon Ridge Golf Club (1) - Celebrate, VA
23) The Sanctuary Golf Club (1) - Sanibel Island, FL
24) Pinehills Golf Club – Jones (1) - Plymouth, MA
25) The Shattuck Golf Club (4) - Jaffrey, NH
   
   
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JNC Lyon on June 30, 2010, 09:04:05 PM
My Top 25 so far.  I've spent 20 years of my life in the Eastern US and four months in London, and most of the great courses on here are from the UK.  Here goes:

1) North Berwick (1)
2) Prestwick (1.5)
3) Royal Dornoch (1)
4) Deal (10)
5) Woking (2)
6) Sandwich (2)
7) Garden City (1)
8 ) Huntercombe (1)
9 ) Swinley Forest (1)
10) Yeamans Hall (1)
11) The Addington (3)
12) Fox Chapel (1)
13) Leatherstocking (1)
14) Renaissance (1)
15) The Country Club (Brookline) (1)
16) The Ocean Course at Kiawah (1)
17) Brora (1)
18. Mountain Ridge (1)
19) Oak Hill (WEST) (~1,000)
20) May River (1)
21) St. George's (1.5)
22) Burnham and Berrow (1)
23) Galloway National (1)
24) Teugega (2)
25) Long Shadow (1)

Note: I list these in order of personal favorites.  I prefer these 25 courses the most.  I am not rating them based on some objective measure of "best" courses.  I think no such measure exists.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Robert Emmons on June 30, 2010, 09:24:26 PM
I'll try:

Augusta
Merion
Seminole
Shinnecock
NGLA
LACC
Highland Links
Jasper Park
Banf
Pac Dunes
Ban Dunes
Pebble Beach
Pinhurst #2
Mid Ocean
Fishers Island
Garden City GC
Piping Rock
Maidstone
Friars Head
Sebonac
Huntington CC
Sea Island
Kiawah Ocean
Winged Foot West
Ballybunion

Just mine, more to go....RHE
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Stu Grant on June 30, 2010, 09:27:42 PM
Top 25 favorite courses played sorted by geography:

CANADA
Devil's Paintbrush
National GC of Canada
Red Tail
Sagebrush
St. George's

BERMUDA
Port Royal
Mid Ocean

UNITED STATES
Arcadia Bluffs
Bayonne
Bethpage Black
Greenville
Inverness
Kingsley Club
Lakewood Shores - Gailes
Long Cove
Oakland Hills - South
Oakmont
Pinehurst #2
Plainfield
Scioto
Sebonack
Somerset Hills
Tobacco Road
TPC Sawgrass

SOUTH AFRICA
Pezula
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill Brightly on July 01, 2010, 06:18:15 AM
National
Royal County Down
Pine Valley
Merion
Pacific Dunes
Ballybunion
Old Macdonald
Royal Portrush
Lahinch
Waterville
Pebble
Ballyliffin Old
Ridgewood
Saucon Valley Old
Plainfield
Aronomink
Yale
Saucon Valley Weyhill
Harbor Town
Galloway
Essex County NJ
Tidewater
Baltustrol
TPC Stadium
Trump National: Bedminster NJ
Spyglass
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Martin Toal on July 01, 2010, 07:01:25 AM
Wow, I feel rather embarrassed posting some of these next to some of the major courses others have played, but here goes:

PS. Lived in Ireland and the UK all my life, with a decent number of business trips to the US, sometimes with clubs:

UK and Ireland:
Royal County Down
Ballybunion
Waterville
Royal Dublin
Royal Portrush
Rosses Point
Ballyliffin Old
Silloth on Solway
Kingsbarns
St Andrews (New)
Portstewart
Donegal (Murvagh)
Malone

US:
Pelican Hill, CA
Maderas, CA
Pine Hills, NJ
Pinehill, MA
Bulle Rock, MD
Innisbrook (Copperhead), FL

ROW:
Stewart Creek, Alberta
Green Monkey, Barbados
Royal Westmoreland, Barbados
El Dorado, Cabo (pre-rerouting)
Banff Springs, Alberta
The Datai, Langkawi


Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jonathan_becker on July 01, 2010, 08:18:37 AM
Martin,

Keep playing in the U.S.  Maderas will be off your list in no time.  :)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Martin Toal on July 01, 2010, 11:34:27 AM
Martin,

Keep playing in the U.S.  Maderas will be off your list in no time.  :)

Ha. Actually, I prefer it to a few other local courses - Meadows del Mar (or whatever it is now called), Aviara, Steele Canyon, The Auld (also now renamed, I think), Singing Hills and both Torrey Pines. 

I think there are a few nice holes at Maderas - the 5th, I think, is a nice par 4 across the corner of a gully/arroyo where you can bite off as much as you can chew, and a couple of nice holes down the side of the course on the back 9.

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jonathan_becker on July 01, 2010, 12:11:52 PM
Martin,

I'll give you that #5 is probably the best hole on the course and the last couple holes are decent.  But there are too many shots with huge elevation changes that make you completely guess when pulling a club.  Not to mention that the course looks like an ultra landscaped backyard.  Throw a huge waterfall in there and the course is complete.  :D  Actually, I think they do have a waterfall !!

#16 would be an awesome hole if there was more room to land it off the tee.  Anything left of center of the fw and you're in the hazard.

The fact that the rack rate is $210 makes me want to projectile vomit.  Anyone that would pay that for that course needs their head checked!!

Didn't you play Flossmoor with Judge Lavin while in the Chi?  Correct your list and insert Flossmoor over Maderas.  ;)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matthew Rose on July 01, 2010, 03:31:06 PM
My list is too embarrassing to post.  :-\
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Brad LeClair on July 01, 2010, 03:50:37 PM
My top 25:

1. Shinnecock Hills
2. Merion
3. NGLA
4. Friar's Head
5. Old Mac 
6. Nanea
7. Winged Foot - West
8. Sebonack
9. Pacific Dunes
10. Dormie Club
11. Sleepy Hollow
12. Oak Hill
13. Kiawah Island - Ocean Course
14. Plainfield
15. Bethpage - Black
16. Baltusrol - Lower
17. Somerset Hills
18. Bandon Trails
19. Congressional - Blue
20. Kittansett Club
21. Winged Foot - East
22. Maidstone
23. Piping Rock
24. The Creek
25. Bandon Dunes
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Martin Toal on July 01, 2010, 04:01:58 PM
Martin,

I'll give you that #5 is probably the best hole on the course and the last couple holes are decent.  But there are too many shots with huge elevation changes that make you completely guess when pulling a club.  Not to mention that the course looks like an ultra landscaped backyard.  Throw a huge waterfall in there and the course is complete.  :D  Actually, I think they do have a waterfall !!

#16 would be an awesome hole if there was more room to land it off the tee.  Anything left of center of the fw and you're in the hazard.

The fact that the rack rate is $210 makes me want to projectile vomit.  Anyone that would pay that for that course needs their head checked!!

Didn't you play Flossmoor with Judge Lavin while in the Chi?  Correct your list and insert Flossmoor over Maderas.  ;)

I am a member of a Troon Golf course in the UK, so get a significant break on the fee at Maderas. Never paid $210!

I thought about putting Flossmoor in, but didn't want to look like a suck up!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jonathan_becker on July 01, 2010, 04:05:52 PM
Martin,

I'm just giving you a hard time.  Thanks for being a good sport.  :)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Padraig Dooley on July 01, 2010, 05:18:40 PM
Here goes

1. Cypress Point
2. Royal County Down
3. Ballybunion(Old)
4. Royal Portrush(Dunluce)
5. Crystal Downs
6. San Francisco GC
7. Lahinch
8. Pebble Beach
9. Portmarnock
10. The Valley Club of Montecito
11. Alwoodley
12. Chicago GC
13. Co. Louth
14. Pasatiempo
15. Cork GC
16. Wild Coast Sun
17. Spyglass Hill
18. Co. Sligo
19. Leopard Creek
20. World Woods(Pine Barrens)
21. Waterville
22. Doonbeg
23. Royal Lytham & St. Annes
24. The European Club
25. Royal St. Davids

Contenders include Royal Porthcawl, Enniscrone, Glendower, Old Marsh, Gullane No. 1, Tralee, Quinta Da Marinha(Oitavos), Praia Del Rey, The Meadow Club, Pearl Valley.

Courses I've walked around that probably would be included St. Andrews (Old), Durban CC, Humewood, Muirfield, Royal St. Georges, Carnoustie



Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Martin Toal on July 01, 2010, 05:22:08 PM
Martin,

I'm just giving you a hard time.  Thanks for being a good sport.  :)

Hey, I know.

Padraig's post just reminded me that I didn't include any courses from continental Europe, so I may have a few other contenders to displace Maderas.

I would also consider Praia del Rey, Troia and Monte Rei, all in Portugal.

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Cornish on July 01, 2010, 11:33:40 PM
Today's Top 25 (in no particular order)
Barnbougle Dunes
California GC of San Francisco
Cruden Bay
Golf de Morfontaine
Kingston Heath
Lahinch
Machrihanish
Merion
Muirfield
National Golf Links of America
New South Wales
North Berwick
Pebble Beach
Pine Valley
Royal County Down
Royal Dornoch
Royal Portrush
Shinnecock Hills
St Andrews Old course
St Georges G&CC
Sunningdale Old
Swinley Forest
Wade Hampton
Winged Foot West
Woodhall Spa


and those that on any other day, could jump into the list
Ballybunion
Baltusrol Lower
Counless in Ireland and Scotland
Lake Karrinyup
National (Moonal)
Oak Hill
Olympic
Peachtree
Portmarnock
Royal Lytham and St Annes
Royal Melbourne (West)
Royal Troon
San Francisco
Spyglass
TPC Sawgrass
Turnberry
Victoria GC (Melbourne)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Michael Goody on July 01, 2010, 11:37:39 PM
OK, here goes. Still have a lot left to see.

Shinnecock
Merion East
Yale
Pasatiempo
Teeth of the Dog
Spyglass Hill
Pebble Beach
Piping Rock
Kapalua Plantation
Atlantic
Winged Foot East
Quaker Ridge
Gulph Mills
Deepdale
Philadelphia Cricket Flourtown
Dye Fore
Olympic Ocean
Century
Baltusrol Lower
Montauk Downs
Stanford
Pine Barrens
Branton Woods
East Hampton
Hudson National
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Michael Goody on July 01, 2010, 11:41:05 PM
I forgot Durban CC, which was very good. i'd probably put that just outside my top 10, right under Atlantic.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Kevin Pallier on July 02, 2010, 02:51:43 AM
Today's Top 25 (in no particular order)
Barnbougle Dunes
California GC of San Francisco
Cruden Bay
Golf de Morfontaine
Kingston Heath
Lahinch
Machrihanish
Merion
Muirfield
National Golf Links of America
New South Wales
North Berwick
Pebble Beach
Pine Valley
Royal County Down
Royal Dornoch
Royal Portrush
Shinnecock Hills
St Andrews Old course
St Georges G&CC
Sunningdale Old
Swinley Forest
Wade Hampton
Winged Foot West
Woodhall Spa


and those that on any other day, could jump into the list
Ballybunion
Baltusrol Lower
Counless in Ireland and Scotland
Lake Karrinyup
National (Moonal)
Oak Hill
Olympic
Peachtree
Portmarnock
Royal Lytham and St Annes
Royal Melbourne (West)
Royal Troon
San Francisco
Spyglass
TPC Sawgrass
Turnberry
Victoria GC (Melbourne)


John

Interested to see that in principle you have KH, NSW & BD all ahead of RM (West) ?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Cornish on July 02, 2010, 03:43:21 AM

John

Interested to see that in principle you have KH, NSW & BD all ahead of RM (West) ?

Very true Kevin, and you'll also see that there are some courses on my 'second list' that I believe to have inflated positions in most rankings. Ballybunion and Turnberry are the two most obvious - I guess eye-candy golf just isn't high on my scale of appreciation.

RMW is a terrific course, no question and it's a great day out so it's rare that I decline an invitation, but Kingston Heath is far and away the leader in Australian golf for overall quality of holes, shotmaking, club usage and quality of surfaces, Barnbougle is the closest opportunity we have to play British / Irish-style golf that we both love, and New South Wales has quality and challenge behind the eye-candy. RMW is a great, fun golf course that technology is taking a large nibble out of.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Kevin Pallier on July 02, 2010, 03:51:52 AM
Cheers John

Thanks for your reply - look forward to exploring your thoughts on same in person hopefully sometime soon  :)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: David_Elvins on July 02, 2010, 05:16:38 AM
RMW is a terrific course, no question and it's a great day out so it's rare that I decline an invitation

I am not sure that anyone who has ever rated it 5th in the country has ever recieved another invitation. 

Have you played or studied the composite course.  IF so, how would you rate it compared to Kingston Heath? 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Andrew Summerell on July 03, 2010, 07:57:24 PM
Today's Top 25 (in no particular order)
Barnbougle Dunes
California GC of San Francisco
Cruden Bay
Golf de Morfontaine
Kingston Heath
Lahinch
Machrihanish
Merion
Muirfield
National Golf Links of America
New South Wales
North Berwick
Pebble Beach
Pine Valley
Royal County Down
Royal Dornoch
Royal Portrush
Shinnecock Hills
St Andrews Old course
St Georges G&CC
Sunningdale Old
Swinley Forest
Wade Hampton
Winged Foot West
Woodhall Spa


and those that on any other day, could jump into the list
Ballybunion
Baltusrol Lower
Counless in Ireland and Scotland
Lake Karrinyup
National (Moonal)
Oak Hill
Olympic
Peachtree
Portmarnock
Royal Lytham and St Annes
Royal Melbourne (West)
Royal Troon
San Francisco
Spyglass
TPC Sawgrass
Turnberry
Victoria GC (Melbourne)


Nice list, John. I was interested to read Wade Hampton on your list. It's not one I would have in my top 25, but it's the best Fazio course I've played & wouldn't be far out of my top 25.

I would probably replace Pebble Beach with RMW, but that's probably a discussion for another golf forum.  ;)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on July 06, 2010, 03:33:43 PM
Delete

 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Shane Wright on July 06, 2010, 03:45:55 PM
Updated 9/06/11

1.   Royal County Down
2.   Ballybunion
3.   Pacific Dunes
4.   TOC
5.   Muirfield
6.   Ballyneal
7.   Sand Hills
8.   Royal Dornoch
9.   Prairie Dunes
10.   Turnberry
11.   Royal Portrush
12.   Waterville
13.   Lahinch
14.   North Berwick West
15.   Carnoustie
16.   Cruden Bay
17.   Old Head
18.   Kingsbarns
19.   Prestwick
20.   Tralee
21.   Whistling Straits
22.   European Club
23.   Bandon Dunes
24.   Portmarnock
25.   Bethpage Black

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: David_Tepper on July 06, 2010, 06:59:42 PM
Listed in no order other than location:

California
San Francisco GC
Olympic Club Lake
Cypress Point
California GC (post renovation)
Spyglass

Canada
Highland Links

England
Royal Birkdale
Royal Lytham & St. Anne's
Royal Liverpool (Hoylake)
St. Endoc
Sunningdale Old
Sunningdale New
Wentworth West
Berkshire Red

Ireland
Ballybunnion
Lahinch
Portmarnock

N. Ireland
Royal County Down
Royal Portrush

Scotland
Royal Dornoch
Royal Aberdeen
Castle Stuart
Cruden Bay
Nairn
  
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Brian Freeman on July 06, 2010, 10:03:29 PM
Now that I'm back from Scotland I feel I'm finally eligible to participate in this one.  7 of my Top 10 are now from there so let's just say I came away impressed...

My criteria for evaluation is if I could be transported at this minute to the first tee of any course I've ever played for another crack at it, this would be my priority list:

Note: Edited 11/6/14 to add recent updates.

1. Royal Dornoch (3)
2. Carnoustie (1)
3. Royal Aberdeen (1)
4. Pacific Dunes (3)
5. Cruden Bay (1)
6. North Berwick (1)
7. Kingsbarns (1)
8. Linville GC (4)
9. Old Macdonald (2)
10. Bandon Dunes (3)
11. Bandon Trails (2)
12. CCNC - Dogwood (5)
13. Raleigh CC (250+)
14. Tidewater (5)
15. Sedgefield (9)
16. Old North State Club (3)
17. Treyburn (15+)
18. CCNC - Cardinal (3)
19. Cascata (2)
20. St Andrews Jubilee (1)
21. Musgrove Mill (5)
22. Chestatee ( 8 )
23. Mid Pines (1)
24. UNC Finley ( 8 )
25. Tanglewood Park - Championship (75+)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Wade Schueneman on July 07, 2010, 04:52:53 PM
Brian,

If you liked Scotland, then just wait and see what happens to your list when you make it to Ireland one of these days.  Royal County Down, Lahinch, Ballybunion, Portrush, Carne . . . are AMAZING, and several of those courses are offering specials right now due to the struggling Irish economy (ex. 2 rounds within a week for the price of one at Lahinch).  Combine that with great scenery and a relatively favorable exchange rate at present and it is just simply hard to beat.

Disclaimer - This is not a paid advertisement.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Brian Freeman on July 07, 2010, 08:04:57 PM
Wade,  It's just a matter of time and resources.  Every course on your list is one I'd like to play.  The pound at $1.50 US certainly helped on this trip for sure, would have been a completely different decision at $2.00.  I'd like to take 3 weeks one of these days and do Ireland right with plenty of time for the pubs and traveling as well... I don't think we can get away there with an Irish equivalent of waking up in St Andrews, playing Carnoustie, and hitting the putting green in Dornoch at sunset, all in the same day!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill_McBride on July 07, 2010, 08:33:10 PM
In no particular order, I hate rankings........

Cypress Point
Pebble Beach
Olympic Club Lake
Monterey Peninsula Shore
Pasatiempo
Valley Club of Montecito
Meadow Club
Oakmont
National Golf Links
Kingsley Club
Crystal Downs
St Andrews Old
North Berwick West
Muirfield
Dornoch
Alwoodley
Hoylake
Sandwich
Deal
Rye
Pacific Dunes
Cuscowilla
Friars Head
Beau Desert
Royal Porthcawl
Capilano


Add BALLYNEAL.   ;D

I'm thinking about who to drop.............This could take a while.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Moore II on July 16, 2010, 01:25:52 AM
My top 25 courses played, now ranked numerically. I had to change it like this given the volume of courses I am about to play that are sure to take spots in this list and I wanted to know for sure which courses were coming out first.

1. Eagle Point
2. Pine Needles
3. Golden Horseshoe (Gold)
4. CCNC (Dogwood)
5. NCSU Lonnie Poole
6. Forest Creek (North)
7. Mattaponi Springs
8. Thanksgiving Point
9. PGA (Dye)
10. Moose Run (River)
11. Tanglewood Park (Champions)
12. Bryan Park (Champions)
13. Bear's Best Atlanta
14. The President  (Eagle)
15. Tobacco Road
16.Nansemond River Golf Club
17. Tot Hill Farm (somehow omitted from earlier lists)
18. Duke Golf Club
19. TPC Wakefield Plantation
20. Pensacola Country Club
21. Mid South
22. Riverfront
23. Southern Pines
24. Pinehurst #5
25. Pinehurst #1



Edit from before, I've played some good courses here recently and I've really thought about some other courses. Taking off #2 because I haven't played the whole course, just 1/3 of it and walked the rest. So I'm taking that one off. Updated courses in RED.

Original courses in Black
April 11 updates in Red.
June 24 updates in Blue.
July 16 update in Green.
And I am actually ranking them as of July 16.


New lists appreciated from anyone willing to put them down.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: James Boon on July 18, 2010, 08:34:58 AM
After a few trips to some pretty decent courses this year, I've revised my list, and changed from the alphabetical list also to rank them into tiers, though they are in alphabetical order within those tiers...

Top Tier
Royal County Down
Royal Dornoch

Second Tier
Notts (Hollinwell)
Royal Cinque Ports
Royal Portrush
Walton Heath Old
Woodhall Spa

Third Tier
Berkshire Red
Burnham & Berrow
County Louth (Baltray)
North Berwick
Saunton East

Fourth Tier
Brora
Castle Stuart
Royal West Norfolk (Brancaster)
St. Enodoc
Swinley Forest

Fifth Tier
Askernish
Beau Desert
Cavendish
Gleneagles Kings
Hunstanton
Huntercombe
Sherwood Forest
Sutton Coldfield

Those shown in italics have replaced:
Painswick I still adore this place but to have it on my Top 25 list is tricky...
Golden Horseshoe Gold
Colonial


Courses I've also played this year but haven't quite done enough to get on the list:
Lindrick
Berkshire Blue
Royal Worlington
Northamptonshire County

Courses that are often listed highly by others but I probably need to play again to find some love for:
Royal Liverpool
Nairn

Cheers,

James

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on July 18, 2010, 08:41:11 AM
James,
Surprised that Royal Worlington didn't make the cut.  Could you expound on the rationale?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: James Boon on July 18, 2010, 08:55:39 AM
Jud,

I really enjoyed Royal Worlington so it was tricky to leave out. I loved the feel of the club and some of the holes (2, 3 and 5) are great, but some of the others feel a little ordinary perhaps? Certainly the best nine hole course I've played and it may be better than some of the others that made my list, but they'll probably have a little something, maybe a personal connection or something, that just bumps them above it.

Cheers,

James
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: kconway on July 24, 2010, 10:30:44 PM
Exceptional:
  Royal County Down
  Ballyneal

Very, Very, Very Good:
  Royal Portrush
  Royal Melbourne
  Shoreacres
  North Berwick West
  Sand Hills
  Pacific Dunes
  Crystal Downs

Pretty Damn Good:
  Royal Dornoch
  Lahinch
  Turnberry
  Western Gailes
  Bandon Dunes
  Pebble Beach
  Kings Barns
  Old Elm
  San Francisco Golf Club
  Portmarnock
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: V. Kmetz on July 25, 2010, 06:47:31 PM

Winged Foot East
Country Club of Fairfield
Siwanoy
Yale
Appawamis
National Golf Links
Tallgrass
Shinnecock
Fairchild Wheeler Red
Fisher's Island
Century
(I can never reveal my favorite)

cheers

vk
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on July 25, 2010, 06:51:04 PM
Vinnie...is your favorite on that list?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: V. Kmetz on July 25, 2010, 07:21:26 PM
No Mac it isn't.  I can't even mention it publicly .  It's too perfect.  Thank god it is among the most exclusive private clubs in America but nearly the lowest in profile.  The last thing it or my love for it need is for people to say, "it stinks...they should do this..." or words to that effect.

The greatest thing it has going for it, is that it doesn't care to change or alter one little bit and it plays almost the same today with hot equipment as it did 30 years ago with persimmon, balata and those Wilson Staff wedges.

I will tell you privately if you inquire.

cheers

vk
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ari Techner on July 25, 2010, 08:36:45 PM
My Top 25 done quickly.  


1.  Sand Hills  (50+)
2.  Pine Valley  (9)  
3.  Muirfield  (2)
4.  Royal County Down  (2)
5.  National GL  (2)
6.  Shinnecock Hills  (3)
7.  TOC  (2)
8.  Oakmont  (3)  
9.  Merion  (1)
10.  Fisher's Island  (1) 
11.  Pacific Dunes  (250+)
12.  Chicago GC  (2)
13.  Crystal Downs  (5)
14.  SFGC  (4)
15.  Lahinch  (10)
16.  Royal Cinque Ports  (7)
17.  Ballyneal  (10)
18.  North Berwick  (1)
19.  Yale  (4)
20.  Pebble Beach  (2)
21.  Pinehurst #2  (3)
22.  Shoreacres  (10)
23.  Bandon Trails  (25)
24.  Old Macdonald  (3)
25.  Franklin Hills  (500+)
26.  Lookout Mountain  (100+)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ben Sims on July 25, 2010, 09:15:00 PM
My Top 25 done quickly. 


1.  Sand Hills  (50+)
2.  Pine Valley  (8)   
3.  Muirfield  (2)
4.  Royal County Down  (2)
5.  National GL  (1)
6.  Shinnecock Hills  (3)
7.  TOC  (2)
8.  Oakmont  (3)   
9.  Merion  (1)
10.  Chicago GC  (2)
11.  Pacific Dunes  (250+)
12.  Crystal Downs  (5)
13.  SFGC  (4)
14.  Lahinch  (10)
15.  Ballyneal  (10)
16.  North Berwick  (1)
17.  Yale  (4)
18.  Carnoustie  (1)
19.  Pebble Beach  (2)
20.  Pinehurst #2  (3)
21.  Shoreacres  (10)
22.  Bandon Trails  (25)
23.  Old Macdonald  (3)
24.  Franklin Hills  (500+)
25.  Lookout Mountain  (100+)

So what you're saying is that I need to start a golf company? ;D

If that's in order, I'm surprised at Old Mac's positioning.  What are the numbers in parenthesis?

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Gene Greco on July 25, 2010, 11:44:34 PM
My Top 25 done quickly. 


1.  Sand Hills  (50+)
2.  Pine Valley  (8)   
3.  Muirfield  (2)
4.  Royal County Down  (2)
5.  National GL  (1)
6.  Shinnecock Hills  (3)
7.  TOC  (2)
8.  Oakmont  (3)   
9.  Merion  (1)
10.  Chicago GC  (2)
11.  Pacific Dunes  (250+)
12.  Crystal Downs  (5)
13.  SFGC  (4)
14.  Lahinch  (10)
15.  Ballyneal  (10)
16.  North Berwick  (1)
17.  Yale  (4)
18.  Carnoustie  (1)
19.  Pebble Beach  (2)
20.  Pinehurst #2  (3)
21.  Shoreacres  (10)
22.  Bandon Trails  (25)
23.  Old Macdonald  (3)
24.  Franklin Hills  (500+)
25.  Lookout Mountain  (100+)

So what you're saying is that I need to start a golf company? ;D

If that's in order, I'm surprised at Old Mac's positioning.  What are the numbers in parenthesis?



Maybe the number of times that course was played??
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ben Sims on July 26, 2010, 12:02:23 AM


Maybe the number of times that course was played??

Gene,

That makes sense.  Now I'm super jealous; as unbecoming as that emotion can be. 

Any progress on your answer about your first and last times up at Sand Hills?  Not to bother.




Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Kirk on July 26, 2010, 12:25:49 AM
Geez, Ari.  That adds up to approximately 1000 rounds played at your favorite 25 courses.  How many rounds do you play each year?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Steve Kline on July 26, 2010, 04:38:41 PM
Ranked in tiers (based on how quickly I would want to go back) (modifications in red:

Pine Valley

Ballyneal
Bandon Trails
Camargo
Pebble Beach
Pinehurst #2
Riviera
TOC

Bandon Dunes
Cruden Bay
North Berwick
Pine Needles
Royal Aberdeen
Royal Dornoch

Country Club of Columbus (GA)
Kohler-River Course
Muirfield Village
NCR South
Prestwick
Spyglass Hill
TPC Sawgrass
Western Gailes

Bel Air
Donegal
Holston Hills
Hyde Park
Nairn
Tobacco Road


Others considered:
Point o' Woods
Carne
Enniscrone
Turnberry
Royal Liverpool
Royal Birkdale
Royal Troon
Crail
Nairn
Tobacco Road

By the way...this is extremely hard to do.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Moore II on July 26, 2010, 04:48:57 PM
My top 25 courses played, now ranked numerically. I had to change it like this given the volume of courses I am about to play that are sure to take spots in this list and I wanted to know for sure which courses were coming out first.

1. Old Town Club (1)
2. Eagle Point (2)
3. Pine Needles (5)
4. Golden Horseshoe (Gold) (1)
5. CCNC (Dogwood) (1)
6. NCSU Lonnie Poole (1)
7. Forest Creek (North) (1)
8. Mattaponi Springs (1)
9. Thanksgiving Point (1)
10. PGA (Dye) (3)
11. Moose Run (River) (1)
12. Tanglewood Park (Champions) (1)
13. Bryan Park (Champions) (3-5)
14. Bear's Best Atlanta (1)
15. The President  (Eagle) (1)
16. Tobacco Road (5)
17.Nansemond River Golf Club (1)
18. Tot Hill Farm (somehow omitted from earlier lists)  (1)
19. Duke Golf Club (1)
20. TPC Wakefield Plantation (3)
21. Pensacola Country Club (1)
22. Mid South (25+)
23. Riverfront (5)
24. Southern Pines (5)
25. Pinehurst #5 (1)



Original courses in Black
April 11 updates in Red.
June 24 updates in Blue.
July 16 update in Green.
And I am actually ranking them as of July 16.
July 26 update in Orange.

New lists appreciated from anyone willing to put them down.

And since Ari listed how many times he'd played the courses, I will do the same. Lots of One-and-Done trips up here. :-\
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ari Techner on July 26, 2010, 08:14:11 PM
My Top 25 done quickly. 


1.  Sand Hills  (50+)
2.  Pine Valley  (8)   
3.  Muirfield  (2)
4.  Royal County Down  (2)
5.  National GL  (1)
6.  Shinnecock Hills  (3)
7.  TOC  (2)
8.  Oakmont  (3)   
9.  Merion  (1)
10.  Chicago GC  (2)
11.  Pacific Dunes  (250+)
12.  Crystal Downs  (5)
13.  SFGC  (4)
14.  Lahinch  (10)
15.  Ballyneal  (10)
16.  North Berwick  (1)
17.  Yale  (4)
18.  Carnoustie  (1)
19.  Pebble Beach  (2)
20.  Pinehurst #2  (3)
21.  Shoreacres  (10)
22.  Bandon Trails  (25)
23.  Old Macdonald  (3)
24.  Franklin Hills  (500+)
25.  Lookout Mountain  (100+)

So what you're saying is that I need to start a golf company? ;D

If that's in order, I'm surprised at Old Mac's positioning.  What are the numbers in parenthesis?




Being in the golf industry definitely helps!  Most of the top courses I have played have been while on business trips for Scratch. 

I did my list quickly and I may have rated Old Mac a little lower than I should have but not by alot.  I loved parts of the course and really enjoyed it overall but if I am nitpicking my issues with the course was that it seemed to have a lack of interesting tee shots.  Most holes you could hit it anywhere and be fine.  I think it will grow on me with repeated plays and as it grows in.  I will tell you one thing, I want to love the course more than anything.  I absolutely LOVE Bandon and have spent a ton of time there and I am a HUGE Macdonald/Raynor guy. 

As Gene said, the numbers in parenthesis are the number of times I have played there as requested by someone in this thread. 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ari Techner on July 26, 2010, 08:17:56 PM
Geez, Ari.  That adds up to approximately 1000 rounds played at your favorite 25 courses.  How many rounds do you play each year?


John,

I have never actually counted the number of rounds that I play in a year.  These days I dont play much during the week when I am home but my son and I play atleast once early in the morning on the weekend and sometimes twice.  But that is only when I am in town which I am often not.  When I am out of town I try to play every chance that I get and that usually means working during the day and getting in a round at a local course in the afternoon.  Occasionally I will take a long weekend and just play golf without working but only a few times a year. 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Moore II on July 26, 2010, 09:21:47 PM
Ari-You've played Pacific Dunes more than 250 times? Well on that note, you can pucker up and kiss my rear... ;) ;)  I'm jealous.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Chaplin on July 27, 2010, 05:43:17 PM
Ari - you should have played Deal less but that cheeky win on the 19th from dormie 4 down got you out again  :'(!!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ari Techner on July 27, 2010, 09:05:21 PM
Ari-You've played Pacific Dunes more than 250 times? Well on that note, you can pucker up and kiss my rear... ;) ;)  I'm jealous.

Living in Oregon for 10 years definitely had its benefits!   ;)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ari Techner on July 27, 2010, 09:19:57 PM
Ari - you should have played Deal less but that cheeky win on the 19th from dormie 4 down got you out again  :'(!!

Ah yes, the greatest first round Brassie match comeback in the long history of the Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club lol.  I can't remember who my opponent was, do you recall perhaps? 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Chaplin on July 28, 2010, 01:44:41 AM
I'm told in 1903 Capt The Hon. Percy Waugh-Smythe was 6 down with 7 to play against Rev Diggery Pickleton. My therapist tells me to hold onto that thought!!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott Warren on July 28, 2010, 03:55:37 AM
Chappers, just thank God you weren't the daft bugger who butchered the deciding match of this year's Halford Hewitt... or the engraver who jumped the gun and etched the wrong name on the trophy!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Chaplin on July 28, 2010, 04:08:02 AM
The engraver was only following orders, the hon secretary of the Hewitt take full responsibility and knows his gaff will go into Hewitt lore!!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bruce Wellmon on July 28, 2010, 08:39:34 AM
By location

Scotland: The Old Course
               Kingsbarns
               Royal Dornoch
               Castle Stuart

Ireland: Ballybunion
           Lahinch
           Waterville
           Doonbeg

Oregon: Bandon Trails
            Pac Dunes
            Bandon Dunes

California: Pebble
              Olympic (Lake)

NC/SC: Pinehurst #2
           Grandfather
           Old Town
           The Ocean Course
           Yeaman's Hall
            Pine Needles
            Palmetto

Other: TPC Sawgrass
           Whistling Straits
           Blackwolf Run
           The Honor's Cpurse
            Cabo Del Sol (Ocean)
    
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Chris Shaida on July 28, 2010, 09:57:30 AM
No Mac it isn't.  I can't even mention it publicly .  It's too perfect.  Thank god it is among the most exclusive private clubs in America but nearly the lowest in profile.  The last thing it or my love for it need is for people to say, "it stinks...they should do this..." or words to that effect.

The greatest thing it has going for it, is that it doesn't care to change or alter one little bit and it plays almost the same today with hot equipment as it did 30 years ago with persimmon, balata and those Wilson Staff wedges.

I will tell you privately if you inquire.

cheers

vk

Does it begin with a 'p' and end in an 'o'?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Stephen Perkins on August 03, 2010, 05:03:40 PM
Here goes...

Cypress Point
Royal County Down
Pebble Beach
Chicago Golf
San Francisco
Winged Foot West
Peachtree
Winged Foot East
Alotian Club
Honors Course
Cherry Hills
Southern Hills
Muirfield Village
Plainfield
Boston Golf
Olympic
Ocean Forest
Old Sandwich
Old Town
Dallas National
Pinehurst No. 2
Colonial
Spyglass Hill
Ballybunion
Portmarnock

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Andrew Cunningham on August 04, 2010, 03:01:30 PM
Cypress Point
Oak Hill East
Oakmont
Winged Foot West
Pebble Beach
Pete Dye GC
Oakland Hills South
San Francisco
Riviera
Ocean Course
National Golf Club of Canada
Sebonack
Olympic Club
Whistling Straits
St. Georges GC
Pinehurst No. 2
Sagebrush
Olympia Fields North
Los Angeles North
TPC Sawgrass
Butler National
Plainfield
Medinah No. 3
Kittansett
Spyglass


Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: William_G on August 08, 2010, 03:15:00 PM
FWIW, the top course is always the one I'm presently playing!

St. Andrews
Cypress
Pebble
Pacific
Pinehurst #8
Bandon
Old Mac
Waterville
Spyglass
Trails
Bayonet
Eugene
Pasatiempo
Gleneagles Kings
Oak Tree
Cordevalle
Pinehurst #2
East Lake
MPCC
Crosswater
Pumpkin Ridge
Torrey Pines
Martis Camp
Plantation
Olympic Club
 :P

Thanks, thats 25! ;D
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Moore II on August 08, 2010, 03:18:35 PM
FWIW, the top course is always the one I'm presently playing!

St. Andrews
Cypress
Pebble
Pacific
Pinehurst #8
Bandon
Old Mac
Waterville
Spyglass
Trails
Bayonet
Eugene
Pasatiempo
Gleneagles Kings
Oak Tree
Cordevalle
Pinehurst #2
East Lake
MPCC
Crosswater
Pumpkin Ridge
Torrey Pines
Martis Camp
Plantation
Circling Raven
Banff Springs
 :P

You listed 26 courses, good Sir.   :-\
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jim_lewis on August 09, 2010, 07:47:24 AM
delete
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on August 09, 2010, 10:54:01 AM
Jim, 

Great list, but how about a real ranking!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jim_lewis on August 09, 2010, 11:23:03 AM
delete
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill Brightly on August 09, 2010, 03:03:26 PM
I have refrained from posting my top 25 for two reasons. First, I have trouble leaving out some excellent courses that I can’t fit into my top 25. Second, I don’t want to have to defend my reasons for omitting some courses that most everyone would expect to be included. My answer to the latter is to just not mention courses that I left out. I will say that one course that is conspicuously absent is Cypress Point. Reason…I have never played it.

So here goes, in no particular order except I list Pine Valley first because that is where it belongs.

Pine Valley
Pinehurst #2
Augusta National
Shinnecock
Merion
Oakmont
Pebble Beach
Sand Hills
Pacific Dunes
Chicago Golf Club
The Old Course
Carnoustie
Muirfield
Royal Melbourne
Kingston Heath
Ballybunion
Prairie Dunes
Royal Dornoch
Crystal Downs
Royal County Down
St. Louis CC
Seminole
Wannamoisett
Fishers Island
Winged Foot


Jim,

That is a helluva list.  Wonder which one or two gets the boot if you play some place like Cape Kidnappers or Old Macdonald? :)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Richard Choi on August 09, 2010, 03:27:24 PM
Damn, I gotta hang out with Jim...
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Rob Peterson on August 09, 2010, 05:24:58 PM
New to the forum...it is pretty fun to read everyone's lists!  My list isn't necessarily just about the golf course as a lot of it has to do with the experience.  For example sleeping in the parking lot at Bethpage is worth a huge amount of "experience" factor.  Or...eating lunch at Muirfield in a coat and tie and then going back out for a second round of golf is also an amazing experience.

1. Whistling Straits – Straits
2. Pebble Beach
3. The Old Course at St Andrews
4. Harbour Town
5. Bethpage – Black
6. Kapalua – Plantation
7. Muirfield (Honorable Company of Edinburgh Golfers)
8. North Berwick West Links
9. Kiawah Island  – Ocean Course
10. Medinah #3
11. Pasatiempo
12. Cog Hill #4
13. Kingsbarns
14. Pinehurst #2
15. Spyglass Hill
16. Rancho Santa Fe Country Club
17. World Woods – Pine Barrens
18. The Castle Course at St Andrews
19. The Bridges at Rancho Santa Fe (more about the setting than the actual golf course)
20. Torrey Pines – South
21. Finkbine Golf Course (Iowa City)
22. Wolf Creek
23. Troon North – Pinnacle
24. The Challenge at Manele
25. TPC Deere Run

In the spirit of college football…here are my others receiving votes (in no particular order):
Troon North – Monument, Blackwolf Run – River, Rancho Santa Fe Farms, Weaver Ridge, The Dunes Golf & Beach Club, TPC Myrtle Beach, Long Cove Club
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt OBrien on August 09, 2010, 05:26:06 PM
Pine Valley
Sand Hills
Shinnecock
National Golf Links
Oakmont
Merion
Fishers Island
Chicago Golf Club
Pacific Dunes
Bandon Dunes
Bandon Trails
Aronomink
Hidden Creek
Huntingdon Valley
Bayonne
Philadephia Cricket Club
Yale
Lookout Mountain
Lost Dunes
Beverly
Olympia
Shoreacres
Philadelphia Country Club
Rolling Green
Atlantic City Country Club
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Chaplin on August 09, 2010, 05:29:40 PM
Matt time to get the passport out!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt OBrien on August 09, 2010, 05:33:15 PM
Matt time to get the passport out!

Just applied for it!!!!!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt OBrien on August 09, 2010, 05:37:37 PM
Geez, Ari.  That adds up to approximately 1000 rounds played at your favorite 25 courses.  How many rounds do you play each year?


John,

I have never actually counted the number of rounds that I play in a year.  These days I dont play much during the week when I am home but my son and I play atleast once early in the morning on the weekend and sometimes twice.  But that is only when I am in town which I am often not.  When I am out of town I try to play every chance that I get and that usually means working during the day and getting in a round at a local course in the afternoon.  Occasionally I will take a long weekend and just play golf without working but only a few times a year. 

MUST BE NICE!!!! I NEED A JOB WHERE I CAN DO THE SAME !!!!   ;) ;) ;) ;) ;) ;) ;) ;) ;) ;)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Rob Miller on August 10, 2010, 03:31:35 AM
'Whipping it out' and trying to keep it interesting, here are my 5 favorites anywhere ranked by the very subjective, yet honest - if I could wake up tomorrow and replay any course -  

Pebble Beach
Royal County Down
Old Macdonald
Royal Portrush
Banff Springs

And here are the remainder from Asia.  Note that it gets a bit rough near the bottom.  I was tempted to do an Asia hall of shame list as well, but maybe I'll reserve that for another thread.  

Kawana (Fuji), Japan
Nauro, Japan
Nirwana Bali, Indonesia
Dalat Palace, Vietnam
Shanghai Links, China
Spring City (Lake), China
Spring City (Mountain), China
Sheshan International, China
Nine Dragons, China
Nine Bridges, Korea
Ria Bintan (Ocean), Indonesia
Blue Canyon, Thailand
Montgomerie Links, Vietnam
Ocean Dunes, Vietnam
Suzhou Sun Island, China
Bears Paw, Japan
Nansha Golf, China
Tianma, China
Jagorawi Golf, Indonesia



Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Andrew Bertram on August 10, 2010, 05:00:15 AM
I have an update from my japan journey in May, my regular travel buddy has hassled to update so here it is.

 1. Cypress Point
2. Shinnecock Hills
3. Royal Dornoch
4. Royal melbourne West
5. The Old Course

6. Royal County Down
7. Merion
8. National Golf Links
9. Oakmont
10. Ballybunion Old

11. Kingston Heath
12. San Francisco
13. Morfontaine
14. Hirono
15. Muirfield

16. Barnbougle Dunes
17. Swinley Forest
18. Pacific Dunes
19. Pinehurst No 2
20. Turnberry

21. Kawana
22. California Club
23. Sunningdale Old
24. Riviera
25. Cruden Bay

Winged Foot west and Royal Portrush dropped out

I mentioned previuosly that Victoria in melbourne just missed out. It keeps getting better and better with Clayts doing work and it will knock the socks off our overseas visitors for The Australian masters.

I am looking at a big next 12 months with the following lined up.
Lost Farm
Teeth of the Dog
TPC Sawgrass
Ocean Forest
Kiawah Island Ocean
harbour Town
Prarie Dunes
Pinehurst again
Seminole
Shadow Creek
Pine Valley and Merion
Ellerston

I have a feeling there will be changes coming!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Chaplin on August 10, 2010, 05:25:45 AM
Andrew - there will be some interest in hearing about Ellerston as it's so private. Do you know if play has increased since Kerry Packer died?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Andrew Bertram on August 10, 2010, 07:55:25 AM
Mark

A good friend of mine owns a property very close by, from his knowledge it can go 2 -3 weeks with no play. when busy it has 12 players in a day. The only way in is by Helicopter.
james packer basically does not play any more so not much play at all.

It is a shame :)

Andrew
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Dimitri Dimakopoulos on August 10, 2010, 09:31:37 AM
thought this might be a nice way to ease into my first post...

without having been to the usa or the UK my short but sweet list has a strong australian flavour...nothing wrong with that though  ;D

1 - New South Wales GC - nothing better than taking a stroll around la perouse....pot bunkering a real treat...bit of a thrill when you venture across the footbridge at the 6th tee with nothing but a 4 iron in hand....friendly staff too
(http://C:\Users\dimitri\Documents\DIMITRI\GOLF\PORTFOLIO\NSW 6)
2 - Barnbougle dunes - the sequence of holes from 3-8 is like reading from a good book that you cant put down...stunning...
(http://C:\Users\dimitri\Documents\DIMITRI\GOLF\PORTFOLIO\barnbougle 7)
3 - portsea gc - bit of a roughie here from the mornington peninsula - one of the most enjoyable courses to play, always break out into a smile when playing this course, fantastic elevated tee positions, simple use of existing terrain and good use of existing tea tree scrub vegetation. recent changes to the course have only made it better in my opinion.
(http://C:\Users\dimitri\Documents\DIMITRI\GOLF\PORTFOLIO\portsea 13)
4 - kingston heath - bunkering a feature as are the strategic undualtions around the greens that call a variety of approach shots
(http://C:\Users\dimitri\Documents\DIMITRI\GOLF\PORTFOLIO\kingston heath 7)
5 - st. andrews beach (gunamatta course) - another great doak course, watch it climb up the rankings npw that new owners have been secured.
(http://C:\Users\dimitri\Documents\DIMITRI\GOLF\PORTFOLIO\standrews beach 9)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott Warren on August 10, 2010, 09:41:10 AM
5 - st. andrews beach (gunamatta course) - another great doak course, watch it climb up the rankings npw that new owners have been secured.

Do you have any info on the new owners and how they plan to structure the place going forward Dimitri?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Dimitri Dimakopoulos on August 10, 2010, 07:32:01 PM
going off their website "The major shareholder, an individual who has a passion for golf has teamed up with a Melbourne based accounting firm, a golf course architect and the current golf course operations management group to complete the sale."

i heard somewhere that the management group involved whilst the course was being sold is also involved at Amstel, they have two courses down there at Cranbourne (Amstel Public, and my old stomping ground Ranfurlie GC which is a private club). Hope that intel is correct. not sure who the gc architect is?

i believe there a plans to proceed with a clubhouse, which has been in a temporary facililty and is well overdue, and boost course maintenance infrastructure.

I am hoping all goes well so that the second course there that was never completed (Fingal Course) is developed, i know ill be there this summer taking advantage of what is some very attractive green fees for a course of this quality.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jason Goss on August 23, 2010, 09:26:47 PM
Well here goes,

1. Shinnecock
2. NGLA
3. Cypress Point
4. Pacific Dunes
5. Old Macdonald
6. Crystal Downs
7. SFGC
8. Kingsley Club
9. Pasatiempo
10. MPCC Shore
11. Shoreacres
12. Bandon Trails
13. Cal Club of SF
14. Bandon Dunes
15. Meadow Club
16. Olympic Club (Lake)
17. Greenbrier Old white
18. Deepdale
19. Harding Park
20. Exmoor
21. Martis Camp
22. Bethpage (Red)
23. Shady Oaks
24. UofMichigan
25. Arcadia Bluffs



Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jim_lewis on August 23, 2010, 09:29:29 PM
delete
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jason Goss on August 23, 2010, 09:34:46 PM
Jim,

I have not had the good fortune of playing many southern gems.  I spent one year working in Arizona and played almost no golf as it was usually about 110 degrees when I got off work and my thin northern blood does not enjoy swinging it in that type of heat!  I have had the chance to play a few Florida courses, however they were less than memorable.  I did include my trip to Fort Worth and Shady Oaks, so I didn't completely leave out the South!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Moore II on August 23, 2010, 09:46:16 PM
Jason:

Impressive list. I think maybe you should spend some time in the South.

Jim Lewis

Crusty Jim-I just have to ask why you write out a post and then repost 'delete' just a short time later?


Jason-Look at your private messages-top right corner of your screen, if you don't know.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jim_lewis on August 23, 2010, 10:06:19 PM
Jason and John:

I attempted to delete my post before anyone saw it because I decided it was wrong for me to question why anyone would not have more Southern courses, since I have lived in the South almost all my life and only 3 of my top 25 courses are in the South (ANGC, #2, and Seminole). You could even say only 2 since many down here don't count Florida as part of the South!

Instead I might have suggested that Jason might consider buying a couple of tickets on international flights.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Moore II on October 01, 2010, 04:31:49 AM
My top 25 courses played, now ranked numerically. I had to change it like this given the volume of courses I am about to play that are sure to take spots in this list and I wanted to know for sure which courses were coming out first; significant changes with this edit, saw a few new courses that made me change my opinion of others a great deal.

1. Old Town Club (1)
2. Eagle Point (2)
3. Pine Needles (5)
4. NCSU Lonnie Poole (1)
5. Mattaponi Springs (1)
6. Golden Horseshoe (Gold) (1)
7. Forest Creek (North) (1)
8. CCNC (Dogwood) (1)
9. Thanksgiving Point (1)
10. Royal New Kent (1)
11. Tobacco Road (5)
12. PGA (Dye) (3)
13. Moose Run (River) (1)
14. Tanglewood Park (Champions) (1)
15. Tot Hill Farm  (1)
16. Bear's Best Atlanta (1)
17. The President  (Eagle) (1)
18. United States Naval Academy Golf Club (4)
19.Nansemond River Golf Club (1)
20. Riverfront (5)
21. Bryan Park (Champions) (3-5)
22. Pensacola Country Club (1)
23. Mid South (25+)
24. Southern Pines (5)
25. TPC Wakefield Plantation (3)


Original courses in Black
April 11 updates in Red.
June 24 updates in Blue.
July 16 update in Green.
And I am actually ranking them as of July 16.
July 26 update in Orange.
October 1 undates in Purple.

New lists appreciated from anyone willing to put them down.

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Chaplin on October 01, 2010, 05:58:45 AM
John and Jason - another couple of chaps who need passports!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: K. Krahenbuhl on October 01, 2010, 10:06:42 AM
National Golf Links
Merion
Shinnecock
Prairie Dunes
Cypress Point
Oakmont
Royal County Down
Friars Head
Pebble Beach
Crystal Downs
Lahinch
San Francisco Golf
Ballybunion
Sebonack
Newport
Royal Portrush
California Golf Club
Shoreacres
Peachtree
Aronimink
Ballyneal
Olympia Fields
Austin Golf
Honors
Garden City
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Moore II on October 01, 2010, 11:51:56 AM
mark chaplin-the passport is not the issue, i have one of those. what i need is a thicker wallet. hmm..... :-\
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tony Weiler on October 01, 2010, 12:24:27 PM
I need to get overseas as well.  But, since my new top two were played this year, it's been a good year!

1.   Sand Hills
2.   Ballyneal
3.   Sutton Bay
4.   Torrey Pines (South)
5.   Interlachen C.C.
6.   We Ko Pa (Saguaro)
7.   Hazeltine National
8.   World Woods (Pine Barrens)
9.   Links of North Dakota
10.   Hawktree
11.   Wild Horse
12.   Vista Verde
13.   Grayhawk (Talon)
14.   We Ko Pa (Cholla)
15.   Deacon’s Lodge
16.   Couer d’Alene C.C.
17.   Pelican Hill (South before Renovations)
18.   TPC Scottsdale
19.   Old Works
20.   Bully Pulpit
21.   Powder Horn (Wyo.)
22.   Eagle Bend (Mt.)
23.   Raven at So. Mt. (Az.)
24.   Whirlwind (Devil’s Claw)
25.   Prairie Green (S.D.)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: tomgoutman on October 01, 2010, 10:16:27 PM
FDR times 50. BTW, what does "whip it out" mean?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tony Weiler on October 05, 2010, 09:10:03 AM
Tom, could you explain a bit more about "FDR."  The course in Philly?

And, if you are serious about "whip it out" it's sort of like "show em to me." 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: rchesnut on October 10, 2010, 12:58:04 AM
Cypress Point
Barnbougle Dunes
Pacific Dunes
Pasatiempo
Ballyneal
Royal County Down
Kingsbarns
Kingston Heath
Royal Melbourne
Oakmont
Crystal Downs
San Francisco
Pebble Beach
Pinehurst #2
We Ko Pa Saguaro
Spyglass
Arcadia Bluffs
Kiawah Island Ocean
Gullane
North Berwick
Old MacDonald
Meadow Club
MPCC -- Dunes and Shore
Cabo del Sol
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jeremy Aisenberg on October 10, 2010, 09:03:33 PM
I am a new member of the GCA forum and figured this was a good place to make my first post.   

1. Pine Valley
2. Cypress Point
3. Cape Kidnappers
4. Seminole
5. Pacific Dunes
6. Fishers Island
7. Kinloch
8. Merion
9. Oakmont
10. Royal Birkdale
11. Kauri Cliffs
12. Ballyhack
13. Riviera
14. Bandon Trails
15. Royal Troon
16. Bandon Dunes
17. Pinehurst #2
18. Shadow Creek
19. Sebonack
20. Walton Heath Old
21. Olympic
22. Congressional
23. Harbour Town
24. Cassique
25.Whisper Rock (lower)

I have tentative plans to make it back to Bandon to play Old Mac, as well as a trip to Sandhills in the spring, so i expect some potential movement on these rankings...I look forward to participating in the excellent discussions here!

Jeremy Aisenberg

 
 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on October 10, 2010, 09:06:32 PM
Jeremy...

what were your thoughts on Seminole?  Why regarded so highly?  Pros and Cons about it.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jeremy Aisenberg on October 10, 2010, 09:57:29 PM
To me, Seminole is an absolutely brilliant golf course.  Seminole truly requires you to maintain razor sharp focus for every shot.  I think this really is Donal Ross' masterpiece.  The use of the dune that runs through the property is amazing in that it is was the primary feature with which Ross had to design around, and he did so brilliantly.  With its location right on the ocean, the wind is as critical to the design as the layout itself.  I love that they forgo lush conditioning in favor of firm and fast play.  It is a little brown and that's exactly how they want it.     The green complexes are genius in that they don't necessarily look at first to be very difficult, but require absolute precision.  The routing is virtually perfect and it is a wonderfully natural walk. It is an understated golf course and it is easy to understand how it may not blow people away that are looking for more "wow" factor.  To me, it has as much "wow" as anywhere i have ever played, but you need to allow yourself to see it.  The subtleties make the golf experience at Seminole somewhat of a chess match.  Add on the history and tradition of the club, and it ranks very high in my opinion.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on December 05, 2010, 10:13:21 PM
I think this could be fun to see how our lists morph from year to year.



My 25 Favorite Courses Played Thus Far (12-5-2010)…

Tier 1 (100 out of 100 on The Plumart Scale  ;) )

The Golf Club…To me this is the ultimate golfing escape;  wonderful setting (secluded and private),  great property, amazing routing that takes the golfer on an adventure with a few twists and turns in “vibe”.  And the stretch of holes from 13-17 is some of the best golf I’ve ever seen.

Sand Hills…Perhaps I could duplicate my thoughts on The Golf Club; great golf escape, wonderful setting, great property with amazing routing.  Given that I am from Ohio and live in Georgia, seeing the land features of the Nebraska sandhills are akin to being on the moon.  Truly stunning!

NGLA…The anticipation of playing this course was difficult to deal with, given the significance of the course in the world of golf course architecture.  And when I approached my ball on the first green, reality lived up to all the hype and anticipation.  The course is off-the-charts good without a single weak hole.

Kiawah Ocean…I find this course to be truly incredible.  Challenging, but playable.  Beautiful, but with sharp  teeth.  The challenges are vast and diverse, the holes offer variety, and the wind (if present) will make you think before you hit every shot…or pay the price.  Great stuff!!



Tier 2

Canterbury…In my mind, this course is vastly underappreciated.  Amazing routing on a small piece of property.  Perfect turf for golf.  Great greens with a great mix of undulation and speed.  And quirky/interesting holes mixed in with standard golf holes.

Sebonack…Two holes away from being, arguably, the greatest course in the world (excluding anything Trump does, of course  :) ).  Seriously though, the course is crazy good.  Beautiful, challenging, hard to get to the greens, and hard to hole putts. 

Pinehurst #2…I played it last summer and thought it was outstanding.  I have a gut feeling this thing might pop up to Tier 1 on my list after C&C finish their work.  Subtle strategy needs to be discovered/employed…and I love that aspect of Ross’ work.

Dismal River…Like Sand Hills, the landscape of this region of Nebraska is really cool to me.  Dismal has more dramatic golf holes/shots than its neighbor and I like that.  I find it to be a little more challenging than Sand Hills and I think they are a perfect compliment to each other.

Harbour Town…An amazing journey.  Unique and interesting.  I’ve never seen a course quite like it…or at least like it and done as well.  I love its unique nature and can’t wait to play it again and apply the strategies I think I learned the first time.

Pete Dye Golf Club…Plain and simple good golf.  Risk/reward on seemingly every hole.  Beautiful views in every direction.  A course that offers a great challenge, but a course I could play everyday.

Ballyneal…Much like Harbour Town, I’d call this course unique and interesting.  An ideal mix of golf and nature.  Some of the greatest greens I’ve ever seen.  And I am still amazed at how the golf course and the landscape seem to be one and the same with no separation.




Tier 3…(I’ll limit my description on these)

Sea Island—Seaside…great mix of beauty and golf.

Inverness…Solid Ross course.  A great course to study to see how outside architects can detract from the original course.

Cuscowilla…Solid C&C, 1-13 are top-notch golf holes.

Pine Needles…Really nice Ross with great flow.

Shadow Creek…Pleasant golf.  15 is under-rated and over-looked as a golf hole.

Maidstone…8-14 are spectacular, the rest is solid.  6 green is AWESOME!!!

Holston Hills…A course I could play every single day of my life. 

Seminole…If I was a better golfer, I think I’d like it even more.

East Lake…It means more to me than most other people.  I, essentially, discovered golf on this course;  Bobby Jones, Donald Ross, and how a golf course can transform a community.

Augusta Country Club…Really, really pleasant and good golf.  Like Holston Hills, I could play it every single day.

Yeaman’s Hall...An amazing  club with a well routed course with great greens.


Tier 4…

Pinehurst #4…Fazio’s version of #2.  Played really fast and firm when I was there.  And I didn’t mind the look of the pot bunkers.

Paiute (Wolf)…FUN, FUN, FUN!!!

Inwood…Quirk at its finest.  Cemented Strong as my favorite architect!!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: J_ Crisham on December 06, 2010, 11:43:13 AM
Kiawah ahead of Seminole? Wow- would like to know why. I thought Ocean was pretty good but not even in my top40 or 50.
                  Jack
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Karl Kocher on December 06, 2010, 12:52:00 PM
Shinnecock
Pine valley
Merion
Waterville
Kiawah Ocean
Olympic Club
Pebble Beach
TPC Sawgrass
Pinehurst #2
Royal St. Georges
Butler National
Winged Foot W.
National
Aronomink
Turnberry
Cabo Del Sol
Harbortown
OFCC North
Whistling Straights
St. Andrews
Seminole
Hoylake
Blackwolf Run river
Chambers Bay
Troon
Congo
Shoreacres
Crooked Stick
Medinah
sahalee
Laurel Valley

Sorry, that is 31....I was on a roll.  Best 2010 summer anyone (Shinny, National, Oakmont, Laurel,
Sahalle, Chambers Bay, Butler, OFCC, Congo,Whistling, Blackwolf)?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on December 06, 2010, 04:21:26 PM
Kiawah ahead of Seminole? Wow- would like to know why. I thought Ocean was pretty good but not even in my top40 or 50.
                  Jack



Jack...

Perhaps these links will answer your question regarding my opinion of these courses.  Of course, these are only my opinions regarding why they rank where they do in my list of "favorites". 


http://www.mrpgolf.com/kiawah_ocean.html (http://www.mrpgolf.com/kiawah_ocean.html)

http://www.mrpgolf.com/Seminole.html (http://www.mrpgolf.com/Seminole.html)


If you have time, I'd love to hear your thoughts on why you like or don't like these courses.

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: George Freeman on December 06, 2010, 04:29:39 PM
Shinnecock
Pine valley
Merion
Waterville
Kiawah Ocean
Olympic Club
Pebble Beach
TPC Sawgrass
Pinehurst #2
Royal St. Georges
Butler National
Winged Foot W.
National
Aronomink
Turnberry
Cabo Del Sol
Harbortown
OFCC North
Whistling Straights
St. Andrews
Seminole
Hoylake
Blackwolf Run river
Chambers Bay
Troon
Congo
Shoreacres
Crooked Stick
Medinah
sahalee
Laurel Valley

Sorry, that is 31....I was on a roll.  Best 2010 summer anyone (Shinny, National, Oakmont, Laurel,
Sahalle, Chambers Bay, Butler, OFCC, Congo,Whistling, Blackwolf)?

Karl,

Oakmont didn't make you're top 31??
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on December 06, 2010, 04:49:16 PM
Mac:

Good call on TGC -- often gets overlooked by many on this site -- likely tied to the accessibility issue for many.

I too liked Dismal River but there were a few changes that Team Nicklaus did there to deal with clear playability issues -- did you play the course after Jack's work was done there in response to those issues ?

Glad to see you mentioned Sebonack high -- just a quick question -- no mention of Shinnecock. Were you able to play it ?

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on December 06, 2010, 05:07:56 PM
Matt...

I played Dismal River this summer, so I think it was after some of the changes.  But it is my understanding they are changing 18 as we speak. 

On Shinnecock, I haven't played it yet.  But I've got it surrounded though!!   :D

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on December 06, 2010, 05:27:27 PM
Mac:

You have Ballyneal and Dismal on the same level.

Can you explain that in greater detail ?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Karl Kocher on December 06, 2010, 05:58:31 PM
Whoops, Oakmont after Waterville and before Kiawah....
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jonathan_becker on December 06, 2010, 09:03:30 PM
.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JC Jones on December 06, 2010, 09:46:22 PM
Hey JB,

Does your girlfriend let you play golf?

Do you think Merion is over-rated because of the mowing lines?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ron Csigo on December 06, 2010, 09:51:59 PM
I'll take the cop out route and go alphabetically.  However, I put an asterisk next to my preferred 10.

I'm sure I've forgotten something....


Scioto?!   ;)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jonathan_becker on December 06, 2010, 10:03:18 PM
JC,

 :D ;D

Ron,

But of course!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on December 06, 2010, 11:02:56 PM
Mac:

You have Ballyneal and Dismal on the same level.

Can you explain that in greater detail ?

Matt...

I'll do my best.

I find both courses to be visually striking.  Ballyneal's landscape has the great Chop Hills area to play in and around and as a backdrop, while Dismal River's landscape and views are dramatic and mind blowing.  Either way you slice it, the views are amazing and the grounds for golf are damn near ideal.

The challenge at Ballyneal is the greens and actually getting the ball in the hole, while at Dismal the challenge seems to be actually getting to the greens.  That is not to say that the angles and approaches aren't excellent at Ballyneal, but the greens are the apex of Ballyneal's course.  And at Dismal, many of the greens are very good...but the tee and approach shots are the main attraction at Dismal.

The club and the vibe of both clubs are excellent and being destination courses I find this important as there isn't too much to do at places like this except golf and hang out at the club.

I guess you might say that I consider each one to be the ying to the others yang.  And if you played these two on a regular basis, you'd have the driving and ball striking challenges coupled with the chipping and putting challenge wrapped up in spades.

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Chris Johnston on December 07, 2010, 12:25:18 AM
I could debate this order for hours...

Sand Hills
Pine Valley
Augusta National
Shinnecock
Royal Dornoch
National Golf Links
Dismal River
Pacific Dunes
The Golf Club
St Andrews Old
Oakmont
Winged Foot
Los Angeles Country Club
Cruden Bay
Cypress Point
Scioto
Camargo
Fishers Island
Muirfield
Royal Troon
Crystal Downs
Seminole
Inverness
Muirfield Village
The Honors Course
Pebble Beach


Have to get to Ballyneal and Colorado Golf Club for more than a beer. 



Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Chaplin on December 07, 2010, 01:34:39 AM
Chris - solid

JB - you've forgotten your passport.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on December 07, 2010, 05:15:08 AM
I spose the courses I played which impress the most are those which cross over between Best and Favourite lists.  

County Sligo
Enniscrone
Lahinch
North Berwick
Old Town Club
Prestwick
Rye
St Enodoc
Woking

The Numinous Nine?  It may take many years before I come up with 25 of this sort.

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ken Kearney on December 07, 2010, 05:31:39 AM
Brian,

I was out "west" yesterday... the roads are really terrible with compacted snow and ice. I dont know of any golf course that is open for play.
I believe the temperatures are supposed to reach 6 this weekend.. so maybe you might get some golf.
You best check with the club before leaving home.

KK

25 to follow..
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ally Mcintosh on December 07, 2010, 05:40:37 AM
Ken, Brian,

Carne re-opened for play yesterday so if the temperature stays up then hopefully...
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Travis Dewire on December 07, 2010, 02:13:29 PM
like to see myopia hunt represented more here, but i guess its probably rather tough to play

4 U.S Open's, and highest winning U.S Open score ever


course is a gemmmmmm


What about any of the other MA Open courses? Brae Burn, TCC, Worcestor, anybody lucky enough to play these??
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Travis Dewire on December 07, 2010, 02:14:14 PM
these lists are awesome, some of you have had wonderful opportunities to play these exciting and rare courses
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JC Jones on December 07, 2010, 04:27:58 PM
these lists are awesome, some of you have had wonderful opportunities to play these exciting and rare courses

Mainly due to access whoring.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Travis Dewire on December 07, 2010, 05:43:53 PM
Myopia Hunt
The Country Club
Worcester CC
Brae Burn CC
Dedham Country and Polo
Eastward Ho!
Essex CC
Pinehurst #2
Metacomet CC
Taconic GC

probably just about in that order too

Wish I could copy and paste some of your guy's lists!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott Warren on December 07, 2010, 06:03:50 PM
Don't forget rating, JC, or does that also fall under "whoring"?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on December 26, 2010, 09:41:49 AM
Deleted...wrong thread. :-\
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on December 27, 2010, 03:07:07 PM
Mac:

I'm glad to see an emphasis on the mountain time zone area -- the recent addition of the key ones in the area have certainly added much to the overall discussion. Ballyneal and Dismal River are clearly two different courses -- the Doak approach and the Nicklaus approach clearly provide a very interesting contrast. I see that area of the USA as being the last frontier where the kind of compelling golf can be rightly included among the very best in the USA.
Title: My Top 25 Courses Enjoyed
Post by: Anthony Butler on December 29, 2010, 10:03:54 PM
Here's the 25 courses I'd most like to play again:

RMW
RME
Kingston Heath
Moonah National
New South Wales

Olympic Lake
Cypress Point
Pebble Beach
Meadow Club

Winged Foot West
Quaker Ridge
Stanwich
Merion East
Aronomink
Oakmont
Congressional Blue
Essex County Club, MA
Eastward Ho
Pinehurst #2
Pine Valley (barely)

St. Andrews
Carnoustie
Muirfield
Portmarnock

Morfontaine


Notable Omissions from world Top 100:
The Country Club
Spyglass
Oak Hill East
Muirfield Village
TPC Sawgrass
Pasatiempo
Royal Adelaide
Kingsbarns

Courses I am expecting to make a challenge for the Top 25 in the next two years:
At least 2 courses at Bandon
Barnbougle
Royal County Down
Portrush
Ballybunion
Valley Club




Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on December 30, 2010, 05:05:59 PM
Anthony:

Interesting list -- why the fascination with Stanwich ?

Curious to know if during your CT visit you were able to play Yale ?

Ditto why the need to play Congressional again ?

thanks ...
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Anthony Butler on December 31, 2010, 02:31:15 AM
Anthony:

Interesting list -- why the fascination with Stanwich ?

Curious to know if during your CT visit you were able to play Yale ?

Ditto why the need to play Congressional again ?

thanks ...

Matt-Stanwich is underrated because William Gordon designed the course towards the end of a fairly anonymous yet impressive career working with Toomey and Flynn on some of their most prominent course redesigns. It's not the world's most interesting property... certainly Yale beats it in that respect. Since I haven't played Yale (something always came up on the three chances I had to play it) I can't put it on the list. In Stanwich's defense, it has some really good green complexes considering the land around them is not that special. The conditioning of the course helps as well. I haven't played there in years, but it was always immaculate with fast, sloping greens. In those respects it reminds me of a slightly more spacious version of Metacomet in Providence. RI. The membership at Stanwich is very focused on golf and they haven't considered it necessary to do a redesign in the almost 50 years the club has been open. So they must be happy with the challenge the course represents.  

Congressional Blue is one of the better RTJ courses I have played. (If one considers he totally redid the course prior to the '64 Open.) Just some really solid holes. I mostly played there with a female member who was a pretty decent player and easy on the eye, so that might have something to do with it as well...  :)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Anthony Butler on December 31, 2010, 02:39:42 AM
like to see myopia hunt represented more here, but i guess its probably rather tough to play

4 U.S Open's, and highest winning U.S Open score ever


course is a gemmmmmm


What about any of the other MA Open courses? Brae Burn, TCC, Worcestor, anybody lucky enough to play these??
Travis-You can ride your horse around there but getting on the course is another matter altogether. I have dropped a few hints in the direction of the CEO of Arnold Worldwide who's a member there, but nothing has taken yet...

I can't see playing at Brae Burn since my in-laws are Jewish and it was the last exclusionary club in the Boston area. Fairly ironic given the fact it's smack bang in the middle of Newton.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Pat Burke on January 01, 2011, 05:21:20 AM
Kingston Heath
Cypress Point
Royal Melbourne Composite
Victoria
RMW
RME
Pebble
TOC
Plainfield
NSW
Mountain Ridge
Old Pinehurst #4
Ridewood
Winged Foot
Whipoorwill
Hollywood
Forsgate
Montclair
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on January 01, 2011, 10:46:54 AM
Pat:  Nothing built after 1935?

And what did you like so much about Pinehurst #4 ?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on January 01, 2011, 07:33:20 PM
Anthony:

Stanwich has rarher dull property and frankly the green contours are fine -- provided they don't go beserk and have them at 12+ on the stimp. Frankly, the course has a reputation for simply being overly difficult -- narrow fairways with clogging rough and then the ultra-fast greens does that.

Frankly, it's better to head over to nearby Darien and play Wee Burn.

I am familiar with Gordon's work and I don't see it as being underrated -- underrated compared to what?

If you want to see the bones of a find Gordon course that could be even better head to south Jersey and play the ole Buena Vista. Very fun and interesting course.

Your take on Congressional Blue is akin to the same reasons why I would not elevate either of the two courses. More emphasis on demands and frankly no real short hole of consequence to balance out the uber length.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Pat Burke on January 02, 2011, 02:53:36 AM
Tom,
Good question!  Hadn't really looked at that!
Growing up in New Jersey for one, I was lucky to have access to the Ny Metro area's best!
Australia, was a a blessing in my golf life, so I am pretty biased ;D.
As far as newer courses, great point.  Since I retired from playing, and the health issues attached to that
I have played (I believe) 2 new courses! ???  That since 2001.
So I made a list of courses played, not courses I would like to walk and study
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Anthony Butler on January 02, 2011, 03:52:51 PM
[Matt_Ward]
Anthony:

Stanwich has rather dull property and frankly the green contours are fine -- provided they don't go beserk and have them at 12+ on the stimp. Frankly, the course has a reputation for simply being overly difficult -- narrow fairways with clogging rough and then the ultra-fast greens does that.
Matt, I think we are in agreement on the pluses and minuses of Stanwich. I have a sneaking suspicion I would not enjoy playing there as much now. Back when I played there in the early/mid 90s I could drive the ball up a gnat's bum from 270 yards, so managed to snag the gong in a member/guest there when all others where flailing around in the hay you mentioned. That probably explains why a ball striker like George Zahringer was the club champ a bunch of times.

I am familiar with Gordon's work and I don't see it as being underrated -- underrated compared to what?
Gordon's work is not underrated, just slightly under recognized both in the contributions he made in building courses and later in designing them. Stanwich itself is possibly underrated due to the surfeit of other classic courses linked to the ODGs in the Tri-State area. Locally, it's a better course than Greenwich Country Club, even though the GCC property is better. Much lower a__hole ratio than GCC too.

If you want to see the bones of a find Gordon course that could be even better head to south Jersey and play the ole Buena Vista. Very fun and interesting course.

Your take on Congressional Blue is akin to the same reasons why I would not elevate either of the two courses. More emphasis on demands and frankly no real short hole of consequence to balance out the uber length.
That's true. It's probably one of the fairest US Open courses though. It's a US Open course like Tim Duncan is a basketball player.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on January 02, 2011, 04:36:25 PM
Anthony:

Stanwich favors the kindn of aerial assault style play of the '60's -- often overwatered and when the greens are allowed to go to mega speeds - the place is akin to a major demolition derby as anyone less than a Zahringer style of play will fall prey to.

The Gordon style is especially noteworthy of the times it was doing courses. Have those same courses held up as well as others. I don't see it happening -- just my take.

Stanwich was rated by GD as a top 100 course and frankly the difficulty meter was the sole reason.

Anthony, you had me falling off the computer with laughter -- Congressional and Tim Duncan are not shared properties -- the -b-ball connection doesn't fit for me. Congressional is just very much one dimensional -- just so happens to be located in the DC area and is the main player for hosting majors there. Other than that -- I have never figured out why Congressional is even rated to start with.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Michael Goldstein on February 27, 2011, 08:33:32 PM
Top 25 favourite courses an off the cuff order. Yes it's a cop out, but otherwise I'll be thinking for even longer...

Cypress Point
Pine Valley
The Old Course
Shinnecock
Royal County Down
Turnberry
Merion
Royal St Georges
Ballybunion
Royal Lytham & St Annes
New South Wales
NGLA
Royal Melbourne West
San Francisco
Muirfield
Morfontaine
Carnoustie
Bethpage Black
Barnbougle Lost Farm
Royal Dornoch
Sunningdale Old
Balgownie (Royal Aberdeen)
Riviera
Baltusrol (Lower)
Royal Portrush

And 12 courses which it would be remiss not to mention - some more fun to play, some a nicer walk, some a tougher test:  Paraparaumu Beach, Alwoodley, Carne, North Berwick, Prestwick, Portmarnock, Cape Kidnappers, Royal Adelaide, Pasatiempo, Plainfield, Sommerset Hills, Winged Foot West

That was tough but makes me remember that golf courses are truly magnificent things.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on February 27, 2011, 08:55:33 PM
MP:

How does Baltusrol Lower rate higher than WF / West ?

You also have Bethpage Black -- have you played any of the other east end LI courses besides Shinny and NGLA ?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Michael Goldstein on February 27, 2011, 11:30:11 PM
Matt,

Was fortunate enough to play a few others in Long Island. Usual suspects which were all amazing.  They are a long way from 99.9% of the courses in NZ, despite a couple of the NY courses being on very flat unassuming pieces of land.  If only Raynor had taken vacations downunder. 

I love the raw challenge of Bethpage Black. We played it from the plates on a flaming hot afternoon with some breeze and it was firm, fast and intimidating. Some of its holes are world class (#5 no doubt makes 'best hole' lists for many) and I love not only the bunkering but the flow of the course, particularly how it builds to a climax on the last few holes.  At the time I noted its conditioning which was not at the same standard experienced at the private courses in the area - but that is only one small factor to judge a course by.  I'd also prefer to play a round of golf in 3 to 3.5 hours!

Baltusrol over WFW, well they are both Tilly classics and I guess it is just down to personal preference!

 




Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jeffwarne on February 28, 2011, 09:56:11 AM
Sean, can we see a Top 25 from you that removes cost/value from the equation?

Scott

Man, why did I know you were gonna ask that question?  In alphabetical order:

Ballybunion Old Course
County Sligo
Enniscrone
Formby
Kiawah TOC
Lahinch
Merion
North Berwick
Old Town Club
Portmarnock
Prestwick
Royal Aberdeen
Royal Cinque Ports
Royal County Down
Royal Dornoch
Royal Portrush Dunluce
Royal St Georges
Rye
St Enodoc
St Georges Hill
St Andrews TOC
Swinley Forest
Sunningdale New
The Island
Woking

Close but no cigar: Hoylake & Woodhall Spa

Last edited 7 December 2010

Please note: my list is subject to constant change.

Ciao

 

Sean,
a solid list that's hard to argue with

You'd prefer a day at The Ocean course to a day at Brora or Pennard?
I'd take the latter any day-even if Pennard or Brora cost more(which effectively they do counting travel cost living in the US)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on February 28, 2011, 10:05:22 AM
Jeff

Cheers.  No, I would take Brora and Pennard over Kiawah 10 out of 10.  This list is one which I consider to be the best courses from an architectural PoV I have played.  It is not a favourites list.  in fact, this quoted list is one I deleted because it doesn't really mean much compared to my favourite places. 

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jeffwarne on February 28, 2011, 10:15:17 AM
Jeff

Cheers.  No, I would take Brora and Pennard over Kiawah 10 out of 10.  This list is one which I consider to be the best courses from an architectural PoV I have played.  It is not a favourites list.  in fact, this quoted list is one I deleted because it doesn't really mean much compared to my favourite places. 

Ciao

You definitely have more "architectural discipline" than I.
I like what I like and if i don't like it, I can't put a "better" course (whatever that means) ahead of one I like more
Funny, I've played TOC three times in a 20 year period from a variety of tees and I just can't embrace it(although I can appreciate multiple individual holes)
As you know I'm the king of the hit and run--at brora we walked off 18 due at dornoch in an hour and a half to play-instead we walked right back to #1 tee at brora.
pennard we came back to the next day after playing it the day before
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Franklin on February 28, 2011, 03:20:19 PM
Jeff -

Have you played Dornoch? Either way that is saying something about Brora.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jeffwarne on February 28, 2011, 03:24:40 PM
Jeff -

Have you played Dornoch? Either way that is saying something about Brora.

I had played Dornoch the day before.
I certainly liked that a lot too and respect it's architecture, but that open first tee was just too tempting and it's hard to beat the atmosphere at brora
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Alan Carter on March 01, 2011, 01:27:49 AM
In no order:

1 Highlands Links
2St. George's
3Royal St. George's
4Royal Dornoch
5Old Course
6Kingsbarns
7Muirfield
8Turnberry
9Carnoustie
10Merion
11Pine Valley
12Cypress Point
13Pebble Beach
14Pacific Dunes
15NGLA
16Shinnecock
17Friar's Head
18 Royal County Down
19 Royal Portrush
20 Portmarnock
21 Pinehurst No. 2
22 Seminole
23 Oakland Hills
24 Sunningdale Old
25 Cruden Bay






How do you change these rankings from 2009?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Alan Carter on March 01, 2011, 01:28:55 AM
In no order:

1 Highlands Links
2St. George's
3Royal St. George's
4Royal Dornoch
5Old Course
6Kingsbarns
7Muirfield
8Turnberry
9Carnoustie
10Merion
11Pine Valley
12Cypress Point
13Pebble Beach
14Pacific Dunes
15NGLA
16Shinnecock
17Friar's Head
18 Royal County Down
19 Royal Portrush
20 Portmarnock
21 Pinehurst No. 2
22 Seminole
23 Oakland Hills
24 Sunningdale Old
25 Cruden Bay



My mistake now i see that it is in no order!!!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Richard Crumb on March 14, 2011, 10:34:51 PM
1. Shinnecock Hills
2. North Berwick
3. NGLA
4. Royal Dornoch
5. Yeamans Hall
6. TOC
7. Garden City GC
8. Seminole
9. Ekwanok
10. Maidstone
11. Yale
12. Sleepy Hollow
13. Piping Rock
14. Taconic
15. Royal St. David's
16. Aberdovey
17. Winged Foot (West)
18. Bethpage (Black)
19. Nairn
20. The Country Club
21. Winged Foot (East)
22. Gullane #1
23. Nefyn
24. CC of Charleston
25. Dunbar
 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on March 15, 2011, 12:09:36 AM
Jim-

Whistling Straights and Blackwolf River over Kingsley and Pinehurst #2? not obvious my friend! and i'll give 10-1 that TDoak doesn't rock his list here.... ;)


Jud:  I haven't posted a list like this for a long time, but at 10-1 odds, why not?

1   The Old Course at St. Andrews
2   Royal Melbourne (West)
3   Sand Hills
4   Pine Valley
5   National Golf Links of America
6   Cypress Point
7   Crystal Downs
8   Shinnecock Hills
9   Royal Dornoch
10  Merion (East)
11  Pacific Dunes
12  Ballybunion (Old)
13  Muirfield
14  Pinehurst (No. 2)
15  Royal County Down
16  Barnbougle Dunes
17  Kingston Heath
18  Ballyneal
19  Pebble Beach
20  Augusta National
21  Seminole
22  Prairie Dunes
23  Rock Creek
24  Riviera
25  North Berwick (West)

The bottom of the list was hard to do, as I've had to cut it off with several 9's on the Doak scale yet to be mentioned.   
Note to Oakmont fans:  I still haven't played there, so I couldn't consider it.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Michael Goldstein on March 15, 2011, 12:20:00 AM
Love it TD.  That list is pure.  What about Turnberry / St Georges & your contribution to NZ at Kidnappers. 

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott Warren on March 15, 2011, 12:20:26 AM
Holy shit. I've played eight of Tom Doak's Top 25.

July 21, 2009, I had played none!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Brad Isaacs on March 15, 2011, 01:58:59 AM
Tom,

Prarie Dunes is an interesting choice.  There are many incredible holes on this course.  I love 8, 9, 6, 1, 2, 3, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15  but I just can't get into 17 and 18, and maybe I would like 10 better if I hadn't gagged on it.  It is certainly a pressure shot with the clubhouse looking on.

THe green on 17 is interesting but the rest of the hole is, well, pedestrian.  18 as a dramatic finishing hole it does not quite make it.  My question is what am I missing on those holes that make it deserve to be in a group of courses with so very few week holes?

 I know that 18 at Ballyneal is not loved by a lot but I find it to be quite entertaining as you think you can go left and short cut it but don't go to far left!

Brad I.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on March 15, 2011, 02:58:58 AM
Jim-

Whistling Straights and Blackwolf River over Kingsley and Pinehurst #2? not obvious my friend! and i'll give 10-1 that TDoak doesn't rock his list here.... ;)


Jud:  I haven't posted a list like this for a long time, but at 10-1 odds, why not?

1   The Old Course at St. Andrews
2   Royal Melbourne (West)
3   Sand Hills
4   Pine Valley
5   National Golf Links of America
6   Cypress Point
7   Crystal Downs
8   Shinnecock Hills
9   Royal Dornoch
10  Merion (East)
11  Pacific Dunes
12  Ballybunion (Old)
13  Muirfield
14  Pinehurst (No. 2)
15  Royal County Down
16  Barnbougle Dunes
17  Kingston Heath
18  Ballyneal
19  Pebble Beach
20  Augusta National
21  Seminole
22  Prairie Dunes
23  Rock Creek
24  Riviera
25  North Berwick (West)

The bottom of the list was hard to do, as I've had to cut it off with several 9's on the Doak scale yet to be mentioned.   
Note to Oakmont fans:  I still haven't played there, so I couldn't consider it.

Tom, I won't give you odds, but I am hoping you will indulge me (and anybody else who cares to read it) wth a list of 25 favourites.

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on March 15, 2011, 08:31:44 AM
Sean:

At least half of my top 25 courses would also be on my list of 'favorites' but I don't see the point in overlapping the two lists and subtly disrespecting some of my own top 25.  So, here's a list of my 25 favorites not on the above list.  I'm going alphabetical this time:

Brora
Cape Kidnappers
Casa de Campo (Teeth of the Dog)
Cruden Bay
Cuscowilla
Garden City
The Golf Club
Lahinch
Long Cove
Pennard
Prestwick
Royal West Norfolk
Royal Worlington & Newmarket
Rye
St. Andrews Beach
St. Enodoc
St. George's (Toronto)
St. George's Hill
The Sheep Ranch
Stone Eagle
Swinley Forest
Walton Heath (Old)
White Bear Yacht Club
Whitinsville
Woking
Woodhall Spa


Crap, that's 26.  Guess that's what I get for not numbering them, but I'm not going to go back and remove one of them.  There were actually several more it pained me to leave out, not least of them the two new ones at Streamsong.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: C. Squier on March 15, 2011, 09:20:48 AM
Tom,

Prarie Dunes is an interesting choice.  There are many incredible holes on this course.  I love 8, 9, 6, 1, 2, 3, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15  but I just can't get into 17 and 18, and maybe I would like 10 better if I hadn't gagged on it.  It is certainly a pressure shot with the clubhouse looking on.

THe green on 17 is interesting but the rest of the hole is, well, pedestrian.  18 as a dramatic finishing hole it does not quite make it.  My question is what am I missing on those holes that make it deserve to be in a group of courses with so very few week holes?

 I know that 18 at Ballyneal is not loved by a lot but I find it to be quite entertaining as you think you can go left and short cut it but don't go to far left!

Brad I.

Use the far left tee box on #17 next time you visit.  Changes the hole dramatically, IMO.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on March 15, 2011, 10:19:52 AM
Sean:

At least half of my top 25 courses would also be on my list of 'favorites' but I don't see the point in overlapping the two lists and subtly disrespecting some of my own top 25.  So, here's a list of my 25 favorites not on the above list.  I'm going alphabetical this time:

Brora
Cape Kidnappers
Casa de Campo (Teeth of the Dog)
Cruden Bay
Cuscowilla
Garden City
The Golf Club
Lahinch
Long Cove
Pennard
Prestwick
Royal West Norfolk
Royal Worlington & Newmarket
Rye
St. Andrews Beach
St. Enodoc
St. George's (Toronto)
St. George's Hill
The Sheep Ranch
Stone Eagle
Swinley Forest
Walton Heath (Old)
White Bear Yacht Club
Whitinsville
Woking
Woodhall Spa


Crap, that's 26.  Guess that's what I get for not numbering them, but I'm not going to go back and remove one of them.  There were actually several more it pained me to leave out, not least of them the two new ones at Streamsong.


Tom

Cheers, its an interesting list which contans at least four courses I would like to see/get to know better.  I also note there are four heathland courses listed yet none made the first list.  What is it about these heathland courses you find very attractive, but not quite upo to scratch in terms of top quality?

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JC Jones on March 15, 2011, 10:38:32 AM
Jud,

I think anyone who has been paying attention probably isn't surprised by Tom's lists.  The best align with the Confidential Guide and his statements here and his favorites are largely quirky courses from overseas, which he has proclaimed his love for quite often.

One of the great things about his participation is we learn so much; one of the downsides would be lists like these with no surprises.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ian Andrew on March 15, 2011, 10:56:05 AM
Tom,

While I have seen 23 on the first list (final 2 this year) I have unfortunately played only 10 of the more interesting list.
Thanks for a new list to work on.

One question:
Was Highlands Links considered for the second list?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on March 15, 2011, 11:21:15 AM
JC,

It's hard to provide surprises when I am already on the record as to my thoughts more than anyone here, and I wasn't holding anything back before.  Really, the only surprises I get to provide are by building new courses that deserve to be mentioned.


Ian,

I did consider Highlands Links, in the twenty minutes I took to put together that second list.  I'd love to see it again now that you are working there; my one and only visit was hampered by temporary greens, mosquito attacks, and a bit of salmonella poisoning.  Yet I still considered including it as a favorite!!


Sean,

When I looked back over the first list, I noted the absence of heathland courses, even though I love the genre and have several favorites.  I guess the problem for me is that none of them stand out head and shoulders above the others with a great set of greens, apart from Woking which is quite short.  So, there are a bunch of 8's but not quite a 9 ... unless you count Royal Melbourne and Kingston Heath as "heathland", which they are very close to being.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: PThomas on March 15, 2011, 11:27:02 AM
Tom - have their been any restorations/renovations that have been done which DRAMATICALLY changed your opinion of a course in a positive way?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on March 15, 2011, 11:48:42 AM
Tom - have their been any restorations/renovations that have been done which DRAMATICALLY changed your opinion of a course in a positive way?

In some way, my opinions of courses are inclusive of potential restoration work; I assume when I go to see a course that, though some parts of the course may not be presented as they should be, that eventually they will get it right.  [That way I don't have to revise my opinion of courses all the time!]  So, for example, Pinehurst No. 2 was a 10 in my book, and when I went there two years ago I was very disappointed in what I saw, as I thought they were losing many of the great details of the design; the recent restoration looks like it will fix those things, but there's not much room to improve my rating of it.

The one restoration of which I'm proudest is Yeamans Hall.  When I first saw it, the greens were a complete mess, and it was impossible to rate the course highly since so much had been buried under topdressing and neglect.  But I noted that if the greens were fixed, it would be excellent, and was gratified that they asked us to perform that work.

Renovations are another story entirely.  The California Golf Club of San Francisco is the first example that comes to mind; it is a much better course today than the one I saw twenty years ago, thanks to significant changes.  I'm sure there are several others which warrant mention, but am not prepared to provide an exhaustive list at this moment.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: PThomas on March 15, 2011, 11:55:25 AM
Tom - have their been any restorations/renovations that have been done which DRAMATICALLY changed your opinion of a course in a positive way?

In some way, my opinions of courses are inclusive of potential restoration work; I assume when I go to see a course that, though some parts of the course may not be presented as they should be, that eventually they will get it right.  [That way I don't have to revise my opinion of courses all the time!]  So, for example, Pinehurst No. 2 was a 10 in my book, and when I went there two years ago I was very disappointed in what I saw, as I thought they were losing many of the great details of the design; the recent restoration looks like it will fix those things, but there's not much room to improve my rating of it.

The one restoration of which I'm proudest is Yeamans Hall.  When I first saw it, the greens were a complete mess, and it was impossible to rate the course highly since so much had been buried under topdressing and neglect.  But I noted that if the greens were fixed, it would be excellent, and was gratified that they asked us to perform that work.

Renovations are another story entirely.  The California Golf Club of San Francisco is the first example that comes to mind; it is a much better course today than the one I saw twenty years ago, thanks to significant changes.  I'm sure there are several others which warrant mention, but am not prepared to provide an exhaustive list at this moment.

thanks Tom

hard for Pinehrust to get any better than a 10...unless you start giving out 10.1s, 10.2s, etc (i would probably have put a "roll you eyes" emoticon here but they dont work for me anymore on GCA!)

and if you ever would like to post a list of best renovations i and i'm sure many others would love to see it!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JC Jones on March 15, 2011, 01:01:52 PM
JC,

It's hard to provide surprises when I am already on the record as to my thoughts more than anyone here, and I wasn't holding anything back before.  Really, the only surprises I get to provide are by building new courses that deserve to be mentioned.



I agree, Tom.  I wasn't knocking you at all.  You've been quite generous with your opinions.  In fact, what applies to you applies to anyone here who has played a number of great courses.  They all come in within a few spots of each other and rarely do you get an outlier.

Probably because they are great courses.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Nugent on March 15, 2011, 01:08:47 PM
Tom, you didn't put Old Mac on either list.  Is that maybe because you had to follow the CBM theme, as opposed to being given free reign to create what you would?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Franklin on March 15, 2011, 01:19:08 PM
Tom -

I think Rock Creek needs to be higher on your list. :-)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bobby Jones on March 15, 2011, 07:03:04 PM
Tough to pick 25.  Top 10 for me are pretty easy, then it gets a bit blurry.  And this list will most likely be MUCH different after I finally leave this contient for a golf trip to the other side of the Atlantic.

I've been stalking GCA for a couple years and i'm hopefully going to start joining some discussions.

1) Cypress Point
2) Merion
3) Pine Valley
4) Shinnecock
5) Chicago GC
6) NGLA
7) LACC
8.) Pacific Dunes
9) Prairie Dunes
10) Sand Hills
11) Riviera
12) Friars Head
13) Ballyneal
14) Pebble Beach GL
15) Whistling Straits
16) Maidstone
17) Seminole (want to see it again)
18) San Fran GC
19) Valley Club
20) Shoreacres
21) Sebonack
22) Rustic Canyon
23) Spyglass
24) Winged Foot
25) Kiawah Island (Ocean)

Honorable Mention: Medinah #3, Olympic (lake), Bandon Dunes, Diamante, Black Rock, The Preserve, MPCC Dunes

Courses i did not think were amazing that are considered to be good by the magazine raters: Butler Nat'l, Bayonne, Shadow Creek

Courses i can't wait to see: Oakmont, Old Mac, Rock Creek,  and everything on the other side of the atlantic.

Bobby J
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tim Pitner on March 15, 2011, 07:05:07 PM
There were actually several more it pained me to leave out, not least of them the two new ones at Streamsong.

Viral marketing, Tom?  That's a pretty strong statement re two unopened courses (as far as I know).  
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on March 15, 2011, 07:20:02 PM
There were actually several more it pained me to leave out, not least of them the two new ones at Streamsong.

Viral marketing, Tom?  That's a pretty strong statement re two unopened courses (as far as I know).  

Tim:

To be clear, I made that statement in reference to my list of 25 favorite courses, not the earlier list of 25 best courses.  But, there are nothing but excellent courses in both lists, so yes, it's a strong statement.  And I don't make those lightly. 

I've been going to Streamsong for more than a year now, and I am more and more certain each time that BOTH courses are going to be very special.  I hope others agree, once it opens.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Carl Nichols on March 15, 2011, 07:22:18 PM
The course on Tom's lists that most surprised me is Cuscowilla, not because it isn't perfectly good (IMHO it is very good), but because it doesn't seem as unique or quirky as others on his second list -- and because it's only one of 2 C&C courses on either list.  
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on March 15, 2011, 07:38:25 PM
Carl:

Two courses on my top 50 list is highly respectable ... how many architects have more than that?

I think Friars Head is Bill and Ben's second-best course, but couldn't quite put it in my top 25 overall; and for whatever reason it is not a special "favorite".  I might also rate Bandon Trails higher than Cuscowilla on a "best" list.  But, I had more fun playing Cuscowilla, and thought it added more diversity to my list.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Carl Nichols on March 15, 2011, 08:33:58 PM
Tom-
Understood. I was simply reacting to your seeming to have Cuscowilla as your #2 C&C course -- though it sounds like it's more like #4, if you were doing a straight ranking. (I get that the two lists aren't your straight-up top 50.)

What did you think of 14 at Cuscowilla?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Andy Shulman on March 15, 2011, 09:20:38 PM
Weighing in from DC with just a Top 20 since I'm not as well traveled as many of you and have little or no access to private clubs.  Half are from the US and half from the British Isles.

Europe: Ballybunion, Carnoustie, Elie, Kingsbarns, Lahinch, Lundin Links, North Berwick, Prestwick, St. Andrews (Old) and Waterville
USA: Bedford Springs, Beechtree (R.I.P.), Blackwolf Run (Original Championship Course), Golden Horseshoe (Gold), Lawsonia Links, Mountain Ridge, Pasatiempo, Taconic, Tobacco Road and Wild Horse

Top 5 (in order): 1. St. Andrews (Old) 2. North Berwick 3. Lahinch 4. Lawsonia Links 5. Bedford Springs

Up Next: Black Mesa, Old MacDonald and the other Bandon courses, Royal Dornoch and Brora.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on March 16, 2011, 05:46:31 AM
When I looked back over the first list, I noted the absence of heathland courses, even though I love the genre and have several favorites.  I guess the problem for me is that none of them stand out head and shoulders above the others with a great set of greens, apart from Woking which is quite short.  So, there are a bunch of 8's but not quite a 9 ... unless you count Royal Melbourne and Kingston Heath as "heathland", which they are very close to being.

Tom

I notice the qualifier of "quite short" for Woking.  Is there a minimum distance for any given course which it must achieve for top honours?  For instance, if Woking were another X amount of yards longer on selected holes would that raise your opinion of the course?  I think Woking is now about 6550 from the tips with a par of 70.  This sort of yardage to par doesn't strike me a short especially when we consider there are three par 4s which can be driven by flat bellies (only one of these is really up for grabs for players of more modest ability such as myself).  For my part, the only aspect I don't care for in the design is the back to back three shotters - thats a tough thing to pull off on teh best of properties.

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tony Weiler on March 16, 2011, 10:29:31 AM
Tom, great list.  Thanks for posting it.  In the past you have been reluctant to "rate" your own courses.  In these two lists, you do.  Is that a change of heart, or just that your opinions on them are well known?  Also, are all the top 25 Doak 10s?  Thanks.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on March 16, 2011, 10:47:59 AM
When I looked back over the first list, I noted the absence of heathland courses, even though I love the genre and have several favorites.  I guess the problem for me is that none of them stand out head and shoulders above the others with a great set of greens, apart from Woking which is quite short.  So, there are a bunch of 8's but not quite a 9 ... unless you count Royal Melbourne and Kingston Heath as "heathland", which they are very close to being.


Tom

I notice the qualifier of "quite short" for Woking.  Is there a minimum distance for any given course which it must achieve for top honours?  For instance, if Woking were another X amount of yards longer on selected holes would that raise your opinion of the course?  I think Woking is now about 6550 from the tips with a par of 70.  This sort of yardage to par doesn't strike me a short especially when we consider there are three par 4s which can be driven by flat bellies (only one of these is really up for grabs for players of more modest ability such as myself).  For my part, the only aspect I don't care for in the design is the back to back three shotters - thats a tough thing to pull off on teh best of properties.

Ciao

Sean,

I haven't been back to Woking for 15 years or so and it sounds as if they have lengthened it a bit; I think it was barely 6300 yards back when I played it. 

There isn't a minimum distance for me, but there is for a lot of other people, and it varies depending on the individual.  Cypress Point and Fishers Island are only 6500 yards, and few people deny that they belong among the world's best; but both of them benefit from stunning scenery that allows raters to give them a pass on the scorecard test.

For me, even those two are different.  I think Cypress Point makes much better use of its 6500 yards than Fishers Island does.  Cypress has a handful of all-world short par-4's, which help to justify it being short; but it also has a handful of very difficult holes, like the 11th, 12th and 16th, which give the strong player something to chew on.  I've only played Fishers Island twice, but it didn't seem to me to make as much of either end of the scale.  Woking would have the same problem ... the only two stronger holes that stand out in my mind are the 3rd and the 8th, and the 3rd isn't really that long, either.

I really shouldn't have used Woking as an example because while it has some of the coolest greens I've ever seen, the design is more than a bit uneven, and there are too many forgettable holes to really place it among my top 25.  But there is plenty enough cool stuff to put it down as a favorite.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on March 16, 2011, 11:00:27 AM
Tom, great list.  Thanks for posting it.  In the past you have been reluctant to "rate" your own courses.  In these two lists, you do.  Is that a change of heart, or just that your opinions on them are well known?  Also, are all the top 25 Doak 10s?  Thanks.

Tony:

I turned 50 today, and the gloves are off.  [Just kidding ... or at least I know some people who hope I'm kidding.]

I didn't put numbers on those courses, but if you want to read between the lines, you would notice that the twelve courses I rated as 10's in The Confidential Guide are all in the top 14 on my list of top courses, and that all the courses after that which I have rated publicly were 9's, except North Berwick which was an 8.  You may draw your own conclusions from that.

I've always been hesitant to rate my own courses in the top 10 or top 50 or whatever, because I remember seeing the ballots of other architects in the GOLF Magazine poll years ago, and thinking how silly it looked for them to rate two of their own courses in the top ten [or 40 in the top 100 ::) ].  I know we are all biased to like our own work, and that most other people wouldn't agree with us.  But you know that, too, and this is among friends ... and all four of my own courses that I rated so highly have a fair amount of support from others who have seen them.

As for the favorites list, that one's more personal, and there is nothing really to defend.  I don't think Stone Eagle is one of the greatest courses in the world; but, like Pennard or St. Enodoc, it's a spectacular place to go play golf, and I'd happily take anybody I know to play it.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Patrick Hodgdon on March 16, 2011, 11:16:07 AM
Sean:

At least half of my top 25 courses would also be on my list of 'favorites' but I don't see the point in overlapping the two lists and subtly disrespecting some of my own top 25.  So, here's a list of my 25 favorites not on the above list.  I'm going alphabetical this time:

Brora
Cape Kidnappers
Casa de Campo (Teeth of the Dog)
Cruden Bay
Cuscowilla
Garden City
The Golf Club
Lahinch
Long Cove
Pennard
Prestwick
Royal West Norfolk
Royal Worlington & Newmarket
Rye
St. Andrews Beach
St. Enodoc
St. George's (Toronto)
St. George's Hill
The Sheep Ranch
Stone Eagle
Swinley Forest
Walton Heath (Old)
White Bear Yacht Club
Whitinsville
Woking
Woodhall Spa


Crap, that's 26.  Guess that's what I get for not numbering them, but I'm not going to go back and remove one of them.  There were actually several more it pained me to leave out, not least of them the two new ones at Streamsong.


Tom I was surprised to not see Pasatiempo on your favorites list. Was it one that pained you to leave out? Would it have made the top 30?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Cristian on March 16, 2011, 11:51:33 AM
I don't understand the distinction between best and favourite. To me if I would like to go there again it is good; the ones I want to return to the most are the best.

From the lists I have seen of people making a distinction Best seems to me to be B=F+R-/-Q ;-)

(Best= Favourite + Resistance to scoring(length) -/- Quirk)

I don't understand the resistance to scoring bit, turn two short 500 yds par 5's into 2 long 499 yds par 4's and the course becomes better? (but not more favourite?). Also if a course is a bit shorter maybe people will score slightly better (although not necessarily), however this is true for both the average and the better player, so the course might still be an excellent test as well as a pleasant round.

Also if quirk adds to the mix in terms of a course becoming a favourite, then why would that be not good?

I say good=favourite for any one individual since it is probably impossible to filter out one's own preferences anyway.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on March 16, 2011, 12:32:03 PM
When I looked back over the first list, I noted the absence of heathland courses, even though I love the genre and have several favorites.  I guess the problem for me is that none of them stand out head and shoulders above the others with a great set of greens, apart from Woking which is quite short.  So, there are a bunch of 8's but not quite a 9 ... unless you count Royal Melbourne and Kingston Heath as "heathland", which they are very close to being.


Tom

I notice the qualifier of "quite short" for Woking.  Is there a minimum distance for any given course which it must achieve for top honours?  For instance, if Woking were another X amount of yards longer on selected holes would that raise your opinion of the course?  I think Woking is now about 6550 from the tips with a par of 70.  This sort of yardage to par doesn't strike me a short especially when we consider there are three par 4s which can be driven by flat bellies (only one of these is really up for grabs for players of more modest ability such as myself).  For my part, the only aspect I don't care for in the design is the back to back three shotters - thats a tough thing to pull off on teh best of properties.

Ciao

Sean,

I haven't been back to Woking for 15 years or so and it sounds as if they have lengthened it a bit; I think it was barely 6300 yards back when I played it.  

There isn't a minimum distance for me, but there is for a lot of other people, and it varies depending on the individual.  Cypress Point and Fishers Island are only 6500 yards, and few people deny that they belong among the world's best; but both of them benefit from stunning scenery that allows raters to give them a pass on the scorecard test.

For me, even those two are different.  I think Cypress Point makes much better use of its 6500 yards than Fishers Island does.  Cypress has a handful of all-world short par-4's, which help to justify it being short; but it also has a handful of very difficult holes, like the 11th, 12th and 16th, which give the strong player something to chew on.  I've only played Fishers Island twice, but it didn't seem to me to make as much of either end of the scale.  Woking would have the same problem ... the only two stronger holes that stand out in my mind are the 3rd and the 8th, and the 3rd isn't really that long, either.

I really shouldn't have used Woking as an example because while it has some of the coolest greens I've ever seen, the design is more than a bit uneven, and there are too many forgettable holes to really place it among my top 25.  But there is plenty enough cool stuff to put it down as a favorite.

Tom

I spose I would add the 13th to the "strong" list.  I would also mention the two par 5s as quite strong in that they are difficult to reach and leave an opportunity for birdie, but would still be holes which very good players would want to birdie.  I am not sure of any of the uneven holes you allude to.  I think all the par 4s add something to the design and the 3s as well with the possible exception of the 16th.  There is also a sort of unquantifiable aspect of how Woking hangs together which is very appealing.

Cristian

There is definitely an element or nod to champiosnhip golf on my part when it comes to the dividing line between favourite and great.  More importantly, my favourites are all courses I would consider good value and that is not the case when I consider a best of list.  I just don't see most of the Best as significantly better than Favourites to warrant spending the extra cash for a fun game - which is all golf is for me.  The courses which imoress me most are those which can straddle either list.

Ciao    
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Gary Slatter on March 16, 2011, 12:32:55 PM
my top 25 FAVOURITE courses, difficult to put in order as it changes each day!
Royal County Down
Royal Dornoch
Cypress Point
The National, Toronto
Jasper
St George's, Toronto
Prestwick
Muirfield
Kiawah Ocean
Carnoustie
The Old Course
Shinnecock
Maidstone
Ballybunion
Cinnamon Hill
Lahinch
Ville d'Este
Portmarnoch
Lucayan CC
Doral Blue
Seminole
Spyglass
Pebble Beach
Congressional
Pinehurst 4
Sunningdale Old or New

too many fine experiences left on the table, TPC Sawgrass, European Club, Essex, Islington, PGA West, Ancaster, Sunningdale (Canada), etc.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: George Henninger on March 21, 2011, 09:33:54 PM
I have found the discussion on Top 25 courses played fascinating.  All have a different perspective and for most, influenced by the day and the score.

My listing of courses that I would love to play over and over again include:

Pine Valley
Fisher's island
St Andrews Old
National Golf Links
Kiawah Ocean
Lahinch
Merion
Troon North
Querencia
Royal St George
Walton Heath Old
Ballybunion New
Prestwick
Woodhall Spa
Huntingdon Valley
Dornoch
Friars Head
Baltusrol Upper
Prestwick

Looking at the list, it is heavy on traditional versus modern, sea versus land/parkland.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean Leary on March 21, 2011, 09:43:20 PM
I have found the discussion on Top 25 courses played fascinating.  All have a different perspective and for most, influenced by the day and the score.

My listing of courses that I would love to play over and over again include:

Pine Valley
Fisher's island
St Andrews Old
National Golf Links
Kiawah Ocean
Lahinch
Merion
Troon North
Querencia
Royal St George
Walton Heath Old
Ballybunion New
Prestwick
Woodhall Spa
Huntingdon Valley
Dornoch
Friars Head
Baltusrol Upper
Prestwick

Looking at the list, it is heavy on traditional versus modern, sea versus land/parkland.


Hi George,

Welcome.

The one that sticks out to me on your list is Querencia. I have played it a number of times and like it but it seemingly doesn't fit in with the rest. What makes it make this list (other than the margaritas, which are the best I have ever had) :)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Saltzman on March 21, 2011, 10:06:42 PM
George,

welcome from a fellow newbie.

You wrote that the courses you listed were "influence by the day and the score."  Curious, any courses come to mind that perhaps would have made your list but for the way you played?

Also, curious about Troon North.  I thought it was OK, but far from my favorite (even public) in Phoenix area.  Why does this one make your top 25?  Have you not played many in the area or did you like it that much?

Anyways, enjoy the site.

Mark
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on March 22, 2011, 11:10:04 AM
George,

First post and you're getting ripped already!  Welcome to Thunderdome...1200 enter, no one leaves....
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: J Cabarcos on March 22, 2011, 08:50:17 PM
As another newbie throwing his 2 cents for top courses played, I know that I would love to play the following courses again in a heartbeat

Pasatiempo, CA
Lahinch, Ire
Bethpage Black, NY
Royal Portrush, NI
Kiawah, SC

After a few more minutes, my recollections go to a second tier of

Ballyowen, NJ
Montauk Downs, NY
Bethpage Green, NY
El Saler, Spain
Bethpage Red, NY

It is a shame that I can not in good include any course from my hometown state of FLA on a "tops" list.  If I were to include such a course, I know that the municipal Crandon Golf would beat out Doral Blue for the spot.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Andy Troeger on March 22, 2011, 10:33:46 PM
I've played quite a few courses including the Bandon quartet since my original post about 12 pages ago and had a request for an update:

Pine Valley
Cypress Point
Pebble Beach
Bandon Trails
Rock Creek
The Golf Club (OH)
Pacific Dunes
Wolf Run
Crystal Downs
Bandon Dunes
Muirfield Village
Blackwolf Run River
Peachtree
Gozzer Ranch
TPC Sawgrass Stadium
Chambers Bay
Alotian Club
Victoria National
Honors Course
Black Mesa
Kingsley Club
Valley Club of Montecito
Castle Pines
Spyglass Hill
Riviera
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Charlie Visconsi on March 22, 2011, 11:33:05 PM
As a newbie type  here you go... biased towards midwest courses and the more fun courses like Winged Foot East and Balty Upper, Harbour Town.   

NGLA
Shinnecock
Pine Valley
Crystal Downs
Mid Ocean
Winged Foot East
Harbour Town
Yale
Oakmont
Pacific Dunes
Kingsley Club
Essex County (NJ)
Canterbury
MPCC Shore
Baltursol Upper
Eastward Ho
Pete Dye GC
Inverness
Winged Foot West
Muirfield Village
Chechesee Creek
Baltursol (Lower)
Whisting Straits
Shadow Creek
Bayonne
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Patrick Little on March 23, 2011, 01:22:06 AM
1.  Pine Valley
2.  Cypress Point
3.  Morfontaine
4.  Royal Country Down
5.  Swinley Forest
6.  Royal and Ancient St Andrews Old
7.  Jasper Park Lodge
8.  Bandon Dunes
9.  Ganton
10. Royal Birkdale
11. Sand Hills
12. Prairie Dunes
13. Kingston Heath
14. Sunningdale old
15. Capilano
16. Royal Portrush
17. Royal Melbourne
18. Augusta National
19. Los Angeles Country Club, North
20. Long Cove Club
21. Merion
22. Royal Dornoch
23. Royal Liverpool
24. Ballybunion
25. Hollies
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: George Freeman on March 23, 2011, 07:32:28 AM
1.  Pine Valley
2.  Cypress Point
3.  Morfontaine
4.  Royal Country Down
5.  Swinley Forest
6.  Royal and Ancient St Andrews Old
7.  Jasper Park Lodge
8.  Bandon Dunes
9.  Ganton
10. Royal Birkdale
11. Sand Hills
12. Prairie Dunes
13. Kingston Heath
14. Sunningdale old
15. Capilano
16. Royal Portrush
17. Royal Melbourne
18. Augusta National
19. Los Angeles Country Club, North
20. Long Cove Club
21. Merion
22. Royal Dornoch
23. Royal Liverpool
24. Ballybunion
25. Hollies


Patrick,

Great list, and welcome.

I'm curious:  were the other Bandon resort courses in operation when you played Bandon Dunes?  If yes, which ones and I'd be curious why you included Bandon Dunes and excluded the others.

Cheers,

George
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tony Weiler on March 23, 2011, 01:15:02 PM
I've played quite a few courses including the Bandon quartet since my original post about 12 pages ago and had a request for an update:

Pine Valley
Cypress Point
Pebble Beach
Bandon Trails
Rock Creek
The Golf Club (OH)
Pacific Dunes
Wolf Run
Crystal Downs
Bandon Dunes
Muirfield Village
Blackwolf Run River
Peachtree
Gozzer Ranch
TPC Sawgrass Stadium
Chambers Bay
Alotian Club
Victoria National
Honors Course
Black Mesa
Kingsley Club
Valley Club of Montecito
Castle Pines
Spyglass Hill
Riviera

Andy, your excluding Old Mac is  interesting.  Care to explain?  Also, why is Riv so far down your list?  Thanks.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: ChrisHervochon on March 23, 2011, 02:39:55 PM
My list is kind of sad compared to you guys...

Merion
Ocean Course
Bethpage Black
Harbour Town
Tobacco Road
Mid Ocean Club
Crumpin Fox Club
Pine Hill (Now Trump National, sadly)
Wedgwood C.C.
Sand Barrens (South/North)
Alamance C.C.
Golden Horseshoe
Disney's Osprey Ridge
Caves Valley
Blue Heron East (extinct)
French Creek
Beechtree (extinct)
Medford Village
Stone Harbor (before they messed with it)
Huntingdon Valley
Philly Cricket Club (Militia Hill)
Renault Winery GC
Glen Mills
The ACE Club
Rolling Green











Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Michael Wharton-Palmer on March 23, 2011, 02:59:26 PM
I am just so happy to see The Mr Doak gave Woodhall Spa such an elevated spot...that to me is such a superb golf course.
I rate it well inside my top 25 every time, somehwat underated I believe, probably because of its "out of the way "for Americans locale.
I have always thought it would be a great place to go and prepare for an Open without having to worry about all the wind that one may find by preparing for links golf.
I know what you are thinkiing ...isnt that all part of the preperation...well yes, but simply the style of turf, bunkering etc would be a great practicing tool without all the buffering from the wind.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Andy Troeger on March 23, 2011, 06:30:37 PM
I've played quite a few courses including the Bandon quartet since my original post about 12 pages ago and had a request for an update:

Pine Valley
Cypress Point
Pebble Beach
Bandon Trails
Rock Creek
The Golf Club (OH)
Pacific Dunes
Wolf Run
Crystal Downs
Bandon Dunes
Muirfield Village
Blackwolf Run River
Peachtree
Gozzer Ranch
TPC Sawgrass Stadium
Chambers Bay
Alotian Club
Victoria National
Honors Course
Black Mesa
Kingsley Club
Valley Club of Montecito
Castle Pines
Spyglass Hill
Riviera

Andy, your excluding Old Mac is  interesting.  Care to explain?  Also, why is Riv so far down your list?  Thanks.

Tony,
I almost put a comment that I figured the most likely response anyone would have was “where’s Old Mac?”  It would be in the next five, along with Pasatiempo and Whistling Straits. Regarding OM and Riviera, they are both excellent courses—probably 8’s on the Doak scale for me. I do understand that many give them 9’s or 10’s. If there’s a criticism to be made at Riviera for me it’s the kikuyu and the lack of ground game available because of that—but it’s a part of the course and the experience at this point. For Old Mac, the difference between me giving it an 8 or something higher is that I felt you could pretty much drive it anywhere at OM as long as you missed the fairway bunkers. There’s certainly something to be said for longer approaches and poorer angles there based on taking conservative lines off tees, but I still think the course puts a bit too much premium on the short game compared to the rest. For some that’s a good thing—I prefer a little more balance. I also am not a huge fan of the templates—they don’t detract, but they don’t add any special vibes to me. If ever given the opportunity to build a course (not likely) I wouldn’t request a Redan or Biarritz, but that’s just me! 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: George Henninger on March 24, 2011, 09:32:40 PM
George,

First post and you're getting ripped already!  Welcome to Thunderdome...1200 enter, no one leaves....

Jud, I always loved those Mad Max movies so I will ride this one out!!  Regards
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: George Henninger on March 24, 2011, 09:39:33 PM
I have found the discussion on Top 25 courses played fascinating.  All have a different perspective and for most, influenced by the day and the score.

My listing of courses that I would love to play over and over again include:

Pine Valley
Fisher's island
St Andrews Old
National Golf Links
Kiawah Ocean
Lahinch
Merion
Troon North
Querencia
Royal St George
Walton Heath Old
Ballybunion New
Prestwick
Woodhall Spa
Huntingdon Valley
Dornoch
Friars Head
Baltusrol Upper
Prestwick

Looking at the list, it is heavy on traditional versus modern, sea versus land/parkland.


Hi George,

Welcome.

The one that sticks out to me on your list is Querencia. I have played it a number of times and like it but it seemingly doesn't fit in with the rest. What makes it make this list (other than the margaritas, which are the best I have ever had) :)

I thought the par threes were exceptional and good variety for the entire eighteen.  I am not a Fazio fan so I was very surprised with the entire layout and experience despite not trying the margaritas.  Not sure if you have played Eldorado, a Nicklaus course, in Cabo.  On their 18th tee, there have a small cabinet containing 2 bottles of tequila and glasses.  The sign over the cabinet reads "the last shot."

George Henninger
 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tony Weiler on March 24, 2011, 11:40:43 PM
Thanks, Andy.  I only mentioned OM because you mentioned that you played all 4 at Bandon.  I'm playing Riv in May, and will see for myself!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Kirk Stewart on March 25, 2011, 01:21:15 PM
1.   Seminole
2.   PGA National Champ
3.   Avila
4.   Medalist
5.   Jupiter Hills
6.   Pinetree
7.   Oakmont
8.   Laurel Valley
9.   Peachtree
10.   Cuscowilla
11.   Settindown Creek
12.   Atlanta Athletic Club
13.   East Lake
14.   The Old Course
15.   Carnoustie
16.   Prestwick
17.   Turnberry-Ailsa
18.   Ballybunion
19.   Waterville
20.   Tralee
21.   Chicago Golf
22.   Butler Natl
23.   Blackwolf Run-River
24.   Harbour Town
25.   Pottawatomie GC
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Colton on March 25, 2011, 06:05:58 PM
Andy T,

  That's an impressive list.  I think you and a handful of others are going to need a special "Next 25" category.

  Hopefully others will follow your lead and do some spring cleaning on their lists by either editing the original or reposting.

  Jim
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tony Weiler on April 01, 2011, 10:56:07 AM
My updated list:

1.   Sand Hills
2.   Ballyneal
3.   Sutton Bay
4.   Interlachen CC
5.   World Woods (Pine Barrens)
6.   We Ko Pa (Saguaro)
7.   Torrey Pines (South)
8.   Hazeltine National
9.   Hawktree
10.   Wild Horse
11.   Vista Verde
12.   Grayhawk (Talon)
13.   Deacon’s Lodge
14.   Couer d’Alene C.C.
15.   Links of N.D.
16.   Pelican Hill (South before Renovations)
17.   TPC Scottsdale
18.   Old Works
19.   Bully Pulpit
20.   Eagle Bend
21.   Raven at So. Mt.
22.   We Ko Pa (Cholla)
23.   Whirlwind (Devil’s Claw)
24.   Prairie Green (SD)
25.   Powder Horn
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott Warren on April 05, 2011, 09:08:20 PM
Now that I'm back home in Aus and have finally seen Barnbougle and the Sandbelt as well, I wanted to update ther list. And this time rather than copping out and grouping them, they're 1-25.

It ain't easy! I know for a fact the English courses aren't in exactly the same order as when Matt Ward asked for my English Top 10 last week, which I guess shows how changeable this can be, but I'm happy (at least for now) with the order I've settled on.

Two years ago, I had played exactly two of the 35 courses below. Crazy!

1 Pine Valley
2 Royal Melbourne (West)
3 Royal St George's
4 St Andrews (Old)
5 Riviera
6 Barnbougle Dunes
7 Fishers Island
8 Silloth-on-Solway
9 North Berwick West Links
10 Royal Dornoch
11 Kingston Heath
12 Walton Heath (Old)
13 Barnbougle Lost Farm
14 New South Wales
15 Royal Cinque Ports
16 St Andrews Beach
17 West Sussex
18 Burnham & Berrow
19 Royal Zoute
20 County Louth
21 Swinley Forest
22 Hankley Common
23 The Valley Club of Montecito
24 Rye
25 The Renaissance Club

The Next 10 (alphabetically): Alwoodley, Brora, Hardelot (Les Pins), Le Touquet (La Mer), MPCC (Dunes), Peninsula (North), Praia d'el Rey, Royal Melbourne (East), St Enodoc, Woking
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Kevin Cahoon on April 05, 2011, 10:17:07 PM
This is an update of my original post. I am sure it will be different in two years. I have grouped them in tiers.

Prairie Dunes
Muirfield
Old Course
Shore Acres
Royal St Georges

Walton Heath
Prestwick
Royal Cinque Ports
Bandon Trails
Austin Golf Club

Prestwick
Lawsonia
Flossmoor Country Club
Pacific Dunes
Loch Lomond

Western Gailes
Rye
Turnberry Ailsa
Olympia Fields North
Royal Troon

Kingsbarns
Medinah #3
North Shore CC Glenview Illinois
Harrison Hills
New Zealand GC
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sven Nilsen on April 06, 2011, 07:59:36 PM
Since this thread has enough legs to allow for updates, here's mine a year later:

Royal County Down
Lahinch
Ballyneal
Ballybunion
Royal Melbourne West
Pac Dunes
Barnbougle Dunes
Yale
Bandon Trails
Old MacDonald
Pebble Beach
Kingsley Club
Lost Farm
The Ocean Course
Portmarnock
Bandon Dunes
Sleepy Hollow
Greywalls
Erin Hills
Spyglass
St. Andrews Beach
Wild Horse
Blackwolf Run (River)
Skokie
Chambers Bay



Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott Warren on April 07, 2011, 07:46:42 AM
Brian,

My heart wanted NSW and Royal Cinque Ports to be higher on the list, but my head just couldn't abide by that.

There are a few courses people might say are low for that sample - Dornoch at 10, Rye at 24, St Enodoc outside the top 25...

Likewise St George's, Silloth and Barnbougle might be too high in some people's eyes.

To be honest, 8 through 22 you could throw a handkerchief over they Are that tightly grouped.

If there is one thing I guess I'd hope someone, anyone, might take from my list, it's to make seeing Silloth a priority.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: James Boon on April 07, 2011, 09:12:10 AM
Scott,

I noticed how high you had Silloth. From what you, Mark P and several others have said, I'd certainly be making a beeline for the place, but thankfully its pencilled in for Buda 2012 so hopefully I'll get to know it well then?

A pretty good list though and certainly not bad for just 2 years worth of golf ;)

Cheers,

James
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Chaplin on April 07, 2011, 11:25:06 AM
Berkshire Red (4)
Chicago (2)
Flossmoor (3)
Formby (1)
Kingston Heath (1)
Machrihanish (4)
New South Wales (2)
North Berwick (2)
Oakland Hills (2)
Old Elm (1)
Paraparaumu Beach (2)
Pine Valley (1)
Prestwick (4)
Royal Adelaide (1)
Royal Birkdale (1)
Royal Cinque Ports (200+)
Royal Dornoch (1)
Royal Melbourne West (7)
Royal St Georges (50+)
Sunningdale New (10)
Sunningdale Old (10)
The Country Club (1)
The Old Course (1)
Walton Heath Old (10+)
Woodhall Spa (3)

NSW and Kingston Heath come in from my recent Oz trip and Paraparaumu Beach from my NZ leg. Who will go when I finally get to play all of Merion in September??
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on April 07, 2011, 11:50:46 AM


NSW and Kingston Heath come in from my recent Oz trip and Paraparaumu Beach from my NZ leg. Who will go when I finally get to play all of Merion in September??

Mark,

If you didn't cop out and do an alphabetical list it'd be pretty clear... :)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jonathan_becker on April 07, 2011, 11:55:50 AM
1.   Seminole
2.   PGA National Champ
3.   Avila
4.   Medalist
5.   Jupiter Hills
6.   Pinetree
7.   Oakmont
8.   Laurel Valley
9.   Peachtree
10.   Cuscowilla
11.   Settindown Creek
12.   Atlanta Athletic Club
13.   East Lake
14.   The Old Course
15.   Carnoustie
16.   Prestwick
17.   Turnberry-Ailsa
18.   Ballybunion
19.   Waterville
20.   Tralee
21.   Chicago Golf
22.   Butler Natl
23.   Blackwolf Run-River
24.   Harbour Town
25.   Pottawatomie GC


Kirk,

Thanks for the list.  Are these in order or random?  If they're in order, would you care to elaborate on your second and third choice?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Terry Lavin on April 07, 2011, 12:58:36 PM
1.   Seminole
2.   PGA National Champ
3.   Avila
4.   Medalist
5.   Jupiter Hills
6.   Pinetree
7.   Oakmont
8.   Laurel Valley
9.   Peachtree
10.   Cuscowilla
11.   Settindown Creek
12.   Atlanta Athletic Club
13.   East Lake
14.   The Old Course
15.   Carnoustie
16.   Prestwick
17.   Turnberry-Ailsa
18.   Ballybunion
19.   Waterville
20.   Tralee
21.   Chicago Golf
22.   Butler Natl
23.   Blackwolf Run-River
24.   Harbour Town
25.   Pottawatomie GC


Kirk,

Thanks for the list.  What a combo platter it is!  Is #25 Pottawatomie GC from Michigan City, Indiana, a mile or so from the nuclear power plant?  If so, I have to give you some props.  The Pot is a fun, quirky, nutty kind of a golf course.  I can't imagine it would ever sniff my Top 100, but I do love an afternoon at the Pot.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Chaplin on April 07, 2011, 04:10:23 PM
Jud - I couldn't rate them in order other than the top 4 or 5 as I haven't played some for 10 years and as Scott said in a previous post many are seperated by a holed putt or a sunny day.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Saltzman on April 28, 2011, 03:41:15 PM
It is very difficult to try to rank a top 25.  I went through the list of courses I have played and first pulled out ones I thought might be in my top 25.  When I was done, there were 48 courses on the list.  Aside from the top 5, I feel like many of those 48 could move up and down. If someone asked me to redo the list tomorrow, there is almost no chance I would pick the exact same top 25.  Too many courses that I love to play and too many great experiences! Anyways, here is my list:

Top 5
Merion
Oakmont
North Berwick (west)
Sunningdale (Old)
Lahinch

Second 5
Franklin Hills
Essex (Canada)
TOC
Old Head
Wolf Run

Third 5
Pasatiempo
Pebble Beach
Walton Heath (Old)
Waterville
Victoria National

Fourth 5
Bandon Dunes
Pacific Dunes
Bigwin Island
Bethpage (Black)
Cascata

Fifth 5
Black Diamond (Quarry)
Mountain Lake
Wolf Creek
Harbour Town
Casa de Campo (TOTD)

Just missing the list: Toronto GC, Whistling Straits, Royal County Down and Carnoustie.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on April 28, 2011, 04:48:22 PM
Old Head over Carnoustie and RCD? Please elaborate.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill Brightly on April 28, 2011, 10:34:20 PM
After the Boomerang I have to update my list

National
Royal County Down
Royal Melbourne West (2011)
Pine Valley
Merion
Old Macdonald
Pacific Dunes
Ballybunion
Barnbougle Dunes (2011)
Royal Portrush
New South Wales (2011)
Cape Kidnappers (2011)
Lahinch
Pebble
Lost Farm (2011)
Waterville
Ballyliffin Old
Ridgewood
Saucon Valley Old
Plainfield
Saucon Valley Weyhill
Aronomink
Yale
Harbor Town
Galloway
Essex County NJ
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jamie Van Gisbergen on April 29, 2011, 06:10:07 PM
My Top 25 in alphabetical order:

Bandon Dunes (2)
Bandon Trails (2)
Bulls Bay (1)
The Greenbrier (Old White) (1)
Hong Kong (New) (1)
Kapalua (Plantation) (1)
The Old Course (3)
Old Macdonald (1)
Pacific Dunes (2)
Pebble Beach (2)
PGA West (Stadium) (2)
Pinehurst #2 (5)
Pine Needles (2)
Royal Colwood (20)
Royal Johannesburg (East) (1)
Royal Mayfair (5)
Royal New Kent (2)
Royal Regina (5)
Royal Sydney (1)
Royal Winchester (1)
Spyglass Hill (2)
TPC Sawgrass (3)
Tobacco Road (10)
USNA (25+)
World Woods (Pine Barrens) (1)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Pete Lavallee on April 29, 2011, 06:32:54 PM
Jamie,

Royal Winchester is a head scratcher; I doubt it's in the top 10 in Hampshire! It's been 22 years since I played there and can recall very little about the course other than it's short and well conditioned. What makes it good enough to be in your Top 25?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jason Baran on April 29, 2011, 07:01:21 PM
This looks like way too much fun to miss out on!  In no particular order:

Shinnecock
NGLA
Creek
Piping Rock
Meadow Brook
Bethpage (Black)
Bethpage (Red)
Ocean Forest
Lederach
Sleepy Hollow
Montauk Downs
Le Betulle (Biella, IT - bet you no one else has this one on their list!)
Glen Mills (PA)
Glenwood (NJ)
Rockaway Hunting Club
Kittansett
TCC (Brookline)
Pinehurst (#8)
Philadelphia Cricket (Wissahickon)
Charleston Springs (NJ)
CC of Charleston
Sea Island (Seaside)
Spook Rock (NY)
Blue Mash (MD)
St. Andrews (NY)

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jamie Van Gisbergen on April 29, 2011, 07:12:04 PM
Jamie,

Royal Winchester is a head scratcher; I doubt it's in the top 10 in Hampshire! It's been 22 years since I played there and can recall very little about the course other than it's short and well conditioned. What makes it good enough to be in your Top 25?

I figured I'd get some comments for what I put. I've probably played courses better than that one, I suspect I'd say that a course like Sahalee is better overall, but its the only course I've played in England, so for variety I included it. Its just a cool place to be.

And I guess it should be noted that I included Winchester in spite of not remembering the first 5 holes at all, or the entire ride from Portsmouth to the course; though I am told I was awake the whole time...The joys of being a sailor I suppose.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tim Martin on April 29, 2011, 07:16:23 PM
My Top 25 in alphabetical order:

Bandon Dunes (2)
Bandon Trails (2)
Bulls Bay (1)
The Greenbrier (Old White) (1)
Hong Kong (New) (1)
Kapalua (Plantation) (1)
The Old Course (3)
Old Macdonald (1)
Pacific Dunes (2)
Pebble Beach (2)
PGA West (Stadium) (2)
Pinehurst #2 (5)
Pine Needles (2)
Royal Colwood (20)
Royal Johannesburg (East) (1)
Royal Mayfair (5)
Royal New Kent (2)
Royal Regina (5)
Royal Sydney (1)
Royal Winchester (1)
Spyglass Hill (2)
TPC Sawgrass (3)
Tobacco Road (10)
USNA (25+)
World Woods (Pine Barrens) (1)

Jamie-Nice list but you are over the limit on Royal`s ;)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jeff_Lewis on April 29, 2011, 11:48:41 PM
These are the 25 that inspire today...I am sure that will change...not in exact order.

Cypress
Shinnecock
Portrush
County Down
Kingston Heath
Hirono
Seminole
Pine Valley
Pebble
Oakmont
Muirfield
National
Royal Melbourne
Pacific Dunes
#2
Crystal Downs
Winged Foot West
Camargo
Chicago
San Francisco GC
Friars Head
Morfontaine
Ganton
Quaker Ridge
The Golf Club
Walton Heath (Old)

Not sure why I left Sand Hills off today, perhaps in time....
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt_Ward on April 30, 2011, 12:39:58 AM
Jason:

Nice list but Charleston Springs and Spook Rock.

Quick question -- have you only played 25 courses for those two to have been included ?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jason Baran on April 30, 2011, 08:47:39 AM
Matt - yeah, those two don't have the integrity of some others on the list.  I've played considerably more than 25, but I kinda got to 20 really super courses and had to fight to get in the last 5.  I really enjoy those two courses, and have played them each multiple times, and I probably let that color my judgement a little.  The exercise made me realize that I haven't played as many truly great courses as I would have thought, so in the sense, it was very effective!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Andrew Bertram on May 01, 2011, 07:28:35 AM
The first half of this year has seen some change so when i saw the thread i had to do some work on updating, list in order

Cypress point
Pine valley
Shinnecock
Royal dornoch
Old course
Royal melbourne west
Royal county down
Merion
National golf links
Seminole
Oakmont
Kingston heath
San francisco
Teeth of the dog
Muirfield
Morfontaine
Hirono
Ballybunion old
Swinley forest
Pinehurst 2 (post renovation)
Pacific dunes
Royal portrush
Ellerston
Sunningdale old
Turnberry


26 -30
Riviera
Barnbougle dunes
Winged foot west
Naruo
Kiawah ocean

Of the recent courses that i have played that impressed

Harbour town far exceeded expectations, you need every shot in the bag

Teeth of the dog -loved it so much played 54 in the day walking with the same caddy!

Kiawah ocean - played back tees we would get to my drive and the caddy kept saying 200 or 220 loved every tough minute of it

Seminole - had borrowed clubs after AA lost mine for 2days and saw one of the most stunning collections of greens i have seen. First green 20 footer downhill lagged it 15 feet past

Pine valley -what more can you say

Dormie club -super fun had a blast playing

Pinehurst 2 -played it 15 years ago -renovation is stunning, i was in the lift in the hotel and a fella asked me if i had ,ayed number 2, i was playing the next day and he then said "it was so underwhelming"
I think the renovations have improved it dramatically

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on May 01, 2011, 07:31:25 AM
Andrew,

Impressive list.  Perhaps you can expound a bit more on Teeth of the Dog and why you have it ahead of places like Ballybunion and Pac Dunes...
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott Warren on June 06, 2011, 06:11:08 AM
God bless the people willing to be entirely honest and pull no punches with their lists!


Bill Brightly,

I missed your list when you posted it. Wow. I'd love to hear your thoughts behind a few bits and pieces.

RM West ahead of Pine Valley!

NSWGC ahead of Pebble Beach!!

Your NJ/PA entries in the bottom 10 - Obviously I haven't played those courses, but they seem in quite a different order to how we often see them listed. What elevates Ridgewood above Plainfield in your opinion?

Lastly, do you think you have Yale lower than many others might? What do you like and dislike about it?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ben Stephens on June 06, 2011, 06:33:48 AM
Here is my latest top 25 that I can think of  ;D:

1.   Carnoustie (Championship)
2.   Royal County Down
3.   Royal St. Georges
4.   Ganton
5.   Royal Birkdale
6.   Royal Porthcawl
7.   Woodhall Spa
8.   Royal West Norfolk
9.   Turnberry (Ailsa)
10. St. Andrews Beach (Gunnamatta)
11. Notts
12. St. Enodoc (Church)
13. Hunstanton
14. Alwoodley
15. Royal Lytham + St. Annes
16. Cavendish
17. Seacroft
18. Royal Worlington + Newmarket
19. Lindrick
20. Huntercombe
21. Harbour Town
22. Elie
23. Panmure
24. Kings Lynn
25. Blairgowrie (Rosemount)

Cheers
Ben
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill Brightly on June 06, 2011, 08:21:49 AM
Scott,

Really a toss of the coin between my #3 RM West and #4 Pine Valley. I guess I rated RM ahead because it is slightly more fun to play. At Pine Valley, I guess I feel slightly more pressure not to spray a shot because the recoveries are so hard.

Plainfield is not close to Ridgewood, IMO. Plainfield has some great holes like 11, 12 and 16 (Ridgewood has more) but PCC also has some really bland holes like 13, 14, 17 and 18 (but I need to see this hole after the tree removal.)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Carr Harris on June 10, 2011, 07:50:40 AM
I spent some time last night making a list to send to a friend so I figured I might as well post it here as well. As with any ranking, if you ask me in 6 months I'm sure the order would be different in spots


1. Pine Valley
2. Pacific Dunes
3. Merion (East)
4. Bandon Trails
5. Oakmont
6. Old Macdonald
7. Pinehurst #2
8. Chambers Bay
9. The Country Club (Pepper Pike)
10. Muirfield Village
11. Harbour Town
12. Canterbury
13. TPC Sawgrass
14. Stone Eagle
15. Tobacco Road
16. Dormie Club
17. Whistling Straits
18. Pete Dye Golf Club
19. Firestone (South)
20. Bandon Dunes
21. Lookout Mountain
22. Gulph Mills
23. Kirtland Country Club
24. Philadelphia Country Club
25. Playa Grande (D.R.)



Others: Yale (I'm disqualifying it because I don’t really remember playing there), PGA National, Southern Pines, Longaberger, Caledonia, Firestone (North), Debordieu
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Andy Ryall on June 12, 2011, 10:05:36 PM
I can't believe I am going to post my 25 given the modesty of the courses in relation to those that have been posted but I still feel fortunate to have played the following:

1   PACIFIC DUNES
2   BANDON DUNES
3   MINIKHADA
4   ARCADIA BLUFFS
5   SUTTON BAY
6   LAWSONIA
7   OAK RIDGE
8   U OF MICH
9   WE-KO-PA - SAGUARO
10   TWIN WARRIORS
11   DETROIT GC (NORTH)
12   PAA-KO RIDGE
13   WE-KO-PA - CHOLLA
14   RTJ- GRAND NATL (LINKS)
15   PURGATORY
16   CLASSIC @ MADDENS (MN)
17   LAKE FOREST (KY)
18   RAPTOR BAY
19   BRICKYARD CROSSING
20   TALKING STICK - NORTH
21   SPRING CREEK (VA)
22   ELK RIDGE (MI)
23   WINCHESTER CC (MA)
24   DORAL (BLUE)
25   TALKING STICK - SOUTH

Will be adding Old Mac and Bandon Trails in September.    Having grown up in Central Mass - I have an affinity for Ross courses since he is probably the pre-eminent architect in that part of the country.   Look forward to future revisions.....

Andy
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom ORourke on June 13, 2011, 03:03:15 PM
My list looks a lot like the one Chris has above - Philly, Jersey, and resorts.

Merion
Pine Valley
Ballybunion
Rolling Green
Kiawah Ocean
Waynesborough
Pinehust #2
Atlantic City
Old Marsh
Tobacco Road
Half Moon Bay
Pine Needles
Bethpage Black
Lehigh
Huntingdon Valley
Manufacturers
Great Waters
Llanerch
Pine Tree
Springhaven
Trump Philly - Pine Hill
Kennett Square
Woodcrest
Wilmington South
Southern Pines
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tony Weiler on June 24, 2011, 05:17:33 PM
Needed to update my list, some great ones the last couple years.

1.   Sand Hills               Coore/Crenshaw
2.   Riviera               George Thomas Jr.
3.   Ballyneal               Tom Doak
4.   Rock Creek Cattle Company      Tom Doak
5.   Interlachen CC            Will. Watson/Donald Ross
6.   Sutton Bay               Graham Marsh
7.   World Woods (Pine Barrens)      Tom Fazio
8.   We Ko Pa (Saguaro)         Coore/Crenshaw
9.   Torrey Pines (South)         
10.   Hazeltine National          Robert Trent Jones
11.   Hawktree               Jim Engh
12.   Rustic Canyon            Shackelford/Hanse
13.   Links of N.D.            Stephen Kay
14.   Wild Horse            
15.   Vista Verde            Ken Kavanaugh
16.   Grayhawk (Talon)
17.   Deacon’s Lodge            Arnold Palmer
18.   Couer d’Alene C.C.
19.   Pelican Hill (South before Renovations)
20.   TPC Scottsdale
21.   Old Works               Jack Nicklaus
22.   Powder Horn
23.   Bully Pulpit            Hurdzan/Fry
24.   Eagle Bend
25.   We Ko Pa (Cholla)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt Bradley on June 30, 2011, 09:31:55 PM
I am so lucky to be 16 and played all of these. Thanks Dad,

Heres my top 25:

Merion (East)
Ballybunion (Old)
Lahinch (Old)
Oakmont
Royal Dornoch
Sunningdale (New)
Morfontaine (Grand)
Royal St. Georges
San Francisco Golf Club
Turnberry
Banff Springs
Jasper Park
Sunningdale (Old)
North Berwick (West Links)
Muirfield
Royal Cinque Ports
Rye
Kingsley
Olympic Club (Lake)
Morfontaine (Valliere)
Dormie Club
Cruden Bay
Royal Worlington
Tralee
St. Germain
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ron Csigo on June 30, 2011, 10:31:11 PM
Matt,

Welcome to the board!  That's a tremendous list of courses.  You are obviously well traveled.

Curious, are you an Eat coast or West coast guy?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott Warren on June 30, 2011, 10:51:00 PM
Ron: I am thinking Matt is none other than Bart Bradley's son, star of many of Bart's pics from his course reviews.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ron Csigo on June 30, 2011, 10:54:12 PM
Thanks Scott.

Welcome to the treehouse Matt.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bart Bradley on June 30, 2011, 11:00:01 PM
Ron: I am thinking Matt is none other than Bart Bradley's son, star of many of Bart's pics from his course reviews.

Ron and Scott:

So it is.  I suspect Matt is featured in more of Ran's course profile pictures than any other board member!

I am the proud Dad.  Are there any other father/son posters on GCA.com?

I am sure he will be pleased at your welcome....but I have sent him to bed  ;D.

Bart
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott Warren on June 30, 2011, 11:05:56 PM
Tim and Larry Gavrich and Kyle and Scott Henderson are other father/son GCA combos I can think of.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on June 30, 2011, 11:39:59 PM
In my best jeff spicoli, I know that dude!

Matt kicked my butt in a match at Grandfather!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Trevor on July 01, 2011, 12:18:01 AM
TOC
Sand Hills
Cypress Point
Old Macdonald
Royal Dornoch
NGLA
Friars Head
Shinnecock Hills
Yeamans Hall
Pacific Dunes
Merion
Cape Kidnappers
Royal Melbourne
Bandon Trails
Bandon Dunes
Eastward Ho!
CC of Fairfield
Barwon Heads
Turnberry
Tobacco Road
Palmetto
Muirfield
Fox Chapel
Garden City GC
Chisholm Park
Yale
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Kavanaugh on July 01, 2011, 09:02:40 AM
TOC
Sand Hills
Cypress Point
Old Macdonald
Royal Dornoch
NGLA
Friars Head
Shinnecock Hills
Yeamans Hall
Pacific Dunes
Merion
Cape Kidnappers
Royal Melbourne
Bandon Trails
Bandon Dunes
Eastward Ho!
CC of Fairfield
Barwon Heads
Turnberry
Tobacco Road
Palmetto
Muirfield
Fox Chapel
Garden City GC
Chisholm Park
Yale


Trevor,

One year ago you posted the five courses you most wanted to play:


1) NGLA
2) Royal County Down
3) Ballyneal
4) Old Mac
5) Barnbougle Dunes

Two questions, why or how did NGLA disappoint and what's with the fake name?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Pritchett on July 01, 2011, 10:05:20 AM
I am so lucky to be 16 and played all of these. Thanks Dad,

Heres my top 25:

Merion (East)
Ballybunion (Old)
Lahinch (Old)
Oakmont
Royal Dornoch
Sunningdale (New)
Morfontaine (Grand)
Royal St. Georges
San Francisco Golf Club
Turnberry
Banff Springs
Jasper Park
Sunningdale (Old)
North Berwick (West Links)
Muirfield
Royal Cinque Ports
Rye
Kingsley
Olympic Club (Lake)
Morfontaine (Valliere)
Dormie Club
Cruden Bay
Royal Worlington
Tralee
St. Germain


Welcome Matt!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ed Oden on July 01, 2011, 07:16:19 PM
I am so lucky to be 16 and played all of these. Thanks Dad,

Heres my top 25:

Merion (East)
Ballybunion (Old)
Lahinch (Old)
Oakmont
Royal Dornoch
Sunningdale (New)
Morfontaine (Grand)
Royal St. Georges
San Francisco Golf Club
Turnberry
Banff Springs
Jasper Park
Sunningdale (Old)
North Berwick (West Links)
Muirfield
Royal Cinque Ports
Rye
Kingsley
Olympic Club (Lake)
Morfontaine (Valliere)
Dormie Club
Cruden Bay
Royal Worlington
Tralee
St. Germain


Welcome Matthew!  I've been fortunate to play with the Bradleys many times.  I can honestly say that I don't know who is the greater pleasure to play with, father or son.  Good people and we are lucky to have both on this board.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt Bradley on July 01, 2011, 07:23:58 PM
Ron, Scott, Mac, Mark and Ed,

Thank you for the warm welcome!!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Trevor on July 04, 2011, 11:32:01 PM
Quote from: Nuke R on July 01, 2011, 12:18:01 AM
TOC
Sand Hills
Cypress Point
Old Macdonald
Royal Dornoch
NGLA
Friars Head
Shinnecock Hills
Yeamans Hall
Pacific Dunes
Merion
Cape Kidnappers
Royal Melbourne
Bandon Trails
Bandon Dunes
Eastward Ho!
CC of Fairfield
Barwon Heads
Turnberry
Tobacco Road
Palmetto
Muirfield
Fox Chapel
Garden City GC
Chisholm Park
Yale


Trevor,

One year ago you posted the five courses you most wanted to play:


1) NGLA
2) Royal County Down
3) Ballyneal
4) Old Mac
5) Barnbougle Dunes

Two questions, why or how did NGLA disappoint and what's with the fake name?

- NGLA didn't disappoint, It's just i've only played it once.  I've gotten to know the others ranked above it better after multiple rounds.  Good GCA (IMHO) takes time to flesh out.  If i'm lucky enough to play NGLA many more times, from the looks of it there's a healthy bounty of architectural genius out there that will bring me to tears just like those above it do.  It's actually the only course in my top 10 i've only played once.  Lastly, ranking golf courses is one of my pet peeves, I put this list out there more so that you all have a better idea of where i'm coming from critically, in reality this list changes every day.  Old Mac, which was also on the list, I played 90 holes at over the course of 4 days (45 one day) and in different winds, so i was able to really sink my teeth into the brilliance there.

- Nuke is my real name
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jamie Van Gisbergen on July 04, 2011, 11:34:25 PM
Quote from: Nuke R on July 01, 2011, 12:18:01 AM
TOC
Sand Hills
Cypress Point
Old Macdonald
Royal Dornoch
NGLA
Friars Head
Shinnecock Hills
Yeamans Hall
Pacific Dunes
Merion
Cape Kidnappers
Royal Melbourne
Bandon Trails
Bandon Dunes
Eastward Ho!
CC of Fairfield
Barwon Heads
Turnberry
Tobacco Road
Palmetto
Muirfield
Fox Chapel
Garden City GC
Chisholm Park
Yale


Trevor,

One year ago you posted the five courses you most wanted to play:


1) NGLA
2) Royal County Down
3) Ballyneal
4) Old Mac
5) Barnbougle Dunes

Two questions, why or how did NGLA disappoint and what's with the fake name?

- NGLA didn't disappoint, It's just i've only played it once.  I've gotten to know the others ranked above it better after multiple rounds.  Good GCA (IMHO) takes time to flesh out.  If i'm lucky enough to play NGLA many more times, from the looks of it there's a healthy bounty of architectural genius out there that will bring me to tears just like those above it do.  It's actually the only course in my top 10 i've only played once.  Lastly, ranking golf courses is one of my pet peeves, I put this list out there more so that you all have a better idea of where i'm coming from critically, in reality this list changes every day.  Old Mac, which was also on the list, I played 90 holes at over the course of 4 days (45 one day) and in different winds, so i was able to really sink my teeth into the brilliance there.

- Nuke is my real name

Nuke LaLoosh right?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Trevor on July 04, 2011, 11:36:21 PM
Correct
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Joe_Tucholski on July 13, 2011, 02:44:58 AM
1 - Pebble Beach Golf Links (Jack Neville/Douglas Grant)
It has my favorite hole, it has my favorite stretch of holes (6-10), I have great high school memories out on the course, I watched many pro events on the course, I worked many pro events on the course, I like the so called weak holes away from the ocean, it’s one of the few in my top 25 that I’ve played multiple times and it’s one of a half dozen or so courses I’ve played with my dad

2-7 were tough for me to rank against each other
2 - Bandon Dunes (David Kidd)
After one visit to Bandon it was my favorite course (I ended up playing it three times and each of the others one time and that likely has something to do with it).  The 16th was my favorite hole on the complex and I’m looking forward to play it in the winter wind.
3 - The Homestead – Cascades (William Flynn)
My wife and I visited for our one year anniversary in October and the leaves were changing color.  My wife who does not play has it as her top  course (she has walked or ridden all but 4 of the courses in my top 25).
4 - Monterey Peninsula Country Club (Shore Course) (Seth Raynor/Robert Hunter)
Unfortunately this is the course that I remember the least about of any course in my top 25.  I skipped school the first day of my senior year (with my parents permission) to play in an AT&T PB junior event held at the course and that is about it.  Based on what I have read in the last year I have to put it at 4 (it’s a bit of BS for me to have it this high I have to admit)
5 - Old MacDonald (Tom Doak/Jim Urbina)
I had a lot of fun playing this course during my visit and when I look back on the pure number of holes I really enjoyed on each course Old Mac probably has the most.  The tee shot on 3 is my favorite drive in golf.  I love that tree.
6 - Bandon Trails (Coore and Crenshaw)
I liked the change of pace and it had the most risk reward in my mind (also likely influenced because it had the most reward for me).  I was able to play my round with no one in front of me and just my wife to keep me company.  I saw literally 4 other people the entire round.
7 - Pacific Dunes (Tom Doak)
This was the first course I played during my visit and the one I read the most about.  I ended up playing as a single between groups of foursomes so was a bit frustrated despite playing multiple balls after the first few holes.  I thought the course was solid and after some replays maybe it will move up in my mind.
8 - Chambers Bay (Robert Trent Jones Jr.)
My first experience with fast and firm playing conditions.
9 - Spyglass Hill Golf Course (Robert Trent Jones)
One of the best opening stretches of golf holes.  Really tough challenge.  Along with Pebble a course I’ve played multiple times.
10 - The Greenbrier - Old White Course (C.B MacDonald/Seth Raynor)
I played all three courses on the same day and it was a different experience.  I had a good round going until 18 where I hit the green but was on the wrong side of the giant hump (went long to a front pin) and ended up four putting.
11 - The Links at Spanish Bay (Robert Trent Jones Jr./Tom Watson/Sandy Tatum)
Pure nostalgia on this one.  I have some great memories playing with great friends finishing at sunset with the bagpipes playing.
12 - Circling Raven (Gene Bates)
I was really surprised by this one and enjoyed the course.  I’ve played 4 gene bates course and while some may call them boring I like them all the same.
13 - Bulle Rock (Pete Dye)
Kind of a weird location but thought it was a quality course (I played it the day after my wedding)

I had a tough time ranking 14-20 against each other
14 - The Golf Club at Redlands Mesa (Jim Engh)
I just thought it was good golf in Colorado with some interesting vista views and rock formations.
15 - Rustic Canyon (Gil Hanse/Geoff Shackelford)
The course that led me to this site as it is just a good amount of fun with some good architectural features.
16 - The Greenbrier - The Greenbrier Course (Seth Raynor)
I think I was the only person that played the course on the day I played it and it was a bit soggy.  From my memory the course was very different from the old course and more what I was used to, but done well.
17 - The Golden Horseshoe Golf Club – Gold (Robert Trent Jones/Rees Jones)
A fun layout that I played 3 times in one day.  Nothing great but nothing bad in my memory
18 - The Coeur D' Alene Golf Course (Scott Miller)
A gimmick for sure but I thought the front 9 was actually pretty good.  I really liked up until 7 (despite quad/triple on 4 and 5)
19 - Prince Golf Course (Robert Trent Jones Jr.)
My first Hawaii experience.  Lush green and some ocean views
20 - Ko'olau (Dick Nugent)
I thought it was great value golf and at times I really felt like I was in a rain forest.
21 - Eisenhower Golf Club Blue (Robert Trent Jones)
The course in my top 25 I have played most.
22 - The Cliffs at Keowee Vineyards (Tom Fazio)
Tom Fazio makes great eye candy and is easy on the ego
23 - PGA West Stadium Course (Pete Dye)
Not much to say…pretty solid course
24 - Torrey Pines South (William Bell)
My biggest let down.
25 - Turtle Bay - Palmer Course (Arnold Palmer/Ed Seay)
Also a letdown but had lower expectations.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Chaplin on July 13, 2011, 04:05:01 AM
Joe welcome, however it's time you invested in a passport!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Kyle Henderson on July 29, 2011, 05:47:47 PM
Ballyneal
Bandon Dunes            
Bandon Trails
Barnbougle Dunes
Barnbougle Lost Farm
Black Mesa
Clear Creek Tahoe
Cruden Bay
Crystal Downs
Cypress Point
Fisher’s Island
Friar’s Head
Kingsley Club
Kingston Heath
New South Wales        
North Berwick - West Links
Pacific Dunes
Pebble Beach
Royal Dornoch
Royal Melbourne – West
Sand Hills
St. Andrews  Beach – Gunnamatta
St. Andrews – The Old Course
Stone Eagle
Tobacco Road
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott Warren on July 29, 2011, 06:01:16 PM
Kyle,

Tobacco Road hanging with that crowd is a big endorsement.

PS - Real men at least group them Rihcelin style ;D
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Kyle Henderson on July 29, 2011, 06:27:32 PM
Kyle,

Tobacco Road hanging with that crowd is a big endorsement.

PS - Real men at least group them Rihcelin style ;D

TR's is quite heavy-handed with some obvious flaws (mainly overdone greens and a scattered routing), but the course offers so many great moments throughout the round I could'nt help but to include it. Being a synthetic man, I am definitely inclined to prefer memorable courses over more solid, standard tests.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott Warren on July 29, 2011, 06:38:23 PM
Sifting through then, I see your "best" six from the Aussie trip are:

Barnbougle Dunes
Barnbougle Lost Farm
Kingston Heath
New South Wales
Royal Melbourne (West)
St Andrews Beach

That's also my Aus Top 6, though I haven't played as many on the Sandbelt as you.

How close did National (Moonah) come to cracking the list?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ben Jarvis on July 29, 2011, 07:40:06 PM
Having just returned from the west coast of America, my top-25 has since changed.

1. CYPRESS POINT CLUB
2. ROYAL MELBOURNE (West)
3. PEBBLE BEACH
4. PACIFIC DUNES
5. KINGSTON HEATH
6. BARNBOUGLE DUNES
7. LOST FARM
8. PASATIEMPO
9. NEW SOUTH WALES
10. BANDON DUNES
11. ROYAL ADELAIDE
12. VICTORIA
13. ROYAL MELBOURNE (East)
14. SPYGLASS HILL
15. THE NATIONAL (Moonah)
16. OLD MACDONALD
17. BANDON TRAILS
18. ST ANDREWS BEACH
19. METROPOLITAN
20. COMMONWEALTH
21. MEADOW CLUB
22. THIRTEENTH BEACH (Beach)
23. YARRA YARRA
24. WOODLANDS
25. NEWCASTLE

Courses that were omitted but very close include: National (Old), Moonah Links (Legends), Kooyonga, The Dunes, Barwon Heads, Portsea, Peninsula (North), Royal Sydney
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Kyle Henderson on July 29, 2011, 11:13:13 PM
It came very close. Rustic Canyon and Tobacco Road just edged it, more as favorites than superior examples of architecture. I might change my tune after more reflection.

Sifting through then, I see your "best" six from the Aussie trip are:

Barnbougle Dunes
Barnbougle Lost Farm
Kingston Heath
New South Wales
Royal Melbourne (West)
St Andrews Beach

That's also my Aus Top 6, though I haven't played as many on the Sandbelt as you.

How close did National (Moonah) come to cracking the list?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Kevin Pallier on July 30, 2011, 08:54:40 AM
Ben

Am glad to see you enjoyed your west coast trip - obviously Pasa. impressed you ?

Also - Bandon Dunes above both Trails and OM ?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ben Jarvis on July 31, 2011, 03:44:21 AM
Kevin,

Yes, I loved Pasatiempo. A real MacKenzie gem. Don't leave the ball above the hole! We played the course on a "1 in 100 day" apparently. Clear blue skies looking down to Monterey. The 16th was an obvious standout and my favourite.

We had great weather up in Bandon, with a one club breeze at Pacific Dunes and Bandon Dunes. While I played both of these courses well (79 at PD and 76 at BD), I tried to not let the golf or weather influence my decisions. While PD was clearly my favourite, BD is a course I could play day in day out and enjoy. Perhaps if I played Trails and Old Mac more, my list may change. One of my favourite holes at the entire complex was the 15th at Trails. That green site is as natural as one could get. I loved it!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on August 01, 2011, 12:27:44 PM
Updated List, following Sean's lead and a few recent plays, 25 Current Favorites:

1.  TOC
2.  Pacific Dunes
3.  Ballybunion
4.  Pinehurst #2
5.  Lahinch
6.  Prestwick
7.  Kingsley
8.  Yale
9.  Ballyneal *
10. Shoreacres
11. Fisher's Island
12. Portmarnock
13. Old Mac
14. Lawsonia
15. Bandon Trails
16. Lost Dunes
17. Chicago Golf
18. Dunes Club
19. Olympia Fields North
20. County Louth
21. Skokie
22. Fenway
23. Tamarack
24. Pine Needles
25. Talking Stick North

* has the potential to be top 5 with a few more plays....
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jason Walker on August 01, 2011, 03:43:30 PM
Jud,
Which course knocked RCD off your list?  (my second favorite course incidentally)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on August 01, 2011, 03:52:51 PM
none specifically.  The first list was a Best Course list, this is a list of favorites.  Frankly, I'd have to go back to RCD and play it again as I hacked it around badly the first time.  I appreciate it's greatness but it may be a bit too stern of a test in high winds for my mediocre game, hence it doesn't make my favorites, but still would place prominently in a Best Courses Played....
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Saltzman on September 10, 2011, 06:44:55 PM
It is very difficult to try to rank a top 25.  I went through the list of courses I have played and first pulled out ones I thought might be in my top 25.  When I was done, there were 48 courses on the list.  Aside from the top 5, I feel like many of those 48 could move up and down. If someone asked me to redo the list tomorrow, there is almost no chance I would pick the exact same top 25.  Too many courses that I love to play and too many great experiences! Anyways, here is my list:

Top 5
Merion
Oakmont
North Berwick (west)
Sunningdale (Old)
Lahinch

Second 5
Franklin Hills
Essex (Canada)
TOC
Old Head
Wolf Run

Third 5
Pasatiempo
Pebble Beach
Walton Heath (Old)
Waterville
Victoria National

Fourth 5
Bandon Dunes
Pacific Dunes
Bigwin Island
Bethpage (Black)
Cascata

Fifth 5
Black Diamond (Quarry)
Mountain Lake
Wolf Creek
Harbour Town
Casa de Campo (TOTD)

Just missing the list: Toronto GC, Whistling Straits, Royal County Down and Carnoustie.

An update after a very fun year (new this year in red):

Top 5
Merion
Oakmont
Ballyneal
Sunningdale (Old)
Lahinch

Second 5
North Berwick (west)
Rock Creek Cattle Company
Sand Hills
Franklin Hills
Wolf Run

Third 5
Prairie Club (Dunes)
Essex (Canada)
St Andrew’s Old
Victoria National
Shooting Star

Fourth 5
Pasatiempo
Pebble Beach
Walton Heath (Old)
Wine Valley
Dismal River

Fifth 5
Pacific Dunes
Bigwin Island
Bethpage (Black)
Oakland Hills (South)
Chambers Bay



Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on September 10, 2011, 08:13:16 PM
Mark,

Interesting that Pac Dunes only makes the 5th five.  What keeps it out of the higher ranks for you?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Michael Hayes on September 10, 2011, 08:45:59 PM
Jud, I have to ask the same question...Why so down on Pac Dunes?

Mark, I have really enjoyed following your incredible year, BUT!!!!!!!!!!!! I issue a challenge... PD vs. RCCC hole by hole whenever you are done with your golf travels for the year.  I am ready to go Mucci on you!

Michael
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Saltzman on September 10, 2011, 08:48:48 PM
Mark,

Interesting that Pac Dunes only makes the 5th five.  What keeps it out of the higher ranks for you?

Jud,

The truth us that I should probably leave it off my list. The day I Played everything went wrong. My dad and I played BD in the morning before the day I played PD basically in a combo of sideways rain and snow. that whole night he had trouble breathing but he said to go play the next day anyways. Hade the same weather again, I was worried about my dad, couldn't play well, couldn't concentrate and I hardly remember anything about the course.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Michael Hayes on September 10, 2011, 08:58:52 PM
Mark, Never mind!

Michael
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Colton on September 10, 2011, 09:06:38 PM
Mark,

How many 5's down on your list is Valderrama?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ian Andrew on September 10, 2011, 09:15:06 PM
An Update of Sorts:

Pine Valley  George Crump, H.S. Colt, 1918 Pine Valley, N.J. US
National Golf Links of America C.B. Macdonald, 1911 Southampton, N.Y. US
Royal County Down Old Tom Morris, 1889 Newcastle N. Ireland
Royal Melbourne (West) Alister Mackenzie, 1926 Melbourne Australia
Cypress Point Alister Mackenzie, 1928 Pebble Beach, Calif. US

Shinnecock Hills William Flynn, 1931 Southampton, N.Y. US
St. Andrews (Old Course) Nature, St Andrews Scotland
Merion (East) Hugh Wilson, 1912 Ardmore, Pa. US
Prairie Dunes, Perry and Press Maxwell
Royal Dornoch Old Tom Morris, 1886 Dornoch Scotland

Crystal Downs Alister Mackenzie, Perry Maxwell, 1932 Frankfort, Mich. US
Riviera George C. Thomas, Jr., Bill Bell Sr., 1926 Pacific Palisades, Calif. US
Ballybunnion (Old) Old Tom Morris
Royal Portrush (Dunluce) H.S. Colt, 1929 Portrush N. Ireland
Pacific Dunes Tom Doak, 2001 Bandon, Ore. US

Seminole Donald Ross, 1929 Juno Beach, Fla. US
Pebble Beach Jack Neville, Douglas Grant, 1919 Pebble Beach, Calif. US
Fishers Island, Seth Raynor
Muirfield Old Tom Morris, 1891 H.S. Colt, 1925 Gullane Scotland
Pinehurst (No. 2) Donald Ross, 1907 Pinehurst, N.C. US

Prestwick Tom Morris, 1878 Prestwick, Scotland
San Francisco A. W. Tillinghast, 1918 San Francisco, Calif. US 62.14
Kingston Heath Des Soutar, 1925 Alister MacKenzie, 1928 Melbourne Australia
Lahinch Mackenzie
Barnbougle Dunes Tom Doak, 2004 Bridport Australia

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Saltzman on September 10, 2011, 09:17:27 PM
Mark,

How many 5's down on your list is Valderrama?

Jim,

Too many to count.

I went through all the courses I've played (yes, I have em on a spread sheet) and came up with a list of all the 'possibles'. There were about 40 courses on that list. Valderrama was not one of them. Neither was El Saler, but I would have it higher than Valderrama.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott Szabo on September 10, 2011, 09:26:53 PM
Mark, you've had one heck of a summer, haven't you!  Glad I got to meet and play a few holes with you.  Thanks for taking the time to share your photo tours with us.  Glad you enjoyed Ballyneal so much its in your top 5!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ryan Admussen on September 10, 2011, 10:51:55 PM
My list has seen some improvement this year...

Lahinch
Pacific Dunes
Royal County Down
Royal Portrush
Old Macdonald

Pinehurst#2
Kiawah Ocean Course
Bandon Trails
Sagebrush
Ballybunion

Jasper
Banff
Portmarnock
Bandon Dunes
Pine Needles

Portstewart
Mid Pines
Chechessee Creek
Augusta CC
National (Canada)

Tobacco Road
Rustic Canyon
Redtail
Summit
Kawartha

Monterey in December and Scotland/England is April should clear that bottom 5 quite easily!
Need a trip to the northeast US as it's a glaring omission from my list.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Chris Johnston on September 10, 2011, 10:56:26 PM
Salz

WOW!  I'm tickled you gave Dismal River (old 201) some props.  Thats some very good company after a great summer!

See you next year!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Colton on September 10, 2011, 11:01:52 PM
Mark, you've had one heck of a summer, haven't you!  Glad I got to meet and play a few holes with you.  Thanks for taking the time to share your photo tours with us.  Glad you enjoyed Ballyneal so much its in your top 5!

Seriously...Mark's list was impressive before the year started. And he added 9 news ones to his top 25. Can anybody top that? I thought I was doing pretty well with 4 new additions (all in the top 10).
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Chris Johnston on September 10, 2011, 11:19:02 PM
Mark, you've had one heck of a summer, haven't you!  Glad I got to meet and play a few holes with you.  Thanks for taking the time to share your photo tours with us.  Glad you enjoyed Ballyneal so much its in your top 5!

Seriously...Mark's list was impressive before the year started. And he added 9 news ones to his top 25. Can anybody top that? I thought I was doing pretty well with 4 new additions (all in the top 10).

Jim, Agreed!

I'd settle for the frequent flyer miles!  Dude's got game too.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Joe Stansell on September 11, 2011, 11:07:40 AM
Mark, it's great living vicariously through you.  Thanks for sharing your recent experiences. Your list personally intrigues me because:

1.  It places Wine Valley ahead of Chambers Bay, as does my own, although I can't quite articulate a good reason.

2.  You dropped Bandon Dunes and yet added both Wine Valley and Chambers Bay. It seems to me all three courses are very, very close in quality.

3.  Likewise, I just returned from a trip where I had the chance to play Wild Horse, which I really enjoyed (despite a lightening delay).  I left wondering whether I liked Wild Horse better than Wine Valley and yet you don't even include Wild Horse on your list. Do you suppose it's because of the houses and, if so, what does that portend for Wine Valley?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on September 11, 2011, 01:13:32 PM

2.  You dropped Bandon Dunes and yet added both Wine Valley and Chambers Bay. It seems to me all three courses are very, very close in quality.



Joe,

Interesting that you put these three together.  Of the three I've only played Bandon Dunes, and frankly this does not make me want to run out and purchase a ticket to the Pacific Northwest...
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Joe Stansell on September 11, 2011, 01:57:02 PM

Joe,

Interesting that you put these three together.  Of the three I've only played Bandon Dunes, and frankly this does not make me want to run out and purchase a ticket to the Pacific Northwest...

Well, it may be on account of my own lack of exposure, but I view all three courses as deserving of a top 25, at least on my personal list. And you included Bandon Dunes as an honorable mention on your's, so it can't be all that bad.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Saltzman on September 11, 2011, 02:50:23 PM
Mark, you've had one heck of a summer, haven't you!  Glad I got to meet and play a few holes with you.  Thanks for taking the time to share your photo tours with us.  Glad you enjoyed Ballyneal so much its in your top 5!

Scott,

Ballyneal is number 1.  Most fun I've ever had on a golf course!



Salz

WOW!  I'm tickled you gave Dismal River (old 201) some props.  Thats some very good company after a great summer!

See you next year!

CJ,

There was no question Dismal was making my list, the real question was where.  Everything about the place is awesome - not just the golf, but the atmosphere, the food, the members, (and even the guy who runs the place ain't bad).

Looking forward to next year.




Mark, it's great living vicariously through you.  Thanks for sharing your recent experiences. Your list personally intrigues me because:

1.  It places Wine Valley ahead of Chambers Bay, as does my own, although I can't quite articulate a good reason.

2.  You dropped Bandon Dunes and yet added both Wine Valley and Chambers Bay. It seems to me all three courses are very, very close in quality.

3.  Likewise, I just returned from a trip where I had the chance to play Wild Horse, which I really enjoyed (despite a lightening delay).  I left wondering whether I liked Wild Horse better than Wine Valley and yet you don't even include Wild Horse on your list. Do you suppose it's because of the houses and, if so, what does that portend for Wine Valley?


Joe,

1: On another thread I rated Chambers ahead of WV.  I think it may be a better golf course (define that as you like), but WV is the type of golf I love.  Right from the first tee I knew I was going to love it.  My list is my top 25 courses played, not the top 25 courses I have played.

2: Re Bandon, see my earlier post, conditions were just so bad that really I should not have included it. I really want to get back out there to experience all 4 courses there properly.

3: I'm not sure why I left Wild Horse off my list, though I am comfortable doing it.  Not sure if the courses I played just before WH impacted my view of the course (Sand Hills, Dismal and Prairie Club, all of which I really loved).  I don't know if it was the houses, though they did bother me, it seems more than they bother others.  It could simply be that there are a lot of good courses to choose from.  Many I really, really enjoyed and I find it hard to believe I am leaving off the list of favorites I have played.  Certainly not a knock against WH horse, though.  And yes, I think homes at WV would really suck!


NB: I have a few possible trips in the works, Northern Michigan, Long Island and Pinehurst.  If any/all come to fruition, expect some changes to this list.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Lloyd_Cole on September 11, 2011, 05:20:25 PM
Royal County Down
Royal Dornoch
Barnbougle Dunes
Cape Kidnappers
Royal Melbourne West

Merion
Lahinch
The Old Course
Kingston Heath
Pinehurst #2

Western Gailes
Portmarnock
North Berwick
The Alwoodley
Pebble Beach

Pine Needles
Pacific Dunes
Yale
Ganton
Garden City

Royal Aberdeen
Highland Links
Maidstone
Victoria
Turnberry

Great as these courses are the list only serves to remind me of all the great courses I haven't seen... Coming soon to this list, I suspect - Cabot Links.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Chaplin on September 12, 2011, 07:23:30 AM
Just off to play National Golf Links of America will my top 25 alter today?  :P
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott Warren on September 12, 2011, 07:52:21 AM
Chappers: Couldn't happen to a nicer guy... than Earlington ;D Have a great day.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt Bosela on September 12, 2011, 10:07:48 AM
An exercise like this is fun just to see how your individual list evolves over the years.  I posted my first list in December 2009 and it looked like this:

Quite a bit of Canadian content on my list - a bit less travelled than most:

Oakmont CC, Oakmont, PA (H. Fownes - 1903)
Riviera CC, Pacific Palisades, CA (G. Thomas - 1927)
Sagebrush Golf & Sporting Club, Quilchena, BC, CAN (R. Whitman, R. Zokol & A. Suny - 2008)
Westmount GCC, Kitchener, ON, CAN (S. Thompson - 1931)
St. Thomas GCC, Union, ON, CAN (S. Thompson - 1922)

Princeville - Prince Course, Princeville, HI (R. Trent Jones Jr - 1990)
Glen Abbey GC, Oakville, ON, CAN (J. Nicklaus - 1976)
Brantford GCC, Brantford, ON, CAN (S. Thompson - 1906)
Muskoka Bay GC, Gravenhurst, ON, CAN (D. Carrick - 2006)
Bigwin Island, Baysville, ON, CAN (D. Carrick - 2001)

Eagles Nest, Maple, ON, CAN (D. Carrick - 2004)
Oviinbyrd, Footsbay, ON, CAN (T. McBroom - 2004)
Warren GC at Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN (B. Coore & B. Crenshaw - 1999)
Devil's Pulpit, Caledon Village, ON, CAN (Dr. M. Hurdzan & D. Fry - 1990)
Tanglewood Park - Championship, Clemmons, NC (R. Trent Jones - 1956)

Burlington GCC, Burlington, ON, CAN (S. Thompson - 1922)
Lookout Point CC, Fonthill, ON, CAN (W. Travis - 1922)
Cog Hill - Dubsdread, Lemont, IL (D. Wilson & J. Lee - 1964)
Taboo, Gravenhurst, ON, CAN (R. Garl - 2002)
Osprey Valley - Heathlands, Caledon, ON, CAN (D. Carrick - 1992)

Tobiano, Kamloops, BC, CAN (T. McBroom - 2007)
Rosedale GCC, Toronto, ON, CAN (D. Ross - 1893)
Bear Mountain - Mountain Course, Victoria, BC, CAN (J. Nicklaus & S. Nicklaus - 2005)
Hammock Beach - Ocean Course, Palm Coast, FL (J. Nicklaus - 2000)
Osprey Valley - Hoot (Wasteland), Caledon, ON, CAN (D. Carrick - 2001)

Fast forward to today, essentially two golf seasons later, with new additions noted in bold:

Sand Hills GC, Mullen, NE, USA (B. Coore & B. Crenshaw - 1995)
National Golf Links of America, Southampton, NY, USA (C.B. Macdonald - 1911)
Oakmont CC, Oakmont, PA, USA (H. Fownes - 1903)
Pacific Dunes, Bandon, OR, USA (T. Doak - 2001)
Ballyneal Golf & Hunt Club, Holyoke, CO, USA (T. Doak)

Bethpage State Park (Black), Farmingdale, NY, USA (A.W. Tillinghast & J. Burbeck - 1936)
Riviera CC, Pacific Palisades, CA, USA (G. Thomas - 1927)
Old Macdonald, Bandon, OR, USA (T. Doak & J. Urbina - 2010)
Sagebrush Golf & Sporting Club, Quilchena, BC, CAN (R. Whitman, R. Zokol & A. Suny - 2008)
Muirfield Village GC, Dublin, OH, USA (J. Nicklaus & D. Muirhead - 1974)

Hamilton GCC (West/South), Ancaster, ON, CAN (H.S. Colt - 1915)
Bandon Trails, Bandon, OR, USA (B. Coore & B. Crenshaw - 2005)
Scioto CC, Columbus, OH, USA (D. Ross - 1916)
Bandon Dunes, Bandon, OR, USA (D. McLay Kidd - 1999)
Sebonack, Southampton, NY, USA (J. Nicklaus & T. Doak - 2006)

Westmount GCC, Kitchener, ON, CAN (S. Thompson - 1931)
St. Thomas GCC, Union, ON, CAN (S. Thompson - 1922)
Princeville - Prince Course, Princeville, HI, USA (R. Trent Jones Jr - 1990)
National GC of Canada, Woodbridge, ON, CAN (G. Fazio & T. Fazio - 1975)
Glen Abbey GC, Oakville, ON, CAN (J. Nicklaus - 1976)

Scarboro GCC, Scarborough, ON, CAN (A.W. Tillinghast - 1924)
Southampton GC, Southampton, NY, USA (S. Raynor - 1925)
Brantford GCC, Brantford, ON, CAN (S. Thompson - 1906)
Muskoka Bay GC, Gravenhurst, ON, CAN (D. Carrick - 2006)
Bigwin Island, Baysville, ON, CAN (D. Carrick - 2001)

So that's 15 new additions to my top 25 in two years.  Four of them were played in 2010 (Sand Hills, Ballyneal, Hamilton and Scarboro) while the other eleven were played in 2011 (NGLA, Pacific Dunes, Bethpage Black, Old Macdonald, Muirfield Village, Bandon Trails, Scioto, Bandon Dunes, Sebonack, National GC of Canada and Southampton).

I'm thankful to still be married ;)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Saltzman on September 12, 2011, 10:17:41 AM
Matt,

Fantastic list and nice to see Canada so well-represented.  Interesting to see Scarborough on your list - makes me really want to go see it. 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt Bosela on September 12, 2011, 11:13:09 AM
Matt,

Fantastic list and nice to see Canada so well-represented.  Interesting to see Scarborough on your list - makes me really want to go see it. 

Mark,

Scarboro is a treat to play - Ian Andrew and Gil Hanse re-worked the bunkers a few years ago and the results are stunning, to say the least.  The 18th hole is quirk personified but the course is generally very strong overall.  Get out there if you can!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill McKinley on September 12, 2011, 01:15:08 PM
OK i'll play...  Not in exact order, but you get the gist

Oakmont
TOC
Muirfield
Seminole
Turnberry (Alisa)

Oakland Hills (South)
Oak Hill (East)
Kiawah Island (Ocean)
Kingsbarns
Bethpage (Black)

Carnoustie
Indian Creek
Fox Chapel
Loch Lomond
Canterbury

Scioto
Inverness
Laurel Valley
Pepper Pike Club
Isleworth

Pete Dye Club
The Sharon Club
Kiawah Island (Cassique)
Canton Brookside
Princeville Resort (Prince)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Kavanaugh on September 12, 2011, 03:32:06 PM
What I like about these lists is that I am reminded of courses I forgot I had played.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jonathan_becker on September 12, 2011, 06:23:23 PM

Pepper Pike Club


President McKinley,

Have you played across the street?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Steve Kline on September 12, 2011, 07:18:02 PM
Ranked in tiers (based on how quickly I would want to go back) (modifications in red:

Pine Valley

Ballyneal
Bandon Trails
Camargo
Pebble Beach
Pinehurst #2
Riviera
TOC

Bandon Dunes
Cruden Bay
North Berwick
Pine Needles
Royal Aberdeen
Royal Dornoch

Country Club of Columbus (GA)
Kohler-River Course
Muirfield Village
NCR South
Prestwick
Spyglass Hill
TPC Sawgrass
Western Gailes

Bel Air
Donegal
Holston Hills
Hyde Park
Nairn
Tobacco Road


Others considered:
Point o' Woods
Carne
Enniscrone
Turnberry
Royal Liverpool
Royal Birkdale
Royal Troon
Crail
Nairn
Tobacco Road

By the way...this is extremely hard to do.


The list above was from July 2010. Here's how it looks now.

Pine Valley
Ballyneal
Kingsley
Pacific Dunes
Pinehurst #2

TOC
Bandon Trails
Camargo
Riviera
Old MacDonald

Pebble Beach
Cruden Bay
Royal Dornoch
Cruden Bay
North Berwick

Bandon Dunes
Pine Needles
Royal Aberdeen
NCR South
Country Club of Columbus (GA)

Kohler-River Course
Muirfield Village
Prestwick
Spyglass Hill
TPC Sawgrass

Most likely to be added in the next couple of months - Lookout Mountain and LACC North.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Chaplin on September 12, 2011, 07:48:57 PM
Lobstertastic.....a 36 back nine with 3 good birdie putts missed hurt the oppo!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill McKinley on September 12, 2011, 10:30:26 PM

Pepper Pike Club


President McKinley,

Have you played across the street?

Yes I have.  I like Country but I like the feel of Pepper better.  I would say Country would be in the 27-30 range on my list if I had to get specific
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on September 12, 2011, 10:39:09 PM
Ranked in tiers (based on how quickly I would want to go back) (modifications in red:

Pine Valley

Ballyneal
Bandon Trails
Camargo
Pebble Beach
Pinehurst #2
Riviera
TOC

Bandon Dunes
Cruden Bay
North Berwick
Pine Needles
Royal Aberdeen
Royal Dornoch

Country Club of Columbus (GA)
Kohler-River Course
Muirfield Village
NCR South
Prestwick
Spyglass Hill
TPC Sawgrass
Western Gailes

Bel Air
Donegal
Holston Hills
Hyde Park
Nairn
Tobacco Road


Others considered:
Point o' Woods
Carne
Enniscrone
Turnberry
Royal Liverpool
Royal Birkdale
Royal Troon
Crail
Nairn
Tobacco Road

By the way...this is extremely hard to do.


The list above was from July 2010. Here's how it looks now.

Pine Valley
Ballyneal
Kingsley
Pacific Dunes
Pinehurst #2

TOC
Bandon Trails
Camargo
Riviera
Old MacDonald

Pebble Beach
Cruden Bay
Royal Dornoch
Cruden Bay
North Berwick

Bandon Dunes
Pine Needles
Royal Aberdeen
NCR South
Country Club of Columbus (GA)

Kohler-River Course
Muirfield Village
Prestwick
Spyglass Hill
TPC Sawgrass

Most likely to be added in the next couple of months - Lookout Mountain and LACC North.

Country CLub of Columbus...I like your style!!  Great old Ross course.  Fun stuff!!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Kavanaugh on September 12, 2011, 10:48:03 PM
CCoC sucks because of having to hit a tee shot out of sequence to prevent an awkward backtrack.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Steve Kline on September 13, 2011, 09:43:47 AM
CCoC sucks because of having to hit a tee shot out of sequence to prevent an awkward backtrack.

We never had to do that in the two times I played the Southeastern Am. What hole did you do that on?

There are plenty of courses that require back tracking - and far more of it than anything possible at CCoC.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Johnson on September 13, 2011, 09:58:55 AM
my list (update this for this play and insight i've gained from GCA.   Again, think of the rankings in tiers.  (eg.  dont ask why 17 is higher than 19.)

1.  Chicago Golf
2.  Merion
3.  Sebonack
4.  Harbortown
5.  White Bear Lake

6.  Whistling Straits
7.  Bandon Trails
8.  Pinehurst 2 (Pre-renovation)
9.  Spring Hill
10. Somerby

11. Black Sheep
12. Old Mac
13. Hazeltine
14. Butler
15. Bandon Trails

16. Prince Course
17. Erin Hills
18. Kinloch
19. Pac Dunes
20.  Somerby
20.5 (late add no idae how I forgot)  Shoal Creek


21. Arcadia
22. Oak Tree
23. Koele
24. Irish Course
25. Willingers
26. Merit Club

My wish list

- Carnoustie
- CPC
- Shoreacres
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Shane Wright on September 13, 2011, 10:41:36 AM
Mark, thanks for sharing your list.  Being a Minnesotan, I appreciate many of the courses on your list, especially where you have placed WBYC as I believe it is that good.  I also appreciate your willingness to go against the grain and be a little different.  I happen to love Willinger's while there are many here who would and do hate it.  

However, I gotta know how and why Pac Dunes is below the likes of Erin Hills, Hazeltine, Whistling Straits.  I very much enjoy all three of these courses, but can you honestly say that you would prefer to play Erin Hills and Hazeltine over Pacific Dunes?  Really?

If Carnoustie is in the top 3 on your wishlist going in, you will absolutely love it.



Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Johnson on September 13, 2011, 10:58:58 AM
I probably do need to play Pac Dunes again.   It is still a phenomenal course, but I like all of the other three Bandon courses much better.

I just felt that the other Bandon courses provides more options on how to play the holes.   I wish there were more holes like the 6th (which I think is one of the best in the entire complex.)

Still a great great course.

Hazeltine is just one of my favorite modern courses; not sure I can think of a course that rewards good ballstriking better.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Kavanaugh on September 13, 2011, 11:12:17 AM
CCoC sucks because of having to hit a tee shot out of sequence to prevent an awkward backtrack.

We never had to do that in the two times I played the Southeastern Am. What hole did you do that on?

There are plenty of courses that require back tracking - and far more of it than anything possible at CCoC.

I never take a card with me when playing so I of course do not know what hole number.  It was not a mandatory hit out of sequence just a convenience.  One of the finest courses in the country does exactly the same thing.  In attempting to figure out which hole I found this video of who must be the worst golf course reviewer in history. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1zhUtyWRbwg
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Saltzman on September 13, 2011, 11:15:13 AM
CCoC sucks because of having to hit a tee shot out of sequence to prevent an awkward backtrack.

We never had to do that in the two times I played the Southeastern Am. What hole did you do that on?

There are plenty of courses that require back tracking - and far more of it than anything possible at CCoC.

I never take a card with me when playing so I of course do not know what hole number.  It was not a mandatory hit out of sequence just a convenience.  One of the finest courses in the country does exactly the same thing.  In attempting to figure out which hole I found this video of who must be the worst golf course reviewer in history. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1zhUtyWRbwg

I thought I was the only one who called Donald Ross "The Don Man."  Seems I am in good company.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Kavanaugh on September 13, 2011, 11:27:05 AM
If I were one to make lists I'm certain that The Riviera Country Club would make my top 25.  Darian Philo again puts it best in his review:

http://www.youtube.com/user/darianphilo#p/a/f/1/EHv_eUKkmDU
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Pete Blaisdell on September 13, 2011, 01:07:05 PM
The 25 most impressive AND enjoyable courses I have played in America in no particular order are

  Cypress----Oakmont----NGLA---- Shinnecock----Riviera
  Pine Valley-----Augusta----The Golf Club-----Merion--Old Mac
  Pebble----Quaker Ridge---Seminole--Pacific Dunes--Myopia
  Kittansett---Old Sandwich----The Honors---Newport--Old Town
  Salem---San Francisco--Harbour Town--Chicago--Sankaty Head
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on September 14, 2011, 04:30:36 AM
Matt,

Fantastic list and nice to see Canada so well-represented.  Interesting to see Scarborough on your list - makes me really want to go see it. 

Mark,

Scarboro is a treat to play - Ian Andrew and Gil Hanse re-worked the bunkers a few years ago and the results are stunning, to say the least.  The 18th hole is quirk personified but the course is generally very strong overall.  Get out there if you can!

There used to be a nice chap on the board who is (was?) a member of Scarboro - Wayne Kozun (I think is how its spelled).  He posted some photos several years ago and the course looked very good - one I would like to see.

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on October 28, 2011, 02:58:53 PM
I don't have too much left new to play in 2011, so here is my updated list of "favorites."


The Old Course
Old MacDonald
Pinehurst #2
The Golf Club
Sand Hills
Nat'l  Golf Links of America
Kiawah Ocean  Course
Muirfield
Shinnecock Hills
Shoreacres
Dismal River
The Honors Course
Sebonack
Bandon Dunes
Baltusrol (Lower)
The Dormie
Renaissance
Canterbury
Harbour Town
Pete Dye GC of WV
Ballyneal
Crail Balcomie
Pacific Dunes
Old Elm
Seminole

I think the "best" course I've ever played is Shinnecock.  I say that because I think it is a true championship golf course that doesn't need to be tricked up to identify the best players and it can be played by a 15 handicap.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on October 28, 2011, 03:09:03 PM
Mac,

Interesting that Bandon Dunes makes your list but Trails doesn't.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Shane Wright on October 28, 2011, 03:15:31 PM
Brian - we need your updated list
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on October 28, 2011, 04:00:19 PM
Interesting that Bandon Dunes makes your list but Trails doesn't.

Jud...to me Trails lost its feel/vibe with the transition from 13 to 14.  People can discuss whether 14, 16, or 18 are good holes or not, but to me a golf course is much more than a collection of holes.  Judging the course as a whole (for me) takes into account the land, the routing, and the holes.  The routing lost me on that transition, that in turn changed the feel/vibe, and add in some holes that seemd out of character with the rest of the course Trails doesn't make my Top 25 "favorite" list. 

Bandon Dunes on the other hand was, to me, terrific.  Brilliant in its simplicity.  Not over done.   And with a closing stretch that is out of this world.  I think 16 is the very best and most interesting hole I've played to date.

Mac, I am surprised to hear you espouse the virtues of a "championship test"...you seem more like a thrilling / fun / adventurous / quirk kinda guy.

Hmmm...I don't think I'm espousing a "championship test".  Am I?  Shinnecock, to me, might be the ideal mix of a test for the low handicapper and playble for the high marker...so I mention it might be the "best" I've played.  But it ranks behind...

The Old Course
Old MacDonald
Pinehurst #2
The Golf Club
Sand Hills
Nat'l  Golf Links of America
Kiawah Ocean  Course
Muirfield

on my list of "favorites".

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Keith OHalloran on October 28, 2011, 05:10:13 PM
Mac, while I do not agree with your placement of Shinnecock, I understand your viewpoint, and the placement, as it relates to your personal opinion.

Et Tu Brian ! Southampton, doesn't even  make honorable mention!   :D
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Keith OHalloran on October 28, 2011, 05:24:52 PM
Ha ha, nothing like a Friday happy hour followed by calling someone out!
As you would say Brian, Cheers!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tim Bert on October 28, 2011, 05:53:41 PM
I haven't ever played Beverly or Whistling Straits, just walked them.  Based on what I saw, I'd throw out Whistling Straits, but that was before it even opened.  If I had to throw out one I've played, Spyglass.

If Old Macdonald does not bump one of those three off your list, I'll be pissed.

By the way, I've been deliberating for 18 months now and I've decided that I prefer Old Macdonald over Spanish Bay.  I also had the opportunity to play Riviera last year and I played Oakland Hills this fall.  When you consider I already had 26 on my list, I can just about throw out my entire bottom tier and start over.

I am really surprised by how few of these lists include Oakland Hills, as I was completely blown away by the course (and more notably the greens!)

I wonder if it is not showing up in these lists because not many have played it or because it falls out of the top 25 for many people.  It skyrocketed easily into my 10 favorites.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Keith OHalloran on October 28, 2011, 05:58:49 PM
Wow, 18 months? Some people ( I am looking at you Sheehy) didn't think about this at all!  ;D
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on October 28, 2011, 06:31:51 PM
I'm bored, so I did this as well...

Architects involved with my Top 25 favorite courses

Doak-5 (Old Mac, Sebonack, Renaissance, Ballyneal, Pac Dunes)
Dye-5 (The Golf Club, Kiawah, Honors, Harbour Town, PDGC)
Ross-3 (#2, Old Elm, Seminole)
Morris-3 (Muirfield, Crail, and I gave him a credit for The Old Course)
Nicklaus-3 (Dismal, Sebonack, Harbour Town)
C&C-2 (Sand Hills, Dormie)
CBM/Raynor-2 (NGLA, Shoreacres)
Colt-2 (Muirfield, Old Elm)
Urbina-1* (Old Mac…also involved with 4 others)
Flynn-1 (Shinnecock)
Kidd-1 (Bandon Dunes)
Tillinghast-1 (Baltusrol)
Strong-1 (Canterbury)
Mother Nature-1 (The Old Course)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: David Hendler on October 28, 2011, 11:22:03 PM
In no real particular order:
Merion (East)
Oakmont
Sand Hills
Shinnecock
Winged Foot (West)

The Old Course
Pinehurst #2
Baltusrol (Lower)
Newport 
Bethpage (Black)

Royal Liverpool 
Royal Lytham and St Anne's
Royal Birkdale
Royal St. George's
Royal Troon

Carnoustie
Prestwick
Turnberry
Cabo del Sol
Trump International (Palm Beach)

Quaker Ridge
Laurel Valley
Old Sandwich
Macarthur 
Whistling Straits (Straits)

Others considered:
Adios
Blackwolf Run (River)
Belmont CC
CC of North Carolina (Dogwood)
Doral (Blue Monster)
Dormie Club
Century CC
Taconic

My true top 3 are: Merion, Shinnecock and Sand Hills.   Oakmont was unreal but so difficult...
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jonathan_becker on October 30, 2011, 10:09:05 AM
Sheehy,

You'll have to update your list again in a few weeks after your trip to Oregon.  Then again, maybe not!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JC Jones on October 30, 2011, 10:57:05 AM
I'm bored, so I did this as well...

Architects involved with my Top 25 favorite courses

Doak-5 (Old Mac, Sebonack, Renaissance, Ballyneal, Pac Dunes)
Dye-5 (The Golf Club, Kiawah, Honors, Harbour Town, PDGC)
Ross-3 (#2, Old Elm, Seminole)
Morris-3 (Muirfield, Crail, and I gave him a credit for The Old Course)
Nicklaus-3 (Dismal, Sebonack, Harbour Town)
C&C-2 (Sand Hills, Dormie)
CBM/Raynor-2 (NGLA, Shoreacres)
Colt-2 (Muirfield, Old Elm)
Urbina-1* (Old Mac…also involved with 4 others)
Flynn-1 (Shinnecock)
Kidd-1 (Bandon Dunes)
Tillinghast-1 (Baltusrol)
Strong-1 (Canterbury)
Mother Nature-1 (The Old Course)


Butt Boy ;D ;D
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on October 30, 2011, 11:05:22 AM
A Dye Butt Boy or Doak?   :)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JC Jones on October 30, 2011, 11:10:07 AM
Dye, for sure!

I think you need to re-visit The Ocean Course; I don't think it deserves the fall in your rankings  :)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Joe Leenheer on November 17, 2011, 12:35:15 PM
This is a guilty pleasure posting...as I wanted to do this when the thread was on page 3!

In no order...other then #1

Pebble Beach (CA)
Oakmont (PA)
Muirfield Village (OH)
Scioto (OH)
Inverness (OH)
Firestone South (OH)
Canterbury (OH)
The Country Club Pepper Pike (OH)
La Jolla Country Club (CA)
#2 Course at Pinehurst (NC)
World Woods Pine Barrens (FA)
Worcester CC (MA)
Torrey Pines South Course (CA)
Brookside CC (Canton, OH)
Sharon GC (OH)
Golf Club of the Everglades (FL)
Rancho Santa Fe Country Club (CA)
The Bridges at Rancho Santa Fe (CA)
Del Mar Country Club (CA)
Salem CC (MA)
Kirtland CC (OH)
Sand Ridge GC (OH)
Isleworth CC (FL)
Congress Lake Club (OH)

....and I can't fill in the 25th as there are many I could put here..





Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jason Topp on November 17, 2011, 12:55:40 PM
1.   Sand Hills
2.   Royal Melboune West
3.   Dornoch
4.   The Old Course
5.   Ballybunion
6.   Kingston Heath
7.   Lahinch
8.   Pacific Dunes
9.   North Berwick
10.   Pebble Beach
11.   Turnberry
12.   Bandon Trails
13.   The Ocean Course at Kiawah
14.   Wildhorse
15.   Black Mesa
16.   Barnbougle
17.   New South Wales
18.   TPC Sawgrass
19.   Woodlands
20.   Kingsley Club
21.   Sutton Bay
22.   Bandon Dunes
23.   Harvester
24.   Pasatiempo
25.   Western Gailes



Interesting to look back.  I know I would add Kinloch and Royal Porthcawl to this list and place Kinloch in the 10-15 range and Porthcawl a bit lower.  I might add Pennard.  Fallen Oak is pretty close but probably would not make the list.  Wildhorse looks way too high from my fading memory and is a potential to drop from the list entirely to make room for others. Turnberry is too high. Lahinch I would need to think about.  I would probably drop Western Gailes and Bandon Dunes off the list even though I really like both.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Pete Garvey on November 19, 2011, 12:24:09 PM
Tough to order them after 10 or so but here goes:

Pine Valley
Augusta National
Seminole
Peachtree
Pinehurst #2
Camargo
Oakmont
Fox Chapel
Muirfield Village
Inverness
Idle Hour
Holston Hills
Scioto
The Honors
Lahinch
The River Course (Kiawah)
Balybunion
Longue Vue CLub
Waterville
Minikahda
The Ocean Course (Kiawah)
Chechessee Creek
Cassique
Belfair
Old Head
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JMEvensky on November 19, 2011, 01:44:00 PM
Tough to order them after 10 or so but here goes:

Pine Valley
Augusta National
Seminole
Peachtree
Pinehurst #2
Camargo
Oakmont
Fox Chapel
Muirfield Village
Inverness
Idle Hour
Holston Hills
Scioto
The Honors
Lahinch
The River Course (Kiawah)
Balybunion
Longue Vue CLub
Waterville
Minikahda
The Ocean Course (Kiawah)
Chechessee Creek
Cassique
Belfair
Old Head


Pete,from a native Tennessean,a couple of things.You've got guts for listing Holston before Honors,but Ballybunion should be in front of each.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: don_bartlett on November 19, 2011, 08:07:35 PM
Oakmont
Oakland Hills - south
Oak Hill - east
TPC Sawgrass
Inverness
St George's (Canada)
National Golf Club of Canada
Butler National
Rich Harvest Farms
Whistling Straits - Straits
Blackwolf Run - River
Bay Hill
Devil's Paintbrush (Canada)
Arcadia Bluffs
Hamilton (Canada)
Kahkwa Club
Monroe
Atunyote
Redtail (Canada)
Mad River (Canada)
Ocean Course at Hammock Beach
Hammock Dunes (Fazio)
Beacon Hall (Canada)
Coppinwood (Canada)
Lakewood Shores - Gailles
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Pete Garvey on November 20, 2011, 12:26:40 PM
Tough to order them after 10 or so but here goes:

Pine Valley
Augusta National
Seminole
Peachtree
Pinehurst #2
Camargo
Oakmont
Fox Chapel
Muirfield Village
Inverness
Idle Hour
Holston Hills
Scioto
The Honors
Lahinch
The River Course (Kiawah)
Balybunion
Longue Vue CLub
Waterville
Minikahda
The Ocean Course (Kiawah)
Chechessee Creek
Cassique
Belfair
Old Head


Pete,from a native Tennessean,a couple of things.You've got guts for listing Holston before Honors,but Ballybunion should be in front of each.

Certainly just an opinion of mine but Holston really felt true to Ross.  Absolutely nothing against the Honors at all.  In fact, I think of it as a great course.  My appetite is for Classics and my opinions obviously follow suit.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Peter Ferlicca on November 20, 2011, 02:46:31 PM
I will update my list since I have played quite a lot of new courses since 2009.

1.  Pacific Dunes
2.  Ballyneal
3.  The Old Course
4.  Old MacDonald
5.  Royal Aberdeen
6.  Rock Creek Cattle Company
7.  Los Angeles Country Club
8.  Riviera
9.  Bandon Trails
10.  Cabo Del Sol
11.  Stone Eagle
12.  Wolf Run
13.  Pasatiempo
14.  Chambers Bay
15.  Meadow Club
16.  Olympic Club Lake Course
17.  Wine Valley
18.  Bandon Dunes
19.  Tumble Creek
20.  Crooked Stick
21.  Members Club at Aldarra
22.  Essex County Country Club
23.  The Club at Black Rock
24.  Pronghorn Nicklaus
25.  St. Andrews Eden
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jonathan_becker on January 02, 2012, 01:31:47 PM
.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Lou Cutolo on January 03, 2012, 12:42:54 PM


1. National Golf Links of America
2. Shinnecock Hills GC
3. Winged  Foot GC (West)
4. Friar’s Head
5. Oak Hill CC (East)
6. Essex County CC
7. Piping Rock Club
8. Fishers Island Club
9. Pinehurst CC (#2)
10. Bethpage Black
11. Quaker Ridge GC
12. TPC Sawgrass (Stadium)
13. Fenway GC
14. Innisbrook (Copperhead)
15. BALTUSROL G.C. (Lower)
16. Brooklawn CC
17. CC of Fairfield
18. The Stanwich Club
19. Creek Club
20. Maidstone Club
21. Garden City GC
22. Yale GC
23. Huntington CC
24. Atlantic GC
25. Bayonne GC
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Joey Chase on April 21, 2012, 04:24:49 AM
Just saw this thread, here's where I'm at so far

The Old Course
Lahinch
National Golf Links of America
Royal St. Georges
Merion
Royal Portrush
Machrihanish
Royal Dornoch
Bethpage Black
Garden City
Royal County Down
Yale
North Berwick
Whistling Straits (Straits)
Royal Aberdeen
Shoreacres
Ballybunion
Waterville
Woodhall Spa
Noordwijkse
Deal
Quaker Ridge
Rye
Carnoustie
Aberdovey

Just missed list:

Whippoorwill Club
Kennemer
St. Enodoc
Brancaster
Lytham
Hoylake
Fenway
Harlech
Cruden Bay
Brora
Sleepy Hollow
Mid Ocean Club
Portmarnock
Royal Zoute
Oitavos Dunes
Point O' Woods
Enniscrone
Galloway National
El Saler
Deepdale





Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott Warren on April 21, 2012, 05:17:42 AM
Joey,

That's a really interesting list to me.

I agree with how high you have R. St George's, though few seem to agree.

Deal above Rye and St Enodoc: correct answer!

Nice to see Yale high as well.

What cost R. Zoute a spot in the 25? I really enjoyed playing there but have always had a tough time placing it in any list for some reason.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Michael Taylor on April 21, 2012, 06:51:11 AM
This was my old list from nearly two years ago. Time for an updated list after seeing New Zealand.

1: National Old - Absolutely the craziest greens I've ever seen. Could never tire of playing here.
2: Kingston Heath - Very solid course with a great finish. Awesome bunkering.
3: New South Wales - Some amazing holes mixed in with some poor ones.
4: Royal Queensland - Options, fun, variety, elegance. Just a wonderful, wonderful course.
5: Royal Melbourne West - Love the green complexes and especially the 6th hole. One of my favorites anywhere.
6: Royal Sydney - Good solid course. Nothing special.
7: Elanora CC - I have a soft spot for the place. Love some holes and the condition is impeccable.
8: Magenta Shores - Just a nice place to play golf. It's one of the toughest courses I've played.
9: Royal Canberra - Like number 7. Not a 'great' course but a very enjoyable place to play nevertheless.
10: The Lakes - Unusual start with 6 par 4's in a row. I love some holes here but like NSW, I believe it has too many poor ones/over the top.
11: Alice Springs GC - Desert course in the center of Australia. Absolutely loved it.
12: Newcastle GC - Nice Apperly course with a very solid F9.
13: Pennant Hills GC - Nice members course.
14: Avondale GC - 10th hole is one of my favorites anywhere. However it must be the most humid place in Sydney.
15: Monash GC - Good finish but would just be an average course if it weren't for the greens.

--

New list

1: Barnbougle Dunes (2)
2: Jacks Point (2)
3: Cape Kidnappers (1)
4: Kingston Heath (5)
5: New South Wales (300)
6: Paraparaparaparaparooomoo Beach (4)
7: Kinloch (1)
8: The Lakes (4)
9: Barnbougle Lost Farm (2)
10: Royal Queensland (5)
11: National Old (1)
12: Royal Melbourne West (1)
13: Titirangi GC (1)
14: Arrowtown (1)
15: Kauri Cliffs (1)
16: Newcastle GC (3)
17: Elanora GC (3)
18: Royal Sydney GC (5)
19: The Australian GC (3)
20: Alice Springs (6)
21: Royal Canberra 1-18 (4)
22: Magenta Shores (1)
23: Terrey Hills (1)
24: Avondale (5)
25: Pennant Hills (100)

Damn that was hard. I've settled on that list for now, and hope to update it in September after I visit the NY Area. :)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Joey Chase on April 21, 2012, 11:30:01 AM
Joey,

That's a really interesting list to me.

I agree with how high you have R. St George's, though few seem to agree.

Deal above Rye and St Enodoc: correct answer!

Nice to see Yale high as well.

What cost R. Zoute a spot in the 25? I really enjoyed playing there but have always had a tough time placing it in any list for some reason.
Scott,
Having visited Royal Zoute just once, my opinion is likely of little value.  I did really like the course, it just didn't make me say wow.  It starts a bit slow, and then gets into the cooler, more linksy land.  I don't know exactly why but the course felt smalll to me as well.  It reminded me of Garden City without the deep bunkers.  I would love to go back and see it again.  

On another note, my list is fairly weak compared to the other contributors here.  I hope to get out to Austrailia in the coming years, and have still to get out to the west coast of the U.S. to see everything out there that I can find access to!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ryan Admussen on April 21, 2012, 03:31:20 PM
Put together a new list after a few new additions, roughly in order.

Royal Dornoch
Old Course
Lahinch
Pacific Dunes
Royal County Down

Royal Portrush
Old Macdonald
Pinehurst#2
Pasatiempo
Ballybunion


Royal Liverpool
Renaissance Club
Castle Stuart
Sagebrush
Portmarnock

Jasper
Banff
Bandon Trails
Formby
Kiawah Ocean Course


Bandon Dunes
Augusta CC
Kawartha
National GC (Canada)
Chechessee





Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on April 21, 2012, 03:58:57 PM
This was my old list from nearly two years ago. Time for an updated list after seeing New Zealand.

1: National Old - Absolutely the craziest greens I've ever seen. Could never tire of playing here.

New list

11: National Old (1)


Michael:

Did you tire of playing there -- even though it appears you only played one round?  Going from #1 to #11 is a pretty big drop. 

I should be pleased with the placings of Barnbougle and Cape Kidnappers -- but you've got 11 courses in Australia and New Zealand ahead of Royal Melbourne (West), so I don't really know what to make of your list.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Michael Taylor on April 21, 2012, 06:52:04 PM
This was my old list from nearly two years ago. Time for an updated list after seeing New Zealand.

1: National Old - Absolutely the craziest greens I've ever seen. Could never tire of playing here.

New list

11: National Old (1)


Michael:

Did you tire of playing there -- even though it appears you only played one round?  Going from #1 to #11 is a pretty big drop. 

I should be pleased with the placings of Barnbougle and Cape Kidnappers -- but you've got 11 courses in Australia and New Zealand ahead of Royal Melbourne (West), so I don't really know what to make of your list.

Tom,

On reflection I do not think National Old should be as high as I placed it the first time I did my list. I loved the course the first time around, but there is no way I could out it that high now, having learned a lot more about GCA since then.

In regards to RMW, the first and only time I played it was before I had a great knowledge of GCA, and I did not see the genius of the course. It was also one of the worst conditioned courses I ever played at the time, with barely any grass coverage on the fairways, greens and tees. I have no doubt that when I visit the course next it will make a jump up my list, but I can only rate the course on the basis of that one play a few years back.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mike Vegis @ Kiawah on April 21, 2012, 07:32:10 PM
It will really be interesting to see if The Ocean Course moves up on a lot of these list after it hosts the PGA Championship this August.  Golf Digest had Whistling Straits going from 73rd in 2003 to 23rd in 2005, the same year it hosted the PGA for the first time...

Then again, we jumped big that year too:

America's 100 Greatest Golf Courses (1997-1998) - Fifth 10 - No. 41
America's 100 Greatest Golf Courses (1999-2000) - Seventh 10 - No. 62
America's 100 Greatest Golf Courses (2001-2002) - Seventh 10 - No. 67
America's 100 Greatest Golf Courses (2003-2004) - Seventh 10 - No. 70
America's 100 Greatest Golf Courses (2005-2006) - Fourth 10 - No. 38
America's 100 Greatest Golf Courses (2007-2008) - Fourth 10 - No. 38
America's 100 Greatest Golf Courses (2009-2010) - Third 10 - No. 25
America's 100 Greatest Golf Courses (2011-2012) - Third 10 - No. 26

Read More http://www.golfdigest.com/golf-courses/golf-courses/2007-12/100greatestcourses_roster#ixzz1sioYvVqO
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sam Morrow on July 12, 2012, 01:14:57 AM
Here is my new Top 25 after my recent midwest trip.

1. Sand Hills Mullen, NE
2. Prairie Dunes Hutchinson, KS
3. Austin GC Austin
4. Southern Hills Tulsa
5. Dallas National Dallas
6. Fallen Oak Biloxi, MS
7. Whispering Pines Trinity, TX
8. Kiva Dunes Gulf Shores, AL
9. Old American The Colony, TX
10. Pine Dunes Frankston, TX
11. Wild Horse Gothenburg, NE
12. Huntingdon Valley Philadelphia
13. Colonial Ft. Worth
14. Prairie Club- Pines Valentine, NE
15. Miramont Bryan, TX
16. Money Hill Abita Springs, LA
17. Dismal River Mullen, NE
18. Champions Houston
19. Shadow Hawk Richmond, TX
20. Dallas Athletic Club- Blue Dallas
21. Prairie Club- Dunes Valentine, NE
22. Carlton Woods- Fazio The Woodlands, TX
23. Flint Hills National Andover, KS
24. The Woodlands Country Club- Tournament Course (formerly TPC At The Woodlands) The Woodlands, TX
25. Pecan Valley San Antonio (currently closed)

Depending on my mood I could interchange 17-25 in any order and have no problems.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jimmy Chandler on July 12, 2012, 06:51:30 AM
Sam --

How big is the gap between your top two and #3 on your list?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Brian Colbert on July 12, 2012, 08:06:43 AM
Well, I'll bite then:

1. Pine Valley
2. Merion
3. Oakmont
4. Pacific Dunes
5. Garden City
6. Old Macdonald
7. Bethpage Black
8. Victoria National
9. Bandon Trails
10. Olympia Fields North
11. Chambers Bay
12. TPC Sawgrass
13. Beverly
14. Lancaster
15. Aronimink
16. Sea Island Seaside
17. Saucon Valley Weyhill
18. Philadelphia Cricket Club Wissahickon
19. Philadelphia Country Club
20. Rich Harvest Links
21. Old Memorial
22. Adios
23. The Cliffs at Keowee Springs
24. Monroe
25. White Manor


Potentially controversial leave-offs:

HVCC, Isleworth, Bay Hill, Onwentsia, Tacoma, Pine Needles/Mid Pines, Pine Tree, The Hideout

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on July 12, 2012, 09:33:37 AM
I need to hear about Rich Harvest.  Can you give a run down on it, Brian?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on July 12, 2012, 09:54:25 AM
Mac,

The only reason to visit Rich Harvest IMO is to see the guy's car collection in the clubhouse, which is quite impressive.  When you look up "Being rich doesn't mean you know anything about GCA" or "What's F$%^ed up with the Golf Digest Ratings" in the dictionary there's a picture of Rich Harvest Farms.  Maybe I'm just pissed off that I had to change in the men's room after paying up for a charity event there, or that our caddie was so piss poor that he cost my pro 2 shots and a 68, or maybe it's one of the most overrated courses in the country.  

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: PCCraig on July 12, 2012, 10:00:37 AM
I need to hear about Rich Harvest. 

Mac,

Of all the courses in Chicago or within 100 miles, RHF is pretty low on the list of things you "should" go see. Where have you played so far in the Chicago area?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark McKeever on July 12, 2012, 11:05:50 AM
Whipping it out....I was tinkering a bit with the order, but here it is for now.


1.   Pine Valley
2.   Merion (East)
3.   Boston GC
4.   Eastward Ho!
5.   Kittansett
6.   St. Georges
7.   Olympia Fields (North)
8.   Saucon Valley (Old)
9.   Lancaster
10.   Yale (minus the redan hole)
11.   Bethpage (Black)
12.   Mountain Ridge
13.   Stonewall (Old)
14.   Merion (West)
15.   Flossmoor
16.   North Shore
17.   Homestead (Cascades)
18.   George Wright
19.   El Saler
20.   Galloway National
21.   Rolling Green
22.   Caves Valley
23.   Stonewall (New)
24.   Metedeconk
25.   French Creek


Mark

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: SteveOgulukian on July 12, 2012, 11:24:16 AM
Sadly, this list wont compare to many of yours, and I'll cut it off short of 25, but here goes nothing....

National Golf Links of America
Pebble Beach Golf Links
Royal Westmoreland
Spyglass Hill
Bethpage Black
Blue Canyon CC
Great Bear Golf Club
Laem Chabang CC
Yale Golf Course
Engineers
Hermitage Country Club
Ballyowen
Bethpage Red
Pinehills (Jones)
Equinox Resort
Wild Turkey
Montauk Downs
Bangkok Golf Club
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on July 12, 2012, 11:30:05 AM
I need to hear about Rich Harvest. 

Mac,

Of all the courses in Chicago or within 100 miles, RHF is pretty low on the list of things you "should" go see. Where have you played so far in the Chicago area?

Shoreacres
Chicago Golf Club
Old Elm

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: PCCraig on July 12, 2012, 11:36:16 AM
I need to hear about Rich Harvest. 

Mac,

Of all the courses in Chicago or within 100 miles, RHF is pretty low on the list of things you "should" go see. Where have you played so far in the Chicago area?

Shoreacres
Chicago Golf Club
Old Elm


That's certainly a start Mac. But I can think of a few you should try to see between the above and RHF.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Michael George on July 12, 2012, 11:37:05 AM
.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on July 12, 2012, 11:43:55 AM
Mac,

You've seen the best of Chicago already IMO.  Before I hit Rich Harvest I'd see Skokie, Olympia Fields, Knollwood, Medinah, Butler, Beverly, Black Sheep, North Shore, Glen View, Exmoor, Bob'o'link, Flossmoor and Onwentsia.  Then I'd hit Cog Hill, Ravisloe, Highlands of Elgin, Shepherd's Crook and Spring Valley.  Then I'd buy a case of Malt Liquor and a box of Swisher Sweets, get a gal from Heavenly Bodies to forecaddie, hop in a cart and play Rich Harvest.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sven Nilsen on July 12, 2012, 11:59:21 AM
Mac,

You've seen the best of Chicago already IMO.  Before I hit Rich Harvest I'd see Skokie, Olympia Fields, Knollwood, Medinah, Butler, Beverly, Black Sheep, North Shore, Glen View, Exmoor, Bob'o'link, Flossmoor and Onwentsia.  Then I'd hit Cog Hill, Ravisloe, Highlands of Elgin, Shepherd's Crook and Spring Valley.  Then I'd buy a case of Malt Liquor and a box of Swisher Sweets, get a gal from Heavenly Bodies to forecaddie, hop in a cart and play Rich Harvest.

Mac:

I can get you on Shepherd's Crook.  I also know a guy that can help out with the Swisha's and the OE.

You're on your own for the rest.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mike Hendren on July 12, 2012, 12:11:28 PM
Why not:

1. Shinnecock Hills
2. The Old Course
3.  Pebble Beach Golf Links
4.  Sand Hills
5.  National Golf Links of America
6.  Crystal Downs
7.  Cypress Point Club
8.  Carnoustie
9.  San Francisco Golf Club
10. TPC Sawgrass
11. Bandon Trails
12. Ballyneal
13. North Berwick West Links
14. Chambers Bay
15. Blue Mound
16.The Honors Course
17. Lawsonia Links
18. Kingsley Club
19. Holston Hills
20. Whistling Straits
21. Beverly CC
22. Pasatiempo
23. Lehigh CC
24. Cascades
25. LuLu CC

P. S.  Pacific Dunes should have been ranked 9th.


I did a new list off the top of my head before looking back at the one above.  Primarily proves how subjective this exercise is.

1. The Old Course
2. Shinnecock Hills
3. Pebble Beach Golf Links
4. Sand Hills
5. National Golf Links of America
6. Cypress Point Club
7. Crystal Downs
8. SFGC
9. Bandon Trails
10. Pacific Dunes
11. Carnoustie
12. Plainfield
13. TPC Sawgrass
14. Ballyneal
15. Whistling Straits
16. Peachtree GC
17. North Berwick West Links
18. Chambers Bay
19. Old Macdonald
20. Honors Course
21. Spyglass Hill
22. Lawsonia Links
23. Holston Hills
24. Pasatiempo
25. Forsgate

Observations:
- The top moderns rival the classic moderns.
- I left off some damn good golf courses.
- The bench strength of the classics blows away the moderns.
- I like the moderns more than I let on.
- Forsgate is in the LuLu genre - not really great but totally lovable.
- Monroe GC would make the list based upon the recent photo thread - I'm gaga.
- I only feel adament about the first 7. 

Bogey
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on July 12, 2012, 01:11:09 PM
Mac,

You've seen the best of Chicago already IMO.  Before I hit Rich Harvest I'd see Skokie, Olympia Fields, Knollwood, Medinah, Butler, Beverly, Black Sheep, North Shore, Glen View, Exmoor, Bob'o'link, Flossmoor and Onwentsia.  Then I'd hit Cog Hill, Ravisloe, Highlands of Elgin, Shepherd's Crook and Spring Valley.  Then I'd buy a case of Malt Liquor and a box of Swisher Sweets, get a gal from Heavenly Bodies to forecaddie, hop in a cart and play Rich Harvest.

Thanks!!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Goldasich on July 12, 2012, 03:35:47 PM
Ok, I'll play...  ;)

1.   Pine Valley
2.   Shinnecock Hills
3.   St. Andrews Old
4.   HCEG (Muirfield)
5.   Merion East
6.   Cypress Point Club
7.   Prairie Dunes
8.   Pebble Beach Golf Links
9.   Shoal Creek
10.   San Francisco Golf Club
11.   St. Andrews New
12.   Pinehurst #2
13.   Carnoustie
14.   Southern Hills
15.   Turnberry
16.   North Berwick
17.   The Honors Course
18.   Victoria National
19.   Peachtree G.C.
20.   Aronimink
21.   Sea Island Seaside
22.   Royal Troon
23.   Chechessee Creek Club
24.   Pasatiempo G.C.  (in 1997, prior to renovation)
25.   Country Club of Birmingham (West)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Dean Burke on July 12, 2012, 04:57:21 PM
1   Merion (East)
2   Royal Aberdeen
3   Pebble Beach
4   Monterrey Peninsula (Shore)
5   Kingsbarns
6   Carlton Woods (Fazio)
7   Ballyneal
8   Austin Golf Club
9   St. Andrews (Old Course)
10   Spyglass Hill
11   Royal Dornoch
12   Champions Golf Club (Cypress Creek)
13   Carnoustie
14   Miramont GC
15   Muirfield
16   Prestwick
17   The Floridian (Fazio redo)
18   Cabo del Sol (Ocean)
19   Cordillera Ranch
20   Crail Golfing Society (Balcomie)
21   Renaissance Club
22   Preston Trail
23   Nantucket CC
24   Commonground
25   Dragon Ridge
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Chaplin on July 12, 2012, 05:08:52 PM
Is it me or is there a distinct lack of passports on this site?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Stephen Davis on July 12, 2012, 05:48:22 PM
Is it me or is there a distinct lack of passports on this site?

I don't know if it is a passport issue as much as a time and money issue. At least I know that is the case for me.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Wyatt Halliday on July 12, 2012, 07:06:39 PM
1   Merion (East)
2   Royal Aberdeen
3   Pebble Beach
4   Monterrey Peninsula (Shore)
5   Kingsbarns
6   Carlton Woods (Fazio)
7   Ballyneal
8   Austin Golf Club
9   St. Andrews (Old Course)
10   Spyglass Hill
11   Royal Dornoch
12   Champions Golf Club (Cypress Creek)
13   Carnoustie
14   Miramont GC
15   Muirfield
16   Prestwick
17   The Floridian (Fazio redo)
18   Cabo del Sol (Ocean)
19   Cordillera Ranch
20   Crail Golfing Society (Balcomie)
21   Renaissance Club
22   Preston Trail
23   Nantucket CC
24   Commonground
25   Dragon Ridge



Dean,

This is a fascinating list. I can't think of anyone else on this multiple page thread has the HCEG and Prestwick sandwiched between Miramont and The Floridian.

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on July 12, 2012, 07:38:25 PM
Is it me or is there a distinct lack of passports on this site?

Chappers

I have two passports, but little desire to cross an ocean on an expensive flight to play lots of expensive golf.  I have all the expensive golf I need right here.  Jeepers, Ireland was bad enough - its no wonder that country is in a mess.  With all the pubs full with people buying stupidly priced drinks its no wonder they can't make mortgage payments.

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Dan_Callahan on July 12, 2012, 07:56:49 PM

Pebble Beach
Kittansett
Newport
The Country Club
Yale
Ekwanok
Belmont Country Club
Longmeadow Country Club
Tobacco Road
Dedham Polo Club
Taconic
River Oaks Club
Roaring Fork Club
Belgrade Lakes
The Orchards
Portland Country Club
Royal New Kent
Legends Heathland
Baker Hill
Red Tail
Lake Sunapee CC
Wyantenuck
Tot Hill Farm
Highland Links
Newport National
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: K. Krahenbuhl on July 12, 2012, 08:53:51 PM
Pine Valley
NGLA
Merion
Cypress Point
Friars Head
Prairie Dunes
Royal County Down
Shinnecock Hills
Pebble Beach
Oakmont
Crystal Downs
LACC North
Seminole
Lahinch
Ballybunion Old
Riviera
TCC Brookline
Royal Portrush
Old Sandwich
California Golf Club
Myopia Hunt
San Francisco Golf Club
Shoreacres
Garden City Golf Club
Peachtree Golf Club

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matthew Schulte on July 12, 2012, 09:06:15 PM
I'll bite.

1. NGLA
2. St. Andrews - Old
3. Ballyneal
4. Oakmont
5. Merion
6. Pacific Dunes
7. Shinnecock Hills
8. Royal Dornoch
9. Crystal Downs
10. Ballybunion - Old
11. Royal St. George's
12. Royal County Down
13. Muirfield
14. Pinehurst - #2
15. Friar's Head
16. Sand Hills
17. Riviera
18. Pebble Beach
19. Fishers Island
20. Royal Portrush - Dunluce
21. Prairie Dunes
22. North Berwick - West
23. Lahinch
24. Los Angeles - North
25. Winged Foot - West
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ash Towe on July 12, 2012, 11:43:57 PM
Matt,

A great list.  You must have had a great run in the last couple of years.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sam Morrow on July 13, 2012, 12:10:06 AM
Sam --

How big is the gap between your top two and #3 on your list?


It's fairly big I suppose. I think Austin Golf Club is a wonderful place and goes about it's business quietly. I'm always amazed how few of my fellow Texans who have played all over the state have even heard of Austin Golf Club. If I could be a member at any club in Texas I'd pick Austin Golf Club first.

As for Southern Hills I think it's a wonderful Maxwell and if it were on one of the coasts would be much more highly regarded. It's a wonderful club and Tulsa is a nice town but bias from the coasts keeps it from garnering more attention.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on July 13, 2012, 09:11:45 AM
I'm always amazed how few of my fellow Texans who have played all over the state have even heard of Austin Golf Club. If I could be a member at any club in Texas I'd pick Austin Golf Club first.

This is the kind of scoop I love getting from GCA.

Thanks, Sam.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Brian Colbert on July 13, 2012, 09:45:19 AM
Mac,

Rich Harvest in my opinion is a good course, but if it belongs on those golf digest rankings it's somewhere near the end. That said, I think it's an incredibly fun course to play once a year (especially from all the way back) and the entire experience of going there is worth it. Rich Harvest was the first top 100 I ever played, so maybe I am unfairly biased and have hyped it up way too much in my mind in the 6-7 years since. There are some holes with way too many trees, there is a hole where you have to hit your tee shot on a par-3, then before you finish that hole you have to hit a ball off the tee on the next par-4 because otherwise you would have to cross the creek twice!

It's tricked up, overly penal, and just a plain tough golf course. But if you go into it knowing that, you will enjoy the day!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Goldasich on July 13, 2012, 10:57:16 AM
Wow the new is very high. What did you love so much about it?

Brian-

The New Course is more of a sentimental choice for me.  I really respect Old Tom Morris' designs and I played a ton of rounds there when I was in graduate school at St. Andrews.  It's a balanced, fair test of golf for all skill levels, and...

...there is no place on earth better suited for a golf course than the West Sands of St. Andrews!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Eric Smith on July 13, 2012, 11:18:54 AM
Today.

1  Pennard
2  NGLA
3  The Honors
4  Ballyneal
5  Sand Hills
6  Porthcawl
7  Boston
8  Merion
9  The Ocean Course
10 Dismal River
11 Kingsley
12 Pasatiempo
13 Tenby
14 Harbour Town
15 Spyglass
16 Pinehurst #2
17 Augusta CC
18 The Olde Farm
19 Seminole
20 Victoria National
21 Forest Dunes
22 Holston Hills
23 Shoal Creek
24 Long Cove
25 Lookout Mountain

I suppose the impetus for my posting this list is to see what it looks like after my September trip to England and Scotland for the BUDA, where I'll be playing 10 links courses (including The Old Course) for the first time. An adventure I've been looking forward to for many many years.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Andy Troeger on July 13, 2012, 11:24:19 AM
It's tricked up, overly penal, and just a plain tough golf course. But if you go into it knowing that, you will enjoy the day!

Regarding RHL, other than the last five words, I totally agree! The astroturf tee, the backtracking situation you mention with tees for two holes next to each other, narrow fairways, forced carries over water/bunkers into just about every green, tree in the middle of a fairway with no real corridor on either side, and an awkward routing pieced together at different times makes this more of a candidate for the bottom 10 than anything else!

If you didn't have to play golf the place would be fantastic, however.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ron Csigo on July 13, 2012, 11:28:23 AM

1  Pennard


Awesome!  Pennard is one of those sleepers that you don't hear much about.  Good for you, Eric.  Next time I see you, I want to hear all about your experience at Pennard. :)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: C. Squier on July 13, 2012, 11:32:47 AM
Pine Valley
NGLA
Merion
Cypress Point
Friars Head
Prairie Dunes
Royal County Down
Shinnecock Hills
Pebble Beach
Oakmont
Crystal Downs
LACC North
Seminole
Lahinch
Ballybunion Old
Riviera
TCC Brookline
Royal Portrush
Old Sandwich
California Golf Club
Myopia Hunt
San Francisco Golf Club
Shoreacres
Garden City Golf Club
Peachtree Golf Club



I'll remind you to edit your post in a couple weeks  8)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ron Csigo on July 13, 2012, 11:51:37 AM
Pine Valley
NGLA
Cypress Point
Royal County Down
Crystal Downs
Oakmont
TOC
Shinnecock Hills
Friars Head
Prairie Dunes
CGC
Pebble Beach
Merion
Royal Portrush
Muirfield
Lahinch
Ballybunnion
Riviera
Kiawah Island Ocean Course
Oakland Hills
Sunningdale Old
Seminole
LACC
SFGC
Winged Foot West

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jonathan_becker on July 13, 2012, 11:53:35 AM
Pine Valley
NGLA
Cypress Point
Royal County Down
Crystal Downs
Oakmont
TOC
Shinnecock Hills
Friars Head
Prairie Dunes
CGC
Pebble Beach
Merion
Royal Portrush
Muirfield
Lahinch
Ballybunnion
Riviera
Kiawah Island Ocean Course
Oakland Hills
Sunningdale Old
Seminole
LACC
SFGC
Winged Foot West



BOOM!!!!!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Eric Smith on July 13, 2012, 01:31:51 PM

1  Pennard


Awesome!  Pennard is one of those sleepers that you don't hear much about.  Good for you, Eric.  Next time I see you, I want to hear all about your experience at Pennard. :)

I have to tell you Cheech -- I can barely remember it -- but I know it was fffffffn fantastic! ;D
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tim Martin on July 13, 2012, 02:03:54 PM
Today.

1  Pennard
2  NGLA
3  The Honors
4  Ballyneal
5  Sand Hills
6  Porthcawl
7  Boston
8  Merion
9  The Ocean Course
10 Dismal River
11 Kingsley
12 Pasatiempo
13 Tenby
14 Harbour Town
15 Spyglass
16 Pinehurst #2
17 Augusta CC
18 The Olde Farm
19 Seminole
20 Victoria National
21 Forest Dunes
22 Holston Hills
23 Shoal Creek
24 Long Cove
25 Lookout Mountain

I suppose the impetus for my posting this list is to see what it looks like after my September trip to England and Scotland for the BUDA, where I'll be playing 10 links courses (including The Old Course) for the first time. An adventure I've been looking forward to for many many years.

Big E-Shaping up to be a helluva year. Have Cheech get you a stack of 8 by 10`s signed by Snooki for when you head across the pond. Put it in the hands of the right starter and you never know. ;D
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Colton on July 13, 2012, 03:05:02 PM
My list is feeling woefully inadequate next to some of the heavy hitters who have been dropping bombs lately. We might need a VIP room with second 25 for the Krahenbuhl's and Csigo's of the world.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: C. Squier on July 13, 2012, 04:05:30 PM
In some rough order....

Pine Valley
Cypress Point
Friars Head
Merion
NGLA
Shinnecock
Prairie Dunes
Sand Hills
Oakmont
Pebble
Fishers Island
Crystal Downs
Pinehurst #2
Chicago Golf Club
SFGC
LACC North
Winged Foot West
Riviera
Sebonack
Garden City
TCC - Composite
Myopia Hunt
Somerset Hills
Maidstone
Kittansett Club
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Chaplin on July 13, 2012, 06:36:51 PM
Stephen/Sean - I don't buy the time and cost argument. Many of the lists that do not go out of the USA require considerable expense and travel.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on July 13, 2012, 07:12:00 PM
Stephen/Sean - I don't buy the time and cost argument. Many of the lists that do not go out of the USA require considerable expense and travel.

Chappers

To each is own.  I can only speak for myself and I say paying £500 and sometimes much more to cross an ocean and shelling out top dollar day after day isn't my bag.  I need other primary reasons to make the journey - golf just isn't important enough. 

Ciao 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sam Morrow on July 13, 2012, 09:21:44 PM
Stephen/Sean - I don't buy the time and cost argument. Many of the lists that do not go out of the USA require considerable expense and travel.

I'm impressed that you are so on the ball pertaining the schedule and financial situations of posters.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Saltzman on September 02, 2012, 07:44:07 PM


Update, part deux... Interesting to re-create these lists and see how time impacts one's impression of a golf course.  I don't know why exactly, but Essex and Wolf Run dropped off the list completely, St George's (Toronto) was added after replaying and others (including Sand Hills) dropped a bit.

1   Shinnecock Hills
2   Ballyneal
3   Merion
4   Oakmont
5   Sunningdale (Old)
6   Lahinch
7   Prairie Dunes
8   North Berwick (west)
9   Rock Creek Cattle Company
10   Plainfield
11   Prairie Club (Dunes)
12   Sand Hills
13   Pinehurst No 2
14   The Golf Club
15   St Andrew’s (Old)
16   Highlands Links
17   Sebonack
18   Franklin Hills
19   Kingsley Club
20   Victoria National
21   The Patriot
22   Shooting Star
23   St George's
24   Pasatiempo
25   Pebble Beach

And the next bunch would include...

Walton Heath (Old)
Wine Valley
Oakland Hills (South)
Southern Hills
Brookside CC
Cabot Links
Dallas National
Dismal River
Johns Island West
Old Town
Charlotte
Chambers Bay
Bethpage (Black)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Saltzman on September 23, 2012, 09:02:35 PM


I suppose the impetus for my posting this list is to see what it looks like after my September trip to England and Scotland for the BUDA, where I'll be playing 10 links courses (including The Old Course) for the first time. An adventure I've been looking forward to for many many years.

well.  We're waiting...
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Greg Gilson on September 23, 2012, 09:38:58 PM
I know it's an old topic but i've just joined the Discussion Group! Please note that these are my personal "FAVOURITES" (as opposed to trying to split hairs over "BEST" or "TOP"). Just like Eric above I'm posting this list today - recognising there will be a potential bunch of changes in a fortnight. Taking off tomorrow for a sprint around the US Midwest and fortunate enough to have games arranged at Crystal Downs, Shoreacres, Inverness, Oakland Hills, Scioto, Muirfield Village & Camargo with excursions to St Georges in the middle & Riviera on the way home. Sometimes life throws you a diamond or 2!


1.   St Andrews(Old)
2.   Cypress Point
3.   Pine Valley
4.   Pacific Dunes
5.   Cruden Bay
6.   Merion(East)
7.   Morfontaine
8.   Royal Dornoch
9.   New South Wales
10.   Sunningdale(Old)
11.   Whistling Straits(Straits)
12.   Bandon Dunes
13.   Cape Kidnappers
14.   Kiawah Island(Ocean)
15.   Chambers Bay
16.   Casa de Campo (Teeth of the Dog)
17.   Kawana (Fuji)
18.   Ballybunion(Old)
19.   Hirono
20.   Muirfield
21.   Bandon Trails
22.   Royal County Down
23.   San Francisco
24.   Kingston Heath
25.   Prairie Dunes
 
The next bunch includes Chicago, Royal Melbourne (West), Turnberry(Ailsa), Lahinch, Loch Lomond, Swinley Forest, Royal Cinque Ports, Machrihanish, Western Gailes, St Germain

Stay tuned.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on September 24, 2012, 08:39:16 AM
Greg,

Impressive list.  But Whistling Straights and Bandon Dunes above Ballybunion, RCD, Chicago and Lahinch?  Seriously?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Eric Smith on September 24, 2012, 01:31:31 PM


I suppose the impetus for my posting this list is to see what it looks like after my September trip to England and Scotland for the BUDA, where I'll be playing 10 links courses (including The Old Course) for the first time. An adventure I've been looking forward to for many many years.

well.  We're waiting...

Still more golf to play, Mark! Honestly, right now I doubt I would craft a new list without simply plopping down all of the courses I played in Scotland and England atop my previous list - but where's the fun in that? ;D  No, I imagine I'll put some thought into a list when the season's over and post it here as I too would like to know what it would look like. I think...

One nugget --The Renaissance Club blew my socks off and, other than St Andrews, is the course I've been day dreaming of incessantly ever since!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Greg Gilson on September 24, 2012, 04:18:31 PM
Whistling Straights and Bandon Dunes above Ballybunion, RCD, Chicago and Lahinch?  Seriously?

Hi Jud, i guess that's the beauty of "FAVOURITE" versus "BEST". I have a sometimes fluid set of personal criteria that is roughly based on “the experience” I had on my round(s) at each course
   -“Experience” =
      -50% - Quality of the course architecture (especially variety, challenge & quirk)
      -25% - Quality of atmosphere, history, conditions
      -25% - How much fun I had, desire to return, “if I had 1 last round”

I use this as a starting point but the last criteria (the "desire to return" one) i let trump the others in a close vote.

That said, i see this sort of thing sas being like the Miss Universe pageant - all the candidates are really, really, really beautiful and probably its actually impossible to pick the most beautiful contestant. However, everyone gets a chance to put them in their own personal favourite order. Some like blondes, some prefer brunettes. My guess is i go for redheads when it comes to GCA?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Greg Gilson on October 17, 2012, 06:07:41 PM
I posted here on September 24 just before taking off for a couple of weeks in US midwest (with a 6 hour detour to Toronto!). As expected there were a few changes to my list which now reads as below. Only 2 (Shoreacres & Crystal Downs moved into my Top 25 :

1.   St Andrews(Old)
2.   Cypress Point
3.   Pine Valley
4.   Pacific Dunes
5.   Cruden Bay
6.   Merion(East)
7.   Morfontaine
8.   Royal Dornoch
9.   New South Wales
10.   Sunningdale(Old)
11.   Shoreacres
12.   Whistling Straits(Straits)
13.   Bandon Dunes
14.   Cape Kidnappers
15.   Kiawah Island(Ocean)
16.   Chambers Bay
17.   Casa de Campo (Teeth of the Dog)
18.   Kawana (Fuji)
19.   Ballybunion(Old)
20.   Hirono
21.   Crystal Downs
22.   Muirfield
23.   Bandon Trails
24.   Royal County Down
25.   San Francisco

The Next 25 now reads:

1.   Kingston Heath
2.   Prairie Dunes
3.   Royal St Georges
4.   Chicago
5.   Royal Melbourne (West)
6.   Turnberry(Ailsa)
7.   Lahinch
8.   TPC(Sawgrass)
9.   Loch Lomond
10.   Swinley Forest
11.   Camargo
12.   Carnoustie(Championship)
13.   Royal Cinque Ports
14.   Machrihanish
15.   Western Gailes
16.   St Germain
17.   Ganton
18.   Kingsbarns
19.   Ballyneal
20.   Tobacco Road
21.   Pebble Beach
22.   North Berwick
23.   The National(Old)
24.   Fountainbleau
25.   Pinehurst #2

So many beautiful women, so little room.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: David Davis on October 17, 2012, 07:37:31 PM
Greg, nice list. So your next 25, since you've numbered them I"m assuming you mean that in that order but then again that way it reads like a logistical nightmare. I'm kind of hoping for you that you group them into order based on area as there's some serious jet lag there.

One thing that sticks out to me and I know it's your list and your favorites but you had more fun at Chamber's Bay then you did at hands down the best links course in the world? You must of had one seriously horrible day of hard wind and rain at RCD.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill McKinley on October 17, 2012, 08:04:54 PM
Here's mine as of Sept 2011...

Oakmont
TOC
Muirfield
Seminole
Turnberry (Alisa)

Oakland Hills (South)
Oak Hill (East)
Kiawah Island (Ocean)
Kingsbarns
Bethpage (Black)

Carnoustie
Indian Creek
Fox Chapel
Loch Lomond
Canterbury

Scioto
Inverness
Laurel Valley
Pepper Pike Club
Isleworth

Pete Dye Club
The Sharon Club
Kiawah Island (Cassique)
Canton Brookside
Princeville Resort (Prince)


And here it is now (additions are in caps)

MERION EAST
LACC NORTH
Oakmont
The Old Course
Muirfield

Seminole
RIVIERA
Turnberry (Ailsa)
CAMARGO
Oakland Hills (South)

Carnoustie
Fox Chapel
Kingsbarns
MUIRFIELD VILLAGE
YEAMANS HALL

Pinehurst #2
Oak Hill (East)
Bethpage (Black)
Kiawah Island (Ocean)
Canterbury

Loch Lomond
MOUNTAIN LAKE
Indian Creek
Brookside (Canton)
Laurel Valley
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Greg Gilson on October 18, 2012, 03:52:12 PM
Greg, nice list. So your next 25, since you've numbered them I"m assuming you mean that in that order but then again that way it reads like a logistical nightmare. I'm kind of hoping for you that you group them into order based on area as there's some serious jet lag there.

One thing that sticks out to me and I know it's your list and your favorites but you had more fun at Chamber's Bay then you did at hands down the best links course in the world? You must of had one seriously horrible day of hard wind and rain at RCD.


Hi David, i may have misrepresented this. The "Next 25" is my 26-50. I actually have a "Favourite 50" with a "Next Lot" (courses that didn't quite make the Favourite 50. I have been lucky to have had a couple of leave passes already this year so i am restricted to barracks for 6+ months. However, i have a bunch of plans in place for 2013 with visits to Mexico, an extended tour through NE USA with a quick stop on the US West Coast. There's a "Next 15" in that lot. All that said, when you're based in Australia, there has been plenty of jet lag getting to this point already.

I cannot wait to get back to RCD - only played there once before and that was 20 years ago (I'm much smarter now!). It's still way up there on my list already, of course. I do admit to having a HUUUUUGE course crush on Chambers Bay so most good judges probably think i'm all starry eyed about it. So be it.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Greg Gilson on October 18, 2012, 04:08:59 PM
Hi Bill, its interesting seeing the change over time. If i read your lists correctly, Scioto & Inverness were rated above Laurel Valey in 2011. In 2012 Scioto & Inverness drop out but Laurel Valleyt still there. Not saying they should not but interested in the reasons. I just returned from playing those 2 so it's "topical" for me. Thanks for shharing your list!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill McKinley on October 18, 2012, 05:20:02 PM
Greg,

Yes you read that correctly.  I did think a lot about where some courses were going to be slotted in there.  I definitely still enjoy Scioto and Inverness and think they are both very good golf courses.  But, over the past year I have really refined and/or changed my own criteria for my own personal rankings.

To me, the biggest factors that I wasn't considering as much before were memorability, the whole golf experience, and the "want to see it again" factor.  Thus, in my humble and fairly meaningless opinion  ;D, Laurel Valley stayed in there, while Scioto and Inverness did not. 

I'm sure others, like me, would see their lists change a bit when asked to go all the way down to the top 25 depending on other places they may have just played or other factors that are more important to them now, as opposed to a year or two ago.

Thanks for looking at my list and sparking a conversation!!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ian Andrew on October 18, 2012, 06:40:41 PM
Updated list

Pine Valley  George Crump, H.S. Colt, 1918 Pine Valley, N.J. US
National Golf Links of America C.B. Macdonald, 1911 Southampton, N.Y. US
Royal County Down Old Tom Morris, 1889 Newcastle N. Ireland
Royal Melbourne (West) Alister Mackenzie, 1926 Melbourne Australia
Cypress Point Alister Mackenzie, 1928 Pebble Beach, Calif. US

Shinnecock Hills William Flynn, 1931 Southampton, N.Y. US
St. Andrews (Old Course) Nature, St Andrews Scotland
Merion (East) Hugh Wilson, 1912 Ardmore, Pa. US
Royal Dornoch Old Tom Morris, 1886 Dornoch Scotland
Prairie Dunes Press and Perry Maxwell, Hutchinson, Kansas

Crystal Downs Alister Mackenzie, Perry Maxwell, 1932 Frankfort, Mich. US
Riviera George C. Thomas, Jr., Bill Bell Sr., 1926 Pacific Palisades, Calif. US
Pacific Dunes Tom Doak, 2001 Bandon, Ore. US
Fishers Island, Seth Raynor, Fishers Island, New York
Yale Golf Club, C.B. MacDonald, New Haven, Connecticut

Ballybunnion (Old)- P. Murphy, Tom Simpson
San Francisco A. W. Tillinghast, 1918 San Francisco, Calif. US 62.14
Seminole Donald Ross, 1929 Juno Beach, Fla. US
Pebble Beach Jack Neville, Douglas Grant, 1919 Pebble Beach, Calif. US
Royal Portrush (Dunluce) H.S. Colt, 1929 Portrush N. Ireland

Lahinch - Old Tom Morris, Alister MacKenzie
Pinehurst (No. 2) Donald Ross, 1907 Pinehurst, N.C. US
Prestwick Tom Morris, 1878 Prestwick, Scotland
Kingston Heath Des Soutar, 1925 Alister MacKenzie, 1928 Melbourne Australia
Barnbougle Dunes Tom Doak, 2004 Bridport Australia
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: David Davis on October 18, 2012, 06:53:09 PM
Top 25 played/best experiences: - not necessarily the best courses according to other peoples rankings.

1. Cypress Point - best course and best experience hands down.
2. Noordwijkse - my home course (and favorite club) where I play a majority of my golf, it's my favorite place in The Netherlands by a mile and I could easily spend everyday there. I even miss it when I'm abroad or haven't been there in a couple days. It's not perfect but it's really that good and getting better in the years to come. It's home what can I say!
3. Royal County Down - best links course on the planet
4. Kingston Heath - amazing course, fastest greens I've ever touched, most hospitable and honorable welcome I've ever and likely will ever receive plus the friendliest members of any club I've ever been.
5. Pacific Dunes (only course on my list I've played more than once, definitely something to be said for that)
6. Cruden Bay - enough fun, quirk and humor to wet yourself.
7. Kingsbarns - one of my best rounds ever, perfect day, great company and awesome caddy.
8. Pebble Beach - windforce 7 and US Open tees. Best $495 I've ever spent.
9. Ballybunion Old - got my but kicked by the most beautiful and best golfing woman I've ever been engaged to.
10. Lahinch - Same as BalleyBunion only a day earlier. Just a great time.
11. Royal Dornoch - Gorse in bloom, sunny and all to myself with a hilarious caddy.
12. Old Course St. Andrews - expect this to move up my list, rough go out the first time, waited for hours to get a slot, cold, stiff as hell and scariest first tee shot I'll ever have. Harshly humiliating first 9 culmination with a broken window in the Old Course Hotel on the Road Hole. One day revenge will be mine.
13. Royal Melbourne Composite (played during drought and course was very brown) or I think it would be higher.
14. Waterville - last day of my trip with that beautiful golfing lady. Great course.
15. Royal Portrush - rarely played so bad and found the cup and the pin so often.
16. European Club - just a great and unique links.
17. Muirfield - accept the persecution of having it so far down the list. Might need another go now that I've seen more in order to appreciate it the way some of you other do. I expect it to one day move up my list.
18. NSW - warm sun, wind and links, g'day mate! Plus one of the most beautiful holes on the planet.
19. Carnoustie - dare I say it was beautiful (not the town), gorse in bloom and very solid play.
20. Whistling Straits - Just a great day though a touch intimidated from the back tees at the start, 47 - 37 to win our match for charity.
21. Shoreacres (more due to my playing companions) - narrowest driving range I've ever seen, opposite of the fairways.
22. Old Head of Kinsale - tee box on the second hole, my pro am partner started to cry, I stood between her and the cliff for security. Windforce 6 left to right, I'll catch you when you get blown over.
23. Royal St. Georges - perfect, very windy day with 3 gentlemen with enough "I'm not worthy" golf knowledge for a lifetime.
24. De Pan - Utrecht - proving you just don't need the heathland courses of England, every bit as good if not better than the best.
25. Royal Aberdeen - perhaps the best maintained links course I've ever seen and for certain the fastest greens.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Michael Taylor on October 28, 2012, 05:32:17 AM
I recently got back from a trip to the US where I played 21 courses in 5 states in 3 weeks! Here is how my list looks after that little trip..
Will just say first that you really are splitting hairs when it comes to the best of the best courses. A good friend of mine said that it is like comparing the most beautiful blonde in the world to the most beautiful brunette and most beautiful redhead.  ;D It really is personal preference and it can change on a daily basis.


Here is todays list.  :)

1: Shinnecock Hills
2: Friars Head
3: Barnbougle Dunes
4: National Golf Links of America
5: The Creek Club
6: Myopia Hunt
7: Jacks Point
8: Cape Kidnappers
9: Bayonne
10: Kingston Heath
11: New South Wales
12: Yale
13: Kittansett
14: Old Sandwich
15: The Lakes GC
16: Paraparaumu Beach
17: Mountain Ridge GC
18: Barnbougle Lost Farm
19: Essex County Club
20: The Country Club Brookline
21: Quaker Ridge
22: Sleepy Hollow
23: Royal Queensland
24: Titirangi
25: Piping Rock

I did get to see Fishers Island, but will reserve judgement until I see it in its full glory. It was being cored that day. Also have seen Royal Melbourne West, but will add it back to the list when I see it again in December.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Pete Balzer on October 28, 2012, 04:32:51 PM
1. Cypress
2. Royal Portrush
3. Old Course
4. Pebble Beach
5. Prairie Club Dunes
6. Kiawah Ocean Course
7. Camargo
8. Ballyneal
9. Moraine Country Club
10. Cherry Hills
11. Olympic Club -Lake
12. Preston Trails
13. Prairie Club- Pines
14. Wild Horse
15. Port Stewart
16. NCR South
17. Country Club of the Rockies
18. Branson Creek
19. Princeville- Prince
20. Valhalla
21. Firestone South
22. Red Sky- Norman
23. Pine Needles
24. Kiva Dunes
25. Pine Dunes

Couldn't pull the trigger and include Chambers Bay.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on November 18, 2012, 05:00:12 PM
I think my year is complete regarding seeing new golf courses.  So here is my updated favorites list.

1. The Old Course--the ultimate in thinking golf
2. The Golf Club--wonderful journey in ideal setting
3. Old MacDonald--epic adventure over incredible terrain
4. NGLA--arguably the best collection of golf holes in the world
5. Sand Hills--incredible serenity with an incomprehensible scale
6. Pinehurst #2--perhaps the best example of thinking golf in America
7. Shinnecock Hills--ideal course; challenging and playable for anyone
8. Muirfield--perfect routing, wonderful holes
9. Peachtree--lil' Augusta National
10. Kiawah Ocean--like Shinnecock, challenging and playable
11. Dismal River--thrilling golf
12. Kingsley Club--unique golf, incredible setting
13. Shoreacres--wonderfully pleasant course
14. Cal Club--great mix of green sites and challenges
15. Sebonack--the tee to green thrill of Nicklaus with great Doak routing and greens
16. Chicago Golf--the best bunkered courses I've played
17. Fishers Island--OMG!!!  Beauty combined with thinking golf.  Great routing.
18. The Honors Course--big and brawny with subtle strategic nuances
19. Bandon Dunes--great intro to links style of golf
20. Crail Balcomie--magical
21. Rustic Canyon--rugged and subtle. Great mix.
22. Crystal Downs--great routing, cool mix of nines
23. Prairie Dunes--strategic golf, great bunkering
24. Garden City--cool journey from town to meadow and back
25. Baltusrol Lower--wonderfully deceptive bunkering and a big dose of execution risk on shots.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean Leary on November 18, 2012, 05:28:04 PM
I think my year is complete regarding seeing new golf courses.  So here is my updated favorites list.

1. The Old Course--the ultimate in thinking golf
2. The Golf Club--wonderful journey in ideal setting
3. Old MacDonald--epic adventure over incredible terrain
4. NGLA--arguably the best collection of golf holes in the world
5. Sand Hills--incredible serenity with an incomprehensible scale
6. Pinehurst #2--perhaps the best example of thinking golf in America
7. Shinnecock Hills--ideal course; challenging and playable for anyone
8. Muirfield--perfect routing, wonderful holes
9. Peachtree--lil' Augusta National
10. Kiawah Ocean--like Shinnecock, challenging and playable
11. Dismal River--thrilling golf
12. Kingsley Club--unique golf, incredible setting
13. Shoreacres--wonderfully pleasant course
14. Cal Club--great mix of green sites and challenges
15. Sebonack--the tee to green thrill of Nicklaus with great Doak routing and greens
16. Chicago Golf--the best bunkered courses I've played
17. Fishers Island--OMG!!!  Beauty combined with thinking golf.  Great routing.
18. The Honors Course--big and brawny with subtle strategic nuances
19. Bandon Dunes--great intro to links style of golf
20. Crail Balcomie--magical
21. Rustic Canyon--rugged and subtle. Great mix.
22. Crystal Downs--great routing, cool mix of nines
23. Prairie Dunes--strategic golf, great bunkering
24. Garden City--cool journey from town to meadow and back
25. Baltusrol Lower--wonderfully deceptive bunkering and a big dose of execution risk on shots.


No Ballyneal? You trying to get yourself thrown out of the Beardpullers Hall Of Fame , mister? ;)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on November 18, 2012, 09:48:55 PM
No disrespect to Ballyneal meant, Sean.  I just like these courses a bit more.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sam Morrow on November 18, 2012, 11:21:31 PM
No disrespect to Ballyneal meant, Sean.  I just like these courses a bit more.

Dismal in your top 25 but no Ballyneal, 13 pages...........
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on November 19, 2012, 09:31:35 AM
No disrespect to Ballyneal meant, Sean.  I just like these courses a bit more.

Dismal in your top 25 but no Ballyneal, 13 pages...........

Again, no disrespect meant to the course at all.  I hold it in high regard and have it high in my personal rankings.  Two things keep it out of my Top 25...

1)  It is walking only...it is not an easy walk...and I have issues walking.  Since this is a list of my "favorites", this is a serious issue for me.

2)  The fescue greens in that climate don't appear to be an ideal fit.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on November 19, 2012, 09:32:21 AM
I think my year is complete regarding seeing new golf courses.  So here is my updated favorites list.

1. The Old Course--the ultimate in thinking golf
2. The Golf Club--wonderful journey in ideal setting
3. Old MacDonald--epic adventure over incredible terrain
4. NGLA--arguably the best collection of golf holes in the world
5. Sand Hills--incredible serenity with an incomprehensible scale
6. Pinehurst #2--perhaps the best example of thinking golf in America
7. Shinnecock Hills--ideal course; challenging and playable for anyone
8. Muirfield--perfect routing, wonderful holes
9. Peachtree--lil' Augusta National
10. Kiawah Ocean--like Shinnecock, challenging and playable
11. Dismal River--thrilling golf
12. Kingsley Club--unique golf, incredible setting
13. Shoreacres--wonderfully pleasant course
14. Cal Club--great mix of green sites and challenges
15. Sebonack--the tee to green thrill of Nicklaus with great Doak routing and greens
16. Chicago Golf--the best bunkered courses I've played
17. Fishers Island--OMG!!!  Beauty combined with thinking golf.  Great routing.
18. The Honors Course--big and brawny with subtle strategic nuances
19. Bandon Dunes--great intro to links style of golf
20. Crail Balcomie--magical
21. Rustic Canyon--rugged and subtle. Great mix.
22. Crystal Downs--great routing, cool mix of nines
23. Prairie Dunes--strategic golf, great bunkering
24. Garden City--cool journey from town to meadow and back
25. Baltusrol Lower--wonderfully deceptive bunkering and a big dose of execution risk on shots.


Another trip to Bandon is in order methinks...

I'd love to go back to Bandon Dunes...amazing place and an amazing array of courses.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tony_Muldoon on November 19, 2012, 11:11:12 AM
I don’t much like these threads but following by ‘the rules set at the beginning of the thread it seem the only way to get

GANTON

included is to post it with 24 others.

By region – courses I dream of my next round on.

Portrush x 2
RCD
Lahinch
Rosses Point
Rossapenna New
Pennard
Turnberry
Dornoch
Cruden Bay
TOC
TNC
North Berwick
See above
Alwoodley
Brancaster
Addington
Swinley
St Georges Hill
Woking
Hainault Forrest –composite*
Deal
Sandwich
Burnham & Berrow
Chiberta

*1-13 the lower. Tee off on 14 playing to Upper course 14 green, and then 15-18 for a magnificent finish. This is only possible on an early season twighlight.  I am only one of two people known to have played this course and the other one was extremely nervous when we did it as your tee shot on 16 must be played to the 8th fairway which I have christened ‘No Man’s land’.  At that point you have to pray no one suddenly appears on the tee for 16 Upper.  Well worth the risk IMO.  Actually the Lower nearly makes it on it's own just pipped by Sunny Old.

Is everyone who's submitted one of these carrying a nagging doubt that therir memeory is not what it should be.



Three years on 5 Changes*

Portrush x2
RCD
Lahinch
Rosses Point
Ballybunion*
Portmarnock*
Rossapenna Sandy Hills
Pennard
Turnberry
Prestwick*
Dornoch
Cruden Bay
TOC
TNC
Ellie*
North Berwick
Alwoodley
GANTON
Brancaster
Formby*
Addington
Swinley
St Georges Hill
Woking
Hainault
Deal
Sandwich
Burnham & Berrow
Chiberta

I’m a bit concerned that the more I see, the more predictable are my choices.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom Kelly on November 19, 2012, 01:00:15 PM
Whilst not as impressive as most on this thread here are mine so I can compare in a few years time!

In groups of five as after the first few its hard to separate them really and most could quite easily move up or down one or two places.

TOC
Kingston Heath
Royal Dornoch
Barnbougle Dunes
Sunningdale (New)

Notts
North Berwick
Royal Cinque Ports
Carnoustie
Royal Aberdeen

Castle Stuart
Liphook
Woodlands
Kingsbarns
St Andrew's New

Victoria
Commonwealth
Woodhall Spa
Gleneagles (Kings)
Gleneagles (Queens)

Lindrick
Cruden Bay
St Andrew's Beach
Wentworth West
St Andrew's Jubilee

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Brian Colbert on November 19, 2012, 03:40:47 PM
Been about 6 months since I posted mine, so I'll re-up:

Pine Valley Golf Club
Merion Golf Club (East Course)
Oakmont Country Club
Ballyneal
Old MacDonald
Pacific Dunes
Cherry Hills
Garden City Golf Club
Victoria National Golf Club
Butler National Golf Club
Bandon Trails
Bethpage Black
Olympia Fields Country Club
Chambers Bay Golf Club
Sea Island Seaside
Aronimink Golf Club
TPC Sawgrass
Philadelphia Cricket Wissahickon
Beverly Country Club
Lancaster Country Club
White Manor Country Club
Philadelphia Country Club
Saucon Valley Weyhill
Monroe Golf Club
The Dunes Golf & Beach Club
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ivan Morris on November 21, 2012, 08:51:48 AM
Here are my favorite 25 courses (which I have played and would always jump at the chance to play them again. Unlike DD, I did not consider Lahinch, Ballybunion and Doonbeg, where I am a long-standing member) - 1-Merion, Pennsylvania, USA; 2-Pine Valley, New Jersey, USA; 3-Sunningdale Old, England; 4-Sawgrass, Florida, USA; 5-Royal Lytham & St. Anne’s, England; 6-Carnoustie, Scotland; 7-Peach Tree, Georgia, USA; 8-Biarritz Le Phare, France; 9-Royal Birkdale, England; 10-Panmure, Scotland; 11-Valderrama, Andalucia, Spain; 12-Falsterbo, Sweden; 13-North Berwick, Scotland; 14-Yas Island, Abu Dhabi; 15-Waterville, Co. Kerry, Ireland; 16-Royal Portrush, Northern Ireland; 17- The European Club, County Wicklow, Ireland; 18-Portmarnock, Dublin, Ireland; 19-The University Course, New Mexico; 20-Clementader, Paris, France; 21-Cork, Ireland; 22-Rosapenna Old, County Donegal, Ireland; 23-Schloss Langenstein, Germany; 24-Quinta do Peru, Lisbon, Portugal; 25- Las Colinas, Murcia, Spain; 1st Alternate: Rye, Sussex, England.    
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jonathan_becker on February 08, 2013, 01:06:55 PM
....
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Terry Lavin on February 08, 2013, 03:27:06 PM
1.  Sand Hills
2.  Cypress Point
3.  Pacific Dunes
4.  LACC North
5.  Riviera
6.  Prairie Dunes
7.  Chicago Golf Club
8.  Pebble Beach
9.  Pinehurst #2
10. Old Macdonald
11. Shoreacres
12. Friar's Head
13. Olympic Club
14. Olympia Fields North
15. Butler National
16. TPC Sawgrass
17. Medinah #3
18. Erin Hills
19. Bandon Trails
20. Calusa Pines
21. Cherry Hills
22. Shoal Creek
23. Lost Dunes
24. Bandon Dunes
25. Whistling Straits
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jason Topp on February 08, 2013, 04:37:06 PM
Here is my updated list with rankings from 2009 noted.  My critieria is completely subjective - given the choice between the two courses, which would I rather play.

1. (1)   Sand Hills
2. (2)   Royal Melboune West
3. (3)   Dornoch
4. (4)   The Old Course
5.  (5)   Ballybunion
6. (6)   Kingston Heath
7. (7)   Lahinch
8. (8)   Pacific Dunes
9. (*)     Kinloch
10. (*)   Kawana
11. (*)   Dunes at Diamante
12. (10)   Pebble Beach
13. (11)   Turnberry
14. (12)   Bandon Trails
15. (15)   Black Mesa
16. (16)   Barnbougle
17. (17)   New South Wales
18 (20)   Kingsley Club
19 (*)     Cabo del Sol - Ocean
20. (18)   TPC Sawgrass
21. (13)   The Ocean Course at Kiawah
22. (19)   Woodlands
23 (*)     Fallen Oak
24 (9)   North Berwick
25 (*)   White Bear Yacht Club


Courses that have fallen off for me:

14.   Wildhorse
21.   Sutton Bay
22.   Bandon Dunes
24.   Pasatiempo
23.   Harvester
25.   Western Gailes

Ask me tomorrow and the list likely changes.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Andy Troeger on February 08, 2013, 05:41:13 PM
Update, with my last post (2011) rank in ()
1. Pine Valley (1)
2. Cypress Point (2)
3. Pebble Beach (3)
4. Shinnecock Hills (new)
5. Friar's Head (new)
6. Bandon Trails (4)
7. Pete Dye GC (new)
8. Pacific Dunes (7)
9. NGLA (new)
10. The Golf Club--OH (6)
11. Rock Creek (5)
12. TPC Sawgrass Stadium (15)
13. Victoria National (18)
14. Crystal Downs (9)
15. Blackwolf Run River (12)
16. Peachtree (13)
17. Muirfield Village (11)
18. Gozzer Ranch (14)
19. Wade Hampton (new)
20. Bandon Dunes (10)
21. Pikewood National (new)
22. Black Mesa (20)
23. Wolf Run (8 )
24. Riviera (25)
25. Kingsley Club (21)

Fell out...
Chambers Bay (16)...now 26
Alotian Club (17)
Honors Course (19)
Valley Club of Montecito (22)...now 28
Castle Pines (23)
Spyglass Hill (24)

Other newbies Dormie and Yale almost made it. As for all the seemingly random movements in the middle of that grouping, I'll just say that this is a "favorites" list and I could throw #12-25 (and perhaps a few more) in a hat on any given day and I might order them in a slightly different fashion. The gap between #11 and 12 is similar to the gap between #12 and #25. Also not much gap between #6-11.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on February 08, 2013, 06:26:44 PM

11. Rock Creek (5)

23. Wolf Run (8 )

Andy:

Not to pick on you -- I've noticed others just above you doing it, too -- but, did you go back to either Rock Creek and Wolf Run before deciding to drop them below several other courses you rated them above a year ago?

Or were you just "talked out" of some of your more unusual choices by the conventional wisdom of the rankings?

This is why I think it's so silly to try and rank courses from 1 to 25 or 100 or whatever.  It's not even as significant as splitting hairs.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ronald Montesano on February 08, 2013, 06:33:18 PM
I'd rather split hares...especially during mating season.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jason Topp on February 08, 2013, 06:42:55 PM


Andy:

Not to pick on you -- I've noticed others just above you doing it, too -- but, did you go back to either Rock Creek and Wolf Run before deciding to drop them below several other courses you rated them above a year ago?

Or were you just "talked out" of some of your more unusual choices by the conventional wisdom of the rankings?

This is why I think it's so silly to try and rank courses from 1 to 25 or 100 or whatever.  It's not even as significant as splitting hairs.

As one of the "others", in most cases I did not go back to the courses where I changed my ranking.   I just picked which one I would prefer to play if hypothetically all things were equal. That impression evolves and is impacted by a myriad of factors that impact perception.  The interesting part of the process is to go back and try and determine why I chose the order that I did choose.  But, without a doubt, any reasoning is justification after the fact. 

When you identified the distinguishing factor between good and great courses as being the existence of short par fours was that made before or after you had formed a preference?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on February 08, 2013, 06:48:42 PM
When you identified the distinguishing factor between good and great courses as being the existence of short par fours was that made before or after you had formed a preference?

It was an observation, after the fact, of the main difference between the 10's and the 9's as I'd ranked them for The Confidential Guide.

I've always liked short par-4 holes but I was surprised to find that most of my absolute favorite courses had three or four really good short 4's, while many of the top-10-ranked championship courses had one, or zero.  And that's not just the result of modern lengthening -- Winged Foot West only had one short par-4 when it opened, because it was trying hard to be a Championship course.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Andy Troeger on February 08, 2013, 07:42:37 PM

11. Rock Creek (5)

23. Wolf Run (8 )

Andy:

Not to pick on you -- I've noticed others just above you doing it, too -- but, did you go back to either Rock Creek and Wolf Run before deciding to drop them below several other courses you rated them above a year ago?

Or were you just "talked out" of some of your more unusual choices by the conventional wisdom of the rankings?

This is why I think it's so silly to try and rank courses from 1 to 25 or 100 or whatever.  It's not even as significant as splitting hairs.

The first time I posted on this thread I tried to do so alphabetically...and got called out for it. So I put in the numbers, because I've always had them. I'm not going to say that my #14 is a better course than #15...I make small changes all the time on rainy days or during the slow season. I tried to explain the lack of a gap in my previous post because I knew that someone would remark on the shuffling aspect. Your "silly" comment is fair...there's no real difference between courses near each other on that list.

Regarding Rock Creek...it has flipped with The Golf Club about ten times since I played them. Different courses, but I can't separate them. Ironically, it was Pac Dunes and not Old Mac that got a bump up based on playing NGLA. I felt that I liked Pac Dunes a smidge better than NGLA, but that I'd enjoy NGLA more on a regular basis that the courses now behind it. So Pac Dunes went up a bit. Rock Creek fell six spots, but four of those were for new additions.

I've picked on courses forever that I felt were too penal off the tee, and always have forgiven Wolf Run for it because I liked the individual holes so much. As my game has deteriorated from playing less, I am a bit less willing to make that exception. Granted, I still think its one of the top 40 courses (give or take) in the USA with that placement, so I'm still way off compared to the consensus perception. I think Rock Creek is top 20, so I'm high there too. Of course Sawgrass and Victoria National moved up despite being difficult, but I found both of them to be remarkably playable for me from the regular tees, even though they can challenge anybody from the back tees.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on February 09, 2013, 09:35:30 AM
Andy...

I'd love to hear your thoughts/comments on Pikewood. 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Andy Troeger on February 09, 2013, 09:58:46 AM
Mac,

I've never really liked the term "amateur" architects, mainly because some of the classics were designed by guys who only built one course. But Pikewood is an in-house project for the employees of Greer Industries who love golf and I believe at least some of whom are members at Oakmont--so they like tough golf. They also have an appreciation for classic architecture and design principles, however.

The course is mainly cut through trees, but other than three clearing they tried to move as little dirt as possible. The clearing lines are very distinct--once off the playing corridors you're in the forest. But, I wasn't that bothered by that and the course itself has a nice look to it and its a beautiful area. The course is walking only and the property is challenging--18 is enough. There are a couple decent walks from greens to tees, but the entire course feels a bit like you're hiking through the woods and the pathways reminded me of hiking trails a bit. I enjoyed that aspect of it, but if you're looking for a core routing this isn't the place.

There are only two sets of tees--long and longer. The short ones are 6900 yards. I was admittedly worried about that--I can handle the yardage but obviously the course is designed for good golfers. You do have to be a pretty decent ball-striker to get around. There are quite a few forced carries, although the most challenging ones are the last two par threes. That said, my uncle in his mid-60's who is usually around a 13 handicap handled it fine and shot in the low 90's. It has pretty significant width of playing corridors, and we managed to find the ball a couple times when someone found the woods. I didn't feel like it played as long as the card indicated, although there is a mix of downhill and uphill holes. Even at that length, the variety of holes was good although most of them are fairly challenging. The course lacks a great short par four. It does have a cool short par three with a natural waterfall and rock formation which is pretty cool.

I give it major props for the quality of the longer par fours, which don't get redundant. The first par three had a nice view, but the last three were really interesting golf holes too. Its very private with only a few members in addition to Greer Industries itself--so they designed it for themselves as a players' course. Its not for everybody, but for a decent player its a neat experience and fun challenge. If it had a shorter set of tees and a short par four I'd probably have it about ten spots higher.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on February 09, 2013, 10:01:50 AM
Thanks, Andy!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Saltzman on February 09, 2013, 10:19:43 PM

11. Rock Creek (5)

23. Wolf Run (8 )

Andy:

Not to pick on you -- I've noticed others just above you doing it, too -- but, did you go back to either Rock Creek and Wolf Run before deciding to drop them below several other courses you rated them above a year ago?

Or were you just "talked out" of some of your more unusual choices by the conventional wisdom of the rankings?

This is why I think it's so silly to try and rank courses from 1 to 25 or 100 or whatever.  It's not even as significant as splitting hairs.

Tom, not to speak for Andy, but in my experience recency has a massive impact on my list of favorite courses.  I know I loved The Prairie Club (Dunes) course when I played it 30 months ago.  I said it was one of the top-30 modern courses in the country and I would have been happy to defend that position.  As time goes by I remember less and less about the course, I see more modern courses, and I feel less confident in my ability to defend that position.  As a result, it may drop in my list of favourites.

But, the rating I gave the course for Golfweek has not changed and there is zero chance I would go back and change it (unless I re-played the course).  There is no recency effect when all courses you play are immediately rated.  I almost think that if someone is truly interested in keeping a list of favourites, they should come up with their ranking system or set of criteria.  Otherwise, at least in my experience, your top-25 list becomes some mix of courses you've played recently and courses you loved a while ago, though you can't exactly explain why.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on February 09, 2013, 10:39:37 PM

Tom, not to speak for Andy, but in my experience recency has a massive impact on my list of favorite courses.  I know I loved The Prairie Club (Dunes) course when I played it 30 months ago.  I said it was one of the top-30 modern courses in the country and I would have been happy to defend that position.  As time goes by I remember less and less about the course, I see more modern courses, and I feel less confident in my ability to defend that position.  As a result, it may drop in my list of favourites.

But, the rating I gave the course for Golfweek has not changed and there is zero chance I would go back and change it (unless I re-played the course).  There is no recency effect when all courses you play are immediately rated.  I almost think that if someone is truly interested in keeping a list of favourites, they should come up with their ranking system or set of criteria.  Otherwise, at least in my experience, your top-25 list becomes some mix of courses you've played recently and courses you loved a while ago, though you can't exactly explain why.

Mark:

That's a good point, and it is one big difference between the GOLF DIGEST system, where you try to rate a bunch of factors independently of other courses, and the other magazine rankings, which are more comparative in nature.  [How you can say that your "7.7" or whatever in the GOLFWEEK system is a fixed reference, I don't know.]

Ranking golf courses IS, after all, a comparative endeavour, and I still haven't seen anyone come up with a formula to explain what's a great course that I would agree with, so ... I can't agree with you there.

Indeed, I am struggling with the same issues as I start to update and re-edit The Confidential Guide.  There are many courses described that I haven't been back to in twenty years now.  Leaving aside the fact that some of them have been changed, my own ideas of golf have changed a little bit over that time.  Plus, I am a sucker for things that are different, and over time and more travels you find that the uniqueness factor for some courses wanes, while for others it just keeps getting stronger.  I'm going back through the UK courses now, and I find that I want to bump up the scores for many of the smaller courses, because in hindsight, what the rest of the world is missing is more courses like those. 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on February 09, 2013, 10:45:51 PM

The first time I posted on this thread I tried to do so alphabetically...and got called out for it. So I put in the numbers, because I've always had them. I'm not going to say that my #14 is a better course than #15...I make small changes all the time on rainy days or during the slow season. I tried to explain the lack of a gap in my previous post because I knew that someone would remark on the shuffling aspect. Your "silly" comment is fair...there's no real difference between courses near each other on that list.

Regarding Rock Creek...it has flipped with The Golf Club about ten times since I played them. Different courses, but I can't separate them. Ironically, it was Pac Dunes and not Old Mac that got a bump up based on playing NGLA. I felt that I liked Pac Dunes a smidge better than NGLA, but that I'd enjoy NGLA more on a regular basis that the courses now behind it. So Pac Dunes went up a bit. Rock Creek fell six spots, but four of those were for new additions.

I've picked on courses forever that I felt were too penal off the tee, and always have forgiven Wolf Run for it because I liked the individual holes so much. As my game has deteriorated from playing less, I am a bit less willing to make that exception. Granted, I still think its one of the top 40 courses (give or take) in the USA with that placement, so I'm still way off compared to the consensus perception. I think Rock Creek is top 20, so I'm high there too. Of course Sawgrass and Victoria National moved up despite being difficult, but I found both of them to be remarkably playable for me from the regular tees, even though they can challenge anybody from the back tees.

Andy:

Thanks for your response.  I hadn't picked up on the fact that Rock Creek dropping so far was due to the insertion of several courses you hadn't seen before.  I just know there are a lot of people who feel compelled over time to slide their initial judgments of an "outlier" course back closer to the consensus, even though they have not really revised their own thoughts about the outlier course. 

Peer pressure on the rankings is insidious.  If it were up to me I would never allow panelists to compare notes, only to recommend whether another panelist should go out of his way to see a new course, or not.

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Andy Troeger on February 10, 2013, 01:42:46 AM
Mark,
There is certainly a recency effect for me as well. Of courses that give me really good first impressions, I find that about half of them having staying power and the other half drop a tier or two over time. Sometimes the good vibrations last a few weeks, other times a few years before the slide. When I first played them (and before I added a number of the courses now listed), Wolf Run was my #2, Paa-Ko Ridge #3, and Chambers Bay #3. On the other hand, Victoria National started at #15 in 2009 and has moved up even though seven of the courses ahead of it now were added later. Paa-Ko is the one course I've played quite a few times now--I still like it more than most do but the mountain scenery is admittedly not quite as spectacular after awhile.

Tom,
I think Golf Digest would probably prefer that panelists not ever rate courses together--which is a bit different from GolfWeek and their rater outings. Its hard to avoid entirely--I have too many rater friends at this point. But I think we make a point to never discuss actual ratings.

I do think there is one positive that comes out of discussing courses with others (not the specific numbers) and that is that it often forces me to justify why I like or dislike a course. Most of the time I have pretty specific reasons and can articulate them, whether or not the other party agrees with me. Every once in awhile I hear a point I hadn't noticed or considered previously. For one course, a poster here made a point that a certain course had very little variety in the sense that almost every hole was mid-length, including 3's, 4's, and 5's. When I went back and reviewed my notes and the scorecard, I found it to be true, even though I hadn't noticed it on my actual playing of the course. I would say that type of thing is pretty unusual, for me at least.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on February 10, 2013, 03:34:26 AM
I'm going back through the UK courses now, and I find that I want to bump up the scores for many of the smaller courses, because in hindsight, what the rest of the world is missing is more courses like those.


Hmmm, I think this is what many in GB&I (and Pietro P) have been arguing for a very long time.  Along these same lines, as a general group of courses I have seen in photo tours, the not so well known courses of northeastern US have been a real eye opener.  There is a ton of interesting architecture floating around there that goes unappreciated.

Ciao 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean Walsh on February 11, 2013, 03:33:23 AM
1. TOC
2. Barnbougle Lost Farm
3. Barnbougle Dunes

4. County Louth
5. Lahinch
6. Kingston Heath
7. Royal Dornoch
8. Royal Portrush
9. Brora
10. Muirfield

11. North Berwick
12 Ballybunion
13. The Island
14 Victoria
15. Port Fairy
16 Ganton

17 The Eden (not bad for a 15 hole course ;) )
18 Barwon Heads
19 St Andrews Beach

20 Kingsbarns
21 Hoylake
22 Commonwelath
23 Royal Lytham and St Anne's

24 The New
25 Royal Aberdeen
26 Horsham/Carne/Royal Zoute/Enniscrone
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott Warren on February 11, 2013, 04:53:52 AM
Sean,

How far out of that picture is Thirteenth Beach (Beach)? I personally have it just ahead of your #18, Barwon Heads.

I love seeing Co. Louth so high. What about it earns such lofty praise from you?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean Walsh on February 11, 2013, 05:37:05 AM
Scott,

My list was done without referring to notes or stroke-savers.  So off the top of my head, all from course I've played in the last 10 years (Horsham the exception I might have played that 11 years ago).  As such memorable holes and just having fun at the place were probably likely to improve your placing on the list. 

Re 13th Beach v Barwon Heads.  I think the latter has the better top end holes.  Two GREAT par 3's.  13th Beach I've only played for the hundred hole hike and not long after it opened.  With the proviso that a lot of my golf wasn't exactly vintage for the hike I would say that 13th beach is a tougher course than Barwon Heads but most approaches are reasonably narrow. Not exactly taking the ground game away but definitely diminishing its effectiveness.  On a links course thats a slight negative for me.  Also although it is consistently good golf I don't think it has the great holes to elevate above its neighbours.  I'm probably off Brett's Christmas Card list now.

For County Louth, mainly it's the 14th.  Definitely in the top 5 holes I have ever played.  It has quirk, in the form of the 3rd.  The 4th fairway is just great.  Love a good humpy fairway (Ballyliffin Old nearly makes my 25 or so just for some of the holes out the Western end for this reason alone).  Some very good par 3's taking out the 17th which I believe has been altered since my visits.  I also love the 16th a great natural green site on a longish par 4.  7 Holes without a greenside bunker (including some of it's best 4, 12, 14 & 16).  For some reason it just matches the way I want to play my golf.  I loved Lahinch, Ballybunion, The Island, Portrush, Carne and Enniscrone but of all the course I've played in Ireland this is the one I'd join in a heartbeat. It's not a course trying too hard.  The land and the wind dictates the golf.  That said 17 was poor and it's unfortunate that 18 is placed where it is in the round. A 559yd par 5 is a tough finish.  Although it's nowhere near as bad as Tralee's finishing hole (466yds straight uphill)   
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on July 28, 2013, 07:22:46 AM
Sean

Talk to me about Horsham.  I love it when odd names pop up for these things.

Does anybody else want a go or like to update?

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Eric Smith on September 25, 2013, 03:19:30 PM
My updated favorites list 9/25/2013

St Andrews
Sebonack
Machrihanish
Dismal River White
Dismal River Red
Renaissance
Pennard
National Golf Links
Wolf Point
Sand Hills
North Berwick
Shinnecock Hills
Prairie Dunes
Ballyneal
Prestwick
Machrihanish Dunes
Sleepy Hollow
Royal Cinque Ports
Turnberry
Royal Porthcawl
Boston
Merion
Kingsley
Pasatiempo
Pinehurst No.2
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Marc Haring on September 25, 2013, 03:58:57 PM
1.   Saunton East
2.   Birkdale
3.   Royal St Georges
4.   Deal
5.   Rye
6.   Berkshire Red
7.   Berkshire Blue
8.   Sunningdale Old
9.   Sunningdale New
10.   Royal North Devon
11.   Burnham and Berrow
12.   Hankley Common
13.   Walton Heath Old
14.   Walton Heath New
15.   The Addington
16.   St Enedoc
17.   Gleneagles Kings
18.   Royal Ashdown Forest
19.   St Georges Hill
20.   Swinley Forest
21.   Woking
22.   Alwoodley
23.   Silloth on Solway
24.   Worplesdon
25.   Stoke Park


Need to get across the pond.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Brian Finn on September 25, 2013, 04:14:24 PM
I have never posted my list here...my 25 favorites:

Sleepy Hollow
Bethpage Black
Pinehurst #2
Plainfield CC
The Golf Club
Portmarnock
Yale
The Creek
Kiawah Ocean
Rock Creek Cattle
Kirtland CC
Dormie Club
Brookside CC
Harbour Town
Spyglass
Streamsong Blue
Pete Dye GC
Chechesee Creek
Scioto CC
Mountain Ridge CC
Streamsong Red
Tobacco Road
Long Cove
Giant's Ridge - Quarry
Moraine CC

Hoping Kingsley will meet/beat expectations and knock one of these off after the MW Mashie!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Arata on September 25, 2013, 04:49:13 PM
1 NGLA
2 Cypress Point
3 Prairie Dunes
4 Royal Dornoch
5 Fishers Island
6 LACC north
7 North Berwick
8 Riviera
9 Yale
10 St Andrews Old
11 Pebble Beach
12 SFGC
13 Pasatiempo
14 Pacific Dunes
15 Old Mac
16 Crystal Downs
17 Friars Head
18 Yeaman's Hall
19 Sebonack
20 Cal Club
21 The Alwoodley
22 Murifield
23 Woodhall Spa
24 Knotts (Hollinwell)
25 Rustic Canyon/Ganton/Royal Aberdeen
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: David Kelly on September 25, 2013, 04:52:46 PM
1 NGLA
2 Cypress Point
3 Prairie Dunes
4 Royal Dornoch
5 Fishers Island
6 LACC north
7 North Berwick
8 Riviera
9 Yale
10 St Andrews Old
11 Pebble Beach
12 SFGC
13 Pasatiempo
14 Pacific Dunes
15 Old Mac
16 Crystal Downs
17 Friars Head
18 Yeaman's Hall
19 Sebonack
20 Cal Club
21 The Alwoodley
22 Murifield
23 Woodhall Spa
24 Knotts (Hollinwell)
25 Rustic Canyon/Ganton/Royal Aberdeen

Rustic Canyon/Ganton/Royal Aberdeen are all head and shoulders above Woodhall Spa.  But otherwise, nice.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ash Towe on September 25, 2013, 05:17:12 PM
After my recent travels.  This was not easy and I have left some terrific courses out.  In no particular order:

 Cypress Point
Sand Hills
Ballyneal
Pacific Dunes
Old MacDonald
Barnbougle
Royal Melbourne West
Royal Lytham
Royal Birkdale
Turnberry
Cape Kidnappers
Plainfield
San Francisco Golf Club
Ballybunion Old
Portmarnock
Sunningdale Old
Sunningdale New
Merion East
Winged Foot West
Winged Foot East
NGLA
Friars Head
St Andrews Old
Muirfield
Royal County Down
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark_F on September 25, 2013, 05:20:20 PM
Are you still able to play, Ash?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ash Towe on September 25, 2013, 05:25:48 PM
Hi Mark,

Good to hear from you.

Yes I can still  play but it is getting harder.  Cartball is looking likely soon but it is to expensive on a regular basis.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on September 25, 2013, 09:21:59 PM
After my recent travels.  This was not easy and I have left some terrific courses out.  In no particular order:

 Cypress Point
Sand Hills
Ballyneal
Pacific Dunes
Old MacDonald
Barnbougle
Royal Melbourne West
Royal Lytham
Royal Birkdale
Turnberry
Cape Kidnappers
Plainfield
San Francisco Golf Club
Ballybunion Old
Portmarnock
Sunningdale Old
Sunningdale New
Merion East
Winged Foot West
Winged Foot East
NGLA
Friars Head
St Andrews Old
Muirfield
Royal County Down


Jesus, Ash, that is a pretty impressive list.  Now I'm not sure whether I should invite you up to Tara-Iti or not  ;)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ash Towe on September 25, 2013, 10:48:13 PM
Tom,

I hope you will, there needs to be another Kiwi course on this list.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Franklin on September 26, 2013, 09:20:11 AM
Here is my updated list:

1. Cypress Point
2. National Golf Links
3. Pine Valley
4. The Old Course
5. Shinnecock Hills
6. Rock Creek Cattle Company
7. Sand Hills
8. Pacific Dunes
9. Prairie Dunes
10. Fishers Island
11. Oakmont
12. Merion
13. San Francisco GC
14. Victoria National
15. Old Macdonald
16. Sagebrush
17. Ballyneal
18. Friars Head
19. Chicago GC
20. Winged Foot (West)
21. Pabble Beach
22. Crystal Downs
23. Turnberry (Ailsa)
24. Milwaukee CC
25. Pete Dye GC

Just a few new places.




Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: J_ Crisham on September 26, 2013, 09:32:51 AM
I've looked thru the last several posters and noted an absence of Milwaukee CC and Camargo. Why no love for these 2 gems?
                                                                                             
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Franklin on September 26, 2013, 09:46:09 AM
I've looked thru the last several posters and noted an absence of Milwaukee CC and Camargo. Why no love for these 2 gems?
                                                                                             

I have not played Camargo and actually omitted Milwaukee by mistake. I have Milwaukee ahead of Gozzer and Pete Dye. I loved that place. I will edit now.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Brian Finn on September 26, 2013, 10:01:05 AM
I've looked thru the last several posters and noted an absence of Milwaukee CC and Camargo. Why no love for these 2 gems?
                                                                                             

I have not played either course.  

I am hoping to see Camargo soon, and based on my love for all of the other MacRaynor courses I have played, I am confident it will be quite high on my personal list.  A friend here in Columbus recently shared his photos with me, and they were stunning.  

I know less about Milwaukee CC, but hope to do a Wisconsin trip next Spring.  Some pretty well-versed guys have told me it is underrated (even while it does appear on all the magazine lists).
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: J_ Crisham on September 26, 2013, 10:02:31 AM
I've looked thru the last several posters and noted an absence of Milwaukee CC and Camargo. Why no love for these 2 gems?
                                                                                             

I have not played Camargo and actually omitted Milwaukee by mistake. I have Milwaukee ahead of Gozzer and Pete Dye. I loved that place. I will edit now.
Jim,     I didn't want to sound as though I was calling guys out- I just think the world of Milwaukee CC. I put it as the best in Wisconsin. If it were in Chicago it would easily be top 2 or 3. Your list looks very similar to mine- in fact your top 12 is identical with the exception of PV and RCCC which I have yet to play. I have Portrush and Royal CD in those spots. Nice lists to look back on- great memories for me.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Franklin on September 26, 2013, 10:28:58 AM
I played Milwaukee CC in low 40 degree temps and wind blowing 25+ all day and LOVED the course. I can't imagine how much I would love it if I was able to feel my fingers and make a decent golf swing. It is truly a special place and the only Chicago course I rank ahead of it is Chicago GC and it is my favorite Wisconsin track. I was wearing my Milwaukee CC hat the other day and discussing how much I loved that course to a friend of mine.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: J_ Crisham on September 26, 2013, 10:35:16 AM
I played Milwaukee CC in low 40 degree temps and wind blowing 25+ all day and LOVED the course. I can't imagine how much I would love it if I was able to feel my fingers and make a decent golf swing. It is truly a special place and the only Chicago course I rank ahead of it is Chicago GC and it is my favorite Wisconsin track. I was wearing my Milwaukee CC hat the other day and discussing how much I loved that course to a friend of mine.
+1
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Simon Holt on October 02, 2013, 05:12:39 PM
Not sure if I can get to 25......in fact I am going to throw caution to the wind and list them in order of how much fun I have/had playing there.  Some may be 'better' courses in terms of GCA but these put a smile on my face which is what its all about.

In paranthesis my top 10 in GCA terms

1. North Berwick  (6)
2. Cypress Point  (2)
3. Royal Dornoch  (5)
4. Pine Valley  (1)
5. TOC  (4)
6. Muirfield  (3)
7. Pasatiempo (8)
8. Renaissance Club  (7)
9. Kingsbarns (10)
10. Royal Troon (9)
11. Spyglass Hill
12. Hoylake
13. Bethpage Black
14. Gullane No. 1
15. Loch Lomond
16. Kilspindie
17. Leven
18. Dunbar
19. Champions
20. Shadow Hawk
21. Brora
22. Elie
23. Crail (Balcomie)
24. Leven
25. Stanwich

I need to play more courses!!!

3.5 years and a lot of air miles later.  This is as objective(ish) as I can be about what is actually on the ground.  My experiences at these wonderful places and the wonderful places not on the list, would probably make for more interesting read.

Pine Valley
Muirfield
TOC
NGLA
RCD
Cypress Point
ANGC
Portrush
Royal Dornoch
Seminole
Friar's Head
North Berwick
Sunningdale Old
Merion
Dismal Red
Ballyneal
Muirfield Village
Trump Scotland
Cruden Bay
Garden City Mens Club
Prestwick
Streamsong Blue
Maidstone
Turnberry
Pasatiempo
Kingsbarns
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Michael Felton on October 07, 2013, 05:11:15 PM
If you ask me tomorrow you'd probably get a different list, but, in order, here we go:

Pine Valley
Turnberry Ailsa
Muirfield
The Old Course
Royal St George's
Ballybunion
Winged Foot West
Walton Heath Old
Kingsbarns
Royal Porthcawl
Sunningdale Old
Royal Liverpool
Walton Heath New
Winged Foot East
Merion
Bethpage Black
Ganton
Swinley Forest
Hunstanton
Royal Cinque Ports
Rye
Sunningdale New
Kiawah Island Ocean
Galloway National
TPC Sawgrass
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Foley on October 08, 2013, 08:49:44 AM
Dont you people have jobs / families?? I am amazed by some of these lists!

1   Sand Hills
2   Kiahaw – Ocean Course
3   Pinehurst #2
4   Oakmont
5   Yale
6   Dormie
7   Wildhorse
8   Kittansett
9   Devils Paintbrush
10   Bayonne
11   Leatherstocking
12   Arcadia Bluffs
13   Kapalua – Plantation
14   MPCC - Shore
15   Oak Hill East
16   Pasatiempo
17   Eastward Ho
18   Bandon Dunes
19   We-Ko-Pa - Sagurao
20   PGA West – Stadium
21   Kingsley Club
22   Oak Hill West
23   TPC Sawgrass
24   Crumpin Fox
25   Monroe
24   Misquamicut
25   Farmlinks
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jason Topp on October 08, 2013, 01:03:13 PM
1.   Sand Hills
2.   Royal Melboune West
3.   Dornoch
4.   The Old Course
5.   Ballybunion
6.   Kingston Heath
7.   Lahinch
8.   Pacific Dunes
9.   North Berwick
10.   Pebble Beach
11.   Turnberry
12.   Bandon Trails
13.   The Ocean Course at Kiawah
14.   Wildhorse
15.   Black Mesa
16.   Barnbougle
17.   New South Wales
18.   TPC Sawgrass
19.   Woodlands
20.   Kingsley Club
21.   Sutton Bay
22.   Bandon Dunes
23.   Harvester
24.   Pasatiempo
25.   Western Gailes



Interesting to look back.  I know I would add Kinloch and Royal Porthcawl to this list and place Kinloch in the 10-15 range and Porthcawl a bit lower.  I might add Pennard.  Fallen Oak is pretty close but probably would not make the list.  Wildhorse looks way too high from my fading memory and is a potential to drop from the list entirely to make room for others. Turnberry is too high. Lahinch I would need to think about.  I would probably drop Western Gailes and Bandon Dunes off the list even though I really like both.


Thoughts two additional years later:

1.   Sand Hills
2.      Royal Melboune West
3.      Dornoch
4.      The Old Course
5.      Ballybunion
6.      Kingston Heath
7.      Lahinch
8.      Pacific Dunes
9     Kawana
10.     Pinehurst No. 2
11      Pebble Beach
13.     Kingsley Club
14.     Kinloch
15.     Dunes at Diamante
16.      Royal Porthcawl
17.      Bandon Trails
18.      The Ocean Course at Kiawah
19.      Cabo del Sol Ocean
20.      Black Mesa
21.      New South Wales
22.      TPC Sawgrass
23.      North Berwick
24.      Old Town
25.    Palmetto

Additions:  Kawana, Pinehurst No. 2, Kinloch, Dunes at Diamante, Royal Porthcawl, Cabo Del Sol Ocean, Old Town – I had not played any of these in 2009.  I am not sure when I played Palmetto but I think it belongs on the list.

Deletions with former number:  Turnberry(11!)(In retrospect, I cannot vouch for the quality of holes 1-3; 13-15 and 18); Wildhorse (14)(My memory for this course has unfortunately faded so I am very unsure of this decision); Barnbougle Dunes (16);  Woodlands (19); Sutton Bay (21 NLE); Bandon Dunes (22); Harvester (23); Pasatiempo (24); Western Gailes (25)

Significant Demotions:  North Berwick (9-24)(memory fades a bit but I do not remember outstanding holes on the outward 9 other than 2 and 1 is a truly bad hole);

Significant Promotion – Kingsley (20-13)– I loved the course when I visited and suspect I was guarded in my ranking at the time because it was so recent.

Newly played courses considered but excluded:  Pennard (really close call); White Bear Yacht Club  (routing is biggest drawback for me because of the repetitive climb up and down steep small hills that creates some strange playing characteristics); Pine Needles, Dormie and Mid Pines (loved them but not enough to knock out any on the list).   


Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on October 08, 2013, 01:49:34 PM
delete
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt Bosela on October 08, 2013, 05:47:55 PM
I enter this thread every two years just to see how my list has evolved - it's quite amazing to see the differences:

December 19, 2009

Oakmont CC, Oakmont, PA (H. Fownes - 1903)
Riviera CC, Pacific Palisades, CA (G. Thomas - 1927)
Sagebrush Golf & Sporting Club, Quilchena, BC, CAN (R. Whitman, R. Zokol & A. Suny - 2008)
Westmount GCC, Kitchener, ON, CAN (S. Thompson - 1931)
St. Thomas GCC, Union, ON, CAN (S. Thompson - 1922)

Princeville - Prince Course, Princeville, HI (R. Trent Jones Jr - 1990)
Glen Abbey GC, Oakville, ON, CAN (J. Nicklaus - 1976)
Brantford GCC, Brantford, ON, CAN (S. Thompson - 1906)
Muskoka Bay GC, Gravenhurst, ON, CAN (D. Carrick - 2006)
Bigwin Island, Baysville, ON, CAN (D. Carrick - 2001)

Eagles Nest, Maple, ON, CAN (D. Carrick - 2004)
Oviinbyrd, Footsbay, ON, CAN (T. McBroom - 2004)
Warren GC at Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN (B. Coore & B. Crenshaw - 1999)
Devil's Pulpit, Caledon Village, ON, CAN (Dr. M. Hurdzan & D. Fry - 1990)
Tanglewood Park - Championship, Clemmons, NC (R. Trent Jones - 1956)

Burlington GCC, Burlington, ON, CAN (S. Thompson - 1922)
Lookout Point CC, Fonthill, ON, CAN (W. Travis - 1922)
Cog Hill - Dubsdread, Lemont, IL (D. Wilson & J. Lee - 1964)
Taboo, Gravenhurst, ON, CAN (R. Garl - 2002)
Osprey Valley - Heathlands, Caledon, ON, CAN (D. Carrick - 1992)

Tobiano, Kamloops, BC, CAN (T. McBroom - 2007)
Rosedale GCC, Toronto, ON, CAN (D. Ross - 1893)
Bear Mountain - Mountain Course, Victoria, BC, CAN (J. Nicklaus & S. Nicklaus - 2005)
Hammock Beach - Ocean Course, Palm Coast, FL (J. Nicklaus - 2000)
Osprey Valley - Hoot (Wasteland), Caledon, ON, CAN (D. Carrick - 2001)[/quote]

------------------------------------------------------

September 13, 2011

Sand Hills GC, Mullen, NE, USA (B. Coore & B. Crenshaw - 1995)
National Golf Links of America, Southampton, NY, USA (C.B. Macdonald - 1911)
Oakmont CC, Oakmont, PA, USA (H. Fownes - 1903)
Pacific Dunes, Bandon, OR, USA (T. Doak - 2001)
Ballyneal Golf & Hunt Club, Holyoke, CO, USA (T. Doak)

Bethpage State Park (Black), Farmingdale, NY, USA (A.W. Tillinghast & J. Burbeck - 1936)
Riviera CC, Pacific Palisades, CA, USA (G. Thomas - 1927)
Old Macdonald, Bandon, OR, USA (T. Doak & J. Urbina - 2010)
Sagebrush Golf & Sporting Club, Quilchena, BC, CAN (R. Whitman, R. Zokol & A. Suny - 2008)
Muirfield Village GC, Dublin, OH, USA (J. Nicklaus & D. Muirhead - 1974)

Hamilton GCC (West/South), Ancaster, ON, CAN (H.S. Colt - 1915)
Bandon Trails, Bandon, OR, USA (B. Coore & B. Crenshaw - 2005)
Scioto CC, Columbus, OH, USA (D. Ross - 1916)
Bandon Dunes, Bandon, OR, USA (D. McLay Kidd - 1999)
Sebonack, Southampton, NY, USA (J. Nicklaus & T. Doak - 2006)

Westmount GCC, Kitchener, ON, CAN (S. Thompson - 1931)
St. Thomas GCC, Union, ON, CAN (S. Thompson - 1922)
Princeville - Prince Course, Princeville, HI, USA (R. Trent Jones Jr - 1990)
National GC of Canada, Woodbridge, ON, CAN (G. Fazio & T. Fazio - 1975)
Glen Abbey GC, Oakville, ON, CAN (J. Nicklaus - 1976)

Scarboro GCC, Scarborough, ON, CAN (A.W. Tillinghast - 1924)
Southampton GC, Southampton, NY, USA (S. Raynor - 1925)
Brantford GCC, Brantford, ON, CAN (S. Thompson - 1906)
Muskoka Bay GC, Gravenhurst, ON, CAN (D. Carrick - 2006)
Bigwin Island, Baysville, ON, CAN (D. Carrick - 2001)

------------------------------------------------------

Now, the current list

October 8, 2013 - New Courses Added in BOLD

Sand Hills GC, Mullen, NE, USA (B. Coore & B. Crenshaw - 1995)
National Golf Links of America, Southampton, NY, USA (C.B. Macdonald - 1911)
Shinnecock Hills GC, Southampton, NY, USA (W. Flynn - 1931)
Oakmont CC, Oakmont, PA, USA (H. Fownes - 1903)
Pebble Beach GL, Pebble Beach, CA, USA (J. Neville & D. Grant - 1919)

Pacific Dunes, Bandon, OR, USA (T. Doak - 2001)
Ballyneal Golf & Hunt Club, Holyoke, CO, USA (T. Doak - 2006)
Winged Foot GC (West), Mamaroneck, NY, USA (A.W. Tillinghast - 1923)
Bethpage State Park (Black), Farmingdale, NY, USA (A.W. Tillinghast & J. Burbeck - 1936)
Riviera CC, Pacific Palisades, CA, USA (G. Thomas - 1927)

St. George's GCC, Etobicoke, ON, CAN (S. Thompson - 1922)
Old Macdonald, Bandon, OR, USA (T. Doak & J. Urbina - 2010)
Muirfield Village GC, Dublin, OH, USA (J. Nicklaus & D. Muirhead - 1974)
Pasatiempo GC, Santa Cruz, CA, USA (A. MacKenzie - 1929)
Bandon Trails, Bandon, OR, USA (B. Coore & B. Crenshaw - 2005)

Bandon Dunes, Bandon, OR, USA (D. McLay Kidd - 1999)
Sebonack, Southampton, NY, USA (J. Nicklaus & T. Doak - 2006)
Sagebrush Golf & Sporting Club, Quilchena, BC, CAN (R. Whitman, R. Zokol & A. Suny - 2008)
Maidstone Club, East Hampton, NY, USA (W. Park Jr & J. Park - 1924)
California GC of San Francisco, South San Francisco, CA, USA (A.V. Macan - 1926)

Hamilton GCC (West/South), Ancaster, ON, CAN (H.S. Colt - 1915)
Monterey Peninsula CC (Shore), Pebble Beach, CA, USA (M. Strantz - 2004)
Scioto CC, Columbus, OH, USA (D. Ross - 1916)
The Course at Yale, New Haven, CT, USA (C.B. Macdonald, S. Raynor & C. Banks - 1926)
Castle Pines GC, Castle Rock, CO, USA (J. Nicklaus - 1981)

The honorable mention list includes Devil's Paintbrush, Fenway GC and Colorado GC and also the courses that dropped off my last list: National GC of Canada, Princeville (Prince), Westmount GCC, Scarboro GCC, Southampton GC, Muskoka Bay GC, St. Thomas GCC, Bigwin Island, Glen Abbey GC, Brantford GCC

Boy, I need to get overseas, STAT!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bart Bradley on October 08, 2013, 06:00:11 PM
Oh what the heck:

Royal Melbourne
Shinnecock
Merion East
Ballybunion
Lahinch
Ballyneal
The Old Course
Cypress Point
Sand Hills
Oakmont
Pebble Beach
Royal Dornoch
Barnbougle Dunes
Royal St. Georges
Royal County Down
Bandon Trails
Prestwick
Royal Birkdale
Banff Springs
Pacific Dunes
Turnberry Ailsa
Royal Lytham and St. Anne's
Crystal Downs
Sunningdale Old
San Francisco

near misses:  Jasper Park, Morfontaine, N. Berwick,  Deal, Kingsbarns, Rye, Sunningdale New, LA CC North, Swinley Forest, Kingston Heath

Playing Plainfield, Winged Foot, and Baltusrol next week...Will any of those crack this list?

Bart
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Greg Gilson on October 08, 2013, 06:21:36 PM
Playing Plainfield, Winged Foot, and Baltusrol next week...Will any of those crack this list?


Not if you are using my criteria!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Larry_Keltto on October 09, 2013, 01:29:35 AM
I define "top" as those I have enjoyed playing the most. Here goes:

1. Ballyneal
2. Sand Hills
3. Pennard
4. Ballybunion
5. Lahinch
6. Turnberry
7. Royal Cinque Ports
8. Crystal Downs
9. Royal Portrush
10. Royal Liverpool
11. Royal Lytham & St. Annes
12. Kingsley Club
13. Pacific Dunes
14. Rye
15. Bandon Dunes
16. Royal County Down
17. Prestwick
18. Minikahda
19. Dacotah Ridge
20. Wild Horse
21. Ardglass
22. Royal Porthcawl
23. Rochester (Minn.) Country Club
24. Castlerock
25. Ashburnham

Honorable mention: Bayside (flawed yet fun), Pyle & Kenfig (my first links), Tenby, The Harvester, Silloth-on-Solway, Owatonna Country Club (my home course)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on October 09, 2013, 03:13:46 AM
Sean, get back and put Sunny old on there right now!  ;D

We should invent a Fantasy Best - at £200 a pop fantasy is surely what Sunny Old is.

When do we get to see the Sheehy Scroll?

Ciao 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Pearce on October 09, 2013, 03:41:53 AM
Beau Desert and Huntercombe dropped from the Arble list?  There's something very wrong with the world....
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on October 09, 2013, 03:55:51 AM
Mark

While I think Beau is improving, I have played some very cool courses these past few years.  Huntercombe is a very frustrating place.  I was there this summer and nearly popped an eye when I saw the rough.  I kid you not there was hay 2 feet high in places.  I am afraid the club has completely lost its way.  There isn't any space to play golf - likely too much attention on giving the dogs a good place to walk. Clear out Huntercombe and it would be back up there in a heartbeat - still one of the most creative designs in England.  

Ciao  
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Pearce on October 09, 2013, 04:26:08 AM
Sean,

I'm with you on the need to lose a good few trees at Huntercombe but I don't recognise that description of the rough.  I was there last month and don't recall it feeling any narrower than it has before.  Seems to me your tolerance of even vaguely narrow playing corridors is decreasing with age!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Nugent on October 09, 2013, 04:42:56 AM
Sean, IIRC you've said real good things about Merion.  But it doesn't make your top 25 or honorable mentions? 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on October 09, 2013, 04:43:43 AM
Maybe they hacked down the rough on the 3rd - it was a sea of hay!  Down the right of the 4th as well.  Besides, these past few years fairways have been moved in around greens.  If you play the course in the winter it becomes quite obvious when trying to chip from the shady, wet areas.  

You are right though, I am fed up with idiotic course presentation.  

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Pearce on October 09, 2013, 04:46:55 AM
They must have done.  I didn't notice anything unusual about the relatively light rough between 3 and 4.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Adam Lawrence on October 09, 2013, 05:46:03 AM
Sean, you should go back to Hockley, I think you'd be impressed. New-ish head greenkeeper Glenn Kirby is getting stuck into an extensive programme of clearing the invasive vegetation. Their ultimate goal is to be regarded as the best downland course in Britain. See this before and after shot of the third hole from Glenn's Twitter feed.

http://t.co/9q8d7FLjYe (http://t.co/9q8d7FLjYe)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Pearce on October 09, 2013, 06:45:46 AM
A quick look at the Hockley website suggests that the course could still benefit from the liberal use of a chainsaw!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Adam Lawrence on October 09, 2013, 06:59:55 AM
It absolutely could - they're just starting what will be a multi-year programme. It has huge potential.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on October 09, 2013, 10:30:11 AM
Adam

I have a lot of time for Hockley and it is pleasing to know they are clearing some crap out - especially on the way up the hill.  Strangely, there are lots of newish plantings which are awful. I will definitely make my way back as its been way too long since my last go.

Jim

I do not believe I have played a better course than Merion, but like Sunny, its expensive as hell and I am told the rough has gotten well out of control.  Unlike Sunny, I would pay full whack to play Merion again.  

Ciao

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill Crane on October 09, 2013, 01:36:36 PM
Revised my list to include courses from our Scottish sojourn last month.  It was awesome, especially Royal Dornoch !!

1)   Pine Valley
2)   Merion
3)   Crystal Downs
4)   Winged Foot West
5)   Pebble Beach
6)   Kittansett
7)   Royal Dornoch
8)   The Old Course, St Andrews
9)   North Berwick
10)   Muirfield Village
11)   Koninklijke Haagsche - Royal Hague
12)   Somerset Hills
13)   Yale
14)   Eastward Ho
15)   Plainfield
16)   TPC Sawgrass
17)   Baltusrol Lower
18)   Chechessee Creek Club
19)   Cruden Bay
20)   Congressional
21)   Round Hill (Ct.)
22)   Cruden Bay
23)   Hidden Creek Club
24)   Galloway
25)   Brora
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on October 09, 2013, 02:15:33 PM
Bill

Cruden Bay must have made a big impression!

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Kirk on October 09, 2013, 04:00:15 PM
Cruden Bay is the Grover Cleveland of golf courses.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Thomas Dai on October 09, 2013, 04:40:08 PM
Bill
Cruden Bay must have made a big impression!
Ciao
Number 19 must be the Championship course
Number 22 must be the St Olaf
All the best
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Saltzman on October 11, 2013, 12:30:40 PM
Another update (and I reserve the right to make changes without notice!)

1   NGLA
2   Shinnecock Hills
3   Ballyneal
4   Merion
5   Oakmont
6   Sunningdale (Old)
7   Lahinch
8   Friar's Head
9   Prairie Dunes
10   North Berwick (west)
11   Rock Creek Cattle Company
12   Plainfield
13   Prairie Club (Dunes)
14   Sand Hills
15   Pinehurst No 2
16   The Golf Club
17   Kingsley Club
18   St Andrew’s Old
19   Highlands Links
20   Boston
21   Valley Club
22   Sleepy Hollow
23   Whitinsville
24   Baltimore
25   LACC North

Next 20 Classic
Barton Hills
Somerset Hills
Newport Country Club
Myopia Hunt Club
Yale
Kittansett
Riviera
Fishers Island
St George's
Franklin Hills
Lancaster
Pasatiempo
Pebble Beach
Walton Heath (Old)
Winchester
Brookside CC
The Country Club
Charles River
Old Town

Next 20 Modern
Streamsong (Blue)
Old Sandwich
Sebonack
The Olde Farm
The Patriot
Wade Hampton
Rustic Canyon
Kinloch
Victoria National
Wine Valley
Dismal River
Johns Island West
Shooting Star
Cuscowilla
Long Cove
Diamond Creek
The Honors
Pine Tree
Wolf Run
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Thomas Dai on October 11, 2013, 12:49:55 PM
Mark,
That's a fabulous listing. Very envious!
Only Sunningdale (Old), Lahinch, North Berwick (West), St Andrew’s Old and Walton Heath (Old) from UK&I. Which other UK&I courses have you played and did you do your usual splendid photo-tours of any?
All the best
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Nugent on October 11, 2013, 02:52:58 PM
Mark, no Bandon courses?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Andrew Lewis on October 12, 2013, 08:06:43 AM
Another update (and I reserve the right to make changes without notice!)

9   Prairie Dunes
13   Prairie Club (Dunes)
14   Sand Hills
17   Kingsley Club


Mark -

A couple questions for you:

1) You include Prairie Dunes and Kingsley in your top 25, but Crystal Downs is neither there nor in your classic next 20.  Kingsley and the Downs are compared to each other quite often already and, in my view, Prairie Dunes and the Downs should be discussed in that way more frequently.  And although I agree with you in ranking Prairie Dunes highly -- and even above the Downs -- I'm curious as to why the Downs doesn't even crack your honorable mention list?

2) You rank Sand Hills (which I have played) behind the Dunes course at Prairie Club (which I have not played).  Is Prairie Club that good??!!

Cheers, Andrew
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on October 12, 2013, 08:26:43 AM
Mark,

Interesting ranking.  Have you really played 17 courses better than TOC?  What was the wind like when you played it?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jason Thurman on October 12, 2013, 09:51:50 AM
Andrew, I haven't played Sand Hills. But see my list below for my answer to your question:

1.   Pebble Beach
2.   Prairie Club Dunes
3.   Crystal Downs
4.   Pinehurst No. 2
5.   Idle Hour
6.   Erin Hills
7.   Whistling Straits - Straits
8.   Lawsonia Links
9.   Kingsley Club
10.   Blackwolf Run - River
11.   The Harvester
12.   Wild Horse
13.   Pine Needles
14.   Prairie Club Pines
15.   Valhalla
16.   Rustic Canyon
17.   Tobacco Road
18.   Blackwolf Run – Meadow Valleys
19.   Arcadia Bluffs
20.   The Trophy Club
21.   The Fort
22.   Broadmoor
23.   Hyde Park
24.   Harrison Hills
25.   Mid Pines

I'll be interested to watch this list evolve over the years. My current list is obviously heavily biased to the four or five significant regions that I've visited or lived in. I really got the architecture "bug" a little over two years ago, and I've played every course on this list since that time (though some had been played previously).
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Nigel Islam on October 12, 2013, 10:02:27 AM
Andrew, I haven't played Sand Hills. But see my list below for my answer to your question:

1.   Pebble Beach
2.   Prairie Club Dunes
3.   Crystal Downs
4.   Pinehurst No. 2
5.   Idle Hour
6.   Erin Hills
7.   Whistling Straits - Straits
8.   Lawsonia Links
9.   Kingsley Club
10.   Blackwolf Run - River
11.   The Harvester
12.   Wild Horse
13.   Pine Needles
14.   Prairie Club Pines
15.   Valhalla
16.   Rustic Canyon
17.   Tobacco Road
18.   Blackwolf Run – Meadow Valleys
19.   Arcadia Bluffs
20.   The Trophy Club
21.   The Fort
22.   Broadmoor
23.   Hyde Park
24.   Harrison Hills
25.   Mid Pines

I'll be interested to watch this list evolve over the years. My current list is obviously heavily biased to the four or five significant regions that I've visited or lived in. I really got the architecture "bug" a little over two years ago, and I've played every course on this list since that time (though some had been played previously).

Good to see you managed to get Crystal, Arcadia, and Kingsley in on your trip up North, Jason! :)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Saltzman on October 12, 2013, 10:27:02 AM
Mark, no Bandon courses?

Jim,

Ask me again in 5 weeks  ;D
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Saltzman on October 12, 2013, 10:28:47 AM
Mark,
That's a fabulous listing. Very envious!
Only Sunningdale (Old), Lahinch, North Berwick (West), St Andrew’s Old and Walton Heath (Old) from UK&I. Which other UK&I courses have you played and did you do your usual splendid photo-tours of any?
All the best

England
Royal Cinque Ports
Royal Liverpool
Royal St George's
Walton Heath (Old)
Walton Heath (New)
Sunningdale (Old)

Ireland

Ballybunion
Doonbeg
Druid's Glen
Druid's Heath
Glenlo Abbey
Kilkea Castle
Killarney
Lahinch
Mount Juliet
Old Head
Portmarnock
Royal County Down
The European Club
The Island
The K club
Tralee
Waterville

Scotland
Carnoustie (Championship)
Cruden Bay
Gullane (No 1)
Kingsbarns
Muirfield
Murcar
North Berwick (West)
Peterculter
Royal Aberdeen
Royal Montrose
Royal Troon (Old)
St. Andrew's (New)
St. Andrew's (Old)
Turnberry (Ailsa)

All pre picture taking.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Saltzman on October 12, 2013, 10:32:10 AM
Another update (and I reserve the right to make changes without notice!)

9   Prairie Dunes
13   Prairie Club (Dunes)
14   Sand Hills
17   Kingsley Club


Mark -

A couple questions for you:

1) You include Prairie Dunes and Kingsley in your top 25, but Crystal Downs is neither there nor in your classic next 20.  Kingsley and the Downs are compared to each other quite often already and, in my view, Prairie Dunes and the Downs should be discussed in that way more frequently.  And although I agree with you in ranking Prairie Dunes highly -- and even above the Downs -- I'm curious as to why the Downs doesn't even crack your honorable mention list?

2) You rank Sand Hills (which I have played) behind the Dunes course at Prairie Club (which I have not played).  Is Prairie Club that good??!!

Cheers, Andrew

Andrew,

To be honest, I've never understood the greatness most see in Crystal Downs.  Maybe I would on a return visit, who knows?

2) I've said before, I think the Dunes Course is the most elastic golf course I've ever seen.  I don't really know if it's 'better' than Sand Hills, but I had at least as much fun playing it as I did Sand Hills.  I hope to get back to both one day!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Saltzman on October 12, 2013, 10:35:51 AM
Mark,

Interesting ranking.  Have you really played 17 courses better than TOC?  What was the wind like when you played it?

Jud, we played late in the afternoon and the wind was 1-2 clubs, with 1 playing downwind and 18 into the wind.

One of the biggest mistakes in my golfing life was taking a caddie the day I played TOC.  As you know, I'm a fairly short hitting straight hitter.  Every hole the caddie gave me a line, and I hit it.  I shot 71 and really (for me) didn't miss a shot all day.  Not only did I not hit it in the trouble, I didn't even know it was there.  I missed so much of the experience of figuring out how to get around The Old Course that even putting it at 18 is a stretch.  I may just be there because I had a great time playing the golf course with my Dad.

Like I said in my previous couple posts, a return visit may significantly change my opinion.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: David_Tepper on October 12, 2013, 06:21:15 PM
Top 27 (in no particular order)

U.S.
Olympic Lake
San Francisco GC
California GC
Cypress Point
Spyglass
Pasatiempo  

Scotland
Royal Dornoch
Royal Aberdeen
Cruden Bay
Nairn
Castle Stuart

England
Sunningdale Old
Sunningdale New
Wentworth West
Royal Birkdale
Royal Lytham St. Anne's
Royal Liverpool
St. Endoc
Berkshire Red
Berkshire Blue

Ireland (the whole island ;))
Portmarnock
Royal County Down
Royal Portrush - Dunluce
Portstewart
County Sligo (Rosses Point)
Ballybunion Old
Lahinch

Some other very good courses I really like:

Meadow Club, Lakeside, Sonoma, Golspie & Brora
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matthew MacKay on October 13, 2013, 07:40:26 AM
The Old Course
Royal County Down
Pebble Beach
Muirfield
Yale
Turnberry
The Country Club
St George's
San Francisco
Royal Portrush
Riviera
Pinehurst #2
Pasatiempo
Pacific Dunes
Oakland Hills
North Berwick
LACC North
Highlands Links
Carnoustie
Bethpage Black
Garden City
Lahinch
Sleepy Hollow
Myopia Hunt
Jasper
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Sherma on October 14, 2013, 03:26:48 PM
As of today:

Top 5 (No particular order):

St Andrews Old
Ballybunion Old
Pine Valley
Kingsbarnes
Baltimore CC Five Farms

6 Through 15 (No particular order):

Leven
Tobacco Road
Baltusrol Lower
Dormie Club
Saucon Valley Old
Lehigh CC
Lancaster CC
St Andrews New
Hershey CC West
CC of York

16 Through 25 (No particular order):
 
Carnoustie
Dooks
Baltusrol Upper
Saucon Valley Weyhill
Philly Cricket Wissahickon [Pre-renovation - Post-renovation could move this up to the higher grouping based on the posted progress]
Philmont North
Crail Balcomie [tough because the location is so magical, the course generally doesn't merit the higher grouping though]
Saucon Valley Grace
Mid-Pines
Mark Twain GC [yes, it is that good]

Others I considered: Hershey CC East, DuPont, Fota Island Deerpark Course, Ballyhack, West Shore CC and Lebanon CC
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Steve Kline on October 14, 2013, 03:50:13 PM
Pine Valley
Ballyneal
Kingsley
Pacific Dunes
Pinehurst #2

TOC
Bandon Trails
LACC North
Camargo
Riviera

Old MacDonald
Pebble Beach
Cruden Bay
Royal Dornoch
North Berwick

Royal Aberdeen
Dormie
Bandon Dunes
Pine Needles
NCR South

Country Club of Columbus (GA)
Kohler-River Course
Prestwick
Spyglass Hill
TPC Sawgrass

My previous list as of September 2011:

Pine Valley
Ballyneal
Kingsley
Pacific Dunes
Pinehurst #2

TOC
Bandon Trails
Camargo
Riviera
Old MacDonald

Pebble Beach
Cruden Bay
Royal Dornoch
Cruden Bay
North Berwick

Bandon Dunes
Pine Needles
Royal Aberdeen
NCR South
Country Club of Columbus (GA)

Kohler-River Course
Muirfield Village
Prestwick
Spyglass Hill
TPC Sawgrass
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JC Jones on October 14, 2013, 03:52:43 PM
Mark,

Interesting ranking.  Have you really played 17 courses better than TOC?  What was the wind like when you played it?

Jud, we played late in the afternoon and the wind was 1-2 clubs, with 1 playing downwind and 18 into the wind.

One of the biggest mistakes in my golfing life was taking a caddie the day I played TOC.  As you know, I'm a fairly short hitting straight hitter.  Every hole the caddie gave me a line, and I hit it.  I shot 71 and really (for me) didn't miss a shot all day.  Not only did I not hit it in the trouble, I didn't even know it was there.  I missed so much of the experience of figuring out how to get around The Old Course that even putting it at 18 is a stretch.  I may just be there because I had a great time playing the golf course with my Dad.

Like I said in my previous couple posts, a return visit may significantly change my opinion.

What I love about Saltzman's rankings is that he has the depth of courses to back it up.  Great list, Mark!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Michael George on October 15, 2013, 01:17:39 PM
Mark - have you played Pikewood?  I would have thought that you would have made that relatively short trip by now.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Saltzman on October 15, 2013, 01:22:05 PM
Mark - have you played Pikewood?  I would have thought that you would have made that relatively short trip by now.

Not yet, but a long weekend trip to the Pittsburgh area + a day at Pikewood is likely for next year!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Alan Strachan on October 15, 2013, 01:38:57 PM
1 Pine Valley
2 RCD
3 Royal Dornoch
4 TOC
5 Castle Stuart
6 Royal Aberdeen
7 Royal Portrush
8 Merion
9 North Berwick
10 New Course (St. Andrews)
11 Kingsbarns
12 Pacific Dunes
13 Walton Heath Old
14 Ganton
15 Birkdale
16 Carnoustie
17 Lahinch
18 Bandon Trails
19 Walton Heath New
20 Cruden Bay
21 Carne
22 Enniscrone
23 Portmarnock
24 St George's Hill
25 Morfontaine
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill McKinley on November 13, 2013, 03:52:57 PM
Here was mine from October of last year...

Merion East
LACC North
Oakmont
The Old Course
Muirfield

Seminole
Riviera
Turnberry (Ailsa)
Camargo
Oakland Hills (South)

Carnoustie
Fox Chapel
Kingsbarns
Muirfield Village
Yeamans Hall

Pinehurst #2
Oak Hill (East)
Bethpage (Black)
Kiawah Island (Ocean)
Canterbury

Loch Lomond
Mountain Lake
Indian Creek
Brookside (Canton)
Laurel Valley

And here it is as of Today! (New additions are in CAPS)

NATIONAL GOLF LINKS OF AMERICA
SHINNECOCK HILLS
Los Angeles CC - North
Merion - East
Oakmont

The Old Course
Muirfield
Seminole
CHICAGO GOLF CLUB
Turnberry - Ailsa

CRYSTAL DOWNS
Riviera
MAIDSTONE
Carnoustie
Camargo

Oakland Hills - South
Kingsbarns
Fox Chapel
KINGSLEY CLUB
Muirfleld Village

Yeamans Hall
Pinehurst #2
Ocean Course at Kiawah
Canterbury
Canton Brookside


---Honorable Mention to Loch Lomond, Indian Creek and Mountain Lake.  I can't believe those aren't in my Top 25.  But I guess that's a good thing right!!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tim Martin on November 13, 2013, 04:15:38 PM
As of today:

Top 5 (No particular order):

St Andrews Old
Ballybunion Old
Pine Valley
Kingsbarnes
Baltimore CC Five Farms

6 Through 15 (No particular order):

Leven
Tobacco Road
Baltusrol Lower
Dormie Club
Saucon Valley Old
Lehigh CC
Lancaster CC
St Andrews New
Hershey CC West
CC of York

16 Through 25 (No particular order):
 
Carnoustie
Dooks
Baltusrol Upper
Saucon Valley Weyhill
Philly Cricket Wissahickon [Pre-renovation - Post-renovation could move this up to the higher grouping based on the posted progress]
Philmont North
Crail Balcomie [tough because the location is so magical, the course generally doesn't merit the higher grouping though]
Saucon Valley Grace
Mid-Pines
Mark Twain GC [yes, it is that good]

Others I considered: Hershey CC East, DuPont, Fota Island Deerpark Course, Ballyhack, West Shore CC and Lebanon CC

Jim-Every time I see CC of York referenced I think about how good that golf course is. An exceptional piece of land and an awesome collection of holes. Next year we need to roll in there early and play 36 as I can't wait to do it again!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Sherma on November 13, 2013, 04:22:10 PM
As of today:

Top 5 (No particular order):

St Andrews Old
Ballybunion Old
Pine Valley
Kingsbarnes
Baltimore CC Five Farms

6 Through 15 (No particular order):

Leven
Tobacco Road
Baltusrol Lower
Dormie Club
Saucon Valley Old
Lehigh CC
Lancaster CC
St Andrews New
Hershey CC West
CC of York

16 Through 25 (No particular order):
 
Carnoustie
Dooks
Baltusrol Upper
Saucon Valley Weyhill
Philly Cricket Wissahickon [Pre-renovation - Post-renovation could move this up to the higher grouping based on the posted progress]
Philmont North
Crail Balcomie [tough because the location is so magical, the course generally doesn't merit the higher grouping though]
Saucon Valley Grace
Mid-Pines
Mark Twain GC [yes, it is that good]

Others I considered: Hershey CC East, DuPont, Fota Island Deerpark Course, Ballyhack, West Shore CC and Lebanon CC

Jim-Every time I see CC of York referenced I think about how good that golf course is. An exceptional piece of land and an awesome collection of holes. Next year we need to roll in there early and play 36 as I can't wait to do it again!

Tim

I'm going to try to set something up in the spring where we could do CC of York and the Hershey courses as well. Unfortunately I have no Lancaster access as that with Hershey West and York would make for an awsome three course set. Lebanon CC is good Alex Findlay and is really worth playing as well.

I made it down to York one time after we played and it showed just as strongly on the replay.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: David Davis on November 13, 2013, 05:17:54 PM
Top 25 played/best experiences: - not necessarily the best courses according to other peoples rankings.

1. Cypress Point - best course and best experience hands down.
2. Noordwijkse - my home course (and favorite club) where I play a majority of my golf, it's my favorite place in The Netherlands by a mile and I could easily spend everyday there. I even miss it when I'm abroad or haven't been there in a couple days. It's not perfect but it's really that good and getting better in the years to come. It's home what can I say!
3. Royal County Down - best links course on the planet
4. Kingston Heath - amazing course, fastest greens I've ever touched, most hospitable and honorable welcome I've ever and likely will ever receive plus the friendliest members of any club I've ever been.
5. Pacific Dunes (only course on my list I've played more than once, definitely something to be said for that)
6. Cruden Bay - enough fun, quirk and humor to wet yourself.
7. Kingsbarns - one of my best rounds ever, perfect day, great company and awesome caddy.
8. Pebble Beach - windforce 7 and US Open tees. Best $495 I've ever spent.
9. Ballybunion Old - got my but kicked by the most beautiful and best golfing woman I've ever been engaged to.
10. Lahinch - Same as BalleyBunion only a day earlier. Just a great time.
11. Royal Dornoch - Gorse in bloom, sunny and all to myself with a hilarious caddy.
12. Old Course St. Andrews - expect this to move up my list, rough go out the first time, waited for hours to get a slot, cold, stiff as hell and scariest first tee shot I'll ever have. Harshly humiliating first 9 culmination with a broken window in the Old Course Hotel on the Road Hole. One day revenge will be mine.
13. Royal Melbourne Composite (played during drought and course was very brown) or I think it would be higher.
14. Waterville - last day of my trip with that beautiful golfing lady. Great course.
15. Royal Portrush - rarely played so bad and found the cup and the pin so often.
16. European Club - just a great and unique links.
17. Muirfield - accept the persecution of having it so far down the list. Might need another go now that I've seen more in order to appreciate it the way some of you other do. I expect it to one day move up my list.
18. NSW - warm sun, wind and links, g'day mate! Plus one of the most beautiful holes on the planet.
19. Carnoustie - dare I say it was beautiful (not the town), gorse in bloom and very solid play.
20. Whistling Straits - Just a great day though a touch intimidated from the back tees at the start, 47 - 37 to win our match for charity.
21. Shoreacres (more due to my playing companions) - narrowest driving range I've ever seen, opposite of the fairways.
22. Old Head of Kinsale - tee box on the second hole, my pro am partner started to cry, I stood between her and the cliff for security. Windforce 6 left to right, I'll catch you when you get blown over.
23. Royal St. Georges - perfect, very windy day with 3 gentlemen with enough "I'm not worthy" golf knowledge for a lifetime.
24. De Pan - Utrecht - proving you just don't need the heathland courses of England, every bit as good if not better than the best.
25. Royal Aberdeen - perhaps the best maintained links course I've ever seen and for certain the fastest greens.


Opinions change sometimes: I expect this ranking to change considerably next year.


1. Cypress Point - best course and best experience hands down.
2. Noordwijkse - my home course (and favorite club) where I play a majority of my golf, it's my favorite place in The Netherlands by a mile and I could easily spend everyday there. I even miss it when I'm abroad or haven't been there in a couple days. It's not perfect but it's really that good and getting better in the years to come. It's home what can I say!
3. Royal County Down - best links course on the planet
4. Pine Valley - tough, tough course if it were in original form and not so grown in I think it would be higher.
4. Kingston Heath - amazing course, fastest greens I've ever touched, most hospitable and honorable welcome I've ever and likely will ever receive plus the friendliest members of any club I've ever been.
5. Pacific Dunes (only course on my list I've played more than once, definitely something to be said for that)
6. Cruden Bay - enough fun, quirk and humor to wet yourself.
7. Wolf Point - Maybe it should be higher.
7. Kingsbarns - one of my best rounds ever, perfect day, great company and awesome caddy.
8. Pebble Beach - windforce 7 and US Open tees. Best $495 I've ever spent.
9. Ballybunion Old - got my but kicked by the most beautiful and best golfing woman I've ever been engaged to.
10. Lahinch - Same as BalleyBunion only a day earlier. Just a great time.
11. Royal Dornoch - Gorse in bloom, sunny and all to myself with a hilarious caddy.
12. Old Course St. Andrews - expect this to move up my list, rough go out the first time, waited for hours to get a slot, cold, stiff as hell and scariest first tee shot I'll ever have. Harshly humiliating first 9 culmination with a broken window in the Old Course Hotel on the Road Hole. One day revenge will be mine.
13. Royal Melbourne Composite (played during drought and course was very brown) or I think it would be higher.
14. Waterville - last day of my trip with that beautiful golfing lady. Great course.
15. Royal Portrush - rarely played so bad and found the cup and the pin so often.
16 Sand Hills - my best round ever earns it a top 20.
16. European Club - just a great and unique links.
17. Muirfield - accept the persecution of having it so far down the list. Might need another go now that I've seen more in order to appreciate it the way some of you other do. I expect it to one day move up my list.
18. Oakmont - historical, industrial but good enough for my top 20 I guess.
18. NSW - warm sun, wind and links, g'day mate! Plus one of the most beautiful holes on the planet.
19. Carnoustie - dare I say it was beautiful (not the town), gorse in bloom and very solid play.
20. Whistling Straits - Just a great day though a touch intimidated from the back tees at the start, 47 - 37 to win our match for charity.
21. Shoreacres (more due to my playing companions) - narrowest driving range I've ever seen, opposite of the fairways.
22. Old Head of Kinsale - tee box on the second hole, my pro am partner started to cry, I stood between her and the cliff for security. Windforce 6 left to right, I'll catch you when you get blown over.
23. Royal St. Georges - perfect, very windy day with 3 gentlemen with enough "I'm not worthy" golf knowledge for a lifetime.
24. De Pan - Utrecht - proving you just don't need the heathland courses of England, every bit as good if not better than the best.
25. Royal Aberdeen - perhaps the best maintained links course I've ever seen and for certain the fastest greens.
[/quote]
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: BCowan on November 16, 2013, 12:51:31 PM
As of Today

Inverness
#2
UofM (and i went to OSU)
Naples National
Battle Creek CC
Kingsley Club
OSU Scarlet
Calusa Pines
Groose Ile
Radrick Farms
Scioto
Mid Pines
Sylvania CC
Plum Hollow CC
Western Golf and CC
Double Eagle
Barton Hills (played before renovation it was avg Ross)
World Woods (pine barrons)
Caledonia
Ocala Golf club (muni) great potential
Washtenaw CC
Roseland (played pre renovation)Windsor Muni
Elks Run cinci
Muirfield Village

Courses playing in a week: Pine Needles and Southern Pines
Courses to be played in next 12 months:  Orchard Lake CC, Franklin Hills, Crystal Downs, Forrest Dunes, The Golf Club, Moraine, Camargo, Kirtland, Canton Brookside, Oakland Hills N/S, Dearborn CC, Belevedere, and Canterbury.  















Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on November 17, 2013, 12:58:05 PM
I think I'm done seeing new courses for the year, so here's my updated list. And this is, indeed, a list of my Top 25 FAVORITE places to play golf.



The Golf Club
Dismal River Doak
The Old Course
Old MacDonald
Sand Hills
NGLA
Pinehurst #2
Shinnecock Hills
Kiawah Ocean
Friar's Head
Muirfield
Dismal River Nicklaus
Kingsley Club
Shoreacres
Cal Club
Sebonack
Chicago Golf
Fishers Island
Peachtree
Prairie Dunes
Rock Creek
Valley Club
Camargo
The Honors Course
Bandon Dunes


Sidenote...I went through every course I've played and spent some time thinking about all of them, in order to derive this list.  During the process of thinking about all the courses I've played, I gathered a deeper appreciation for the work of Mike Strantz.  Now, his designs are not among my favorites...but, nevertheless, I appreciate what he has done with his golf courses now, more than ever.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: BHoover on November 17, 2013, 01:47:07 PM
Here's my list of personal favorites (admittedly, I haven't played much outside of Ohio...I'm working on that):

Canton Brookside
Kirtland
Canterbury
The Golf Club
Kingsley
Timuquana
Scioto
Muirfield Village
Double Eagle
NCR South
Mayfield
Sawgrass CC
Tobacco Road
Southern Pines
Pete Dye GC
Firestone South
OSU Scarlet
Congress Lake
Longaberger
Granville
Fowlers Mill
Clovernook
Columbus CC
Brookside (Columbus)
Sunridge Canyon

Next year, I hope to add a few more to the list--Oakland Hills, Indianwood (Old), Battle Creek CC, Inverness, Holston Hills, The Country Club (Pepper Pike), Moraine and perhaps a Raynor such as Fox Chapel or Camargo.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean Leary on November 17, 2013, 10:03:06 PM
I think I'm done seeing new courses for the year, so here's my updated list. And this is, indeed, a list of my Top 25 FAVORITE places to play golf.



The Golf Club
Dismal River Doak
The Old Course
Old MacDonald
Sand Hills
NGLA
Pinehurst #2
Shinnecock Hills
Kiawah Ocean
Friar's Head
Muirfield
Dismal River Nicklaus
Kingsley Club
Shoreacres
Cal Club
Sebonack
Chicago Golf
Fishers Island
Peachtree
Prairie Dunes
Rock Creek
Valley Club
Camargo
The Honors Course
Bandon Dunes


Sidenote...I went through every course I've played and spent some time thinking about all of them, in order to derive this list.  During the process of thinking about all the courses I've played, I gathered a deeper appreciation for the work of Mike Strantz.  Now, his designs are not among my favorites...but, nevertheless, I appreciate what he has done with his golf courses now, more than ever.


Surprised Ballyneal doesn't make the top 25 based on what I know you like. It may well be 26 but any feedback on why it doesn't make your top 25?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on November 17, 2013, 10:54:20 PM
Hey Sean...

There are a couple of things about Ballyneal that don't make it ideal for me and what I like.  The biggest is the fact that it is walking only and I struggle walking that terrain with my two fake hips.

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jonathan_becker on November 17, 2013, 11:00:47 PM
Hoover,

Canton Brookside #1?!  

35 pages and 75,000 views before someone finally got it right.  ;)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: BHoover on November 17, 2013, 11:06:41 PM
Hoover,

Canton Brookside #1?!  

35 pages and 75,000 views before someone finally got it right.  ;)

It helps to not have a long list from which to choose. But Canton Brookside is still awesome.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ari Techner on November 18, 2013, 12:19:17 AM
Updated list:

1- Sand Hills
2- Royal County Down
3- Oakmont
4- Muirfield
5- National GL
6- Cypress Point
7- Pine Valley
8- Prairie Dunes
9- Old Course
10- Merion
11- Fishers Island
12- Shinnecock
13- Chicago GC
14- Lahinch
15- Pacific Dunes
16- #2
17- Dormie Club
18- Crystal Downs
19- SFGC
20- Friars Head
21- Royal Cinque Ports
22- Shoreacres
23- Ballybunion
24- Franklin Hills
25- Seminole
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on November 18, 2013, 08:35:35 AM
Updated list:

1- Sand Hills
2- Royal County Down
3- Oakmont
4- Muirfield
5- National GL
6- Cypress Point
7- Pine Valley
8- Prairie Dunes
9- Old Course
10- Merion
11- Fishers Island
12- Shinnecock
13- Chicago GC
14- Lahinch
15- Pacific Dunes
16- #2
17- Dormie Club
18- Crystal Downs
19- SFGC
20- Friars Head
21- Royal Cinque Ports
22- Shoreacres
23- Ballybunion
24- Franklin Hills
25- Seminole

Ari,

You really ought to get out more ;).  What are your favorite hidden gems?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Joe Jemsek on November 18, 2013, 10:28:33 AM
I'm always asked what's my favorite course, I find it a hard question to answer, beacuse I love many courses for different reasons. It's hard to compare playing the Oakmont Swat, to standing on the 7th at Pebble just as the sun breaks throught the clouds. The experience sometimes outweights the the quality of the course. Additionally I rarely find a golf course I can't love for one reason or another. 

1 Oakmont CC
2 Chicago Golf
3 Ballybunion-old
4 Cherry Hills(pre-reno)
5 Pine Tree GC
6 Sea Island
7 Pebble Beach
8 Seminole
9  LACC-North(pre-reno)
10 Pipping Rock
11 Lahinch
12 Stanwich GC(pre-reno)
13 Country Club - Boston
14 Royal Montreal
15 Pasatiempo
16 Cog Hill - Dubsdread
17 Whilsting Straits
18 Crooked Stick
19 Atlanta Athletic Club
20 East Lake
21 Medinah #3
22 Streamsong - CC
23 Castle Pines
24 Palmetto GC
25 Cuscowilla GC

Next five - Sand Creek GC - OH, CC of Colorado, Dismal River - Red, Boston GC, Hazeltine National
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ari Techner on November 18, 2013, 12:50:50 PM
Updated list:

1- Sand Hills
2- Royal County Down
3- Oakmont
4- Muirfield
5- National GL
6- Cypress Point
7- Pine Valley
8- Prairie Dunes
9- Old Course
10- Merion
11- Fishers Island
12- Shinnecock
13- Chicago GC
14- Lahinch
15- Pacific Dunes
16- #2
17- Dormie Club
18- Crystal Downs
19- SFGC
20- Friars Head
21- Royal Cinque Ports
22- Shoreacres
23- Ballybunion
24- Franklin Hills
25- Seminole

Ari,

You really ought to get out more ;).  What are your favorite hidden gems?

Jud,

Some of my favorite hidden gems:

Franklin Hills - Franklin, MI
Lookout Mtn - Lookout Mtn, GA
Western Golf and CC - Redford, MI
Lawsonia Links - Green Lake, WI
Kirtland CC - Kirtland, OH
Indianwood Old - Lake Orion, MI
Floosmoor CC - Homewood, IL
Sequatchie Valley - S. Pittsburgh, TN
St. Louis CC - St. Louis, MO
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Alex Miller on November 18, 2013, 01:09:00 PM
I think I've hit my big ones for the year, and it's been a while so...


1.  NGLA
2.  Cypress Point
3.  The Old Course
4.  North Berwick
5.  Muirfield
6.  Pacific Dunes
7.  Ballyneal

8.  LACC North (pre-reno)

9.  Bandon Trails
10. Pinehurst #2
11. Rustic Canyon
12. Riviera
13. Pasatiempo
14. The Valley Club
15. Exmoor CC
16. Elie
17. Crail (Balcomie)

18. Old Macdonald
19. Sebonack
20. Pine Needles
21. St. George's
22. Wilshire CC
22. Stone Eagle

23. PGA West Stadium
24. Bandon Dunes
25. Palos Verdes CC (mid-reno)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on November 18, 2013, 05:13:35 PM
BOOM goes the dynamite!

Nice, Alex...nice!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Alex Miller on November 18, 2013, 06:17:53 PM
BOOM goes the dynamite!

Nice, Alex...nice!

Thanks! The list has improved dramatically in the last 2 years. Still a lot to see though :D
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill McKinley on November 18, 2013, 08:27:51 PM
Alex and Joe,

You both listed LACC North pre renovation. Just curious if you have played it both pre and post reno? And if so, why do you say you prefer it pre reno?

Thanks!
Bill
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Alex Miller on November 18, 2013, 08:35:36 PM
Alex and Joe,

You both listed LACC North pre renovation. Just curious if you have played it both pre and post reno? And if so, why do you say you prefer it pre reno?

Thanks!
Bill

Have only played it pre-reno.

I'm sure I will prefer it post-reno... when I do get the chance to play it. The pictures look incredible!

Even pre-reno I prefer LACC North to a number of courses others may like more, but the routing, land forms, strategy, etc... was there before for the most part. I'm excited to play the course-within-the-course when the time comes!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Joe Jemsek on November 19, 2013, 10:12:13 AM
Haven't seen a few of the course since their renovations. No preference at LACC, just haven't been back since 2007. The problem with ranking your best even, is you rarely get to go back. I have played only 6-7 more than once. Been back to other, but not always with clubs. 
 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Kevin_D on December 19, 2013, 10:01:07 AM
I think I've finally played enough places to post on this thread.  My current top 25, in order (and I actually played all these this year).  Will be interesting to see how this changes next year as I play a few more courses of note.

Shinnecock Hills
Merion
Bethpage (Black)
Sunningdale Old
Crystal Downs
Maidstone
Swinley Forest
Garden City Golf Club
Kingsley Club
Streamsong Red
Streamsong Blue
Sebonack
Yale
Walton Heath (Old)
Kawana (Fuji)
Old Sandwich
Shooting Star
Wykagyl
Quaker Ridge
Mountain Lake
Stonewall North
Stonewall Old
Philadelphia Country Club
Westchester Country Club - West
Montauk Downs
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Kavanaugh on December 19, 2013, 10:34:31 AM
I think I've finally played enough places to post on this thread.  My current top 25, in order (and I actually played all these this year).  Will be interesting to see how this changes next year as I play a few more courses of note.

Shinnecock Hills
Merion
Bethpage (Black)
Sunningdale Old
Crystal Downs
Maidstone
Swinley Forest
Garden City Golf Club
Kingsley Club
Streamsong Red
Streamsong Blue
Sebonack
Yale
Walton Heath (Old)
Kawana (Fuji)
Old Sandwich
Shooting Star
Wykagyl
Quaker Ridge
Mountain Lake
Stonewall North
Stonewall Old
Philadelphia Country Club
Westchester Country Club - West
Montauk Downs



Kevin,

This is a quote from you dated Dec 31, 2012. "I thought I would chime in as a "user" of the rankings as opposed to a "contributor".  I'm not an architect, developer, or rater. I haven't even played any top 100 courses yet - but have several in the works for 2013!"

What advice could you give the rest of us that would enjoy playing such an outstanding list?  How did you do it and congrats are in order.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill McKinley on December 19, 2013, 10:34:45 AM
I think I've finally played enough places to post on this thread.  My current top 25, in order (and I actually played all these this year).  Will be interesting to see how this changes next year as I play a few more courses of note.

Shinnecock Hills
Merion
Bethpage (Black)
Sunningdale Old
Crystal Downs
Maidstone
Swinley Forest
Garden City Golf Club
Kingsley Club
Streamsong Red
Streamsong Blue
Sebonack
Yale
Walton Heath (Old)
Kawana (Fuji)
Old Sandwich
Shooting Star
Wykagyl
Quaker Ridge
Mountain Lake
Stonewall North
Stonewall Old
Philadelphia Country Club
Westchester Country Club - West
Montauk Downs


Kevin,

You played all those this year?!!?? Good for you! That's a really solid list for a lifetime, let alone one year.  Good luck in 2014!!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Kevin_D on December 19, 2013, 11:07:49 AM
John:

I've relied on the kindness of friends (living in New York and growing up outside Philly puts me in close proximity to some great courses), made some donations to worthy charities through auctions (some of which were discussed on this site; these make me feel  good even if I play terribly!), a couple were business-related, and probably a third of these are public or accessible as a visitor (as in the UK courses). But I've also had a mentality that if I was going anywhere with a good golf course nearby and a few hours to spare, I would do everything I could to squeeze in a round.

Bill:

Thanks!  It's been a blast, and I'm looking forward to a lot more golf next year.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Kevin_D on December 19, 2013, 11:13:39 AM
Also, Bill: not a shabby 2013 yourself!!!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Kavanaugh on December 19, 2013, 11:16:40 AM
John:

I've relied on the kindness of friends (living in New York and growing up outside Philly puts me in close proximity to some great courses), made some donations to worthy charities through auctions (some of which were discussed on this site; these make me feel  good even if I play terribly!), a couple were business-related, and probably a third of these are public or accessible as a visitor (as in the UK courses). But I've also had a mentality that if I was going anywhere with a good golf course nearby and a few hours to spare, I would do everything I could to squeeze in a round.

Bill:

Thanks!  It's been a blast, and I'm looking forward to a lot more golf next year.

It is always nice to hear that generosity and sharing exists outside this glorious holiday season.  I hope next year is even better!!!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Doug Spets on December 19, 2013, 11:26:05 AM
1.   ANGC
2.   Cypress Point
3.   Old Course
4.   Royal Dornoch
5.   Sunningdale (Old)
6.   Harbour Town
7.   Carnoustie
8.   Pinehurst #2
9.   Kiawah (Ocean)
10.  Olympic Club

11.  Nairn
12.  Kingsbarns
13.  Augusta CC
14.  Sage Valley
15.  Hamilton Farm (Hickory)
16.  Hamilton Farm (Highlands)
17.  Aiken GC
18.  Elie
19.  May River
20.  Wente Vineyards
21.  Secession
22.  Palmetto GC
23.  Leven
24.  Crail (Balcomie)
25.  Chechessie Creek

 
After putting fingers to a keyboard...I can't believe how fortunate I have been.  Three new additions this year.

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: C. Sturges on December 19, 2013, 12:14:02 PM
1. Crystal Downs
2. Horono
3. Narou
4. Kawana
5. Streamsong Red
6. Blackforest
7. Brookside
8. Apache Stronghold
9 Dessert Forest
10. Streamsong Blue
11. Kingsley
12. Tokyo
13. Franklin Hills
14. Fowlers Mill
15. Indianwood Old
16. World Woods
17. World Woods
18. Gailes
19. New Rugell
20. East Liverpool
21. Westfield South
22. Red Reef Club
23. Arcadia Bluffs
24. Black Diamond
25. Pine Valley

thanks to everyone I got to play with this year!
chris
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on December 19, 2013, 12:24:56 PM
delete

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt Bielawa on December 19, 2013, 12:52:36 PM
1.  Pinehurst No. 2
2.  Peachtree
3.  Streamsong Red
4.  Streamsong Blue
5.  Oakland Hills (South)
6.  Oak Hill (East)
7.  Inverness
8.  Whistling Straits (Straits)
9.  Kiawah (Ocean)
10.  TPC Sawgrass
11.  University of Michigan
12.  Monroe
13.  Blackwolf Run (River)
14.  Harbour Town
15.  Franklin Hills
16.  Tobacco Road
17.  CC Detroit
18.  Arcadia Bluffs
19.  Indianwood (Old)
20.  Torrey Pines (South)
21.  CC Rochester
22.  Bay Harbor
23.  Irondequoit
24.  Caledonia
25.  PGA West - TPC Stadium
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jonathan_becker on December 19, 2013, 12:53:01 PM
1. Crystal Downs
2. Horono
3. Narou
4. Kawana
5. Streamsong Red
6. Blackforest
7. Brookside
8. Apache Stronghold
9 Dessert Forest
10. Streamsong Blue
11. Kingsley
12. Tokyo
13. Franklin Hills
14. Fowlers Mill
15. Indianwood Old
16. World Woods
17. World Woods
18. Gailes
19. New Rugell
20. East Liverpool
21. Westfield South
22. Red Reef Club
23. Arcadia Bluffs
24. Black Diamond
25. Pine Valley

thanks to everyone I got to play with this year!
chris

Where the hell is Ganton?  I thought you loved that place.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jeffwarne on December 19, 2013, 12:58:43 PM
1. Crystal Downs
2. Horono
3. Narou
4. Kawana
5. Streamsong Red
6. Blackforest
7. Brookside
8. Apache Stronghold
9 Dessert Forest
10. Streamsong Blue
11. Kingsley
12. Tokyo
13. Franklin Hills
14. Fowlers Mill
15. Indianwood Old
16. World Woods
17. World Woods
18. Gailes
19. New Rugell
20. East Liverpool
21. Westfield South
22. Red Reef Club
23. Arcadia Bluffs
24. Black Diamond
25. Pine Valley

thanks to everyone I got to play with this year!
chris

THAT is quite a list
won't see Apache stronghold or WW RO  ahead of PV very often ;) ;D
Big fan of WW RO
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill McKinley on December 19, 2013, 01:47:22 PM
1. Crystal Downs
2. Horono
3. Narou
4. Kawana
5. Streamsong Red
6. Blackforest
7. Brookside
8. Apache Stronghold
9 Dessert Forest
10. Streamsong Blue
11. Kingsley
12. Tokyo
13. Franklin Hills
14. Fowlers Mill
15. Indianwood Old
16. World Woods
17. World Woods
18. Gailes
19. New Rugell
20. East Liverpool
21. Westfield South
22. Red Reef Club
23. Arcadia Bluffs
24. Black Diamond
25. Pine Valley

thanks to everyone I got to play with this year!
chris

THAT is quite a list
won't see Apache stronghold or WW RO  ahead of PV very often ;) ;D
Big fan of WW RO

Or Westfield South for that matter!!

Chris, is that another Pine Valley or THE Pine Valley?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: C. Sturges on December 19, 2013, 02:13:54 PM
Jonathan, I still love Ganton, but I did not make it to the UK this year.  This was this year.

Bill and Jeff, you are both correct.  Bill and Jonathan would have the best chance.  Sometimes you just have to put a name up and see if anyone notices.  This is the very nice Pine Valley in Wadsworth, Ohio, not sure if they know they are not the only course with that name.

I am a firm believer that Apache would be very well known if not for the poor course conditions and the drive from the city.  I played this summer for $6.  For that price the course was in amazing condition!

chris
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ronald Montesano on December 19, 2013, 08:35:14 PM
So Fowlers Mill is still open, for the time being?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: C. Sturges on December 19, 2013, 08:42:21 PM
Ronald,
Fowlers Mill is still open and in great shape.  I know a couple years ago it was for sale to a environmental group, but had not heard anything recently.  It would be a shame to close a wonderful Dye course.
chris
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Kevin Pallier on December 29, 2013, 07:58:17 PM
Played: (no specific order)

St. Andrews (Old)
Cypress Point
Shinnecock Hills
Royal Melbourne (Composite)
Royal County Down

Muirfield
Royal Dornoch
Pacific Dunes
Old Macdonald
Merion (East)

Kingston Heath
Royal St. George's
Sunningdale (Old)
Swinley Forest
North Berwick (West)

Friars Head
Fishers Island
New South Wales
Barnbougle Dunes
Woodhall Spa (Hotchkin)

St. George's Hill
Ballybunion (Old)
Royal Portrush
Carnoustie Ellerston
Bandon Trails Cape Kidnappers


Edit: Over the past 4 years
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Josh Bills on December 30, 2013, 02:56:53 PM
In alphabetical order...

Ballybunion Old (Ireland)
Bandon Dunes (Oregon)
Bandon Trails (Oregon)
Bayonne Golf Club (NJ)
Bethpage Black (NY)
Gold Canyon Resort- Dinosaur Mountain (AZ)
Harding Park (San Fran)
Maketewah CC (Cincinnati, Ohio)
Mauna Kea (Hawaii)
Mid Pines Golf Club (NC)
Moonbrook Country Club (Jamestown, NY)
Muirfield Village (Dublin, OH)
National Golf Links of America (Southampton, NY)
Ocean Course at Kiawah Island (SC)
Old Head (Ireland)
OSU Scarlet (OH)
Pacific Dunes (Oregon)
Pasatiempo (Santa Cruz, CA)
Pebble Beach (CA)
Point Chautauqua Golf Club (9 holes) (Dewittville, NY)
Shinnecock Hills (Southampton, NY)
Scioto Country Club (Columbus, OH)
Tobacco Road (NC)
Tralee (Ireland)
Urbana Country Club (Ohio)

Courtesy of my involvement in this group, my list of places to aspire to play only continues to grow.  Hope to try and change this list with some trips this year.  Happy New Year to all.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Saltzman on December 30, 2013, 03:00:58 PM
Josh, have you not played Old Mac or does it just not make the list?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Josh Bills on December 30, 2013, 03:22:58 PM
Mark,

My last trip there was before Old Mac opened.  Definitely need to get out there soon and give it a go.  As much as I enjoyed playing NGLA this year, intrigued to see Bandon's interpretation of his templates.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Rob Curtiss on December 30, 2013, 04:44:26 PM
my list might not be as exciting as others, but here we go in no particular order..

Bandon dunes
Pacific dunes
Pasatiempo
Mayacama
Monterey peninsula- shore
Inverness
Oak hill-west
Arcadia bluffs
Forest dunes
Salem CC
Chambers Bay
Sand Hollow
Calusa Pines
World Woods- PB
Naples National
Lookout Mountain
Black Diamond Ranch
Sand Hills
Merion - East
Oak Hill - east
Olympic Club- Lake
Dismal River- red and white
Timaquana
Ballyneal
Pine Tree

And I know people will say "how can you say Olympic club"

but I loved it.I liked the fact that it was perfect- I played it 4 weeks prior to the U S open in 2012
And I read the book " The Longest Shot " about Fleck and Hogan and it was cool to walk on that hallowed ground
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Avram on December 30, 2013, 05:20:56 PM
I haven't played many private courses,  but here is my list so far (of 158 total courses played).

1) Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, Old Macdonald - Bandon, Oregon
2) Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, Bandon Dunes - Bandon, Oregon
3) Pebble Beach Golf Links - Pebble Beach, California    
4) Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, Pacific Dunes - Bandon, Oregon    
5) We-Ko-Pa Golf Club, Saguaro - Fort McDowell, Arizona
6) True Blue Plantation - Pawleys Island, South Carolina  
7) Caledonia Golf & Fish Club - Pawleys Island, South Carolina  
8) Lakota Canyon Ranch Golf Club - New Castle, Colorado
9) Martis Camp - Truckee, California  
10) Four Mile Ranch Golf Club - Canon City, Colorado
11) Broadmoor Golf Club, East - Colorado Springs, Colorado
12) The Links at Spanish Bay - Pebble Beach, California  
13) We-Ko-Pa Golf Club, Cholla - Fort McDowell, Arizona
14) Kapalua Golf Club, Plantation - Lahaina, Hawaii  
15) Spyglass Hill Golf Course - Pebble Beach, California
16) Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, Bandon Trails  - Bandon, Oregon
17) The Golf Club At Bear Dance - Larkspur, Colorado    
18) Falcon Ridge Golf Course - Mesquite, Nevada
19) Stanford University Golf Course - Palo Alto, California  
20) The Ridge At Castle Pines North  - Castle Rock, Colorado
21) Hyland Hills Golf Course, Gold - Westminster, Colorado
22) Wolf Creek At Paradise Canyon - Mesquite, Nevada
23) The Dunes Golf & Beach Club - Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
24) Pinon Hills Golf Course - Farmington, New Mexico
25) Raven Golf Club At Three Peaks - Silverthorne, Colorado
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tim Passalacqua on December 31, 2013, 07:45:45 AM
RCurtiss,

How could you not say Olympic?!?!  The Lake course is amazing.  It is truly unique and one of a kind.  You will never see another routing like the Lake across that hillside where the holes lay beautifully into the land.  The holes on that course could never be duplicated because of the property they are on....truly making them one of a kind.  It has great angles into the green.  The new short grass around some of the greens has added a lot of interest and options.  It is firm and watching the ball bounce all over those sloping fairways is a pleasure.  And one huge thing that I think the Lake does better than any course I know is challenges the scratch golfer while remaining totally playable for the 18 handicap.  The sloping fairways and slanted greens gives the scratch golfer a real challenge.  No forced carries, water, and OB allow the high handicap to enjoy his day with 1 golf ball.  How many courses can do that?  I don't think the Lake gets nearly enough love or credit and I am not sure why.  People will say it is hard, but I think most people play the wrong tees.  And why cant we have some challenging golf courses.  Not everything needs to be 6500 yards with 100 yard wide fairways.  It is a magical place and I think it deserves a lot more credit.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Rob Curtiss on December 31, 2013, 07:58:52 AM
Tim,

You are ABSOLUTELY correct. I only said that because it seems like everyone on every golf blog or site rips the course.
Too difficult.....but isnt every US OPEN course supposed to be difficult...

thanks Tim for agreeing
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on December 31, 2013, 08:32:59 AM
Not everything needs to be 6500 yards with 100 yard wide fairways.


Sure, but it would be nice to have a lot more 6500 yard courses with 50 yard wide fairways.

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on December 31, 2013, 10:06:05 AM
I haven't played many private courses,  but here is my list so far (of 158 total courses played).

1) Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, Old Macdonald - Bandon, Oregon
2) Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, Bandon Dunes - Bandon, Oregon
3) Pebble Beach Golf Links - Pebble Beach, California    
4) Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, Pacific Dunes - Bandon, Oregon    
5) We-Ko-Pa Golf Club, Saguaro - Fort McDowell, Arizona
6) True Blue Plantation - Pawleys Island, South Carolina  
7) Caledonia Golf & Fish Club - Pawleys Island, South Carolina  
8  Lakota Canyon Ranch Golf Club - New Castle, Colorado
9) Martis Camp - Truckee, California  
10) Four Mile Ranch Golf Club - Canon City, Colorado

Oh my god, Cary was right -- Lakota Canyon is in the top ten!  :)

Well, the John Avram top ten, anyway.  (Sorry John, it's a joke that goes back to before your time here.)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Eric Smith on February 12, 2014, 01:22:30 PM
My updated Top 25. New additions in bold. The Bandon courses really blew my drawers off.

St Andrews
Old Macdonald
Sebonack
Machrihanish
Dismal River White
Dismal River Red
Bandon Trails
Pacific Dunes

Renaissance
Pennard
National Golf Links
Wolf Point
Sand Hills
North Berwick
Shinnecock Hills
Prairie Dunes
Ballyneal
Prestwick
Machrihanish Dunes
Sleepy Hollow
Royal Cinque Ports
Turnberry
Royal Porthcawl
Boston
Merion
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: hhuffines on February 12, 2014, 01:35:43 PM
Eric,

Cool list!  Not sure how you rank em but do Ballyneal and Machrihanish hang in there with the best?  I am keen to see them.  Soon!

Thanks,  Hart
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Eric Smith on February 12, 2014, 01:42:07 PM
Eric,

Cool list!  Not sure how you rank em but do Ballyneal and Machrihanish hang in there with the best?  I am keen to see them.  Soon!

Thanks,  Hart

Hart,

Absolutely! I have thought of both as my favorite at one time or another. My problem is (not really a problem) I have a new favorite every time I tee it up. :)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Eric Smith on February 12, 2014, 02:35:05 PM
Eric,

Cool list!  Not sure how you rank em but do Ballyneal and Machrihanish hang in there with the best?  I am keen to see them.  Soon!

Thanks,  Hart

Hart. I'm going to answer this also. Both hang there with the very best in my opinion. I think there's a case to be made for Ballyneal to be considered Doak 10 and Machrihanish has the most amazing topography and setting you'll see anywhere.

Brian,

I know you and I and Sir Csigo talked about this when we played Machrihanish, but to let Hart and others know as well - in my mind the two courses are similar in many respects, particularly some of the landforms, the 'angry sea' rolls throughout the course, give very much a feeling of playing at BN.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Steve Green on February 12, 2014, 02:47:37 PM
New guy here, just to give you taste of who I am.  I have played over 350 courses in 37 states and 7 countries.  In every instance a course on my top 25 left me with the wow - I want to do that again.

In alphabetical order:

Ballybunion
Ballyneal
Bandon Dunes
Banff Springs
Chicago Golf
Cruden Bay
Oakmont
Old Macdonald
Olympia Fields North
Olympic Club - Lake
Pacific Dunes
Pasatiempo
Pebble Beach
Pinehurst #2
Portmarnock Golf Club
Prairie Dunes
Shadow Creek
Shoreacres
Spyglass
The Addington
The Ocean Course
The Old Course
The Plantation Course
TPC Sawgrass
Walton Heath - both
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Joey Chase on February 12, 2014, 03:27:23 PM
Updated from the first offering, it is amazing how my opinions of a course have changed after another visit, or after seeing other works.

The Old Course
Lahinch
National Golf Links of America
Pinehurst #2
Royal St. Georges
Merion
Royal Portrush
Machrihanish
Royal Dornoch
Bethpage Black
Garden City
Morfontaine (all 27!)
Royal County Down
Yale
North Berwick
Royal Aberdeen
Ballybunion
Waterville
Woodhall Spa
Deal
Quaker Ridge
Rye
Mid Pines
Lawsonia Links
Aberdovey

Just missed list:

Whippoorwill Club
Kennemer
St. Enodoc
Brancaster
Lytham
Hoylake
Fenway
Harlech
Cruden Bay
Brora
Sleepy Hollow
Mid Ocean Club
Portmarnock
Royal Zoute
Oitavos Dunes
Point O' Woods
Enniscrone
Galloway National
El Saler
Deepdale
Pine Needles
Golf du Medoc
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on August 12, 2014, 05:49:41 AM
delete

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tommy Williamsen on August 12, 2014, 10:24:00 AM
Sean, after reading your comments about Saunton East, I thought you might include it.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tommy Williamsen on August 12, 2014, 10:35:19 AM
I could play any of the following for the rest of my life and love them.  Some I only have played once, but made a lasting memory.
In no particular order.

Pine Valley
Royal County Down
Cypress Point
San Francisco
Royal Portrush
Balybunion Old
St. Andrews Old
Royal Dornoch
Sunningdale Old and New
The European Club
Winged Foot East and West
Chicago Golf Club
Morfontaine
Musgrove Mill
Four Streams
Ballyhack
Ballyneal
Castle Pines
Baltimore CC
St Enodoc
Merion
Shinnecock
NGLA
Sebonack
Sand Hills
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Kavanaugh on August 12, 2014, 11:20:56 AM
I could play any of the following for the rest of my life and love them.  Some I only have played once, but made a lasting memory.
In no particular order.

Pine Valley
Royal County Down
Cypress Point
San Francisco
Royal Portrush
Balybunion Old
St. Andrews Old
Royal Dornoch
Sunningdale Old and New
The European Club
Winged Foot East and West
Chicago Golf Club
Morfontaine
Musgrove Mill
Four Streams
Ballyhack
Ballyneal
Castle Pines
Baltimore CC
St Enodoc
Merion
Shinnecock
NGLA
Sebonack


You haven't played Sand Hills?! I guess Heaven can wait.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tommy Williamsen on August 12, 2014, 11:50:43 AM
I could play any of the following for the rest of my life and love them.  Some I only have played once, but made a lasting memory.
In no particular order.

Pine Valley
Royal County Down
Cypress Point
San Francisco
Royal Portrush
Balybunion Old
St. Andrews Old
Royal Dornoch
Sunningdale Old and New
The European Club
Winged Foot East and West
Chicago Golf Club
Morfontaine
Musgrove Mill
Four Streams
Ballyhack
Ballyneal
Castle Pines
Baltimore CC
St Enodoc
Merion
Shinnecock
NGLA
Sebonack


You haven't played Sand Hills?! I guess Heaven can wait.

Actually have played Sand Hills.  Spent a week there.  I added it to my list.  Have not played the Doak course at Dismal.  Hope to get there next year.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Rob Marshall on August 12, 2014, 12:12:16 PM
Royal County Down
Pebble beach
Lahinch
Oak hill East
Harbor Town
Bethpage Black
Spyglass
Ballybunion Old
Royal Portrush
Torrey Pines South
Aronimink
Country Club Of Rochester
Craigburn Country Club
Pine Barron's
Philadelphia CC
Ocean Course at Kiawah
Hideout
Copperhead
Plantation Kapalua
Firestone South
Country Club Of Buffalo
Leatherstocking
Rolling Oaks
Aviara
Portstewart
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Terry Lavin on August 12, 2014, 12:43:56 PM
Always subject to revision and reinterpretation, but this is where I'm at today.

1. Sand Hills
2. Cypress Point
3. LACC North
4. Oakmont
5. Chicago Golf Club
6. Pacific Dunes
7. Friar's Head
8. Prairie Dunes
9. Riviera
10. Pebble Beach
11. Olympia Fields North
12. Shoreacres
13. Medinah #3
14. Olympic Club
15. Long Cove
16. Spyglass Hill
17. Fox Chapel
18. Old Macdonald
19. Pinehurst #2
20. Wilshire
21. Erin Hills
22. Whistling Straits
23. Butler National
24. Bandon Trails
25. Beverly CC

edit:  I don't include Dunes Club since it's a 9-hole course.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Rob Curtiss on August 12, 2014, 12:55:29 PM
Terry,

Suprised to see Medinah #3 on your list after reading so many people saying they wouldnt waste a day playing it on other threads.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Terry Lavin on August 12, 2014, 12:58:19 PM
Terry,

Suprised to see Medinah #3 on your list after reading so many people saying they wouldnt waste a day playing it on other threads.

It's a great course, in my opinion, but I can appreciate why others may not like it.  It gets marked down because three of the par-3 holes are too similar, because the par-4 holes are relentlessly difficult and because there are too many penal holes in general.  But I grew up playing in this area and I have a sentimental attachment to Olympia, Butler, Medinah and Beverly.  That's a little hometown bias, to be sure.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Johnson on August 12, 2014, 01:14:26 PM
My list as of noon on 8/12

1  Merion East
2  Chicago
3  Atlantic
4  Bandon Trails
5  Black Sheep
6 Harbortown
7  Somerset
8 Arcadia Bluffs
9 Spring Hill (MN)
10 Kinloch (VA)
11  Giants Ridge (Quarry)
12  Pinehurst 8
13  Pac Dunes
14  Butler
15 Medinah 3
16 Whistling Straits -- Irish Course
17 Windsong
18 White Bear Lake
19 Philadelphia
20 Birmingham CC (East, I think)
21 Shoal Creek
22 Prince Course
23 Medinah 1
24 Town & Country
25 Shoreacres

Honorable Mention:  Hazeltine,  Medina (MN), Farmington,  Cascades, Old White, Arcadia Bluff, Pine Meadow,  Waverly, Chambers Bay
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on August 12, 2014, 02:11:22 PM
Royal County Down
Pebble beach
Lahinch
Oak hill East
Harbor Town
Bethpage Black
Spyglass
Ballybunion Old
Royal Portrush
Torrey Pines South
Aronimink
Country Club Of Rochester
Craigburn Country Club
Pine Barron's
Philadelphia CC
Ocean Course at Kiawah
Hideout
Copperhead
Plantation Kapalua
Firestone South
Country Club Of Buffalo
Leatherstocking
Rolling Oaks
Aviara
Portstewart


OK,

To each his own.  But Aviara?  Seriously?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Rob Marshall on August 12, 2014, 05:04:22 PM
Royal County Down
Pebble beach
Lahinch
Oak hill East
Harbor Town
Bethpage Black
Spyglass
Ballybunion Old
Royal Portrush
Torrey Pines South
Aronimink
Country Club Of Rochester
Craigburn Country Club
Pine Barron's
Philadelphia CC
Ocean Course at Kiawah
Hideout
Copperhead
Plantation Kapalua
Firestone South
Country Club Of Buffalo
Leatherstocking
Rolling Oaks
Aviara
Portstewart


OK,

To each his own.  But Aviara?  Seriously?

You're probably right. It was a long time ago. Should have replaced it with The Valley at Portrush.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Terry Lavin on August 12, 2014, 05:36:17 PM
Kip Puterbaugh will be bummed at the deletion.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Hissey on August 12, 2014, 05:40:55 PM
I can't put them in order. But, here are my top 25 (excluding Sebonack which would make the list but it's a conflict)


Baltusrol Lower
Fishers Island
Friars Head
Garden City
Morfontaine
Muirfield
NGLA
North Berwick
Old Macdonald
Pacific Dunes
Peachtree
Pennard
Pine Valley
Pinehurst No.2
Porthcawl
Quaker Ridge
Riviera
San Francisco
Shinnecock
St Andrews Old
St Enodoc
Troon
Turnberry Alisa
Winged Foot West
Yale

Honorable mention goes to Perranporth and Mountain Lake. Both are incredibly charming for different reasons but don't make the top 25.

EDIT: I just realized I left out Bethpage Black and Somerset Hills. Damn this is hard...
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Stephen Northrup on August 12, 2014, 05:50:44 PM
in no particular order...

Royal Portrush (Dunluce)
Royal County Down
Bethpage Black
Sunningdale New
Sunningdale Old
Yeamans Hall
Pacific Dunes
Shoreacres
Chicago
Shinnecock Hills
Oakmont
Pinehurst #2
Royal West Norfolk
St. Andrews (Old)
Plainfield
Hidden Creek
Woking
Pebble Beach
Kittansett
The Country Club
Yale
North Berwick
Pasatiempo
Monterey Peninsula (Shore)
Swinley Forest

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Steve Salmen on August 12, 2014, 05:56:00 PM
Muirfield
NGLA
Cypress
Shinnecock
Dornoch
Crystal Downs
Pinehurst
Chicago
TOC
North Berwick
San Francisco
Dunes Club NB
Prestwick
Pac Dunes
Sunningdale Old
Formby
Machrihanish
Lytham
Sandwich
Sunningdale New
Yale
Elie
Pasatiempo
Ballyneal
Piping Rock


The 25 I think I would most like to play that I have not are: (by country)
PV
Augusta
Fishers
Oakmont
Prairie Dunes
Old Mac
LACC
Riviera
Merion
Sand Hills
Gamble Sands
Ocean Course
Highlands Links
Royal Melbourne
Kingston Heath
New South Wales
Barnbougle
Lost Farm
Cape Kidnappers
Royal County Down
Royal Portrush
Lahinch
Ballybunion
Deal
Liverpool



Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Andy Troeger on August 12, 2014, 09:46:56 PM
Six new entries this year, noted with *
1. Pine Valley
2. Cypress Point
3. Shinnecock Hills
4. Pebble Beach
5. Friar's Head
6. Fishers Island*
7. Bandon Trails
8. Pete Dye GC
9. Pacific Dunes
10. NGLA
11. Kinloch*
12. The Golf Club--OH
13. Merion East*
14. Rock Creek
15. Crystal Downs
16. Peachtree
17. Blackwolf Run River
18. Victoria National
19. Gozzer Ranch
20. TPC Sawgrass Stadium
21. Boston GC*
22. The Country Club (Clyde/Squirrel)*
23. Pikewood National
24. Homestead Cascades*
25. Bandon Dunes


Fell out...
Muirfield Village, Wade Hampton, Black Mesa, Wolf Run, Riviera, Kingsley


Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Chris DeToro on August 13, 2014, 05:14:36 PM
Always tricky, but as of today and in no particular order...

1) TOC
2) Royal County Down
3) Royal Portrush
4) Royal Troon
5) Cruden Bay
6) Royal Aberdeen
7) Muirfield
8) Carnoustie
9) Pebble Beach
10) Prairie Dunes
11) Wannamoisett
12) Pacific Dunes
13) Bandon Dunes
14) Pasatiempo
15) Yale
16) Crystal Downs
17) Pinehurst #2
18) Scioto
19) Inverness
20) Ballyneal
21) Taconic
22) Bethpage Black
23) East Lake
24) Kingsley
25) Streamsong Red
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Parker Reeves on August 14, 2014, 10:26:20 AM


Edit: I just realized these were supposed to be personally ranked.  Didn't mean to answer the post in the wrong way.  I will have to do some thinking on this...I have a hard time with favorites!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Steve Lapper on August 14, 2014, 12:40:16 PM
In no particular order, but 25 of my personal favorites:

-St. Andrews Old
-Pacific Dunes
-Oakmont
-Scioto
-Winged Foot West
-Western Gailes
-Prestwick
-Stonehaven
-Cruden Bay
-Peterhead
-Diamond Creek
-Boston Golf Club
-Warwick Country Club
-Somerset Hills
-Hamilton Farm
-The Golf Club
-Fox Chapel
-The Honors
-Timuquana
-Pebble Beach
-Balsam Mountain Preserve
-Biltmore Forest
-The Cliffs at Walnut Cove
-Augusta CC
-Palmetto

Hamilton Farm??? Really??? Or is that due to having another reason?? ???
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Cameron DeVries on August 14, 2014, 02:33:54 PM
Pebble Beach
Pasatiempo
North Berwick
Pacific Dunes
Crosswater
Valley Club
Lahontan
Torrey Pines
Links at Spanish Bay
Pilgrim's Run
Palos Verdes
Kebo Valley
Mauna Kea
Stanford GC
Clarkston CC
Trophy Lake GC
La Purisima GC
Boyne Highlands
Sea Ranch
Rustic Canyon
Rancho Park
Widgi Creek
The Dunes at Maui Lani
Waimea CC
Bayonet GC




Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Thomas Dai on August 14, 2014, 02:57:02 PM
In no particular order, but 25 of my personal favorites:

-St. Andrews Old
-Pacific Dunes
-Oakmont
-Scioto
-Winged Foot West
-Western Gailes
-Prestwick
-Stonehaven
-Cruden Bay
-Peterhead
-Diamond Creek
-Boston Golf Club
-Warwick Country Club
-Somerset Hills
-Hamilton Farm
-The Golf Club
-Fox Chapel
-The Honors
-Timuquana
-Pebble Beach
-Balsam Mountain Preserve
-Biltmore Forest
-The Cliffs at Walnut Cove
-Augusta CC
-Palmetto

Hamilton Farm??? Really??? Or is that due to having another reason?? ???

Peterhead?

Interesting selection. Any particular reason(s).
atb
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Hissey on August 15, 2014, 10:49:22 PM
I love so many mentions of North Berwick. A truly special place.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Max Sternberg on August 16, 2014, 12:33:55 PM
1. Pacific Dunes, OR
2. Pinehurst No. 2, NC
3. Pasatiempo, CA
4. Kapalua Plantation, HI
5. Bandon Dunes, OR
6. Lawsonia Links, WI
7. Bandon Preserve, OR
8. Pinehurst No. 8, NC
9. Torrey Pines (South), CA
10. Pine Meadow (pre-greens disaster), IL
11. Rustic Canyon, CA
12. Conway Farms, IL
13. Old Elm, IL
14. Pinehurst No. 4, NC
15. Manakiki, OH
16. Palos Verdes, CA
17. Rancho Santa Fe, CA
18. Sleepy Hollow, OH
19. Kemper Lakes, IL
20. Stanford, CA
21. Beechmont, OH
22. Pinehurst No. 5, NC
23. Blackwolf Run (Meadow Valleys), WI
24. Troon North (Monument- original routing), AZ
25. Warren Course at Notre Dame, IN
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott McWethy on August 16, 2014, 05:56:55 PM
Muirfield
Cypress
Shinnecock
Dornoch
Crystal Downs
Pinehurst
Chicago
TOC
North Berwick
San Francisco
Dunes Club NB
Prestwick
Pac Dunes
Sunningdale Old
Formby
Machrihanish
Lytham
Sandwich
Sunningdale New
Yale
Elie
Pasatiempo
Ballyneal
Piping Rock
Askernish

The 25 I think I would most like to play that I have not are: (by country)
PV
Augusta
NGLA
Fishers
Oakmont
Prairie Dunes
Old Mac
LACC
Riviera
Merion
Sand Hills
Ocean Course
Highlands Links
Royal Melbourne
Kingston Heath
New South Wales
Barnbougle
Lost Farm
Cape Kidnappers
Royal County Down
Royal Portrush
Lahinch
Ballybunion
Deal
Liverpool





Steve, if you haven't played Augusta National, you really should try to get down there sometime.  I hear it's great!

Best regards,

Scott
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Parker Reeves on August 16, 2014, 11:23:23 PM
In no particular order, but 25 of my personal favorites:

-St. Andrews Old
-Pacific Dunes
-Oakmont
-Scioto
-Winged Foot West
-Western Gailes
-Prestwick
-Stonehaven
-Cruden Bay
-Peterhead
-Diamond Creek
-Boston Golf Club
-Warwick Country Club
-Somerset Hills
-Hamilton Farm
-The Golf Club
-Fox Chapel
-The Honors
-Timuquana
-Pebble Beach
-Balsam Mountain Preserve
-Biltmore Forest
-The Cliffs at Walnut Cove
-Augusta CC
-Palmetto

Hamilton Farm??? Really??? Or is that due to having another reason?? ???


Steve,

  Thanks for the interest.  While I do have some personal connection with HFGC, I try not to completely base my decision on that.  The conditioning, fun factor of the main golf course and the Hickory course (18 Hole Par 3 that as of at least 2007ish was the only USGA Rated Par 3 course in the country from what I understand), were all factors in my decision.  The gorgeous clubhouse is really special and the fact that a small number of groups are on the golf course each day allows for some great relaxation. 

Edit: I also love the aura of the US Equestrian training facility being on-site with some fantastic barns on property.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Parker Reeves on August 16, 2014, 11:29:17 PM
In no particular order, but 25 of my personal favorites:

-St. Andrews Old
-Pacific Dunes
-Oakmont
-Scioto
-Winged Foot West
-Western Gailes
-Prestwick
-Stonehaven
-Cruden Bay
-Peterhead
-Diamond Creek
-Boston Golf Club
-Warwick Country Club
-Somerset Hills
-Hamilton Farm
-The Golf Club
-Fox Chapel
-The Honors
-Timuquana
-Pebble Beach
-Balsam Mountain Preserve
-Biltmore Forest
-The Cliffs at Walnut Cove
-Augusta CC
-Palmetto

Hamilton Farm??? Really??? Or is that due to having another reason?? ???

Peterhead?

Interesting selection. Any particular reason(s).
atb

Thomas,

 Thank you for the comment and interest.  Peterhead is special to me for various reasons.  I was able to play golf in the game's homeplace with my father which was a dream come true for us.  The course has a great history (originally laid out in 1892 by Willie Park Jr) and some fantastic views and felt like a great value. 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tommy Williamsen on August 17, 2014, 09:03:24 PM
Parker, no Mt Mitchell?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Parker Reeves on August 17, 2014, 10:56:27 PM
TW,

  How are you??? To be honest, yes, I would like to break some rules at add Mt. Mitchell, Ballyhack, and Primland :) I'm terrible at picking favorites.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jon Cavalier on August 18, 2014, 09:31:12 PM
Since we're whipping it out, here's my top 25 played over the course of the past year:

1. Merion East
2. Oakmont
3. Maidstone
4. Sleepy Hollow
5. Piping Rock
6. The Creek
7. Fox Chapel
8. The Course at Yale
9. Dunes Club
10. Streamsong Blue
11. Streamsong Red
12. Ocean Course
13. Pinehurst No. 2
14. Kinloch
15. Greenbrier Old White
16. Ridgewood
17. Mountain Lake
18. St. George's
19. Lancaster
20. Plainfield
21. Bayonne
22. Aronimink
23. Baltimore CC (East)
24. Shadow Creek
25. Dormie
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on August 19, 2014, 04:16:02 AM
Tommy W

I have a lot of time for Saunton East.  Its probably one of those courses which failed on price. 

Sheehy

No question, Sunny Old is fantastic, but its green fee is a serious turn-off.  Even so, its one of the few mega expensive places I would highly  recommend because the place is so special.   

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Greg Taylor on August 19, 2014, 11:57:46 AM
I should put my marker down... bit eclectic but here goes:

Cypress Point
Pasatiempo
Royal County Down
Royal Dornoch
Old Course

Muirfield
North Berwick
Tobacco Road
Old Macdonald
The Addington

Whistling Straits
Swinley Forest
Crystal Downs
Cruden Bay
Pac Dunes

Ballybunion - Old
Lahinch
Arcadia Bluffs
Pinehurst #2
Olympic Lake

Castle Stewart
Kiawah Island
Formby
Pebble Beach
Walton Heath - Old


Top my to-do list: Sunningdale and Merion.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Criss Titschinger on August 19, 2014, 12:42:42 PM
Since I don't have the experience or access of many of this site, I thought I'd go through this exercise to see what I came up with. Most of this is around the Ohio area, but there are a few outsiders.

I do have 3 on the horizon which will undoubtedly replace 3 on this list.

Well, here goes, in no particular order:

Black Mesa
Paa-Ko Ridge
Miami Valley GC
Cincinnati CC
World Woods (Pine Barrens)
World Woods (Rolling Oaks)
Kiawah Island (Turtle Point)
Fowler's Mill
The Fort
Trophy Club
Sultan's Run
Atlantic City CC
Twisted Dune
Seaview (Bay)
The Vineyards at Renault
Clovernook CC
Western Hills CC
Purgatory
Stonelick Hills
Old Silo
The Quarry
Shaker Run
Brown's Run CC
Longaberger
Hershey CC (East)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Nigel Islam on August 19, 2014, 03:07:47 PM
Since I don't have the experience or access of many of this site, I thought I'd go through this exercise to see what I came up with. Most of this is around the Ohio area, but there are a few outsiders.

I do have 3 on the horizon which will undoubtedly replace 3 on this list.

Well, here goes, in no particular order:

Black Mesa
Paa-Ko Ridge
Miami Valley GC
Cincinnati CC
World Woods (Pine Barrens)
World Woods (Rolling Oaks)
Kiawah Island (Turtle Point)
Fowler's Mill
The Fort
Trophy Club
Sultan's Run
Atlantic City CC
Twisted Dune
Seaview (Bay)
The Vineyards at Renault
Clovernook CC
Western Hills CC
Purgatory
Stonelick Hills
Old Silo
The Quarry
Shaker Run
Brown's Run CC
Longaberger
Hershey CC (East)

Criss,
     What is Cincinnati CC like? I know its quite old, but never hear much about it otherwise.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Sherma on August 19, 2014, 03:17:17 PM
Criss

Interesting to see Hershey East. Almost everyone rates the West while even within the club I rarely see much love for the East. What was it that about the East that merited it on your list? Also, have you played the West?

Since I don't have the experience or access of many of this site, I thought I'd go through this exercise to see what I came up with. Most of this is around the Ohio area, but there are a few outsiders.

I do have 3 on the horizon which will undoubtedly replace 3 on this list.

Well, here goes, in no particular order:

Black Mesa
Paa-Ko Ridge
Miami Valley GC
Cincinnati CC
World Woods (Pine Barrens)
World Woods (Rolling Oaks)
Kiawah Island (Turtle Point)
Fowler's Mill
The Fort
Trophy Club
Sultan's Run
Atlantic City CC
Twisted Dune
Seaview (Bay)
The Vineyards at Renault
Clovernook CC
Western Hills CC
Purgatory
Stonelick Hills
Old Silo
The Quarry
Shaker Run
Brown's Run CC
Longaberger
Hershey CC (East)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Criss Titschinger on August 19, 2014, 07:54:04 PM
Cincinnati CC is old (1895). I believe one of the first 100 courses/clubs recognized by the USGA. It’s a shorter course by modern standards at just over 6,300 yards, but has a lot of elevation changes that keep things interesting. It’s a fun, old style layout, but not in the league of others around town, like Camargo, Coldstream, Clovernook, and Maketewah.

I would say it has one of the best sets of par 3s in Cincinnati. Certainly not nearly on Camargo’s level, which are all-world, but among the top sets in the city. Lots of variety; everything from 148 to 244 (downhill, thankfully). I personally think the 8th hole was better before they remodeled it. The previous version played West to East. I don’t know the details, but property was acquired and they moved the tees to that property. The old tees were much closer to the 7th green. Now a 100 yard+ walk, the hole now plays North to South. My host told me the hole was quite controversial among members and I could see why.

I swore I took some pictures of the course when I played, but I’m having trouble finding them. For now, the Itinerant Golfer (http://www.golftripper.com/cincinnati-country-club/) has a short write-up of the course which highlight the par 3s.

Jim, my uncle-in-law used to be a member at Hershey. We had to play East that day because West had an outing on it. That explains why East is on my list and not West. To be honest, I haven’t been back in the Lancaster/Hershey area since and he no longer is a member, so it may be a while before I notch the West on my played list.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: David Ober on August 20, 2014, 12:10:57 AM
In no particular order:

Pebble Beach
Spyglass
Riviera
Monterey Peninsula Shore
Monterey Peninsula Dunes
Pinehurst #2
Kingsbarns
The Old Course (St. Andrews)
Waterville
Tralee
Lahinch
Dooks
Ballybunion Old
Barona Creek
Lakeside GC
Pasatiempo
Rustic Canyon
Stevinson Ranch
Torrey Pines South
Canyon Crest (my old home course)
Bear Creek GC (my current home course)
Oak Valley
Goose Creek
Carlton Woods Fazio
Carlton Woods Nicklaus
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on August 20, 2014, 08:36:27 AM
Nice to see Barona gettin' some love....
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: BHoover on August 24, 2014, 11:13:41 PM
My personal top 25ish (first six are ranked; remainder in no particular order):

Brookside (Canton)
Oakland Hills (South)
The Golf Club
Canterbury
Kirtland
Kingsley

NCR (South)
Scioto
Timuquana
Muirfield Village
Firestone (South)
Double Eagle
Springfield (OH)
Columbus CC
Congress Lake
Mayfield
Brookside G&CC (Columbus)
OSU (Scarlet)
Sawgrass CC
Tobacco Road
Southern Pines
Fowlers Mill
Longaberger
Granville
Pinnacle (Columbus)
Berry Hills
South Hills CC




Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Terry Lavin on August 25, 2014, 12:40:14 PM
It behooves me to admire B. Hoover's list, which is dominated by Ohio courses.  Wow, that's a lot of good golf.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: BHoover on August 25, 2014, 12:42:40 PM
It behooves me to admire B. Hoover's list, which is dominated by Ohio courses.  Wow, that's a lot of good golf.

It's true that there is a lot of good golf in Ohio (despite generally lousy weather).  On the other hand, the number of Ohio courses on my list speaks to the fact that I really have not played much outside my home state.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Bourgeois on August 25, 2014, 12:50:54 PM
behooves me to admire B. Hoover's

Nice! You're no ass for using assonance.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Carl Nichols on August 25, 2014, 12:59:29 PM
Since we're whipping it out, here's my top 25 played over the course of the past year:

1. Merion East
2. Oakmont
3. Maidstone
4. Sleepy Hollow
5. Piping Rock
6. The Creek
7. Fox Chapel
8. The Course at Yale
9. Dunes Club
10. Streamsong Blue
11. Streamsong Red
12. Ocean Course
13. Pinehurst No. 2
14. Kinloch
15. Greenbrier Old White
16. Ridgewood
17. Mountain Lake
18. St. George's
19. Lancaster
20. Plainfield
21. Bayonne
22. Aronimink
23. Baltimore CC (East)
24. Shadow Creek
25. Dormie

nice year!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Terry Lavin on August 25, 2014, 01:22:18 PM
behooves me to admire B. Hoover's

Nice! You're no ass for using assonance.

And I would diss you for dissonance!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Billsteele on August 25, 2014, 02:06:20 PM
The judge si truly a cunning linguist.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Kevin_D on September 16, 2014, 09:32:58 AM
After a fantastic 2014 season, including Bandon Dunes (finally!), I've updated my list:

1   National Golf Links of America
2   Shinnecock Hills
3   Merion
4   Pacific Dunes
5   Friar's Head
6   Pinehurst #2
7   Pebble Beach
8   Bethpage (Black)
9   San Francisco Golf Club
10   Sunningdale Old
11   Winged Foot West
12   Old Macdonald
13   Riviera
14   Maidstone
15   Swinley Forest
16   Plainfield
17   Crystal Downs
18   Garden City Golf Club
19   Bandon Dunes
20   Streamsong Red
21   Stonewall Old
22   Kingsley Club
23   Yale
24   Doral Blue
25   Sebonack
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Kevin_D on September 16, 2014, 10:16:11 AM
Ground Rules: Post your personal top 25, ranked in order. No alphabetical cop out lists.  

Come on, Brian!  Rank!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mike Treitler on September 16, 2014, 10:27:28 AM
 
1.Turnberry (Ailsa)
2.Bandon Trails

3.St. Andrews (Old Course)

4.Bandon Dunes

5.Carnoustie

6.Pacific Dunes

7.Kingsley Club

8.Arcadia Bluffs

9.Whistling Straights

10.Spyglass Hill

11.Crystal Downs

12.Dunes Club

13.Kingsbarns

14.Cabo Del Sol Ocean

15.Milwaukee CC

16.Lost Dunes

17.Old Macdonald

18.Greywalls at Marquette

19.Prestwick

20.Golf Club of Scottsdale

21.St Andrews (Castle)

22.Silverleaf

23.Lawsonia Links

24.Four Seasons Punta Mita (Bahia)
25. Cabo Del Sol (Dessert)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mike Treitler on September 16, 2014, 10:29:43 AM
And for the record I actually have a top 40 with honorable mention so here is the rest of the list

26.Bay Harbor
27. Blackwolf Run (River)
28. Whistling Straights (Irish)
29.Shore Acres

30.Quintero Ranch

31.Timberstone

32.Hawks Eye

33.Barton Creek (Canyons)
34. Cascata

35. Barton Creek (Foothills)
36. Erin Hills
37. Black Wolf Run (Meadow)
38. Forest Dunes
39. Glenview Club
40. Desert Highlands
Honorable Mention: Skokie CC, Coyote Moon, Wild Rock, Eagle Ridge (General), Pilgrims Run
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on September 17, 2014, 05:22:20 AM
See page 45.

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Cristian on September 17, 2014, 06:20:55 AM
Ground Rules: Post your personal top 25, ranked in order. No alphabetical cop out lists.  

Come on, Brian!  Rank!

Jeepers, I didn't realize this was meant to be rank job.  Tough to do with favourites, but here goes.

My Favourite 25

North Berwick
Kington
St Enodoc
Old Town
Sacred 9
Cavendish
Lakewood Shores
______________________
Pennard
Alwoodley
Cleeve Cloud
Perranporth
Reddish Vale
Enniscrone
Prestwick
LuLu
Lederach
Oxford
_______________________
Cruden Bay
Portrush Valley
Carnoustie Burnside
Strandhill
Tobacco Road
Southerndown
Renaissance
Yelverton

Ciao



Did you forget or not include Painswick?

I always thought it was part of your Jewel Box containing a foursome of hidden Gems; Kington, Cavendish, Painswick and Perranporth.

The term Hidden Gem is quite overused; most courses called a hidden gem or either not hidden (many people have been there) or not a gem.

I have never seen any of these apart from drooling over your picture threads. In which order would you visit these 4?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on September 17, 2014, 07:02:10 AM
Cristian

Painswick doesn't quite make the list mainly because of its conditioning.  I reckon there are a few small windows to play Painswick.  In the spring before the rough can grow and in the fall after the rough can be cut and before the mud sets in.  

Kington
Cavendish
_____________________
Perranporth
______________________
Painswick

I think Kington is also the best of these courses.  It is a proper design with some cool shaping and unusual fairway undulations.  Perranporth is probably better than Cavendish just because its on sand and the course is easily played all year, but in terms of the design Cavendish knocks P'porth all over the room and because of this I place it 2nd.  Cavendish certainly suffers from drainage issues, even so, I greatly admire the design and think it is an excellent model of where architecture should be heading.  I like Painswick, but it is very extreme; a game once or twice is year is enough for me whereas if Cavendish was that close to me I would consider joining and if Kington were that close I would have been a member these past dozen years.  I reckon Painswick's par 3s really make the design (one of the best and most varied sets I know of), but there are also a few wonderful 4s highlighted by some terrific green sites.  Other than for safety issues here and there, nothing should change and all should see Painswick at least twice  :D  It truly is a marvel.  

BTW - I don't really think Perranporth is a hidden gem.  It is quite a popular holiday course.  

Sheehy

I know you aren't a Dealie in the same way some others are, but I am surprised Deal isn't among your top 25.  Whats the problem?

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Carson Pilcher on September 17, 2014, 09:40:15 AM
In no particular order; except for the top two:

St. Andrews Old
Cypress Point
San Francisco Golf Club
The Honors Course
Peachtree Golf Club
Settindown Creek Golf Club
Olympic Club
Timuquana
Augusta CC
Palmetto
Spyglass Hill
Whistling Straits
Monterrey Pennisula Golf Club
Pasatiempo
Cuscowilla
Streamsong Red
Streamsong Blue
St. Andrews – New
Highlands Country Club
Country Club of Columbus
Grove Park Inn
Lookout Mountain Golf Club
Ruby Hill Golf Club
Harding Park
Blackwolf Run

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Chaplin on September 18, 2014, 04:56:19 AM
Brian take out Sandwich then, their rough is brutal this year......weather and conditioning are surely skin deep!! 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Joe_Tucholski on September 18, 2014, 07:39:50 AM
1. Pacific Dunes, OR
2. Pinehurst No. 2, NC
3. Pasatiempo, CA
4. Kapalua Plantation, HI
5. Bandon Dunes, OR
6. Lawsonia Links, WI
7. Bandon Preserve, OR
8. Pinehurst No. 8, NC
9. Torrey Pines (South), CA
10. Pine Meadow (pre-greens disaster), IL
11. Rustic Canyon, CA
12. Conway Farms, IL
13. Old Elm, IL
14. Pinehurst No. 4, NC
15. Manakiki, OH
16. Palos Verdes, CA
17. Rancho Santa Fe, CA
18. Sleepy Hollow, OH
19. Kemper Lakes, IL
20. Stanford, CA
21. Beechmont, OH
22. Pinehurst No. 5, NC
23. Blackwolf Run (Meadow Valleys), WI
24. Troon North (Monument- original routing), AZ
25. Warren Course at Notre Dame, IN

Max, looks like you need to move to Pinehurst and buy a house with 4 of the resort courses in your top 25.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean Leary on September 18, 2014, 02:34:00 PM
Pine Valley
Shinnecock Hills
Cypress Point
Royal County Down
Royal Portrush
Pebble Beach
Merion
Prairie Dunes
Lahinch
Ballybunion
Royal Dornoch
Turnberry
North Berwick
Pacific Dunes
Ballyneal
LACC North
San Francisco GC
The Old Course
Bandon Trails
Kiawah (Ocean)
Eastward Ho!
Enniscrone
Rock Creek Cattle Co.
Gozzer Ranch
Pasatiempo



Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on November 04, 2014, 08:43:46 AM
Brian take out Sandwich then, their rough is brutal this year......weather and conditioning are surely skin deep!! 

Chappers

Not meant to be a harsh question, but why not look for ways to make Deal a more pleasurable experience rather than basically state the current set-up is within the normal pattern? Couldn't anything be done to make Deal better, or is it as good as it can be?

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: astavrides on November 04, 2014, 11:21:01 PM
1   Pebble Beach
2   Royal Melbourne West
3   Royal County Down
4   St. Andrews- old course
5   Turnberry (Ailsa)
6   Kingsbarns
7   Pacific Dunes
8   Olympic (Lake)
9   Carnoustie
10   New South Wales Golf Club
11   Royal Portrush
12   Cabo del Sol (Ocean)
13   monterey peninsula (shore)
14   Whistling Straits (Straits)
15   ballyneal
16   El Dorado (Los Cabos)
17   harbor town
18   old mcdonald
19   clear creek tahoe
20   bandon trails
21   Blackwolf Run (River)
22   pinehurst#2
23   kiawah
24   Valderrama
25   Bandon Dunes
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: DFarron on November 05, 2014, 05:25:32 PM
Mine in order....

Cypress
Pebble
Miurfield (Scotland)
Chicago GC
Shinnecock
The Old Course
Carnoustie
North Berwick GC
Prarie Dunes
Muirfield Village
Cal Club
Inverness
The Golf Club
Oakland Hills South
Garden City
Camargo Club
Olympic Club Lake
Machrihanish
Pasatiempo
Canterbury
Brookside
The Valley Club of Montecito
Riviera
Barton Hills
San Francisco GC
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on November 24, 2014, 04:19:51 PM
Pretty sure I'm done traveling for golf for the year.  So, here's my updated list of favorites through 2014.

Augusta National
Royal County Down
The Golf Club
Dismal River Doak
The Old Course
NGLA
Old MacDonald
Kiawah Ocean
Shinnecock Hills
Pinehurst #2
Sand Hills
Myopia Hunt
Dismal River Nicklaus
Friar's Head
Muirfield
Kingsley Club
Shoreacres
Cal Club
Sebonack
Valley Club
Chicago Golf
Peachtree
Prairie Dunes
Old Sandwich
Camargo
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jeffwarne on November 24, 2014, 06:05:11 PM
In no particular order except #'s 25
ANGC
Eastward Ho
St. Georges
Sleepy Hollow
Pebble Beach
Portsalon
RCD
NGLA
Shinny
Pine Valley
Myopia
Fishers
Kittansett
Creek
TOC
North Berwick
Pennard
St Enodoc
Friars
Portnoo
Riviera
Perranporth
Brora
Aberdovey
4 way tie for 25th
Augusta CC (homer ;))
Palmetto (homer ;) ;))
Southampton (homer ;) ;) ;D)
Goat Hill (homer ;D ;D ;D ;D ;)

could of course change as I think about it :) ;)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: BCowan on December 01, 2014, 09:24:15 AM
As of Today

Inverness
#2
UofM (and i went to OSU)
Naples National
Battle Creek CC
Kingsley Club
OSU Scarlet
Calusa Pines
Groose Ile
Radrick Farms
Scioto
Mid Pines
Sylvania CC
Plum Hollow CC
Western Golf and CC
Double Eagle
Barton Hills (played before renovation it was avg Ross)
World Woods (pine barrons)
Caledonia
Ocala Golf club (muni) great potential
Washtenaw CC
Roseland (played pre renovation)Windsor Muni
Elks Run cinci
Muirfield Village
2014

 1.  Mid pines
 2. #2
 3. Franklin Hills
 4.  Inverness
 5.  UofM
 6.  Orchard Lake
 7.  Kirtland
 8.  Scioto
 9.  Pine Needles
10. Battle Creek
11. Naples National
12. OSU Scarlet (pre JN)
13. Southern Pines
14. Dormie
15. Kingsley
16. Lookout mtn
17. Barton Hills
18.  Sylvania                                                
19.  Canterbury
20.  Radrick Farms
21.  Indianwood
22.  Honors
23.  Double Eagle
24.  Plum Hollow                                                                      
25.  Western
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jason Topp on December 01, 2014, 12:34:33 PM

1.Turnberry (Ailsa)
2.Bandon Trails
3.St. Andrews (Old Course)
4.Bandon Dunes
5.Carnoustie
6.Pacific Dunes
7.Kingsley Club
8.Arcadia Bluffs
9.Whistling Straights
10.Spyglass Hill
11.Crystal Downs

....

Mike:

I just saw this - putting Turnberry, Arcadia, Spyglass Hill and Whistling Straits ahead of Crystal Downs is a bold opinion.  Care to explain your thinking?  It is nice to get a fresh perspective on some of these things.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tyler Page on December 04, 2014, 07:18:51 AM
Seemed like a good thread for my first post in the discussion group...

1. Prestwick
2. NGLA
3. TOC
4. Shinnecock Hills
5. Lahinch
6. Sunningdale (Old)
7. Troon
8. Dornoch
9. Ballybunion
10. Pacific Dunes
11. Merion (East)
12. Bandon Trails
13. Pebble Beach
14. Brora
15. Maidstone
16. Bethpage Black
17. Castle Stuart
18. Elie
19. Old Macdonald
20. Turnberry (Alisa)
21. Deal
22. Waterville
23. Winged Foot (West)
24. Wentworth (East)
25. St. Andrews (New)

I've never actually made a ranking list before, and I notice a couple things.  First, I guess I have a strong preference for match play, and second, it's hard not to be influenced by having a round in over-the-top difficult conditions.  In particular, I was torn apart in my solitary rounds at both Dornoch and Ballybunion.  Ballybunion had sideways rain and Dornoch had a 4-club wind that turned every unintentional slight fade or draw into a lost ball in the gorse.  I am a 10-handicapper and didn't break 100 at either course.  At Dornoch, my playing partner was a 5-handicap who was an unbelievable 1-under at the turn and proceeded to card a 10 on the tenth hole.  I imagine both those courses may climb a notch or two if I were lucky enough to revisit in conditions that would allow for at least a few glimmers of hope.

I need to get to North Berwick and Cruden Bay!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Greg Taylor on December 04, 2014, 10:38:21 AM

I've never actually made a ranking list before, and I notice a couple things.  First, I guess I have a strong preference for match play, and second, it's hard not to be influenced by having a round in over-the-top difficult conditions.  In particular, I was torn apart in my solitary rounds at both Dornoch and Ballybunion.  Ballybunion had sideways rain and Dornoch had a 4-club wind that turned every unintentional slight fade or draw into a lost ball in the gorse.  I am a 10-handicapper and didn't break 100 at either course.  At Dornoch, my playing partner was a 5-handicap who was an unbelievable 1-under at the turn and proceeded to card a 10 on the tenth hole.  I imagine both those courses may climb a notch or two if I were lucky enough to revisit in conditions that would allow for at least a few glimmers of hope.

I need to get to North Berwick and Cruden Bay!

Hi and welcome and you're amongst a friend here... links golf is the most "authentic" but at times most ridiculous form of golf.

The problem with "one and done" rounds like you say can be extreme weather.... had it too at Hoylake and Kiawah. There is wind, and then there is wind. I wont quote the Beaufort scale but it has relevance!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Thomas Dai on December 04, 2014, 12:04:19 PM
I've never actually made a ranking list before, and I notice a couple things.  First, I guess I have a strong preference for match play, and second, it's hard not to be influenced by having a round in over-the-top difficult conditions.  In particular, I was torn apart in my solitary rounds at both Dornoch and Ballybunion.  Ballybunion had sideways rain and Dornoch had a 4-club wind that turned every unintentional slight fade or draw into a lost ball in the gorse.  I am a 10-handicapper and didn't break 100 at either course.  At Dornoch, my playing partner was a 5-handicap who was an unbelievable 1-under at the turn and proceeded to card a 10 on the tenth hole.  I imagine both those courses may climb a notch or two if I were lucky enough to revisit in conditions that would allow for at least a few glimmers of hope.
I need to get to North Berwick and Cruden Bay!
Hi and welcome and you're amongst a friend here... links golf is the most "authentic" but at times most ridiculous form of golf.
The problem with "one and done" rounds like you say can be extreme weather.... had it too at Hoylake and Kiawah. There is wind, and then there is wind. I wont quote the Beaufort scale but it has relevance!

Strange beast links golf.

Sometimes when it's calm and the summer sun is shining it seems sooo easy-peasy and you whizz around with a smile. Sometimes however, when it's blowin' and wet and cold it's bloody hard going, miserable even. After a while though you develop a kind of sixth sense, call it nous, when you pretty much know when you initially get out of the car or you're on the putting green that's it's gonna be a tough old day or a really tough old day and your nous kicks-in and your expectations adjust accordingly, or at least they should. Bit like if an old chap hanging around the clubhouse or the pro-shop taps the end of his nose with his index finger and whispers something like "It's (say) a 5-over day today laddie" it's worth paying attention otherewise there's a pretty good chance of disapointment, score wise at least. Sometimes folk talk about 'personal par', a concept maybe more relevant on a hugely variable conditions wise links couse than any other.

And Tyler, when you get to Cruden Bay, take the opportunity to play the gem that is the 9-hole St Olaf course prior to playing the Championship course.

atb
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: David_Tepper on December 04, 2014, 01:20:02 PM
"Top Courses" I have played, as defined by raters/rankings, include:

USA
Cypress Point
Olympic Lake
San Francisco GC
California GC
Spyglass
Monterey Peninsula Shore

Ireland (the whole island)
Ballyunion
Royal County Down
Royal Portrush
Portmarnock
Lahinch
County Sligo (Rosses Point)

England
Sunningdale Old
Sunningdale New
Royal Lytham
Royal Birkdale
Royal Liverpool
Berkshire Red
Berkshire Blue
St. Endoc

Scotland
Royal Dornoch
Royal Aberdeen
Cruden Bay
Castle Stuart
Nairn

Courses are listed in no particular order.

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Chaplin on December 06, 2014, 05:59:11 AM
Sean the fairways are all generous and this year the semi had extra width as well, the course never dried out so the rough stayed thick all year long. Usually by early August the rough thins out and by Deal week the long rough is whispy and finding balls simple, that didn't happen this year. Shots 30-40 yards wide of the centre line will be punished.

There was some serious rough thinning last winter and it's in progress for this winter as well.

You'll notice some decent changes at Deal on your next visit, hundreds of yards of rubber (grow through) matting has vastly improved the paths, some more natural bunkering and the greens are stunning.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JBovay on January 01, 2015, 05:35:08 PM
The Old Course
Highlands Links
North Berwick
Pasatiempo
Yale

TPC Sawgrass
Royal Aberdeen
Jasper Park
Banff Springs
Rustic Canyon

Cruden Bay
Greenbrier (Old White)
Ballyhack
Eden (front 9), St. Andrews
Carnoustie

Kingsbarns
El Diablo
Timuquana
The Ocean Course, Kiawah*
Crail (Balcomie)

Aetna Springs
Amelia Island Plantation (Oak Marsh)
University of Florida
Vista Links
Mt Mitchell**

* Played when I was very young; it is at least this high in my ranking and it should probably fall into my top 10-15.
** Chosen at random from among about a dozen candidates.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Alan Ritchie on January 01, 2015, 08:24:23 PM
too much thinking about this would give me a headache.. In a rough order my favourite 25

Barnbougle dunes

Royal Dornoch

Royal Portrush

Kinloch (nz)

Turnberry

Muirfield

Sunningdale old

Castle Stuart

TOC

Lost farm

Royal St. Georges

Kingsbarns

New South Wales

Kauri Cliffs

Cape kidnappers

Carnoustie

Royal Liverpool

Jacks point

Royal Troon

Royal Melbourne west

Kingston Heath

Sunningdale New

Nairn

The Lakes

Lake karrinyup

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: James Brown on January 01, 2015, 10:53:19 PM
Royal Dornoch
The Old Course
Lahinch
Ballybunion
Sunningdale Old
Sunningdale New
Machrihanish
North Berwick
Cruden Bay
Bethpage Black
Pebble Beach
Passatiempo
Kiawah Ocean Course
Harbortown
Royal Aberdeen
Black Mesa
Streamsong Red
Western Gailes
TPC Sawgrass
World Woods Pine Barrens
Nairn
Golden Horseshoe
Mattiponi Springs
Cochiti Lake
Torrey South


Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Angus Moir on March 04, 2015, 01:48:40 PM
First post so don't be too hard on the new guy!

PV...by a mile
RDGC
Shinnecock
Augusta
Cypress P
Merion
Royal Melbourne
RCD
Sunningdale New
Morfontaine
Valderamma
Pebble Beach
European Club
Pacific Dunes
Waterwood National
North Berwick
HCEG
Southerness
Birkdale
Western Gailes
Cruden Bay
Kingston Heath
Portmarnock
County Louth
MidOcean


Can't believe i left the Old Course off! 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Michael George on March 04, 2015, 02:20:13 PM
Angus - You really have to see some more courses  :o  Honestly, I would like to see what is left on your bucket list.



Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Angus Moir on March 04, 2015, 02:38:38 PM
Michael

I hear you...as a newbie don't be too tough on me!

BL

Oakmont
Sandhills
Hirono
The National
Friars Head
Streamsongs
SFGC
Durban CC
Les Bordes
Trump aberdeen

Etc,etc,etc.....

One can dare to dream...
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill McKinley on October 16, 2015, 09:20:10 AM
I haven't updated my list in a couple years and after my recent trip to Bandon I thought I would update things...

1. National Golf Links of America
2. Fishers Island Club
3. Shinnecock Hills
4. Merion - East
5. Oakmont

6. The Old Course
7. California Golf Club of SF
8. LACC - North
9. Muirfield
10. Seminole

11. Old Macdonald
12. Chicago Golf Club
13. Pacific Dunes
14. Bandon Trails
15. Bandon Dunes

16. Maidstone
17. Piping Rock
18. Kingsbarns
19. Crystal Downs
20. Turnberry - Ailsa

21. Riviera
22. The Creek Club
23. Friars Head
24. Yeamans Hall Club
25. Canterbury

This was really hard this time... So many honorable mentions!!!  I've been very lucky!!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Daryl David on October 16, 2015, 09:52:57 AM
1. Cypress Point
2. Old Course
3. National Golf Links
4. Royal Dornoch
5. Royal County Down


6. Muirfield
7. Royal Portrush
8. Royal Melbourne West
9. Pacific Dunes
10. Sandhills


11. Ballyneal
12. Kingston Heath
13. Royal St. Georges
14. Royal Cinque Ports
15. Ballybunion Old


16. Barnbougle Dunes
17. Pinehurst #2
18. LA North
19. Royal Birkdale
20. Sunningdale Old


21. Cabot Cliffs
22. Cape Wickham
23. Cape Kidnappers
24. Shoreacres
25. Old Town Club


Honorable Mention (no order)
Diamante
Portmarnock
Kingsbarns
Castle Stuart
Old Mac
Olympic Lake
Royal Lythan and St. Ann's
Formby
Victoria Golf Club
North Berwick

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on October 16, 2015, 11:05:03 AM

Waterwood National


Angus:


Waterwood National was a cool course, but it has been closed now for a few years.


Maybe you can find room for The Old Course in its absence!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JStewart on October 16, 2015, 11:31:49 AM
 1.       Pebble Beach
2.       Oakland Hills CC (South)
3.       Ballybunion
4.       Pacific Dunes
5.       Streamsong Red
6.      Calusa Pines
7.      Bandon Trails
8.       Streamsong Blue
9.      Old Macdonald
10.  Bandon Dunes
11.  Arcadia Bluffs
12.  TPC Sawgrass
13.   Pinehurst No. 2
14.  Forest Dunes
15.   Kingsley
16.  Chambers Bay
17.   Spyglass Hill
18.  University of Michigan
19.  Old Head
20.  World Woods (Pine Barrens)
21.  Innisbrook (Cooperhead)
22.  Waterville
23.  Kapalua (Plantation)
24.  Naples National
25.  Red Sky Norman
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Scott McWethy on October 16, 2015, 11:54:13 AM
I haven't updated my list in a couple years and after my recent trip to Bandon I thought I would update things...

1. National Golf Links of America
2. Fishers Island Club
3. Shinnecock Hills
4. Merion - East
5. Oakmont

6. The Old Course
7. California Golf Club of SF
8. LACC - North
9. Muirfield
10. Seminole

11. Old Macdonald
12. Chicago Golf Club
13. Pacific Dunes
14. Bandon Trails
15. Bandon Dunes

16. Maidstone
17. Piping Rock
18. Kingsbarns
19. Crystal Downs
20. Turnberry - Ailsa

21. Riviera
22. The Creek Club
23. Friars Head
24. Yeamans Hall Club
25. Canterbury

This was really hard this time... So many honorable mentions!!!  I've been very lucky!!

Bill, "lucky" is a huge understatement with that list.  I would be thrilled to play a handful of those courses in my lifetime.  Quite impressive.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Criss Titschinger on October 16, 2015, 12:18:15 PM
Since I don't have the experience or access of many of this site, I thought I'd go through this exercise to see what I came up with. Most of this is around the Ohio area, but there are a few outsiders.

What a difference 13 months make for me. 8 of my top 25 are new. I have had two new #1s in that timeframe. And possibly one on Saturday that may find itself in the top 25. I still don't have experience/access, but I can easily say I have been blessed.

I think this is in order. Top 10 for sure.

White Bear Yacht Club    (2015)
Canterbury   
Black Mesa   
Atlantic City CC   
World Woods (Pine Barrens)   
Town & Country   (2015)
Paa-Ko Ridge (1-18)   
Clovernook CC (Might be a homer pic)
Trophy Club   
Greate Bay CC (2015)
The Fort   
Midland Hills   (2015)
Windsong Farm (2015)
Miami Valley   
Maketewah   
Keller (2015)
Fowlers Mill   
Seaview (Bay)   
Sultan's Run   
Sleepy Hollow (Ohio) (2015)
Twisted Dune   
World Woods (Rolling Oaks)   
The Quarry (Canton, OH)
Sycamore Creek   
Western Hills   
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Franklin on October 16, 2015, 12:45:33 PM
Since I don't have the experience or access of many of this site, I thought I'd go through this exercise to see what I came up with. Most of this is around the Ohio area, but there are a few outsiders.

What a difference 13 months make for me. 8 of my top 25 are new. I have had two new #1s in that timeframe. And possibly one on Saturday that may find itself in the top 25. I still don't have experience/access, but I can easily say I have been blessed.

I think this is in order. Top 10 for sure.

White Bear Yacht Club    (2015)
Canterbury   
Black Mesa   
Atlantic City CC   
World Woods (Pine Barrens)   
Town & Country   (2015)
Paa-Ko Ridge (1-18)   
Clovernook CC (Might be a homer pic)
Trophy Club   
Greate Bay CC (2015)
The Fort   
Midland Hills   (2015)
Windsong Farm (2015)
Miami Valley   
Maketewah   
Keller (2015)
Fowlers Mill   
Seaview (Bay)   
Sultan's Run   
Sleepy Hollow (Ohio) (2015)
Twisted Dune   
World Woods (Rolling Oaks)   
The Quarry   
Sycamore Creek   
Western Hills

Is The Quarry the one at Giant's Ridge?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on October 16, 2015, 12:53:45 PM
My Favourite 25

See page 45.

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Criss Titschinger on October 16, 2015, 02:12:03 PM
Is The Quarry the one at Giant's Ridge?


I updated. It's the one in Canton, OH. Some may notice I have three Ohio public courses on my list, but not Longaberger. I have played it, and while I think Longaberger is fine, it doesn't crack my top 25.


If/When I make it back to Minnesota, I do plan on venturing north for a few days to hit up Northland and the Legends courses.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ryan Coles on October 16, 2015, 02:36:27 PM
In order of where I'd most like to return tomorrow and split into five divisions.

Royal Dornoch
Kingsbarns
Castle Stuart
Royal County Down
Sunningdale Old

St Georges Hill
Berkshire Red
Brora
Formby
Royal St Georges

Royal Birkdale
Saunton East
Nairn
St Enodoc
Royal Lytham

Sunningdale New
Hankley Common
West Hill
Burnham & Berrow
Enniscrone

Baltray
Hoylake
Boat of Garton
Remedy Oak
Broadstone

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: PCCraig on October 16, 2015, 02:38:35 PM
Since I don't have the experience or access of many of this site, I thought I'd go through this exercise to see what I came up with. Most of this is around the Ohio area, but there are a few outsiders.

What a difference 13 months make for me. 8 of my top 25 are new. I have had two new #1s in that timeframe. And possibly one on Saturday that may find itself in the top 25. I still don't have experience/access, but I can easily say I have been blessed.

I think this is in order. Top 10 for sure.

White Bear Yacht Club    (2015)
Canterbury   
Black Mesa   
Atlantic City CC   
World Woods (Pine Barrens)   
Town & Country   (2015)
Paa-Ko Ridge (1-18)   
Clovernook CC (Might be a homer pic)
Trophy Club   
Greate Bay CC (2015)
The Fort   
Midland Hills   (2015)
Windsong Farm (2015)
Miami Valley   
Maketewah   
Keller (2015)
Fowlers Mill   
Seaview (Bay)   
Sultan's Run   
Sleepy Hollow (Ohio) (2015)
Twisted Dune   
World Woods (Rolling Oaks)   
The Quarry (Canton, OH)
Sycamore Creek   
Western Hills


High praise for T&C among those courses...thank's Criss.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jason Way on October 16, 2015, 02:44:33 PM
I'll go the Sean A route, with my favorite 25 (I think they're in order):


Friar's Head
Essex County Club
Kingsley
NGLA
Lawsonia Links


Old Elm
Crystal Downs
Shinnecock
Boston Golf Club
Chicago Golf Club


Colorado Golf Club
Camargo
Piping Rock
The Country Club
Bandon Trails


Shoreacres
Old MacDonald
Old Sandwich
Lost Dunes
Blue Mound


Streamsong Red
Hyde Park G&CC
The Dunes Club
CommonGround
Pasatiempo


Based on what I saw, I expect Sand Valley C&C to enter the list in the top 10, if not top 5.

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: BHoover on October 16, 2015, 03:03:02 PM
Is The Quarry the one at Giant's Ridge?


I updated. It's the one in Canton, OH. Some may notice I have three Ohio public courses on my list, but not Longaberger. I have played it, and while I think Longaberger is fine, it doesn't crack my top 25.


If/When I make it back to Minnesota, I do plan on venturing north for a few days to hit up Northland and the Legends courses.

Criss, what did you think of The Quarry in Canton? I've played it a few times and have enjoyed it. Although not my ideal course because of the difficulty of walking, it does have some wild land movement and several interesting holes.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: BHoover on October 16, 2015, 03:03:52 PM
I haven't updated my list in a couple years and after my recent trip to Bandon I thought I would update things...

1. National Golf Links of America
2. Fishers Island Club
3. Shinnecock Hills
4. Merion - East
5. Oakmont

6. The Old Course
7. California Golf Club of SF
8. LACC - North
9. Muirfield
10. Seminole

11. Old Macdonald
12. Chicago Golf Club
13. Pacific Dunes
14. Bandon Trails
15. Bandon Dunes

16. Maidstone
17. Piping Rock
18. Kingsbarns
19. Crystal Downs
20. Turnberry - Ailsa

21. Riviera
22. The Creek Club
23. Friars Head
24. Yeamans Hall Club
25. Canterbury

This was really hard this time... So many honorable mentions!!!  I've been very lucky!!

This list is...decent!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: David Davis on October 16, 2015, 03:32:57 PM
I'm going to go with my favorite as well and follow suit with Sean and Jason here. I tried to categorize them given in my mind I always lean in the direction of links golf.


L = Links, LL = Links Like, O = Ocean, H = Heathland (although not all of these were easily definable and some of the ones I defined as such don't even have heather), P = Parkland


L = 12
H = 6
O = 3
P = 2
LL = 2


Favorite turf, sand based. Favorite grasses: fescue and bent. Favorite conditions: windy. Conditions I play my best golf in: wind and rain combination.



Cruden Bay (L)
Crystal Downs (P)
Cypress Point (O)
Fisher’s Island (O)
Kingston Heath (H)
Lahinch (L)
Merion (P)
Morfontaine (H)
National Golf Links of America (L)
Noordwijkse Golf Club (L)
North Berwick (L)
Oakmont (P)
Old Sandwich (H)
Pacific Dunes (L)
Pebble Beach (O)
Pine Valley (H)
Prestwick (L)
Royal Cinque Ports (L)
Royal County Down (L)
Sand Hills (LL)
Shinnecock Hills (L)
Sunningdale Old (H)
The Old Course St. Andrews (L)
Utrechtse de Pan (H)
Wolf Point (LL)

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Criss Titschinger on October 16, 2015, 04:00:44 PM
Criss, what did you think of The Quarry in Canton? I've played it a few times and have enjoyed it. Although not my ideal course because of the difficulty of walking, it does have some wild land movement and several interesting holes.

I thought on the whole it was quite good, but there are a couple dud holes keeping it from being my favorite Ohio public. Also, it's pretty unrealistic to walk, which drops it slightly in my book.

I'd like to get another viewing of hole 13 and see if my (bad) opinion of it changes. That's the one where you have a downhill lie to a green that rises by at least 30-40 feet. I'm not sure how slower swing speed golfers finish that hole by the rules of golf. I guess you could call me a hypocrite because I really like 15 at Canterbury, and it has similar characteristics, although 13 at The Quarry is a longer hole with a narrower fairway.

The par 5 15th, on the other hand, may be one of the best par 5's I've played IMO. Great land movement, and all scores from 3 upwards are possible.

High praise for T&C among those courses...thank's Criss.

I very well could be skewing it higher because of my Mashie win. But I'd like to think that it meshed well with my like of older courses with good quirk. One of the more interesting places I've played for sure.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bob Montle on October 16, 2015, 04:06:35 PM
Well that's a kick in the nuts ... your #25 is better than my #1.

Ouch.

What he said ....  >:(
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: MClutterbuck on October 16, 2015, 06:22:14 PM
I cant get even close to the quality and depth of others here, but I had never worked on a list and it was a fun exercise and I am posting it for diversity sake (I would obviously do much better with a top 5 posting):


Cypress Point Club
Augusta National Golf Club
Pebble Beach Golf Links


Spyglass Hill
Muirfield Village
Cabo del Sol - Ocean
Kapalua Plantation
Indian Creek Country Club


The Preserve
El Desafío
Doral Blue Monster
Stanford Golf Course
Stevinson Ranch


Nordelta
Chapelco
Preston Trail


Jockey Club
Jack Nicklaus Private Course - PGA West
Pilara
El Dorado Golf - Nicklaus
Poppy Hills
San Andrés Golf Club
Roaring Fork
Landmark Golf Club - Indio,CA
Olivos
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ash Towe on October 16, 2015, 07:15:17 PM
Darryl David,


Congratulations on your list.


You must be one of the few people to have played Cape Wickham and Cabot Cliffs.  I would be interested to hear your comments about both courses.  How do they compare?  Strengths and weaknesses etc.


Thanks in advance, Ash
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ben Baldwin on October 16, 2015, 07:30:53 PM
This is my 25... Personal ranking.

1 - California Golf Club of San Francisco
2 - Gamble Sands
3 - Pasatiempo
4 - Desert Forest
5 - We-Ko Pa Cholla

6 - Southern Dunes, AZ
7 - Poppy Hills
8 - Trump Golf Links Ferry Point
9 - We-Ko Pa Saguaro
10 - Whirlwind Devil's Claw

11 - The Rim Golf Club
12 - Paako Ridge
13 - Grand Cypress - New
14 - Twin Warriors
15 - Abilene Country Club -Fairway Course (fka -Fairway Oaks CC)

16 - Troon Country Club
17 - Troon North Monument
18 - Desert Highlands
19 - Trump Doral - Blue Monster
20 - Bayonet

21 - Pacific Grove Golf Links
22 - Club Campestre - Juarez Mx
23 - El Paso Country Club
24 - Country Club of Darien
25 - Sonoma Ranch
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Daryl David on October 17, 2015, 03:12:31 PM
Darryl David,


Congratulations on your list.


You must be one of the few people to have played Cape Wickham and Cabot Cliffs.  I would be interested to hear your comments about both courses.  How do they compare?  Strengths and weaknesses etc.


Thanks in advance, Ash


Ash,


I believe I was the first to have played both and the only one for at least a week or so.  Darius was right behind to come in second.  No award for the distinction, but still pretty cool.


Both courses are spectacular. Both serious top world 50 material. Since I played them when they were very immature, it is difficult to predict how they will turn out when they have aged a bit. I really like the 666 par routing of Cliffs.  Having the extra 3s and 5s is a hoot. I believe CW has more opportunities for the ground game which appeals especially to me, but so much will depend on how firm the course will be as it matures. From a strategy standpoint, I think Cliffs presents more choices. 17 at the Cliffs is unlike anything I have played on a modern design. It is one of those holes on a classic someone would say you could not build in this day and age due to quirk factor.


I am hair splitting to find differences. Should just shut up and say they are both phenomenal.  Can't wait to get back to both as soon as practical.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Josh Tarble on October 17, 2015, 05:23:53 PM
My top 25, I hadn't really put it down as a list, I think it turned out pretty as a pretty good reflection of my taste

1.  Cape Kidnappers
2.  Crystal Downs
3.  Whistling Straits
4.  Harbor Town
5.  Medinah #3
6.  Kauri Cliffs
7.  TPC Sawgrass
8.  Pasatiempo
9.  Streamsong Blue
10.  Streamsong Red
11.  Holston Hills
12.  Hyde Park - Cincinnati
13.  Kingsley Club
14.  Blackwolf Run (River)
15.  Lost Dunes
16.  Jack's Point
17.  Valhalla
18.  Erin Hills
19.  Wolf Run
20.  French Lick Donald Ross
21.  Beverly
22.  Chechessee Creek
23.  Talking Stick North
24.  Secesssion
25.  Butler National




Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ash Towe on October 17, 2015, 07:10:44 PM
Darryl,


Thanks for the reply. Really appreciated.  Great that you were the first to play them both. Well done.


Both courses must be really enjoyable.  I can see myself getting to Cape Wickham less so Cabot.


Also looking forward to Tara Iti which is opening at the same time.  If you get down this way put it on your list, it will be worth it.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Chris Luce on October 17, 2015, 08:13:28 PM

[color=rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961)]Not the most impressive list, but some great memories....GC, WFW, FH and BPB were all in the same long weekend thanks to a very benevolent host. [/color][color=rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961)][/size]

Sand Hills
[/color]
Prairie Dunes
Southern Hills
Austin Golf Club
Pebble Beach
PH #2
Dormie Club
World Woods Pine Barrens
Pine Dunes
Harbour Town
Garden City
Winged Foot West
Bethpage Black
Friars Head
Streamsong Blue
Streamsong Red
TPC Sawgrass
Kapalua Plantation
Dallas National
Waterwood National
Granville
Riverdale Dunes
Camp Creek
Blackwolf Run
Whistling Straits
Erin Hills
Talking Stick
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Angus Moir on October 21, 2015, 02:58:50 PM
No right or wrong on this topic but here goes...


Pine Valley..by a mile
Royal Dornoch
Shinnecock
Augusta
Royal Melbourne
Morfontaine
Seminole
Sunningdale New
Cruden Bay
North Berwick
Pacific Dunes
Chicago gc
Merion
Royal County Down
European Club
Valderamma
Falsterbo
Cypress point
Western Gailes
Waterville
Crystal downs
Birkdale
Carnoustie
Portrush


All great rounds in their own way



Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Terry Lavin on October 21, 2015, 06:50:11 PM
Angus,

That's a great list!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Chris Haspell on October 22, 2015, 01:54:17 AM
In No Order
Royal Dornoch
Royal county Down
Castle Stuart
Kingsbarns
Pine Valley
Portrush
Royal Lytham
Royal Liverpool
Birkdale
The Old Course
Turnberry
Royal copenhagen
The Hague
Rungsted
Bandon Trails
Pacific Dunes
Old Mac
Chambers Bay
Sage Valley
Brora
Purdis Heath
Royal Aberdeen
Crail
Gullane 1
Rungsted

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Josh Bills on October 22, 2015, 09:33:54 AM

Also my favorite 25 updated (Since Dec. 30, 2013), in alphabetical order...


Bold are new:


Ballybunion Old (Ireland)
Bandon Dunes (OR)
Bayonne Golf Club (NJ)
Bethpage Black (NY)
Brookside CC (North Canton, OH)
Dismal River, Red (NE)
Dismal River, White (NE)
Kingsley Club (MI)
Mauna Kea (HI)
Muirfield Village (OH)
National Golf Links of America (NY)
Oakland Hills CC, South (MI)
Ocean Course at Kiawah Island (SC)
Old Head (Ireland)
Pacific Dunes (OR)
Pasatiempo (Santa Cruz, CA)
Pebble Beach (CA)
Point Chautauqua Golf Club (9 holes) (Dewittville, NY)
Sand Hills Golf Club (NE)
Shinnecock Hills (NY)
Scioto Country Club (OH)
The Golf Club (OH)
Tobacco Road (NC)
Tralee (Ireland)
Urbana Country Club (OH)


Those replaced:


Bandon Trails (Oregon)
Gold Canyon Resort- Dinosaur Mountain (AZ)
Harding Park (San Fran)
Maketewah CC (Cincinnati, Ohio)
Mid Pines Golf Club (NC)
Moonbrook Country Club (Jamestown, NY)
OSU Scarlet (OH)


Played since this list, but did not make it on my favorites:


Arcadia Bluffs (MI)
Wild Horse (NE)
Awarii Dunes (NE)


Hoping 2016 brings a bunch of new ones to this list…

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Eric Smith on October 22, 2015, 10:34:34 AM
My 25 favorite 10s
(I refuse to be a critic!)
 
St Andrews 10
National Golf Links 10
Cypress Point 10
Friar's Head 10
Sand Hills 10
Old Macdonald 10
Dismal River White 10
Pebble Beach 10
Sebonack 10
Machrihanish 10
Prestwick 10
Bandon Trails 10
Wolf Point 10
North Berwick 10
Prairie Dunes 10
Pacific Dunes 10
Ballyneal 10
Renaissance 10
Pennard 10
Dismal River Red 10
Shinnecock Hills 10
Kingsley 10
Pinehurst No.2  10
Merion 10
Sleepy Hollow 10
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tim Martin on October 22, 2015, 11:07:18 AM
My 25 favorite 10s
(I refuse to be a critic!)
 
St Andrews 10
National Golf Links 10
Cypress Point 10
Friar's Head 10
Sand Hills 10
Old Macdonald 10
Dismal River White 10
Pebble Beach 10
Sebonack 10
Machrihanish 10
Prestwick 10
Bandon Trails 10
Wolf Point 10
North Berwick 10
Prairie Dunes 10
Pacific Dunes 10
Ballyneal 10
Renaissance 10
Pennard 10
Dismal River Red 10
Shinnecock Hills 10
Kingsley 10
Pinehurst No.2  10
Merion 10
Sleepy Hollow 10

Now your just showing off. :)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jonathan_becker on October 22, 2015, 11:20:06 AM
....
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jonathan_becker on October 22, 2015, 11:29:35 AM
Let me try this again....this list is for Eric!


If I'm on any of the first 4 courses, I'll tell you that's my top course played.  Those are all #1.  However, I could tell you that Canton Brookside is my #1 and that would be true, too!  The rest is in reasonable order as of today and tomorrow could be different.  The challenge of just 25....


Cypress Point
Royal Melbourne
Shinnecock
NGLA


Friar's Head
Oakmont
Barnbougle Dunes
Seminole
LACC
The Golf Club
Kingston Heath
Camargo
Garden City
Old Macdonald
Rock Creek Cattle Company
Merion
Pacific Dunes
Pebble Beach
Valley Club
Riviera
Maidstone
Somerset Hills
Wolf Point
Lost Farm
Kiawah Ocean

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Brian Joines on October 22, 2015, 11:59:35 AM
I don't think I've ever posted my list. Here it goes, in rough order.


Crystal Downs
Pacific Dunes
Ballyneal
San Francisco Golf Club
Cal Club
Pebble Beach
Old Macdonald
Eastward Ho!
Maidstone
Winged Foot (West)
Pasatiempo
Plainfield
Boston Golf
Dormie Club
Pinehurst #2
Yale
Orchard Lake
Kingsley Club
The Ocean Course
Bandon Trails
Whistling Straits
Wannamoissett
Bethpage (Black)
Olympic Club (Lake)
Shadow Creek
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Eric Smith on October 22, 2015, 12:05:54 PM
Now your just showing off. :)


Guess I fit right in here then - eh, Timmy? ;D


Let me try this again....this list is for Eric!


Great list, JB. Still daydreaming about NGLA? [I know I am!]
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ryan Taylor on October 22, 2015, 12:37:44 PM
This thread is hot today! My list in tiers w/ comments.


St. Andrews Old...10 (Holy)
Sand Hills...10 (#Doak11)

Royal Dornoch...9 (Ross's inspiration)
Royal County Down...9 (Best front 9 in golf)
Crystal Downs...9 (MacKenzie & Maxwell masterpiece)
Pacific Dunes...9 (Modern day Cypress)

Sunningdale New...8.75 (Favorite sleeper)
Carnousite...8.75 (Hardest)
#2...8.75 (Playing twice in 2016 and reserve the right to move)
Sunningdale Old...8.75 (Is it as good as the New?)
Pebble Beach...8.75 (Turf removal, less irrigation and bunker reno makes it a ?)
Lahinch...8.75 (Most fun)
Kingsley Club...8.75 (Second most fun)
Royal Portrush...8.75 (Colt greens!)
Old Town Club...8.75 (Unbelievable restoration)

SS Blue...8.5 (Royal Melbourne in central FL)
Milwaukee CC...8.5 (Favorite locker room and a pretty good gc)
Old Macdonald...8.5 (Homage)
Mid Pines...8.5 (See Old Town Club)
Orchard Lake...8.5 (When plans come together)

Inverness...8.25 (Old school with a finesse finish)
Holston Hills...8.25 (Great golf culture)
SS Red...8.25 (Really enjoyed #7, #8 and #9)

Oakland Hills South...8.0 (2nd most potential behind PB)
Lawsonia Links...8.0 (Best value)
Bandon Trails...8.0 (My mind was on PD / Need to replay)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Chaplin on October 22, 2015, 01:11:50 PM
I wonder how PV will be post refurb?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tyler Kearns on October 22, 2015, 01:22:56 PM
In alphabetical order;


Barnbougle Dunes
Capilano
Dismal (White)
Dormie Club
Essex (Mass.)
Gamble Sands
Holston Hills
Kingsley Club
Kingston Heath
Koninklijke Haagsche
Marquette (Greywalls)
Meadow Club
Mid Pines
National (Moonah)
Old Sandwich
Pasatiempo
Pinehurst (No. 2)
Royal Melbourne (East)
Royal Melbourne (West)
Sand Hills
St. Andrews Beach
Tobacco Road
Wine Valley
Utrechtse De Pan
Woodlands


TK



Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Josh Bills on October 22, 2015, 01:37:11 PM


Great list, JB. Still daydreaming about NGLA? [I know I am!]





I know this was directed at a different JB, but I enjoy daydreaming about NGLA as well. 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jonathan_becker on October 22, 2015, 01:47:35 PM


Great list, JB. Still daydreaming about NGLA? [I know I am!]





I know this was directed at a different JB, but I enjoy daydreaming about NGLA as well.


I think everyone does.... ;)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Chris DeToro on October 22, 2015, 02:51:49 PM
My favorite 25, in tiers of 5...




St Andrews Old
Royal County Down
Prairie Dunes
Cabot Cliffs
Muirfield


Pinehurst #2
Crystal Downs
Pacific Dunes
Old Macdonald
Piping Rock


Ballyneal
Quaker Ridge
Winged Foot West
Winged Foot East
Eastward Ho!


Wannamoisett
Kingsley
Boston GC
Pebble Beach
Streamsong Red


Ekwanok
Streamsong Blue
Pasatiempo
Engineers
Yale



Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jason Thurman on October 23, 2015, 10:04:46 AM

I'll play. Ranked purely based on how excited I would be to play there this afternoon (disregarding weather, cost, or travel time).


1.   Pebble Beach
2.   The Prairie Club (Dunes)
3.   Prairie Dunes
4.   Crystal Downs
5.   Ballyneal
6.   White Bear Yacht Club
7.   Pinehurst No. 2
8.   Colorado Golf Club
9.   Erin Hills
10.   Idle Hour
11.   Lawsonia Links
12.   Wolf Run
13.   Cherry Hills
14.   Pete Dye Golf Club
15.   Whistling Straits - Straits
16.   Kingsley Club
17.   Blackwolf Run – River
18.   Kirtland
19.   Canterbury
20.   Holston Hills
21.   The Beverly Country Club
22.   The Harvester
23.   Wild Horse
24.   Pine Needles
25.   Rustic Canyon


Honorable mention to: Valhalla, Tobacco Road, Town & Country, Ballyhack, and Blackwolf Run - Meadow Valleys. Any of those could jump into spots 20-25 on any given day.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: AChao on October 23, 2015, 01:54:42 PM
The first ones that come to mind ... my favorite that I've played ... not necessarily best architecturally ...

1  Cypress Point
2  Shinnecock Hills
3  Wade Hampton
4  Shadow Creek
5  The Country Club
6  Whistling Straits - Straits
7  Pebble Beach
8  Royal Melbourne - West
9  Sand Hills
10 TPC Sawgrass
11 The Quarry at La Quinta
12 Valley Club of Montecito
13 Kiawah - Ocean
14 Riviera
15 Los Angeles - North
16 Pinehurst - #2
17 San Francisco GC
18 Cal Club
19 Victoria National
20 Bandon Dunes
21 Somerset Hills
22 Blackwolf Run - River
23 Winged Foot - West
24 Merion - East
T25 The Old Course at St. Andrews (should be higher, but I'm not sure where -- weather was tough the 2 times I played it ...)
T25 Erin Hills
T25 Monterey Peninsula - Shore
T25Quaker Ridge
T25 Plainfield CC
T25 Southern Highlands
T25 Calusa Pines
T25 Congressional - Blue
T25 Kittansett
T25 The Preserve
T25 Medinah - #3
T25 Baltusrol - Lower
T25 Spyglass Hill
T25 Garden City
T25 Olympic Club - Lake
T25 Bethpage - Black
T25 Dallas National

Notables that I need to play / see ...
Pine Valley
Augusta National GC
Oakmont
National Golf Links
Fishers Island Club
Seminole
Crystal Downs
Chicago GC
Muirfield Village
Oak Hill - East
Oakland Hills - South
Pacific Dunes
Friar's Head
Prarie Dunes
Alotian
Southern Hills
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Alex Miller on October 23, 2015, 04:33:32 PM
I suppose it's time for an update

My 10's

1. NGLA
2. Cypress Point Club
3. TOC
4. North Berwick
5. LACC North

My 9's

6. Pacific Dunes
7. Ballyneal
8. Bandon Trails
9. Muirfield
10. Pinehurst #2
11. Riviera
12. Cal Club
13. Sebonack
14. Pasatiempo

My 8's

15. Dismal Red
16. Rustic Canyon
17. Elie

My 7's

17. Wolf Point
18. Wilshire
19. Pine Needles
20. Bandon Dunes
21. Stone Eagle
22. St. George's
23. Old Mac

My 6's
24. Exmoor

25. Crail
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on October 23, 2015, 04:48:52 PM
Alex,

Care to opine on why you have Pine Needles the equal of Old Mac?  I like PN more than most here, but that seems a bit of a stretch.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mike Hendren on October 23, 2015, 05:08:17 PM
Angus,

That's a great list!
Query whether there is a single person named Angus on this planet that one would not want to drink a beer with?

Shivas, I suggest you google the Colonel Angus skit from SNL.
 
Bogey
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Terry Lavin on October 23, 2015, 06:07:47 PM
Spur of the moment revised list:

1. Sand Hills
2.  Cypress Point
3. Pacific Dunes
4. Oakmont
5.  Old Macdonald
6.  LACC North
7. Riviera
8. Shoreacres
9. Pebble Beach
10. Bandon Dunes
11. Chicago Golf
12. Prairie Dunes
13. Olympia North
14. Olympic Club
15. Pinehurst #2
16. Fox Chapel
17. Friar's Head
18. Long Cove
19. Medinah #3
20. Butler National
21. Bandon Trails
22. Beverly
23. Skokie
24. Lost Dunes
25. Old Elm

Looking at this makes me realize that I have to get on the road. Long Island, NJ, Philly and Ohio are mostly on my brain. And Seminole this winter for sure.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Peter Pallotta on October 23, 2015, 08:50:59 PM
Terry - have you really played all those great courses? A rhetorical question, as I know you're not lying about it. But reading your list, another question come to mind (a real, genuine one), to you and others who have posted on this thread:

After experiencing so much quality golf, how do you feel when you play an average/run of the mill course? Is it still just "golf" to you i.e. still mainly about the game,  or is there in fact a noticeable let-down, a measurably different feel/experience? Are courses way outside your top 25 appreciably less enjoyable?

Peter
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Alex Miller on October 23, 2015, 08:59:08 PM
Alex,

Care to opine on why you have Pine Needles the equal of Old Mac?  I like PN more than most here, but that seems a bit of a stretch.


I've only played Old Mac in a Winter wind... and I also like Pine Needles more than most!

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Terry Lavin on October 23, 2015, 09:16:27 PM
Terry - have you really played all those great courses? A rhetorical question, as I know you're not lying about it. But reading your list, another question come to mind (a real, genuine one), to you and others who have posted on this thread:

After experiencing so much quality golf, how do you feel when you play an average/run of the mill course? Is it still just "golf" to you i.e. still mainly about the game,  or is there in fact a noticeable let-down, a measurably different feel/experience? Are courses way outside your top 25 appreciably less enjoyable?

Peter

Sure I've played them all. And I always have fun regardless of the venue and I have plenty outside the 25 that I love. Exmoor and OFCC and Flossmoor here in town.  Dunes Club is only 9 holes but it's a top 5 experience.  Old Tabby in SC and CC of Orlando and Wilshire are others that could fit in the top 25.

With the right company every round is special.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Chaplin on October 24, 2015, 02:55:59 AM
Terry doesn't your list suggest a passport is required?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: David Davis on October 24, 2015, 06:01:12 AM
My 25 favorite 10s
(I refuse to be a critic!)
 
St Andrews 10
National Golf Links 10
Cypress Point 10
Friar's Head 10
Sand Hills 10
Old Macdonald 10
Dismal River White 10
Pebble Beach 10
Sebonack 10
Machrihanish 10
Prestwick 10
Bandon Trails 10
Wolf Point 10
North Berwick 10
Prairie Dunes 10
Pacific Dunes 10
Ballyneal 10
Renaissance 10
Pennard 10
Dismal River Red 10
Shinnecock Hills 10
Kingsley 10
Pinehurst No.2  10
Merion 10
Sleepy Hollow 10


Eric, just curious, what would you give Bo Derrick circa 1979?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Terry Lavin on October 24, 2015, 07:37:59 AM
Terry doesn't your list suggest a passport is required?

Yup.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on October 24, 2015, 09:34:40 AM
I have seen 98 new courses this year, and a lot of cool places ... yet I don't think my top 25 will have changed at all.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Chip Gaskins on October 24, 2015, 10:29:48 AM
Update after a few trips over the past couple of years....

1-5
(pretty much head and shoulders above the rest)
Royal Melbourne

Shinnecock Hills
Pine Valley
Royal County Down
St. Andrews (Old)

5-10
Barnbougle Dunes
Cypress Point
Augusta National
Ballyneal
Fishers Island

10-15
Sand Hills
National Golf Links
Oakmont
Prairie Dunes
Merion (East)

15-20
Ballybunion (Old)
Cal Club
Pebble Beach
Royal Portrush (Dunluce)
Chicago Golf Club

20-25
Crystal Downs
Pacific Dunes
San Francisco
Tobacco Road
Bandon Trails
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Don Mahaffey on October 24, 2015, 10:44:15 AM
I have seen 98 new courses this year, and a lot of cool places ... yet I don't think my top 25 will have changed at all.
Is that because your top courses are what you use to measure all others?
When was the last time you added a new course to your top echelon?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jud_T on October 24, 2015, 01:45:24 PM
Chip,


The powers that be have decided that you are, from this point forward and until further notice, to limit yourself exclusively to playing Doak 3's and 4's until such time that the committee determines that you have developed sufficient perspective into the "everyman's game" and all that it entails.  Once a quorum of our august body finds that such a point has been determined to have been reached, if you haven't given up the game for tiddlywinks by such time, you may then, and only then, resume your previous schedule of touring the world's finest courses... 8)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Chip Gaskins on October 24, 2015, 05:23:53 PM
Jud

Trust me, my golf has been few and far between over the past few years.  Seven total rounds this year and five total rounds last year.  With that said, my home club is Hanies Point.  Its a Doak ZERO.  Its a very public course in downtown Washington DC.  It usually has a dozen hustlers in sweatpants always standing on the putting green putting and chipping for money, a lively greasy spoon snack shack that also serves the public swimming pool onsite, as well as a well worn astro-tuff putt-putt course that my kids and I play.  Every nationality and socioeconomic class is represented in full.  A lot more supped up Honda Civics in the parking lot than Volvos.  Its about as "everyman's game" place as one could dream up.  Its just my few outside rounds are at decent courses.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Alan Ritchie on October 25, 2015, 12:41:18 AM
chip, Do you work for carlsberg? that looks like their list of outside rounds!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill Brightly on October 25, 2015, 01:01:15 AM


National
TOC (2104)
Royal County Down
Royal Melbourne West (2011)
Pine Valley
Royal Troon (2015)
Merion
North Berwick (2014)
Old Macdonald
Pacific Dunes
Cruden Bay (2014)
Ballybunion
Barnbougle Dunes (2011)
Turnberry (2015)
Royal Portrush
Carnoustie (2014)
Cape Kidnappers (2011)
Lahinch
Pebble Beach
Prestwick (2015)
Cabot Cliffs (2015)

RidgewoodClear Creek
Saucon Valley Old
Lost Farm (2011)

Waterville
Ballyliffin Old
Yale
Somerset Hills
Plain


Aronomink
Harbor Town
Galloway

Essex County NJ


Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Pete Blaisdell on October 26, 2015, 09:21:58 AM
Guys, this is my American list


Cypress
Merion
PV
Shinnecock
Riviera
NLGA
Seminole
Chicago
ANGC
Myopia
San Francisco
Pebble
Old Mac
Newport
Pinehurst 2
TCC
Quaker Ridge
Pacific Dunes
Salem
Wilshire
Old Town
Oakmont
Eastward Ho
Oyster Harbors
Olde Sandwich


If I had to pick one to play every day, Seminole
If I knew I was going to die on Tuesday, I would pick Cypress for Monday.
I have special affection for Riviera and Newport.
The 10th at Riviera is the best designed hole in America.
Odd fact, have played Oakmont 3 times and never 3 putted.
Best score -70 at TCC (Composite course)1987
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tim Martin on October 26, 2015, 10:01:20 AM
Guys, this is my American list


Cypress
Merion
PV
Shinnecock
Riviera
NLGA
Seminole
Chicago
ANGC
Myopia
San Francisco
Pebble
Old Mac
Newport
Pinehurst 2
TCC
Quaker Ridge
Pacific Dunes
Salem
Wilshire
Old Town
Oakmont
Eastward Ho
Oyster Harbors
Olde Sandwich


If I had to pick one to play every day, Seminole
If I knew I was going to die on Tuesday, I would pick Cypress for Monday.
I have special affection for Riviera and Newport.
The 10th at Riviera is the best designed hole in America.
Odd fact, have played Oakmont 3 times and never 3 putted.
Best score -70 at TCC (Composite course)1987


Pete-Great list!!!! I am with you on Newport and I think it does not get the accolades it deserves.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Matt Meyer on October 26, 2015, 10:41:20 AM
1. Muirfield
2. Royal County Down
3. Pine Valley
4. St Andrews Old Course
5. Ballybunion Old Course
6. Oakmont
7. Prarie Dunes
8. The Golf Club
9. Kiawah Ocean Course
10. Pacific Dunes
11. Kingsbarns
12. Yeamans Hall Club
13. Beth Page Black
14. Carnoustie
15. Oak Hill East
16. The Honors Course
17. Camargo
18. Old Head
19. Waterville
20. Bandon Dunes
21. Portmanock
22. Scioto CC
23. Pete Dye Golf Club
24. Mountain Lake
25. Kiawah River Course

Interested in GCA feedback on Kiawah River, having played there no less than 50 times I think its an outstanding experience and challenge. The golf course deserves more credit than it receives.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: RickV on October 28, 2015, 02:23:35 PM
Augusta National
Pine Valley
Shinnecock
Oakmont
Merion
LACC
Riviera
Seminole
Valley Club of Montecito
Garden City
Yeaman's Hall
Pebble Beach
Winged Foor (West)
Aronimink
Somerset Hills
Plainfield
Quaker Ridge
Pikewood National
Honors Course
Yale
Peachtree
Pikewood National
Baltusrol (Lower and Upper)
Sleepy Hollow
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jeffwarne on October 28, 2015, 09:22:43 PM

RCD
TOC
Portsalon
Pennard
Eastward Ho
Fishers
St Enodoc
Pebble
Riviera
North Berwick
NGLA
The Creek
ANGC
Shinny
Merion
Friars Head
Sleepy Hollow
Myopia
Palmetto
Dornoch
Yeamans hall
Pine Valley (a close call for me-need to get back ;) )
Swinley (have played very few heathlands had to get one in there ;)
The Island (only played it in competition-a real bitch nearly left it out but many cool holes)
Erin Hills (pre softening)



Famous courses but not feeling it
Muifield (overrated needs a haircut to make strategy real)
Ballybunion (weak start-tour buses)
Lahinch (probably belongs-could switch with Dornoch)
Royal Portrush (rough too ridiculous)
Kiowah
TPC
Quaker
 Winged Foot
Pinehurst 2 (would have to pull Palmetto ::) )


Close
Long Cove
Piping Rock
Dunfanaghy (few too many weak holes but a favorite)
Sebonack (could switch with Friars)
Formby
Maidstone
St George's LI
Brora


Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Steve Lapper on October 29, 2015, 11:37:16 AM
In a top secret  :o order:


Sand Hills
Royal Melbourne (Composite & West)
Pine Valley
Cypress Point
Royal County Down
Royal Portrush
Royal Dornoch
Muirfield
St. Andrews Old Course
Royal St. Georges
Ballybunion
Oakmont
Shinnecock
NGLA
Merion
Pacific Dunes
Kingston Heath
Alisa (Turnberry)
Fishers Island
Sunningdale (Old)
Friars Head
New South Wales
Crystal Downs
San Francisco Golf Club
LACC-North





The above is my list from 2009. Over the past 6 years, I'd make the following changes:


Add Cabot Cliffs, Morfontaine,, Somerset Hills...subtract Royal St. Georges, Muirfield, and SFGC


My next 25 (in no specific order)


Prairie Dunes
Seminole
Winged Foot East
Winged Foot West
Ballyneal
SFGC
Sandwich-Royal St. Georges
Muirfield
Prestwick
Cruden Bay
Trump Aberdeen
Bandon Trails
Chicago Golf Club
Diamante Dunes
Eastward Ho
TCC_Brookline
Myopia Hunt
Pebble Beach
Riviera
Pennard
Bethpage Black
Ellerston
Royal Birkdale
North Berwick


Next 26*:


Swinley Forest
Cabot Links
Royal Aberdeen
Royal Cinque Ports
Rye
The Island
Lahinch
Kauri Cliffs
Paraparapumu
Royal Lytham
Machrihanish
Bandon Dunes
Banff
Garden City
Camargo
Yeamans Hall
White Bear Yacht Club
St. Endoc
Brora
Kingsbarns
Old Mac
Pasatiempo
Valley Club
National Moonah Links
*Paramount  8) ...biased!


Honorable Mentions:


Ridgewood
Quaker Ridge
Fenway
Plainfield
Maidstone
The Creek
Piping Rock
Yale GC
Essex CC
Shoreacres (haven't seen since 1998)
Old Elm         "           "
Ganton
Walton Heath
Sunningdale New
Camargo
Bayonne
CC of Fairfield
Colorado GC
Old Sandwich
Boston GC
Inverness
Stone Eagle
Streamsong Red
Mountain Lake
Hollywood GC
MidOcean
Casa de Campo
Punta Espada
Victoria GC
Yarra Yarra
Commonwealth






Can't wait to see The Cal Club to add that this year!














 

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on October 29, 2015, 12:20:09 PM

When was the last time you added a new course to your top echelon?


Don:


Based on my response from 2011, I guess the last time I added a new course to my top echelon [by ranking and by building] was whenever I decided that Rock Creek belonged in there.


I understand the desire on many people's part to see new courses added to these lists, on a whole bunch of levels.  It's not as easy to make that call when you have played all of the best courses multiple times and have great respect for them [or when people pay extra attention to your opinion!]. 


I'm not one who believes a new course has to wait years in purgatory before it should show up among the greats ... I believe I was the first guy to put Sand Hills in the upper echelon.  But it's hard to make that call if you have only played a course once or twice, so usually it takes me a little while to get there.  [Personal bias aside, that's why it's easier to rate one of my own courses in the top 25 than someone else's ... because I know my own course much better.]  My opinion of Friars Head, for example, has risen steadily with each visit, but I'm still not quite ready to say it's better than Riviera or North Berwick, both of which I've played ten times or more.  And they're #24 and 25 on my list.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jason Way on October 29, 2015, 03:26:19 PM
Jud

Trust me, my golf has been few and far between over the past few years.  Seven total rounds this year and five total rounds last year.  With that said, my home club is Hanies Point.  Its a Doak ZERO.  Its a very public course in downtown Washington DC.  It usually has a dozen hustlers in sweatpants always standing on the putting green putting and chipping for money, a lively greasy spoon snack shack that also serves the public swimming pool onsite, as well as a well worn astro-tuff putt-putt course that my kids and I play.  Every nationality and socioeconomic class is represented in full.  A lot more supped up Honda Civics in the parking lot than Volvos.  Its about as "everyman's game" place as one could dream up.  Its just my few outside rounds are at decent courses.


The seed of a fantastic thread is in this response, Chip.  Although I'm not sure that Tom would say that courses of this ilk are what qualify as Doak 0s.  Far from it, it seems. 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ryan Hillenbrand on October 29, 2015, 04:50:21 PM
The Newbies on this site are killing me.

I need to start travelling more but so far:

Pebble Beach
Pacific Dunes
Whistling Straits
Prairie Dunes
Pinehurst #2
Ocean Course
Dunes Club
Spyglass
Bandon Dunes
Dismal River - Red
Streamsong - Red (haven't played Blue)
Dismal River - White
Calusa Pines
Shoreacres
Blackwolf Run - River
Victoria National
St. Louis CC
Boone Valley
Southern Hills
Olympia Fields - North
Congressional - Blue
Bellerive
Harbour Town
Rich Harvest - yeah, I liked it
Medinah #3

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Charles Lund on November 08, 2015, 06:04:09 PM
1.  New South Wales
2.. Royal Dornoch
3.  Pacific Dunes
4.  Lahinch
5.  St. Andrews - The Old
6.  Barnbougle Dunes
7.  Kauri Cliffs
8.  Kingston Heath
9.  Cruden Bay
10.  Cape Kidnappers
11.  Kingsbarns
12.  European Club
13. The National Golf Club -Moonah
14.  Waterville
15.  La Reserva de Sotogrande
16. Barnbougle Lost Farm
17.  Bandon Dunes
18. Southern Dunes
19.  Tobacco Road
20.  The Dunes Golf Links
21.  Pa Ko Ridge
22.  Brookwater Golf Club
23.  Torrey Pines South
24.  Gold Mountain Olympic
25.  St. Andrews Beach

I compiled an initial list that included a few other courses.  In considering the initial list, I decided that some courses were included due to being noteworthy on various international lists.  However, some were on the difficult side to access and it was clear that getting fitted in for a replay round later in the day or the next day was not something to ask about.  So I went with those where I felt welcomed enough as a solo golf traveler I did ask or would have been comfortable asking.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Alan Ritchie on November 08, 2015, 08:39:45 PM
Charles, I'm interested that you place NSW on the top of your list. not that I'm complaining, as I'm also a big fan.  what do you feel elevates it above the rest in a strong list of courses?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Charles Lund on November 09, 2015, 06:31:33 AM
I've had the good fortune of playing over 140 different courses outside of North America and generally have difficulty answering questions about my favorite or the best.

From the list I inckuded, it should be obvious I am partial to coastal links  courses.  I have spent over six months in Australia and six months in Ireland and about five weeks in Scotland.  I live part of the year in the Pacific NW and part of the year in San Diego, although I have been overseas close to 22 months since late 2007.

Given the time I have spent in Australia and the fact I am here now, I looked at my list of 25.  NSW GC took over the #1 rank in Australia courses during a period when Royal Melbourne conditioning deteriorated.  Kingston Heath is away from the coast, so no coastal aesthetics.  On this trip, I am traveling to Sydney and will play there again.  I had positive experiences in the past, loved the diversity of holes, liked the influence of coastal winds and naturalness of the setting, and the extent to which no holes seemed to duplicate others or remind me of other courses I hsve played.  I am in the country and will travel farther to play it than any others which are pretty much a half hour to an hour from where I am staying.

So there is a history of the club, a friendly welcome I have experienced, beauty, and a challenging golf experience.  The course was in good condition when I played it before.

I left out some courses on my list which are generally ranked at the top.  I appreciate the chance to hsve played them, but the welcome was perfunctory and there were limits on club access.   I have little motivation to go bsck and certainly would not put a course I have limited interest in going bsck to high up on my kist.












Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on November 13, 2015, 06:04:10 PM
I'm probably done seeing new courses for the year, so here is my updated "favorites" list...


1.  Cypress Point
2.  Augusta National
3.  Royal County Down
4.  The Golf Club
5.  Dismal Doak
6.  Old MacDonald
7.  The Old Course
8.  NGLA
9.  Sand Hills
10. Pine Valley
11. Kiawah Ocean
12. Pinehurst #2
13. Shinnecock Hills
14. Valley Club
15. Dismal Nicklaus
16. Friar's Head
17. Muirfield
18. Kingsley Club
19. Chicago Golf
20. Myopia Hunt
21. Shoreacres
22. Cal Club
23. Sebonack
24. Prairie Dunes
25. Wolf Point
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on November 13, 2015, 09:25:44 PM
Usually, when I see
"10.  Pine Valley"
It means something different 😀
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Peter Pallotta on November 13, 2015, 09:37:59 PM
Mac - I thought we were friends, or at least internet friends. And internet friends don't keep secrets from each-other. You have my IM, if perhaps not my email -- why didn't you *tell me* you needed someone to accompany you. That's a lot of travel to do and courses to play all by yourself -- you could've perhaps used the company of a good friend like me, one who has always looked out for your best interests, and who would've ensured that your rounds at places like Cypress and Augusta were extra specially memorable. I mean, that's the kind of friend I am -- giving, giving, always giving. The only reason I haven't supported you through thick and thin is because there hasn't been much "thin" for you lately -- otherwise I'm *there*, you know, I am right with you. Absolutely. 100%. Geez, I'm a little sad right now. I thought you *knew* all this, but maybe you didn't. Maybe next year, huh?
   
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Nugent on November 14, 2015, 12:57:29 AM
Mac, great list of fantastic courses.  Looks like the only major geographical area you're missing, that has world top 10-40 courses or better, is Australia/New Zealand.  Any plans to visit there? 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on November 14, 2015, 11:29:24 AM
Jim,

I absolutely have to get there. But I think to get everything done right and make the travel time and cost commitment work, I'd have to be there about 2 weeks, minimum. I can't be away from my business for that long at this stage in my life.

So, realistically, that trip will be a retirement gift to myself down the road. 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on November 14, 2015, 11:31:56 AM
Frankly, I need to see heathland golf too.

Hoping to see that area next year.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: BCowan on March 04, 2016, 10:44:04 AM
As of Today

Inverness
#2
UofM (and i went to OSU)
Naples National
Battle Creek CC
Kingsley Club
OSU Scarlet
Calusa Pines
Groose Ile
Radrick Farms
Scioto
Mid Pines
Sylvania CC
Plum Hollow CC
Western Golf and CC
Double Eagle
Barton Hills (played before renovation it was avg Ross)
World Woods (pine barrons)
Caledonia
Ocala Golf club (muni) great potential
Washtenaw CC
Roseland (played pre renovation)Windsor Muni
Elks Run cinci
Muirfield Village
2014

 1.  Mid pines
 2. #2
 3. Franklin Hills
 4.  Inverness
 5.  UofM
 6.  Orchard Lake
 7.  Kirtland
 8.  Scioto
 9.  Pine Needles
10. Battle Creek
11. Naples National
12. OSU Scarlet (pre JN)
13. Southern Pines
14. Dormie
15. Kingsley
16. Lookout mtn
17. Barton Hills
18.  Sylvania                                                 
19.  Canterbury
20.  Radrick Farms
21.  Indianwood
22.  Honors
23.  Double Eagle
24.  Plum Hollow                                                                       
25.  Western

2015

1.   Old Town
2.   Orchard Lake
3.   Pinehurst #2
4.   Holston Hills
5.   Mid Pines
6.   Franklin Hills
7.   Inverness
8.   University of Michigan
9.   Battle Creek
10. Scioto
11. Kirtland
12. Kingsley
13. Sylvania
14. Ravisloe
15. Naples National
16. Pine Needles
17. Indianwood
18. Old Elm
19. Lookout Mtn
20. Dormie
21. OSU Scarlet (Pre JN)
22. Grosse Ile
23. Radrick Farms
24. Barton Hills
25. Ocala GC

Honorable- Mt Prospect, Double Eagle, Canterbury, Calussa Pines, Honors, Crooked Stick, Broadmoor
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: J_ Crisham on March 04, 2016, 12:34:47 PM
As of Today

Inverness
#2
UofM (and i went to OSU)
Naples National
Battle Creek CC
Kingsley Club
OSU Scarlet
Calusa Pines
Groose Ile
Radrick Farms
Scioto
Mid Pines
Sylvania CC
Plum Hollow CC
Western Golf and CC
Double Eagle
Barton Hills (played before renovation it was avg Ross)
World Woods (pine barrons)
Caledonia
Ocala Golf club (muni) great potential
Washtenaw CC
Roseland (played pre renovation)Windsor Muni
Elks Run cinci
Muirfield Village
2014

 1.  Mid pines
 2. #2
 3. Franklin Hills
 4.  Inverness
 5.  UofM
 6.  Orchard Lake
 7.  Kirtland
 8.  Scioto
 9.  Pine Needles
10. Battle Creek
11. Naples National
12. OSU Scarlet (pre JN)
13. Southern Pines
14. Dormie
15. Kingsley
16. Lookout mtn
17. Barton Hills
18.  Sylvania                                                 
19.  Canterbury
20.  Radrick Farms
21.  Indianwood
22.  Honors
23.  Double Eagle
24.  Plum Hollow                                                                       
25.  Western

2015

1.   Old Town
2.   Orchard Lake
3.   Pinehurst #2
4.   Holston Hills
5.   Mid Pines
6.   Franklin Hills
7.   Inverness
8.   University of Michigan
9.   Battle Creek
10. Scioto
11. Kirtland
12. Kingsley
13. Sylvania
14. Ravisloe
15. Naples National
16. Pine Needles
17. Indianwood
18. Old Elm
19. Lookout Mtn
20. Dormie
21. OSU Scarlet (Pre JN)
22. Grosse Ile
23. Radrick Farms
24. Barton Hills
25. Ocala GC

Honorable- Mt Prospect, Double Eagle, Canterbury, Calussa Pines, Honors, Crooked Stick, Broadmoor
Ben,   Congrats on a nice 2015. Am I reading your list correctly with Ravisloe ranked higher than Old Elm, Indianwood Old, and Canterbury? If so, why? And if possible expand on why Old Elm?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: BCowan on March 04, 2016, 08:45:33 PM
Ben,   Congrats on a nice 2015. Am I reading your list correctly with Ravisloe ranked higher than Old Elm, Indianwood Old, and Canterbury? If so, why? And if possible expand on why Old Elm?

Jack,

    You are reading the list correctly.  Old Elm is a very solid Golf course as is Ravisloe which I feel is vastly underrated.  I played each once, so you can take that into account.  I know I am in the minority here, but that is okay.  I also have come to realized that 5 plays is best when assessing a course though that is tough to do with such limited time, I'd like to play Ravisloe again to see if my first impression was good. 

Old Elm  Doesn't really have a weak hole.  The course has very good nuances and some uniqueness to it.  The holes that stood out to me were #3 (love the front to back slope, quirky hole), #11, #12 and #18 were my favorite.  It is nice to play a course with new grass for it was really Firm as was Mt Prospect.  Double green is fantastic.  The negatives were the irrigation pond on #2 (big deduction IMO) on a solid hole.  The Par 5's seemed to be mostly half par's.  I didn't like some of the teeth shape like bunkering on some holes.  I didn't like the HOC around the greens, felt it was way too short and unneeded.  There is need for more tree removal.  I love the tilt of the 18th green. 

Ravisloe  Ravisloe really doesn't have any weak holes, the #7 might be okay.  The bunkering at Rav is some of the best Ross iteration I have seen.  Some very unique cool holes there.  #3 might be in top 5 of par 5's I've played, #4, #5 (very unique), #8, #11 (one of the best long par 3's I've played), #13, #18 (cool bunkering) all standout holes to me.  #9-10 and #15-16 are solid.  The green contours are very solid.  Negatives are that the course lacks one or two ball buster par 4's.  Oh well, but same I think can be said about Old Elm.  Tree removal is def. needed and I hope someone talks the owner out of planting trees.  Course would play well Firm and true. 

Old Elm vs Ravisloe
Par 3's- Ravisloe by a nudge- more variety
Par 4's- Old Elm
Par 5's- Ravisloe

Indianwood
  I have a well traveled friend who thinks it's the best in MI.  I think the land is the best inland land I have seen next to Muskegon for a golf course (I don't get around).  I think the routing is very solid.  I think the bunkering is like furniture out of place.  The par 3's are too redundant.  The 17th green is the best IMO and then the 18th.  The greens are very boring excluding the last two.  I love the quirky 9th hole, good example of quirk.  I have played it 2-3 times.   

Canterbury  First off the staff and caddies are top notch.  The greens are the best part of the course, but nothing one hasn't seen before.  Standout holes for me are #4, #9, #12, and #15.  I'm indifferent about #16.  The negatives, The greens would be great at 10.5 instead of 12-13.  The 3rd hole is weak imo.  There are 3 different bunker designs going on.  There is a floating pond on the 10th hole.  I'm not impressed with the finish as many others.  Way over treed.  A few forced holes there.  The course is a 5, hopefully Hepner can turn it into a 6.5-7.   2 plays
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Terry Lavin on March 05, 2016, 11:35:22 AM
To each his own, of course, but there might be three holes at Rav that are as good as the weaker holes at Old Elm.   Rav is a nice little course that Esler dolled up in a very appealing way, but it would struggle to get more than a Doak 4 while Old Elm is a solid 7 in my view. Many would argue it's an 8. I've played Rav about fifty times, before and after the Esler renovation. I've played Old Elm a handful of times, before and after the Drew Rogers/Dave Zinkand redo, so maybe the disparity in my view compared to Ben's is based on our relative experience on the ground. It's either that or he's been stopping in Denver for some power vape bullets.  ;D
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: BCowan on March 05, 2016, 11:39:34 AM
Terry,

   With all your experience on both tracks, you sure failed to give us any specifics.  Doak 4, that's a laugh.   ::)

  When I stop in Denver. It's for an omelet..
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jason Thurman on March 05, 2016, 05:32:45 PM
I'll wager a power vape that you've never been to Denver.


Ben, I'm more curious about why you thought Mid Pines was better than No. 2 in 2014, but worse than No. 2 in 2015. Or how the hell Elks Run makes your top 25.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: J_ Crisham on March 05, 2016, 05:34:25 PM
Terry,

   With all your experience on both tracks, you sure failed to give us any specifics.  Doak 4, that's a laugh.   ::)

  When I stop in Denver. It's for an omelet..
Ben, I've played Ravisloe many times over the years both pre and post reno. I really like it- I might go as high as a Doak 5. It's not in the same league as Flossmoor , OFCC N & S, or Beverly just to name a few close tracks. Those are 6-7.5 in my book. Old Elm is pretty special IMO - I would now place it in the CGC  or Shoreacres category of top 3-4 in Chicago . Especially for the club/recreational golfer. It's not a big brawny championship venue like Butler, Medinah, or OFCC north. It is charming in regards to walk ability , short game examination , flawless conditioning, rugged bunkering, and a nice mix of long / short par 4's, you are spot on that the par 5's are more 4 1/2's. I find that to be the fun side of old elm. At Beverly for instance we have 4 par 5's at 570, 575, 605, and 585. For most of our members it can be a hybrid 3 rd shot . As far as Rav is concerned,  I intend to continue my annual Good Friday ritual of an afternoon round there with some pals to celebrate Holy Week.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: BCowan on March 05, 2016, 06:18:22 PM
Ben, I've played Ravisloe many times over the years both pre and post reno. I really like it- I might go as high as a Doak 5. It's not in the same league as Flossmoor , OFCC N & S, or Beverly just to name a few close tracks. Those are 6-7.5 in my book. Old Elm is pretty special IMO - I would now place it in the CGC  or Shoreacres category of top 3-4 in Chicago . Especially for the club/recreational golfer. It's not a big brawny championship venue like Butler, Medinah, or OFCC north. It is charming in regards to walk ability , short game examination , flawless conditioning, rugged bunkering, and a nice mix of long / short par 4's, you are spot on that the par 5's are more 4 1/2's. I find that to be the fun side of old elm. At Beverly for instance we have 4 par 5's at 570, 575, 605, and 585. For most of our members it can be a hybrid 3 rd shot . As far as Rav is concerned,  I intend to continue my annual Good Friday ritual of an afternoon round there with some pals to celebrate Holy Week.

Jack,

     I give Old Elm about 7.4 and Ravisloe about 7.8, which I ask myself why not higher.  I explained my reasons.  The irrigation pond is a huge deduction for me, it's location is horrible and I don't think it's original or size of it is needed.  Without it Old Elm might be 8-8.5.  Tree removal is also an issue.  Hopefully they will remove those gothic trees and plant a few new resistant Elms..  I loved the cross bunkering on a few holes and some other bunkers I didn't care for.  I disagree with flawless conditioning, but obviously better then Ravisloe.  I like the shaved areas around many greens, HOC is too short even though I have advantage with shaved bounce on my SW's.  The par 5's are very very solid at Ravisloe #3 and #13 are outstanding (no water needed to make them excellent)#2 is a solid hole too.  Each make the player think on their 2nd shot.   

 I have only played Mt Prospect, Old Elm, and Ravisloe.  We can agree to disagree, however you failed to give me reasons why you think it's only a 5 at tops.  Excluding trees which I said, please tell me?  I'm glad you will continue your regular Good Friday game there, the place has a special feel to it which only adds to the solid Golf Course.  You also didn't give me a numerical rating for Old Elm. 

Old Elm vs Ravisloe
1. OE +1
 2. OE +2
 3. OE +1
 4. -
 5. Rav +1
 6. -
 7. OE +1
 8. -
 9. OE +1
10. -
11. Draw (-)
12. OE +1
13. -
14. OE +1
15. -
16. Rav +1
17. Rav +2
18. Rav +1
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JJShanley on March 06, 2016, 10:46:17 AM
1.   Camargo, Cincinnati, OH
2.   Rolling Green, Springfield, PA
3.   Dunbar, Dunbar, Scotland
4.   Warren at Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN
5.   Gullane (2), Gullane, Scotland
6.   Mortonhall, Edinburgh, Scotland
7.   Wigwam (Gold), Litchfield Park, AZ
8.   Longniddry, Longniddry, Scotland
9.   Goswick, Berwick-upon-Tweed, England
10. County Sligo, Sligo, Ireland
11. Braid Hills (#1), Edinburgh, Scotland
12. Strandhill, Sligo, Ireland
13. Musselburgh (Monktonhall), Edinburgh, Scotland
14. Angels Crossing, Vicksburg, MI
15. The Glen, North Berwick, Scotland
16. The Duke’s Course, St. Andrews, Scotland
17. Forest Highland (Canyon), Flagstaff, AZ
18. University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM
19. Papago, Tempe, AZ
20. Gullane (3), Gullane, Scotland
21. Dundonald Links, Gailes, Scotland
22. Mount Prospect, Mount Prospect, IL
23. Wyncote, Oxford, PA
24. Bruntsfield, Edinburgh, Scotland
25. Duke University Golf Club, Durham, NC
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ash Towe on March 06, 2016, 03:16:53 PM
After my recent travels.  This was not easy and I have left some terrific courses out.  In no particular order:

 Cypress Point
Sand Hills
Ballyneal
Pacific Dunes
Old MacDonald
Barnbougle
Royal Melbourne West
Royal Lytham
Royal Birkdale
Turnberry
Cape Kidnappers
Plainfield
San Francisco Golf Club
Ballybunion Old
Portmarnock
Sunningdale Old
Sunningdale New
Merion East
Winged Foot West
Winged Foot East
NGLA
Friars Head
St Andrews Old
Muirfield
Royal County Down
After another trip and a recent weekend I would make 3 changes:
In Tara Iti, Royal Dornoch and Castle Stuart. Out Royal Lytham, Plainfield and Winged Foot East.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Cory Lewis on March 06, 2016, 04:10:56 PM
Wow, reading this thread I'm shocked by how much my list looks like other peoples.  These courses must be that good if so many agree:

Royal Dornoch, Royal County Down, Cypress Point, Pebble Beach, Royal Portrush
St. Andrews, Fishers Island, North Berwick, NGLA, Bandon Dunes,
San Francisco, Kingsley, Pinehurst No.2, Bethpage Black, Friar's Head
Crystal Downs, Merion, Garden City, Shinnecock, Oakmont
Pacific Dunes, Camargo, Maidstone, TPC at Sawgrass, Meadow Club
Well I guess 6+ years is long enough for an update.  New since 2009 are in red:


Royal Dornoch
Royal County Down
Cypress Point
Sand Hills
Pine Valley
Pebble Beach
Royal Portrush
St. Andrews(Old)
Fishers Island
North Berwick(West)
NGLA
Pinehurst(No.2)
Prairie Dunes
Ballyneal
Wolf Point
Bandon Dunes
Bethpage (Black)
Seminole
Friar's Head
San Francisco
Kingsley Club
Garden City
Crystal Downs
Merion(East)
Old Town


Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jon Heise on March 06, 2016, 05:58:52 PM
1- Pebble Beach
2- Greywalls
3- Pinehurst No. 2
4- Pine Needles
5- Crystal Downs
6- Tanglewood Park
7- Torrey Pines South
8- Augusta Country Club
9- Kiawah Island Ocean Course
10- Kingsley Club
11- Forest Dunes
12- Tobacco Road
13- Palmetto Golf Club
14- Dunes Golf and Beach Club
15- True North
16- Timberstone
17- Arcadia Bluffs
18- Grosse Ile G&CC
19- Eagle Eye
20- Otsego Club Tribute
21- University of Michigan GC
22- Southern Pines
23- Rock Barn
24- Mid Pines
25- Raisin River GC, Monroe MI


Hey, I was post #3.  That's pretty cool.  An update?


1 Muirfield
2 Old Course
3 Pebble Beach
4 Greywalls
5 North Berwick
6 Crystal Downs
7 Pinehurst #2 (before reno)
8 Kiawah Island Ocean
9 Whistling Straits
10 Erin Hills
11 Arcadia Bluffs
12 Torrey South
13 Pine Needles
14 Belvedere
15 Tanglewood Park
16 Old American
17 Grosse Ile G&CC
18 Kingsley
19 Forest Dunes
20 Angels Crossing
21 Augusta Country Club
22 Mt Prospect
23 Indianwood Old
24 Lost Dunes
25 Knolwood Club
Duke
Dunes Golf and Beach Club
Southern Pines
Palmetto
Tobacco Road
Sweetgrass
University of Michigan
Cog Hill #2
St Ives
Eagle Eye
Black Forest
Timberstone
Mid Pines
Raisin River East
 
After about #5, then after about #12, ordering is not important...  Oh, and Cabot in the fall, so just pencil them into the top 5 right now...  total number is 244.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JJShanley on March 07, 2016, 08:31:02 AM
Jon,

If I lived closer to Angels Crossing I'd probably play there a dozen times this season.  As it stands I'll play 36 when I visit.  It's that good.

JJS
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: J_ Crisham on March 07, 2016, 09:09:06 AM
Ben, I've played Ravisloe many times over the years both pre and post reno. I really like it- I might go as high as a Doak 5. It's not in the same league as Flossmoor , OFCC N & S, or Beverly just to name a few close tracks. Those are 6-7.5 in my book. Old Elm is pretty special IMO - I would now place it in the CGC  or Shoreacres category of top 3-4 in Chicago . Especially for the club/recreational golfer. It's not a big brawny championship venue like Butler, Medinah, or OFCC north. It is charming in regards to walk ability , short game examination , flawless conditioning, rugged bunkering, and a nice mix of long / short par 4's, you are spot on that the par 5's are more 4 1/2's. I find that to be the fun side of old elm. At Beverly for instance we have 4 par 5's at 570, 575, 605, and 585. For most of our members it can be a hybrid 3 rd shot . As far as Rav is concerned,  I intend to continue my annual Good Friday ritual of an afternoon round there with some pals to celebrate Holy Week.

Jack,

     I give Old Elm about 7.4 and Ravisloe about 7.8, which I ask myself why not higher.  I explained my reasons.  The irrigation pond is a huge deduction for me, it's location is horrible and I don't think it's original or size of it is needed.  Without it Old Elm might be 8-8.5.  Tree removal is also an issue.  Hopefully they will remove those gothic trees and plant a few new resistant Elms..  I loved the cross bunkering on a few holes and some other bunkers I didn't care for.  I disagree with flawless conditioning, but obviously better then Ravisloe.  I like the shaved areas around many greens, HOC is too short even though I have advantage with shaved bounce on my SW's.  The par 5's are very very solid at Ravisloe #3 and #13 are outstanding (no water needed to make them excellent)#2 is a solid hole too.  Each make the player think on their 2nd shot.   

 I have only played Mt Prospect, Old Elm, and Ravisloe.  We can agree to disagree, however you failed to give me reasons why you think it's only a 5 at tops.  Excluding trees which I said, please tell me?  I'm glad you will continue your regular Good Friday game there, the place has a special feel to it which only adds to the solid Golf Course.  You also didn't give me a numerical rating for Old Elm. 

Old Elm vs Ravisloe
1. OE +1
 2. OE +2
 3. OE +1
 4. -
 5. Rav +1
 6. -
 7. OE +1
 8. -
 9. OE +1
10. -
11. Draw (-)
12. OE +1
13. -
14. OE +1
15. -
16. Rav +1
17. Rav +2
18. Rav +1
Ben,    I look at SA, CGC, and Old Elm as being pretty equal- somewhere in the 8-9 range. Exceptional golf courses in the same vein as a Garden City Mens or Wannamoisette.  Courses that have virtually no poor holes. As far as tree removal at Old Elm, it is an ongoing process- they continue as we speak. The irrigation pond on #2 is a nonissue in my mind- it is completely out of play. No idea as to its origin- its size doesn't distract me.  #2 is one of the great par 4's in the Midwest. So many options around the green for recovery shots. The approach must be precise but at 125-150 yds should be manageable. The conditioning is typically flawless due to a virtually unlimited maintenance budget and a very low number of rounds played annually. Keep in mind these are the same guys who are at Augusta, Seminole, PV, CPC, etc. They have a higher bar for what is acceptable and they see that it is accomplished.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jon Heise on March 08, 2016, 01:29:24 PM
Jon,

If I lived closer to Angels Crossing I'd probably play there a dozen times this season.  As it stands I'll play 36 when I visit.  It's that good.

JJS


Just an enjoyable place!  I played 18 in about an hour and a half as the first off that day (trying to beat the rain).  Slammed my 6' birdie putt on 18 through the break, raced to the parking lot just as the clouds unloaded on me.  Can't wait to go back!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JJShanley on March 08, 2016, 01:32:40 PM
Jon,

If I lived closer to Angels Crossing I'd probably play there a dozen times this season.  As it stands I'll play 36 when I visit.  It's that good.

JJS
Just an enjoyable place!  I played 18 in about an hour and a half as the first off that day (trying to beat the rain).  Slammed my 6' birdie putt on 18 through the break, raced to the parking lot just as the clouds unloaded on me.  Can't wait to go back!


Got through 15 on my first visit there in June last year.  I could hear thunder in the distance, in the direction of the clubhouse, so called it a day.  Got to the clubhouse and ordered a beer and burger about two minutes before a 30 minute storm flooded the course.  I'm excited to show my dad the place when he comes over in September.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: PCCraig on March 08, 2016, 02:39:48 PM
A matchup between Ravisloe and Old Elm is laughable. Ravisloe is a fine golf course (maybe the best public value in Chicago), but to say it doesn't have a weak hole makes zero sense. #7 is not a good golf hole. Neither is #11, really. There are some pretty blah holes too...#2? Just a straightforward whatever par-5.


Old Elm is an incredible golf course. I won't go as far as to say there isn't a 'weak' hole, but it's weakest holes are better and more interesting than the best holes at Ravisloe.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: BCowan on March 08, 2016, 03:09:11 PM
A matchup between Ravisloe and Old Elm is laughable. Ravisloe is a fine golf course (maybe the best public value in Chicago), but to say it doesn't have a weak hole makes zero sense. #7 is not a good golf hole. Neither is #11, really. There are some pretty blah holes too...#2? Just a straightforward whatever par-5.


Old Elm is an incredible golf course. I won't go as far as to say there isn't a 'weak' hole, but it's weakest holes are better and more interesting than the best holes at Ravisloe.

You wouldn't want to deviate from conventional group thought or this basically is an exercise in who is a maint whore and presentation clouding ones judgement.  As I stated earlier in the thread 7 is prob the only okay hole at Rav.  #11 is an outstanding long par 3, great little shaved nob right of the green and probably one of my personal favorite for over 210.  The 2nd hole is a good par 5, I'd take over the opening hole at Old Elm. In order to hit it in two to a back right pin one has an advantage coming in on the proper side.  Very much disagree with your last paragraph.  Rav can't get higher then a 7 due to soft maint presentation and trees IMO. I stand by my 7.8 rating. To be 8-10 course has to be firm imo. 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: PCCraig on March 08, 2016, 03:27:51 PM
A matchup between Ravisloe and Old Elm is laughable. Ravisloe is a fine golf course (maybe the best public value in Chicago), but to say it doesn't have a weak hole makes zero sense. #7 is not a good golf hole. Neither is #11, really. There are some pretty blah holes too...#2? Just a straightforward whatever par-5.


Old Elm is an incredible golf course. I won't go as far as to say there isn't a 'weak' hole, but it's weakest holes are better and more interesting than the best holes at Ravisloe.

You wouldn't want to deviate from conventional group thought or this basically is an exercise in who is a maint whore and presentation clouding ones judgement. 


Ben,


I have been singing Old Elm's praises for nearly 10 years now both here on GCA and offline. I was doing so before most if not all of the folks on here had ever played it. Old Elm was a Top 3 course in Chicago pre-Rogers and Zinkland renovation, and their work has since only cemented my personal "ranking."


I'm not saying that Ravisloe is a bad golf course, it just isn't anywhere close to being on the same level as Old Elm.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: BCowan on March 08, 2016, 03:31:53 PM
Pat,

   We can agree to disagree.  The important thing is one can give reasons why they like or don't like a course.  Old Elm is a great course, many great nuances.  With so many great courses in IL, MI, and OH there really is no reason to leave the midwest. 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill McKinley on March 08, 2016, 06:10:16 PM
Ben,   Congrats on a nice 2015. Am I reading your list correctly with Ravisloe ranked higher than Old Elm, Indianwood Old, and Canterbury? If so, why? And if possible expand on why Old Elm?

Jack,

    You are reading the list correctly.  Old Elm is a very solid Golf course as is Ravisloe which I feel is vastly underrated.  I played each once, so you can take that into account.  I know I am in the minority here, but that is okay.  I also have come to realized that 5 plays is best when assessing a course though that is tough to do with such limited time, I'd like to play Ravisloe again to see if my first impression was good. 

Old Elm  Doesn't really have a weak hole.  The course has very good nuances and some uniqueness to it.  The holes that stood out to me were #3 (love the front to back slope, quirky hole), #11, #12 and #18 were my favorite.  It is nice to play a course with new grass for it was really Firm as was Mt Prospect.  Double green is fantastic.  The negatives were the irrigation pond on #2 (big deduction IMO) on a solid hole.  The Par 5's seemed to be mostly half par's.  I didn't like some of the teeth shape like bunkering on some holes.  I didn't like the HOC around the greens, felt it was way too short and unneeded.  There is need for more tree removal.  I love the tilt of the 18th green. 

Ravisloe  Ravisloe really doesn't have any weak holes, the #7 might be okay.  The bunkering at Rav is some of the best Ross iteration I have seen.  Some very unique cool holes there.  #3 might be in top 5 of par 5's I've played, #4, #5 (very unique), #8, #11 (one of the best long par 3's I've played), #13, #18 (cool bunkering) all standout holes to me.  #9-10 and #15-16 are solid.  The green contours are very solid.  Negatives are that the course lacks one or two ball buster par 4's.  Oh well, but same I think can be said about Old Elm.  Tree removal is def. needed and I hope someone talks the owner out of planting trees.  Course would play well Firm and true. 

Old Elm vs Ravisloe
Par 3's- Ravisloe by a nudge- more variety
Par 4's- Old Elm
Par 5's- Ravisloe

Indianwood
  I have a well traveled friend who thinks it's the best in MI.  I think the land is the best inland land I have seen next to Muskegon for a golf course (I don't get around).  I think the routing is very solid.  I think the bunkering is like furniture out of place.  The par 3's are too redundant.  The 17th green is the best IMO and then the 18th.  The greens are very boring excluding the last two.  I love the quirky 9th hole, good example of quirk.  I have played it 2-3 times.   

Canterbury  First off the staff and caddies are top notch.  The greens are the best part of the course, but nothing one hasn't seen before.  Standout holes for me are #4, #9, #12, and #15.  I'm indifferent about #16.  The negatives, The greens would be great at 10.5, but I think they cut them super low to try and impress people.  The 3rd hole is weak.  There are 3 different bunker designs going on.  There is a floating pond on the 10th hole.  I'm not impressed with the finish as many others.  Way over treed.  A few forced holes there.  The course is a 5, hopefully Hepner can turn it into a 6.5-7.   2 plays


Ben,


Thank you for the kind words on the staff and caddies at Canterbury. And I certainly can respect your opinions on what you liked and didn't like about the golf course. We all have our own opinions and that is what makes discussions on this board great!


However, your line about us cutting our greens super low to try and impress people just doesn't sit right with me. Our members want and expect fast and firm playing surfaces. And I (and our Superintendent) wanted all those that played in the 2014 Mashie to experience that. To say that we did "to impress you" implies some sort of backhanded comment. I can assure you that the way the golf course was presented that weekend was to try and give participants the full Canterbury experience, albeit in colder than normal October conditions.


But, thanks for playing in the 2014 Mashie, it was great to meet you and all the others who played. Be sure to look for CGC on TV this fall in the Web.com playoffs. And our renovation, by Bruce Hepner, will start right after that event concludes.
Best,
Bill
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jason Thurman on March 08, 2016, 06:51:21 PM
If the conditioning at Canterbury in the 2014 Mashie was supposed to impress me, it worked. The maintenance meld was perfect for my tastes, and I especially loved that the fast and firm greens put a premium on keeping the ball below the hole, which drove strategy all the way back to the tee. The quality of the course and its playing conditions were obviously reflected in the quality of the winning team that the event produced.


Of course, we all have different tastes. I can accept that some people are deeply offended by retention ponds and certain bunker shapes. Personally, I just like courses with a lot of cool shots that give the player a canvas on which to shape the ball, hit a wide variety of clubs, and make risk/reward decisions. Canterbury succeeds about as well as any course I've ever played in that regard. It's an easy course to overlook because it's not particularly flashy and it's the type of subtle layout that requires a player to figure out how the angles and slopes of the greens affect strategy. A player who isn't savvy or experienced enough to understand the options available in playing the course will spend a lot of time out of position and not really understanding the shot demands in front of him. He'll dismiss it as the average tough Golden Age course with greens that are too fast for their contours, but a player who can control his ball and play the course wisely will have just as much fun planning his route to each hole as he will executing that plan.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: BCowan on March 08, 2016, 07:04:46 PM
Bill,

   First off sorry to have offended you.  To clarify I assumed the speeds you had them at the Mashie were the speeds they are for member and guest play day in and day out.  I am very much against the Green speeds arms race.   

   Thanks again for hosting the Mashie, it was a first class event and I look forward to Hepner's work.  Bill, would love to have you up in SE Mich for a game

-Ben

 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jason Thurman on March 08, 2016, 07:43:00 PM
''A player who isn't savvy or experienced enough to understand the options available in playing the course will spend a lot of time out of position and not really understanding the shot demands in front of him. He'll dismiss it as the average tough Golden Age course with greens that are too fast for their contours, but a player who can control his ball and play the course wisely will have just as much fun planning his route to each hole as he will executing that plan.''

Are you implying me Jason?  Many good courses require shaping and reward angles.  You really didn't say anything prolific just a bunch of fluff.  How many courses require one to keep the ball below the hole, never seen that before.


I don't think Canterbury REQUIRES shaping, but it definitely rewards and encourages it. I also think it rewards angles better than most courses due to its green slopes and shapes. The pinnable lobes behind bunker on the greens at 2, 9, and 13 make certain hole locations far more accessible from one side of the fairway or another, for example, while the severe slopes of greens like 1, 8, and 18, to name a few, really require a player to consciously play below the hole or risk getting screwed even after a well-struck swing.


In my experience, very few courses possess a set of greens that affect strategy from the tee and fairway the way that the ones at Canterbury do. Crystal Downs and Pinehurst No. 2 might be the only courses that I've played where the slopes and shapes of greens affect my planning on approach shots as significantly as those at Canterbury, and honestly staying below the hole doesn't matter much on most courses where the greens lack either slope or speed. We've had this discussion before, but I like fast greens and found the ones at Canterbury to be just about perfect.


So yes, I do think there's a lot going on at Canterbury that you failed to pick up on but that other players do see, as proven by the course's lofty reputation - not that there's anything wrong with that, as your perception of the course is as much your own as mine is my own, and you see plenty of things that I don't see in courses like Mid Pines and Elks Run. If you're more fixated on retention ponds and whatever issues you see with the bunkering on hole 3 at Canterbury as opposed to the remarkable tee-to-green strategic elements that the course puts on display for 18 holes, then you should feel free to prioritize places that you find more palatable. I only chime in because Canterbury is firmly in my top 25 and I think that including another perspective on it has value.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: BCowan on March 08, 2016, 08:39:42 PM
I was up all night thinking about Canterbury and having regretted offending Bill and not using a better choice of words.  I think that Canterbury has a lot of potential and I retract my comment, ''they have greens you can find anywhere''.  I have Canterbury's green designs ahead of Scioto, Kirtland, MVGC.  Inverness, OSU (Scarlet pre JN), and Canterbury are top tier complex's of Ohio's best courses I've played.  The 12th hole at Canterbury is my favorite hole on the course and surprised it doesn't get mentioned more often.  Lastly Canterbury is a great club to spend a day or multiple days at.  They are lucky to have someone like Bill McKinley who understands the big picture more then most. 

Jack,

   I'd drive from Ann Arbor to play Ravisloe in a New York minute.  I don't care if I'm 1 in 100 or 1,000. 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: J_ Crisham on March 08, 2016, 10:52:11 PM
Bill,
     I found Canterbury to be outstanding in every facet. The conditioning of the fairways , greens , bunkering, etc. was impressive . It's one terrific course that I hope someday to revisit. My original question re: Indianwood, Canterbury, and Old Elm vs Ravisloe was kind of a Huh? did I really read that right moment. Ravisloe , while being fun golf has always been a second tier course in Chicago . I wouldn't travel from Cleveland to Chicago to play Rav- as you know I did drive to Cleveland last year for Canterbury - it was well worth it. It's a perrenial Top 100 Classic because it's that good. Aside from the course you have a club steeped in golf tradition - it's a veritable museum. How many clubs have a Masters Champion Green jacket on display?  To each their own but I must say I was really impressed with your club. Hope all is well with you!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Joe Zucker on March 09, 2016, 09:49:50 AM
As a native Clevelander, I was lucky to play in a few Keily Cups at Canterbury (annual high school tournament named after their legendary caddie master).  I have found the difficulty of the course to be incredibly subtle.  The greens are always fast, but that's not what makes it tough.  Jason noted the importance of knowing the required angles to attack pins.  There are many classic courses where a 10 foot putt on one side of the hole is worse than a 30 footer on the other side.  Canterbury falls into this category and I view it as a positive characteristic.  It keeps the course interesting and challenging over many plays.


Obviously these subtle and difficult movements in the greens are accentuated by modern green speeds.   I can appreciate how this may not be ideal for everyone, fortunately there are thousands of courses for us to choose from.  For me this does does not negate the importance of strategy or thinking around the course.  The greens force the player to plan two or three shots ahead, which make it one of the best place to play in Ohio.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on March 09, 2016, 03:12:28 PM

My favorite book has an excellent quote about making choices in life:  that if you come up with multiple reasons to choose something, you should NOT choose it, because for a really good choice, one big reason should be enough.  In that line of thinking, here is the weakest link in the chain:

Aside from the course you have a club steeped in golf tradition - it's a veritable museum. How many clubs have a Masters Champion Green jacket on display?


Of course, Ben has offered way too many reasons in favor of Ravisloe, too, and will most likely be disappointed with its rating in The Confidential Guide come fall.  Chacun a son gout!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Pritchett on March 09, 2016, 04:18:44 PM

Chacun a son gout!


Looking on my phone, for a brief second I thought this was Klingon!



Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: PCCraig on March 09, 2016, 05:31:28 PM
Of course, Ben has offered way too many reasons in favor of Ravisloe, too, and will most likely be disappointed with its rating in The Confidential Guide come fall.  Chacun a son gout!


Tom Doak,


Which of the 4 Confidential Guide contributors visited Ravisloe?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: J_ Crisham on March 09, 2016, 10:21:47 PM

My favorite book has an excellent quote about making choices in life:  that if you come up with multiple reasons to choose something, you should NOT choose it, because for a really good choice, one big reason should be enough.  In that line of thinking, here is the weakest link in the chain:

Aside from the course you have a club steeped in golf tradition - it's a veritable museum. How many clubs have a Masters Champion Green jacket on display?


Of course, Ben has offered way too many reasons in favor of Ravisloe, too, and will most likely be disappointed with its rating in The Confidential Guide come fall.  Chacun a son gout!
Tom,
      If I understand your premise correctly a fine collection  of golf memorabilia should lessen your decision to visit a club with a fine golf course? For some of us golf memorabilia that is specific to the history of the club adds to the enjoyment of the day.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Eric Smith on March 09, 2016, 10:42:49 PM

Chacun a son gout!


Looking on my phone, for a brief second I thought this was Klingon!

(http://i464.photobucket.com/albums/rr7/rednorman/GCA/D41F2946-92EC-4E62-BCEB-D537FFFC6215_zps857fqggf.jpg)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: David_Moorhead on March 10, 2016, 11:06:20 AM
A matchup between Ravisloe and Old Elm is laughable. Ravisloe is a fine golf course (maybe the best public value in Chicago), but to say it doesn't have a weak hole makes zero sense. #7 is not a good golf hole.

Pat, I don't necessarily disagree with your comment about Rav #7, but I am intrigued by it.  I don't like the hole, but I have always thought that was primarily because it doesn't set up well for me.  That said, the green angle from front right to back left combined with a few carry bunkers forces you to pick a line and distance.  What makes it not good?  I am not defending the hole; I actually would like a non-personal reason to dislike it.   
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Simon Holt on March 10, 2016, 11:34:24 AM
Not sure if I can get to 25......in fact I am going to throw caution to the wind and list them in order of how much fun I have/had playing there.  Some may be 'better' courses in terms of GCA but these put a smile on my face which is what its all about.

In paranthesis my top 10 in GCA terms

1. North Berwick  (6)
2. Cypress Point  (2)
3. Royal Dornoch  (5)
4. Pine Valley  (1)
5. TOC  (4)
6. Muirfield  (3)
7. Pasatiempo ( 8)
8. Renaissance Club  (7)
9. Kingsbarns (10)
10. Royal Troon (9)
11. Spyglass Hill
12. Hoylake
13. Bethpage Black
14. Gullane No. 1
15. Loch Lomond
16. Kilspindie
17. Leven
18. Dunbar
19. Champions
20. Shadow Hawk
21. Brora
22. Elie
23. Crail (Balcomie)
24. Leven
25. Stanwich

I need to play more courses!!!

3.5 years and a lot of air miles later.  This is as objective(ish) as I can be about what is actually on the ground.  My experiences at these wonderful places and the wonderful places not on the list, would probably make for more interesting read.

Pine Valley
Muirfield
TOC
NGLA
RCD
Cypress Point
ANGC
Portrush
Royal Dornoch
Seminole
Friar's Head
North Berwick
Sunningdale Old
Merion
Dismal Red
Ballyneal
Muirfield Village
Trump Scotland
Cruden Bay
Garden City Mens Club
Prestwick
Streamsong Blue
Maidstone
Turnberry
Pasatiempo
Kingsbarns



Update after a few more air miles.

Pine Valley
Muirfield
TOC
Oakmont
NGLA
RCD
Cypress Point
ANGC
Royal Melbourne (West)
Tara Iti
Royal Portrush (Dunluce)  - I expect this to rise after the alterations
Royal Dornoch
LACC (North)
Kingston Heath
Seminole
Friar's Head
North Berwick
Sunningdale Old
Merion
Lahinch
Crystal Downs
Pebble Beach
Portmarnock GCKinloch GC (New Ze\
Garden City Mens Club
Turnberry (Ailsa)

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean Ogle on March 10, 2016, 12:13:54 PM
Saw this thread and figured I'd add mine. This is very much a personal favorites, not highest ranked - as I think that was what the thread asked for:
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill_McBride on March 13, 2016, 11:46:35 PM
Pat,

   We can agree to disagree.  The important thing is one can give reasons why they like or don't like a course.  Old Elm is a great course, many great nuances.  With so many great courses in IL, MI, and OH there really is no reason to leave the midwest.


Unless you wanted to play the great courses of the West Coast, East Coast and the U.K.    Your comment is pretty provincial. 

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on March 14, 2016, 08:36:23 AM
Of course, Ben has offered way too many reasons in favor of Ravisloe, too, and will most likely be disappointed with its rating in The Confidential Guide come fall.  Chacun a son gout!


Tom Doak,


Which of the 4 Confidential Guide contributors visited Ravisloe?


Only me, as of today.


P.S.  Apologies that I didn't know how to get the French accents to come up in italic on my keyboard ...



Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on March 15, 2016, 05:10:15 AM

[color=rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961)]Not the most impressive list, but some great memories....GC, WFW, FH and BPB were all in the same long weekend thanks to a very benevolent host. [/color][color=rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961)]

Sand Hills
[/color]
Prairie Dunes
Southern Hills
Austin Golf Club
Pebble Beach
PH #2
Dormie Club
World Woods Pine Barrens
Pine Dunes
Harbour Town
Garden City
Winged Foot West
Bethpage Black
Friars Head
Streamsong Blue
Streamsong Red
TPC Sawgrass
Kapalua Plantation
Dallas National
Waterwood National
Granville
Riverdale Dunes
Camp Creek
Blackwolf Run
Whistling Straits
Erin Hills
Talking Stick


Chris


Talk to me about Granville.


Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Chad Anderson (Tennessee) on May 04, 2016, 10:33:13 PM
Many members have some wonderful list on here!  I'll attempt my 25.


Monterey Peninsula CC - Shore
Seminole
Victoria National
Pinehurst #2
Cascata
Secession
Long Cove
The Honors
The Golf Club of Tennessee
The Virginian
Mid Pines
Tobacco Road
Olde Stone
The Olde Farm
Holston Hills
Floridian
May River
The Farm
Chattanooga G&CC
Tennessee National
Harbour Town

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Paul Stockert on May 11, 2016, 12:09:07 PM
We all need to reach out to Alan Shipnuck and remind him that the Whip it Out posts are supposed to be limited to 25.  Heck of a list.  And now I need to return to my desk job...sigh...


This site will probably like his 'troll' of ANGC fans on twitter.



http://www.golf.com/golf-plus/shipnuck-100-best-golf-courses-i-have-played-worldwide (http://www.golf.com/golf-plus/shipnuck-100-best-golf-courses-i-have-played-worldwide)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Joe Schackman on May 12, 2016, 03:41:35 PM
We all need to reach out to Alan Shipnuck and remind him that the Whip it Out posts are supposed to be limited to 25.  Heck of a list.  And now I need to return to my desk job...sigh...


This site will probably like his 'troll' of ANGC fans on twitter.



http://www.golf.com/golf-plus/shipnuck-100-best-golf-courses-i-have-played-worldwide (http://www.golf.com/golf-plus/shipnuck-100-best-golf-courses-i-have-played-worldwide)

Saw this yesterday. I'm just impressed he could put together a list of 100 courses that people have heard of! I dip into no-names/muni's pretty quickly. Guess it helps to write about golf for a living rather than sitting at a desk!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Derek Holland on July 11, 2016, 06:47:27 PM
Figured I would get my list out there being relatively new to the site and see how it changes over time. Nothing compared to many of the members of this site but already picked up Dismal River + Bandon + Bulle Rock + Hazeltine this year so heading in the right direction  :)


1. Pacific Dunes
2. Bandon Trails
3. Bandon Dunes
4. Old Mac
5. Dismal River - White
6. Kapalua - Plantation
7. Arcadia Bluffs
8. Dismal River - Red
9. Torrey Pines - North
10. Barton Hills
11. Lassing Point
12. World Woods - Pine Barrens
13. World Woods - Rolling Oaks
14. Oakland Hills - North
15. Troy Burne
16. Hazeltine
17. Bulle Rock
18. Whiskey Creek
19. Keller (MN)
20. Meadowbrook (MI)
21. Kearney Hills
22. Tatanka at Feather Hill
23. Stoneridge (MN)
24. Forest Dunes - Weiskopf
25. The Fortress (MI)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill McKinley on October 21, 2016, 03:08:46 PM
This year's update...

I had to redefine how I rate everything because it was too hard to pick between some courses.  I went to a number system, call it a Doak scale if you must!  ;D

In alphabetical order within each number

10s
Fishers Island
National Golf Links of America
Pine Valley

9.5s
California Golf Club of SF
Merion - East
Oakmont
Old Course at St. Andrews
Somerset Hills

9s
Chicago Golf Club
LACC - North
Muirfield
Myopia Hunt Club
Seminole

8.5s
Bandon Trails
The Country Club - Brookline
Crystal Downs
Kingsbarns
Maidstone
Old Macdonald
Pacific Dunes
Piping Rock

8s
Bandon Dunes
Canterbury
Creek Club
Friars Head
Riviera

The most recent additions were Pine Valley, Somerset Hills, Myopia Hunt and The Country Club (Brookline).  It's been fun!!


Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tom_Doak on October 21, 2016, 03:21:07 PM
You've got every course at Bandon Dunes in your top 25, except Pacific Dunes?


Really?  If so, you're the first person I've heard to put it fourth of the four.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jason Thurman on October 21, 2016, 04:25:25 PM
Figured I would get my list out there being relatively new to the site and see how it changes over time. Nothing compared to many of the members of this site but already picked up Dismal River + Bandon + Bulle Rock + Hazeltine this year so heading in the right direction  :)


1. Pacific Dunes
2. Bandon Trails
3. Bandon Dunes
4. Old Mac
5. Dismal River - White
6. Kapalua - Plantation
7. Arcadia Bluffs
8. Dismal River - Red
9. Torrey Pines - North
10. Barton Hills
11. Lassing Point
12. World Woods - Pine Barrens
13. World Woods - Rolling Oaks
14. Oakland Hills - North
15. Troy Burne
16. Hazeltine
17. Bulle Rock
18. Whiskey Creek
19. Keller (MN)
20. Meadowbrook (MI)
21. Kearney Hills
22. Tatanka at Feather Hill
23. Stoneridge (MN)
24. Forest Dunes - Weiskopf
25. The Fortress (MI)


Derek, did we talk about Lassing Pointe and Kearney Hill at the Major? You may be surprised to hear that I don't remember every conversation from that weekend.


How long ago did you play them? I never saw Lassing Pointe in its heyday, as the maintenance has really suffered over the last few years since I moved to the area. There's still some cool stuff out there, but some of the changes have clearly affected the course for the worse judging by photos and firsthand accounts. Kearney Hill gets my vote for Kentucky's best public course though, and I'm happy to see you list it.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill McKinley on October 21, 2016, 04:44:13 PM
You've got every course at Bandon Dunes in your top 25, except Pacific Dunes?


Really?  If so, you're the first person I've heard to put it fourth of the four.

I knew I left something out!! It's updated now... with 26 courses in there.  LOL
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Derek Holland on October 24, 2016, 01:37:26 PM


Derek, did we talk about Lassing Pointe and Kearney Hill at the Major? You may be surprised to hear that I don't remember every conversation from that weekend.


How long ago did you play them? I never saw Lassing Pointe in its heyday, as the maintenance has really suffered over the last few years since I moved to the area. There's still some cool stuff out there, but some of the changes have clearly affected the course for the worse judging by photos and firsthand accounts. Kearney Hill gets my vote for Kentucky's best public course though, and I'm happy to see you list it.


Jason - Haven't played Lassing Pointe in probably 15 years. Very possible it has changed in that time period. Additionally I was not as in tune to details of architecture in my youth so I expect to see my list change significantly as I get to experience more courses.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Dustin Ferrell on October 25, 2016, 11:08:00 AM
Well...I really hate to rank courses, but this thread has got me thinking of what are the top 25 I've played.  And by top, i mean, courses I'd be most excited to play again ... so here in no order:


~ Cypress Point Club
~ Pine Valley
~ NGLA
~ Shinnecock
~ Oakmont
~ Chicago Golf
~ Oakland Hills South
~ Sand Hills
~ Pacific Dunes
~ Kingsley Club
~ Crystal Downs
~ Friars Head
~ Seminole
~ Bandon Trails
~ Merion
~ Aronimink
~ Fox Chapel
~ San Fran GC
~ Franklin Hills
~ Pebble Beach
~ Riviera
~ LACC North
~ Pinehurst 2
~ Streamsong Red
~ Streamsong Blue


So hard as there are some really great courses I have to leave if I pick 25 I've played that I most want to play again.  I'll consider it a working doc as there are about 10 others I could easily move in and others out.  Can't believe I've been fortunate enough to get to play that list...
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Franklin on October 25, 2016, 11:24:26 AM
Figured I would get my list out there being relatively new to the site and see how it changes over time. Nothing compared to many of the members of this site but already picked up Dismal River + Bandon + Bulle Rock + Hazeltine this year so heading in the right direction  :)


1. Pacific Dunes
2. Bandon Trails
3. Bandon Dunes
4. Old Mac
5. Dismal River - White
6. Kapalua - Plantation
7. Arcadia Bluffs
8. Dismal River - Red
9. Torrey Pines - North
10. Barton Hills
11. Lassing Point
12. World Woods - Pine Barrens
13. World Woods - Rolling Oaks
14. Oakland Hills - North
15. Troy Burne
16. Hazeltine
17. Bulle Rock
18. Whiskey Creek
19. Keller (MN)
20. Meadowbrook (MI)
21. Kearney Hills
22. Tatanka at Feather Hill
23. Stoneridge (MN)
24. Forest Dunes - Weiskopf
25. The Fortress (MI)

First person I have seen that rates Dismal White above Red.

I have not read this entire thread either so....
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on October 25, 2016, 01:37:07 PM
My Favourite 25

Kington...England...2*
Palmetto...S Carolina...2*
Old Town...N Carolina...2*
Castlerock Bann...N Ireland...1*
Cavendish...England ...1*       
St Enodoc...England...2*   
Welshpool...Wales...1*
Cleeve Cloud...England...R
Alnmouth Village...England...1*
Reigate Heath...England...1*
Aiken...S Carolina...1*
Lakewood Shores Gailes...Michigan...1*
Lederach...Penn...R
Pennard...Wales...1*
Royal Dornoch...Scotland...1*
Perranporth...England...1*
St Andrews New...Scotland...1*
Corballis Links...Ireland...R
Southerndown...Wales...1*
Appleby...England...R
Reddish Vale..England...R
Llandrindod Wells...Wales...R
Oxford...England...R
TOC...Scotland...3*
Elie...Scotland...1*
   
Updated 17.03.20

RECOMMENDATION GUIDE                  

3* Don’t Miss For Any Reason                 
2* Plan A Significant Trip Around This Course                 
1* Worth An Overnight Stay                 
R Worth A Significant Day Trip (no more driving than it takes to play and have drinks)                 
r  A Good Fall Back On/Trip Filler                 
NR Not Recommended       

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Derek Holland on October 25, 2016, 04:50:22 PM
First person I have seen that rates Dismal White above Red.

I have not read this entire thread either so....


Jim - I thought both were great courses! I loved the front 9 of the Red course but never figured out the back 9 after 3 times of playing it. I would love the opportunity to play them both again and could easily see my opinion flipping.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Kavanaugh on October 25, 2016, 04:54:53 PM
Derek,

80% of the members at Dismal would agree with your take of the White over the Red. Hang around here a bit longer and you can tote the more traditional party line. In the meantime keep the honesty flowing.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Eric Smith on October 25, 2016, 06:21:48 PM
#rigged  :-*
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Paul Jones on November 07, 2016, 10:11:02 AM
1. Cypress Point
2. Augusta Natl
3. Royal County Down
4. Pine Valley
5. National Golf Links
6. Royal Dornoch
7. Shinnecock Hills
8. Royal St George
9. Muirfield
10. Royal Birkdale
11. Royal Melbourne (West)
12. Fishers Island
13. Oakmont
14. Trump Turnberry
15. St. Andrews (Old)
16. Sand Hills
17. Myopia Hunt
18. Nanea
19. Sunningdale (Old)
20. Pebble Beach
21. Royal Portcawl
22. New South Wales
23. Lahinch
24. Chicago Golf
25. Seminole
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Simon Holt on November 07, 2016, 02:59:20 PM
That's a pretty punchy list, Paul.  Nice.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Terry Lavin on November 07, 2016, 03:56:02 PM
That's a pretty punchy list, Paul.  Nice.

Judgment affirmed.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Chaplin on November 08, 2016, 06:40:48 AM
Bill McKinley nice to see Cal Club getting a great rating from you. This is one of the most underrated courses I've played in a long time and could (should) switch in the rankings with SF's other highly rated course.

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Brian Bowman on November 08, 2016, 11:35:16 AM
Still warming up as a younger guy here but wanted to put them out there.


-Oakmont
-Muirfield Village
-Camargo Club
-Wolf Run GC
-Firestone (South)
-Valhalla
-Hyde Park CC
-Coldstream CC
-Louisville CC
-NCR CC (South)
-Pelican Hill
-PGA West (Stadium)
-PGA West (Nicklaus Private)
-Green Oaks CC (wonderful ross design in PA)
-Donald Ross at French Lick
-The Club at Olde Stone
-Big Spring CC
-Hurstbourne CC
-Edgewood CC
-Firestone (North)
-TPC Rivers Bend
-Tartan Fields CC
-Toscana CC
-Stonelick Hills
-Totteridge GC

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ian Galbraith on November 08, 2016, 03:05:45 PM

Here is my very parochial list - all but 2 are in Scotland. It's hard to get motivated to travel elsewhere to play until you've sampled all the delights on one's doorstep. As with all such lists the ordering is rather arbitrary so I ended up just asking 'Where would I choose to play if I could get whisked back there tomorrow'. If you're surprised a top Scottish course is not on my list then it's probably just that I haven't played there yet.


1.   Royal Dornoch
2.   Carnoustie
3.   North Berwick
4.   TOC
5.   Machrihanish
6.   The Machrie
7.   Gullane Nr 1
8.   New Course
9.   Cruden Bay
10.   Castle Stuart
11.   Dundonald
12.   Murcar
13.   Arrowtown (NZ)
14.   Dunbar
15.   Glasgow Gailes
16.   Goswick
17.   Shiskene
18.   Kilspindie
19.   Monifieth
20.   Carnoustie Burnside
21.   Mortonhall
22.   The Glen
23.   Auchterarder
24.   Gairloch
25.   Reay


So many fun courses, so little time. :)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Thomas Dai on November 09, 2016, 10:39:01 AM
In no particular order, 25 courses I would like to play frequently -


Dooks
Carne Hackett
Carne Kilmore
Mulranny
Dunfanaghy
The Bann at Castlerock
Annesley at RCD
Portmarnock
Brora
Tain
St Olaf at Cruden Bay
Royal Aberdeen
Carnoustie
TOC
Muirfield
RCP/Deal
Sunningdale New
Tadmarton Heath
Frilford Heath (Green)
Minchinhampton Old
Yelverton
Burnham & Berrow Championship
Burnham & Berrow Channel
Aberdovey
Southerndown


Atb









Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bill McKinley on November 09, 2016, 11:31:09 AM
Bill McKinley nice to see Cal Club getting a great rating from you. This is one of the most underrated courses I've played in a long time and could (should) switch in the rankings with SF's other highly rated course.

Mark,

Yes I thought Cal Club was magnificent.  We played it at the end of a trip to Bandon and we all just loved it.  Kudos to Kyle Phillips on the renovation and kudos to the club for embracing his ideas, one of which was the amazing 7th hole.  I definitely agree with you that it is underrated.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Nigel Islam on November 09, 2016, 01:09:28 PM
Still warming up as a younger guy here but wanted to put them out there.


-Oakmont
-Muirfield Village
-Camargo Club
-Wolf Run GC
-Firestone (South)
-Valhalla
-Hyde Park CC
-Coldstream CC
-Louisville CC
-NCR CC (South)
-Pelican Hill
-PGA West (Stadium)
-PGA West (Nicklaus Private)
-Green Oaks CC (wonderful ross design in PA)
-Donald Ross at French Lick
-The Club at Olde Stone
-Big Spring CC
-Hurstbourne CC
-Edgewood CC
-Firestone (North)
-TPC Rivers Bend
-Tartan Fields CC
-Toscana CC
-Stonelick Hills
-Totteridge GC


Louisville CC is a pretty solid place that gets little mention here. I like Big Spring slightly better than Hurstbourne CC too.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mac Plumart on November 17, 2016, 07:21:42 PM
I think I'm done playing new courses for the year, so here is my Top 25 FAVORITE courses as of 2016...


1)  Cypress Point
2)  Augusta National
3)  Royal County Down
4)  The Golf Club
5)  Dismal Doak
6)  Old MacDonald
7)  The Old Course
8   National Golf Links of America
9)  Sand Hills
10)Pine Valley
11) Kiawah Ocean
12) Pinehurst #2
13) Shinnecock Hills
14) Valley Club
15) Dismal Nicklaus
16) Friar's Head
17) Muirfield
18) Kingsley
19) Chicago Golf
20) Myopia Hunt
21) Shorecares
22) Cal Club
23) Sebonack
24) Prairie Dunes
25) Wolf Point
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Peter Pallotta on November 17, 2016, 10:53:13 PM
This is the worst thing I can admit: I hate this thread. I always have. I hate the smarmy, self referential subject line; I hate the almost total lack of discourse and/or disputation; I hate that it's gone on for 45 pages; I hate the uninspired amalgamation of the most recent Golf Digest-Golf Magazine-Golf Week ratings that the various lists seem to reflect; and I hate that the net result is not a highlighting of joy producing excellence but instead a mind numbing ledger book of facts and figures devoid of any feeling or context or meaning -- the work of accountants, in the language of business. Yes, perhaps "hate" doesn't accurately describe my feeling; it is much too strong a word. But I do "dislike" it very much, and to an unhealthy degree  -- and like some character from Dostoevsky, I am clearly not well. Perhaps this bile is nothing more nor less than the ugly and ignoble passions of jealousy and envy. If so, I have now admited to such mean-minded sentiments, and am prepared to suffer the shunning and banishment that might come my way as a result. But I ask: does anyone have anything to say in my defence?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: BCowan on November 17, 2016, 10:59:56 PM
This is the worst thing I can admit: I hate this thread. I always have. I hate the smarmy, self referential subject line; I hate the almost total lack of discourse and/or disputation; I hate that it's gone on for 45 pages; I hate the uninspired amalgamation of the most recent Golf Digest-Golf Magazine-Golf Week ratings that the various lists seem to reflect; and I hate that the net result is not a highlighting of joy producing excellence but instead a mind numbing ledger book of facts and figures devoid of any feeling or context or meaning -- the work of accountants, in the language of business. Yes, perhaps "hate" doesn't accurately describe my feeling; it is much too strong a word. But I do "dislike" it very much, and to an unhealthy degree  -- and like some character from Dostoevsky, I am clearly not well. Perhaps this bile is nothing more nor less than the ugly and ignoble passions of jealousy and envy. If so, I have now admited to such mean-minded sentiments, and am prepared to suffer the shunning and banishment that might come my way as a result. But I ask: does anyone have anything to say in my defence?

That was beautiful, you channeled your inner Jkava!  Since it's throwback Thursday, I'll leave you an all time favorite thread of mine!  ''I Hate Golfers''

''I don't think I have ever seen an architectural feature that pisses me off as much as some golfer who I have never met...they might just be standing innocently at the bag drop...or trying on five gloves in front of my as I wait to pay...or like happened last week...they might have all decided to wear matching hats....I've got to go shoot some pool and get a hair cut....but I was wondering...What little things makes you hate people you have never met just because they happen to be golfing where you may choose to be.''

http://www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,398.0.html
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jim Nugent on November 17, 2016, 11:24:58 PM
Peter, when I read the first sentence of your post, I immediately thought you were going to follow it with a wry-like Peter Pallotta comment along the lines of, "I hate it because I see so many of you playing world top-25 courses, that I can mostly only dream of." 

I personally don't mind the no-discussion aspect of the thread -- we discuss most of these courses over and over elsewhere, and seeing a straight ranking appeals to the elitist/authoritarian in me. 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Kavanaugh on November 18, 2016, 12:15:38 PM
Peter,


The underlying sadness of this thread is the need for raters to rate every course they see that much higher to assure themselves that they have played more highly ranked courses than their peers.  Don't hate these guys anymore than the old gentleman at the diner sitting next to his wife of 40+ years.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: astavrides on November 18, 2016, 12:27:33 PM
Still warming up as a younger guy here but wanted to put them out there.

-Green Oaks CC (wonderful ross design in PA)



Nice. only the 2nd mention of this course on GCA AFAIK. I played there a couple times as a kid when it was a Jewish club. Hope to play it again someday.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Eric Smith on November 18, 2016, 12:57:04 PM
Dismal River White
St Andrews
National Golf Links
Royal St George's
Cypress Point 
Friar's Head
Sand Hills
Old Macdonald
Pebble Beach
Dismal River Red
Royal Cinque Ports
Sebonack
Machrihanish
Prestwick
Rye
Bandon Trails
North Berwick
Prairie Dunes
Ballyneal
Pacific Dunes
Hollinwell
Renaissance
Pennard
Wolf Point
Royal Porthcawl
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bob Montle on November 18, 2016, 04:22:38 PM
My list of courses played is small compared with most of you, but here is
My list of my MOST FAVORITE.

TOC
Machrihanish
N. Berwick
Dismal White
Brora
Fraserburgh
West Shore (MI)  now closed
Crail Balcomie
Shiskine
Yadkin CC
The Machrie
StAndrews NEW
St Andrews Eden
Bellerive
Dismal Red
Meadowbrook (MI)
Rivermont
Tanglewood Champions
Grand Haven (MI)
Old Warsen
Oak Valley (NC)
Ladybank
River Oaks (NC)
Perth
Rock Creek (CO)
Lake Doster (MI)
The old TPC course in Fla.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on November 18, 2016, 09:13:03 PM
West Shore closed?  When was this?  As a crow flies, this was the closest course to my house.  I know it has struggled for many years, but I hadn't realized the curtains were drawn.

Pietro...get a grip.

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: BCowan on November 18, 2016, 09:27:55 PM
West Shore closed?  When was this?  As a crow flies, this was the closest course to my house.  I know it has struggled for many years, but I hadn't realized the curtains were drawn.


Pietro...get a grip.

Ciao


West shore isn't closed, must be another one
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Chris_Blakely on November 18, 2016, 09:59:51 PM
West Shore closed?  When was this?  As a crow flies, this was the closest course to my house.  I know it has struggled for many years, but I hadn't realized the curtains were drawn.


Pietro...get a grip.

Ciao


West shore isn't closed, must be another one


The one in Douglas, MI is closed.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Brad Engel on November 18, 2016, 10:56:04 PM
In no particular order,


LACC North
Shaker Run
NCR South
Scioto
Rustic Canyon
Wilshire CC
Somerset Hills
Bethpage Black
Oakland Hills South
Prairie Dunes
Southern Hills
Firestone South
Pasatiempo
Inverness
Olympic Lake
Devil's Pulpit
Ohio State Golf Club Scarlet
Pinehurst #2
Pinehurst #4
Pinehurst #8
Kingsley Club
Sand Hills
Ballyneal
Palos Verdes Golf Club
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: BCowan on December 08, 2016, 12:05:09 PM
2016 List

1.   Old Town (Maxwell)        9.2
 2.   Pinehurst #2 (Ross)       9
 3.   Orchard Lake (Alison)     8.5
 4.   Holston Hills  (Ross)       8.4
 5.   Mid Pines (Ross)             8.2
 6.   Franklin Hills (Ross)        8.1
 7.   Inverness  (Ross)           7.6
 7.   Moraine (Campbell)        7.6
 9.   Kingsley  (DeVries)         7.4
10.  Kirtland                          7.3
11.  Battle Creek (WPJ)        7.2
12.  Old Elm (Colt/Ross)        7.1
12.  Timuquana (Ross)          7.1
14.  Scioto (Ross)                  7
15.  UofM (Maxwell/Mack)      6.9
15.  Pine Needles (Ross)       6.9
17.  Ravisloe (Ross)               6.8
17.  Indianwood Old (Reid)    6.8
19.  Oakland Hills South         6.7
20.  Belvedere (Watson)        6.6
21.  Lookout Mtn (Raynor)      6.5
22.  Naples National               6.4
23.  Dormie (C&C)                   6.3
23.  Diamond Springs(DeVries)6.3
25.  OSU Scarlet (Pre JN)         6.2

I graded harder this year on firmness.  softness was a bigger deduction. 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Rob Clisdell on December 29, 2016, 02:39:27 AM
  With no new courses scheduled for the next 3 days, this is my list as it stands at the end of 2016. I hope to amend this significantly over the coming years.


1. Barnbougle Dunes
2. Royal Melbourne (West)
3. Kingston Heath
4. Barnbougle Lost Farm
5. Pebble Beach
6. New South Wales
7. Shadow Creek
8. Jacks Point
9. Yale
10. Victoria
11. Royal Melbourne (East)
12. Kapalua Plantation
13. St Andrews Beach
14. Santa Lucia Preserve
15. Metropolitan
16. Spyglass Hill
17. Wolf Creek
18. Mauna Kea
19. Southern Highlands
20. The Australian
21. The Hills
22. Tokyo
23. The Dunes
24. Claremont CC
25. Royal Sydney
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: MClutterbuck on June 07, 2017, 07:05:04 PM
I cant get even close to the quality and depth of others here, but I had never worked on a list and it was a fun exercise and I am posting it for diversity sake (I would obviously do much better with a top 5 posting):


Cypress Point Club
Augusta National Golf Club
Pebble Beach Golf Links


Spyglass Hill
Muirfield Village
Cabo del Sol - Ocean
Kapalua Plantation
Indian Creek Country Club


The Preserve
El Desafío
Doral Blue Monster
Stanford Golf Course
Stevinson Ranch


Nordelta
Chapelco
Preston Trail


Jockey Club
Jack Nicklaus Private Course - PGA West
Pilara
El Dorado Golf - Nicklaus
Poppy Hills
San Andrés Golf Club

Roaring Fork
Landmark Golf Club - Indio,CA
Olivos


Time for a significant update. Don´t pay too much attention to the order.


Cypress Point Club
Augusta National Golf Club
The Old Course

Royal Dornoch
Pebble Beach Golf Links
HCEG - Muirfield

North Berwick West Links
Castle Stuart
Spyglass Hill
Muirfield Village
Cabo del Sol - Ocean
Kapalua Plantation
Indian Creek Country Club
Kingsbarns
Gullane #1
The Castle Course

The Preserve
El Desafío
Doral Blue Monster
Stanford Golf Course
Stevinson Ranch
Nordelta
Chapelco
Preston Trail
Roaring Fork
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Chris Sorenson on June 08, 2017, 02:43:00 PM
Jim, hope to see you at Dismal River.  Here goes my favorite 25

1.  Sand Hills
2.  Garden City GC
3.  Ballyneal
4.  Machrihanish
5.  Friars Head
6.  Merion
7.  North Berwick
8.  Muirfield Village
9.  Holston Hills
10.  Augusta National
11.  Royal Aberdeen
12.  Prarie Dunes
13.  Pacific Dunes
14.  The Old Course
15.  Royal Dornoch
16.  Bandon Trails
17.  Austin Golf Club
18  Carnoustie
19.  Old Macdonald
20.  Spyglass Hill
21.  Pasatiempo
22.  The Links of North Dakato
23.  Bethpage Black
24.  The Rawls Course
25.   Dismal River Red
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark_Rowlinson on June 10, 2017, 12:47:36 PM
GB and I (in no particular order)


1. Royal County Down
2. The Old Course
3. Royal Dornoch
4. Rye
5. Royal West Norfolk
6. Royal Birkdale
7. Royal Liverpool
8. Ganton
9. Sunningdale Old
10. Royal Lytham
11. Royal Porthcawl
12. Silloth on Solway
13. North Berwick
14. Formby
15. Aldeburgh
16. Notts
17. Royal Cinque Ports
18. Swinley Forest
19. Walton Heath Old
20. Ballybunion Old
21. Lahinch
22. Alwoodley
23. Beau Dessert
24. Turnberry
25. Royal Troon 


Overseas (in even less of an order)


1. Winged Foot
2. Olympic Lake
3. Merion
4. Yale
5. Hamburger Falkenstein
6. Rome
7. El Saler
8. Royal Belgique
9. R.G.C. des Fagnes
10. Pinehurst No 2
11. Gulph Mills
12. Kennemer
13. Royal Zoute
14. Morfontaine
15. St Germain
16. Shinnecock Hills
17. The National
18. Eastward Ho!
19. Chicago
20. Pasatiempo
21. Creek Club
22. Rolling Green
23. San Lorenzo
24. De Pan
25  Hilversumsche

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Saltzman on June 10, 2017, 04:48:50 PM
 
1
NGLA
2
Royal Melbourne (West)
3
Shinnecock Hills
4
Merion
5
Ballyneal
6
Barnbougle Dunes
7
Highlands Links
8
North Berwick (West)
9
Prairie Dunes
10
Wolf Point
11
Oakmont
12
Lahinch
13
Newcastle
14
Myopia Hunt
15
Jasper Park
16
Paraparaumu Beach
17
Sunningdale (Old)
18
Royal Melbourne (East)
19
Sleepy Hollow
20
Plainfield
21
The Golf Club
22
Kingsley Club
23
Friar's Head
24
Old Macdonald
25
Newport

And the rest of the courses I singled out before narrowing it down to 25 (in no particular order):


 
Riviera
Valley Club
Yale
Seminole
Streamsong Blue
Victoria National
Baltimore
Pinehurst No. 2
The Country Club
Whittensville
Crystal Downs
Interlachen
Sand Hills
Prairie Club Dunes
Somerset Hills
Fishers Island
Winged Foot East
Old Town Club
Gulph Mills
Long Cove
Chambers Bay
Wine Valley
Pete Dye
New South Wales
Royal Adelaide
Mid Ocean Club
Punta Espada
Kington
Woking
Royal North Devon
Old Head
Cabo del Sol (Ocean)
Cape Kidnappers
Titirangi
Royal County Down
Royal Portrush
Royal Porthcawl
Banff Springs
St. George's

I didn't look back at my previous lists.  Started this one from scratch. 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Peter Pallotta on June 10, 2017, 05:43:07 PM
Mark - two strikingly good and interesting lists there. It's a shame you don't post more often on the 'theoretical' threads. (You're obviously too busy *playing* great courses to waste time *talking* about them.) I'd value reading your own/subjective hierarchy of values when it comes to gca, and what elements you look for and appreciate most.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jonathan_becker on June 10, 2017, 08:26:23 PM

The first 5 are interchangeable really....but today I came up with this.... maybe I'm forgetting something, too

Royal Melbourne
 Cypress Point
 NGLA
 Pine Valley
 Shinnecock
 Friar's Head
 Oakmont
 Barnbougle Dunes
 Seminole
 LACC
 The Golf Club
 Prairie Dunes
 Kingston Heath
 Merion
 Camargo
 Garden City
 Rock Creek Cattle Company
 Old Macdonald
 Pacific Dunes
 Pebble Beach
 Somerset Hills
 Valley Club of Montecito
 Riviera
 Maidstone
 Bluejack National
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark_Rowlinson on June 11, 2017, 09:38:43 AM
Peter,


I'm not playing golf courses any more. I've given up - I've deteriorated so much. I'm still interested in courses, however. My lists are a bit odd because I've some big gaps in my experience. I've not played Royal St George's, for example, or Muirfield, Royal Portrush, Waterville or Portmarnock so they don't get on the list, but Aldeburgh is there because I've so much enjoyed playing there so much. I'm sad not to have included Saunton, St Enodoc, or Hunstanton, but they just got overruled. I've only played one course in Australia (Pacific in Brisbane) and none in Africa or Asia, apart from one hotel course in Bangkok. I haven't played golf in Canada, sadly, and my American courses are thin on the ground. As I no longer fly, I don't think I'll be adding to my list of American courses. I hope, though, to see some more of the Dutch and French classic courses.


You may wonder why I have given up playing. The sad fact is that I can no longer get across two of the holes at Wilmslow, par 3s across ravines with nowhere to drop out safely. It is purgatory. I also can no longer get on any of the par 4s in two shots. It is soul destroying. But I take my camera with me, and though the photos are but average, they give an impression of the course that comes with a bit of experience - you soon learn which photos to throw away! I'm currently engaged in a photographic survey of all the courses in Cheshire, in time for the 2020 Centenary of the Cheshire Union of Golf Courses. There are some great courses such as Royal Liverpool, Delamere Forest, Prestbury and Wallasey, but there are also little gems that need a little boost such as Wirral Ladies' and Knutsford. Knutsford is unusual in being a 10-hole course (separate 9th and 18th holes) but I can still play it (no compulsory carries over ravines) and you can get a 9-hole discounted green fee on weekday afternoons - my wife and I will have a glorious time, no matter what standard the golf.


Late in my playing life, I played Trump Aberdeen and Winston Links in Germany. Neither features in my lists, because they were too difficult for me (I should not have attempted to play such difficult courses). I loved the views from Trump, but that was all. It was monstrously deep rough and huge carries from the tee and cost me something like 20 balls for the round. Winston Links was equally punishing yet was perfectly straightforward if you played to a 12 handicap. I no longer did and my round of well over 120 was simply pathetic. I still had some hopes playing Winston Links, and I enjoyed the experience, but I realise now that I should have given up a few years earlier.


Where would I like to play, were I to come back a rejuvenated man!


1. Pine Valley
2. Augusta National
3. Cypress Point
4. Pacific Dunes, one of the Oregon courses, or all of them!
5. San Francisco
6. Oakmont
7. The Homestead
8. Country Club
9. Falsterbo
10. Royal Hague
11. Royal Melbourne
12. Royal Adelaide
13. New South Wales
14. Paraparaumu Beach
15. Hirono
16. Durban C.C.
17. Barnbougle Dunes
18. Kingston Heath
19. Cape Kidnappers
20. Jockey Club
21. Casa de Campo
22. Banff Springs
23. Mid Ocean
24. Cape Breton Highlands
25. Riviera


Sadly, all of these will be but a dream. I have no chance of visiting any, let alone playing them. Don't grow old!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: David Davis on June 11, 2017, 05:54:21 PM

The first 5 are interchangeable really....but today I came up with this.... maybe I'm forgetting something, too

Royal Melbourne
 Cypress Point
 NGLA
 Pine Valley
 Shinnecock
 Friar's Head
 Oakmont
 Barnbougle Dunes
 Seminole
 LACC
 The Golf Club
 Prairie Dunes
 Kingston Heath
 Merion
 Camargo
 Garden City
 Rock Creek Cattle Company
 Old Macdonald
 Pacific Dunes
 Pebble Beach
 Somerset Hills
 Valley Club of Montecito
 Riviera
 Maidstone
 Bluejack National




JB, great list with one of the biggest gaping holes I've ever seen in a list...


So tell me, what do you have against the UK and Ireland?


If you by chance, which I find hard to believe just haven't been, are you allergic to haggis or something?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jonathan_becker on June 12, 2017, 06:36:27 AM
DD,


Work is really busy in the summer months and it's hard to get away for a week at a time.  Plus, you guys living over there don't work so every day is a vacation day. :) I'll get over there soon enough though. 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mike Treitler on September 08, 2017, 04:44:22 PM
Just updated my list for 2017.    I actually did a top 50.  2017 inclusions are bolded:
 
1. Bandon Trails
2. Turnberry
3. St Andrews (Old)
4. Bandon Dunes
5. Carnoustie
6. Pacific Dunes
7. Whistling Straits
8. Bethpage (Black)
9. Kingsley Club
10. Arcadia Bluffs
11. Garden City Men's Club
12. Crystal Downs
13. Quaker Ridge
14. Milwaukee CC
15. Spyglass Hill
16. Yale
17. Old Macdonald
18. Kingsbarns
19. Cabo Del Sol (Ocean)
20. The Rim
21. Lawsonia Links
22. Dunes Club
23. Lost Dunes
24. Shore Acres
25. Prestwick
26. Wannamoisett
27. Medinah #3
28. Calusa Pines
29. Silverleaf
30. Greywalls at Marquette
31. Westchester CC (West)
32. Glenview Club
33. Blackwolf Run (River)
34. Streamsong (Red)
35. Butler National
36. Davenport CC
37. St Andrews (Castle)
38. Four Seasons Punta Mita (Bahia)
39. Barton Creek (Canyons)
40. Whistling Straits (Irish)
41. Old Elm
42. CC of Fairfield
43. Quintero Ranch
44. Sand Valley
45. Golf Club of Scottsdale
46. Timberstone
47. Cascata
48. Erin Hills
49. Streamsong (Blue)
50. Skokie CC

Honorable Mention: Medinah #1, Reynolds Plantation (Great Waters), Half Moon Bay (Ocean), Cabo Del Sol (Dessert), Pilgrims Run, Carnegie Abbey
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: David Peters on October 06, 2017, 11:11:44 AM
This was much harder than I thought it would be.  I wanted to list them in order, but after the first 3 it became too difficult.  So here are my top 25 in alphabetical order.


 
Caledonia
Carnoustie
Congressional
Dormie Club
Erin Hills
Farmington CC
Kingsbarns
Kinloch
Lawsonia Links
Lebanon CC
Mid Pines
Muirfield
North Berwick
Pasatiempo
PCC Wissahickon
Pebble Beach
Pinehurst no.2
Royal New Kent
St Andrews Castle
St Andrews Jubilee
St Andrews New
St Andrews Old
The Ocean Course
Tobacco Road
Whistling Straits
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JHoulihan on October 08, 2017, 12:21:34 AM
I have spent many nights spent reading this list originally started by Jim in 2009. He encouraged me to learn about national courses. I was finally able to meet him this summer. Many years after buying his book and conversing online, finally shaking hands on the porch of what has now become our and many others favorite course.
1 Ballyneal CO
2 Kingsley Club MI
3 Dismal River (Red/Doak) NE
4 Prairie Club (Dunes) NE
5 Black Sheep IL
6 Flossmoor IL
7 Forest Dunes MI
8 Rock Hollow IN
9 Bear Slide IN
10 Trophy Club IN
11 Arcadia Bluffs MI
12 Prairie Club (Pines) NE
13 Thunderhawk IL
14 Wild Horse NE
15 Dismal River (White/Nicklaus) NE
16 Ak Chin Southern Dunes AZ
17 Desert Forest AZ
18 We Ko Pa (Saguaro) AZ
19 Talking Stick (North) AZ
20 The Fort IN
21 Cog Hill (#2) IL
22 Cantigny IL
23 TPC Scottsdale (Champions) AZ
24 Sagamore IN
25 George Dunne IL
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Rick Lane on October 09, 2017, 01:21:10 PM
Really hard to sort top to bottom and I know I missed some....

National Golf Links
Pacific Dunes
Winged Foot West
Lahinch
Winged Foot East
Pine Valley
TPC Sawgrass
Ballybunion
Garden City
Maidstone
Erin Hills
Shinnecock
Stonewall North
Cassique
Atlantic
Merion
Pinehurst #2
Quaker Ridge
Ridgewood NJ
Baltusrol Lower
Bandon Dunes
Yale
Bandon Trails
Wee Burn
Westchester CC
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Handley on October 10, 2017, 06:24:44 PM
Cypress Point
Royal County Down
Muirfield
Royal Portrush
St. Andrews OLD


Pebble Beach
Merion East
California Golf Club of SF
Los Angeles CC North
Turnberry


Ballybunion Old
Winged Foot West
Pinehurst #2
Pacific Dunes
Lahinch


Carnoustie
Portmarnock Old
Bandon Dunes
Troon Old
San Francisco GC


Riviera
Muirfield Village
Bandon Trails
Diamante Dunes
Cabo Del Sol Ocean



Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Terry Lavin on October 10, 2017, 07:57:02 PM
Great, diverse list!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: BCowan on October 30, 2017, 11:13:52 PM
2016 List

1.   Old Town (Maxwell)        9.2
 2.   Pinehurst #2 (Ross)       9
 3.   Orchard Lake (Alison)     8.5
 4.   Holston Hills  (Ross)       8.4
 5.   Mid Pines (Ross)             8.2
 6.   Franklin Hills (Ross)        8.1
 7.   Inverness  (Ross)           7.6
 7.   Moraine (Campbell)        7.6
 9.   Kingsley  (DeVries)         7.4
10.  Kirtland                          7.3
11.  Battle Creek (WPJ)        7.2
12.  Old Elm (Colt/Ross)        7.1
12.  Timuquana (Ross)          7.1
14.  Scioto (Ross)                  7
15.  UofM (Maxwell/Mack)      6.9
15.  Pine Needles (Ross)       6.9
17.  Ravisloe (Ross)               6.8
17.  Indianwood Old (Reid)    6.8
19.  Oakland Hills South         6.7
20.  Belvedere (Watson)        6.6
21.  Lookout Mtn (Raynor)      6.5
22.  Naples National               6.4
23.  Dormie (C&C)                   6.3
23.  Diamond Springs(DeVries)6.3
25.  OSU Scarlet (Pre JN)         6.2

I graded harder this year on firmness.  softness was a bigger deduction.

2017 List

1.   Old Town                   9.2
2.   Pinehurst #2             9
3.   Orchard Lake             8.5
4.   Holston Hills               8.4
5.   Brookside (Canton)  8.3
5.   Mid Pines                    8.3
7.   Moraine                      8.2
8.   Franklin Hills               8.1
9.   Meadowbrook           7.9
10. Inverness                   7.6
11. Kinglsey                      7.4
11. Flossmoor                  7.4
13. Kirtland                       7.3
13. Greywalls                  7.3
15. Battle Creek                7.2
16. Old Elm                         7.1
16. Timuquana                    7.1
18. Scioto                            7
19. UofM                              6.9
19. Pine Needles                 6.9
21. Ravisloe                         6.8
21. Indianwood Old             6.8
23. Oakland Hills S               6.7
24. Belvedere                       6.6
25. The Golf Club.               6.5
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Duncan Cheslett on October 31, 2017, 02:52:31 AM
Peter,


I'm not playing golf courses any more. I've given up - I've deteriorated so much. I'm still interested in courses, however.

You may wonder why I have given up playing. The sad fact is that I can no longer get across two of the holes at Wilmslow, par 3s across ravines with nowhere to drop out safely. It is purgatory. I also can no longer get on any of the par 4s in two shots.


It is soul destroying. But I take my camera with me, and though the photos are but average, they give an impression of the course that comes with a bit of experience - you soon learn which photos to throw away!


I'm currently engaged in a photographic survey of all the courses in Cheshire, in time for the 2020 Centenary of the Cheshire Union of Golf Courses. There are some great courses such as Royal Liverpool, Delamere Forest, Prestbury and Wallasey, but there are also little gems that need a little boost such as Wirral Ladies' and Knutsford. Knutsford is unusual in being a 10-hole course (separate 9th and 18th holes) but I can still play it (no compulsory carries over ravines) and you can get a 9-hole discounted green fee on weekday afternoons - my wife and I will have a glorious time, no matter what standard the golf.


Mark,


It is sad to hear that you are no longer able to get enjoyment from playing golf at your home club. We have a strong Senior section at Reddish Vale and several of our chaps are facing exactly the same dilemma.

I am agitating quietly for the Red tees to be made available to seniors if they so choose, and in several instances for them to be moved substantially forward so as dramatically to reduce the length of carry needed, and indeed the playing distance of the hole. The most successful holes for Ladies at Reddish are the 2nd and the 8th, where the Red tees are well forward. Both holes are then reachable in regulation by well struck shots by even weakish players. The hard work around and on the green still has to be done, though.

Thankfully Ken Moodie, our new consultant architect (and member) is in full agreement, and the redistribution of forward tees will form a integral part of his forthcoming report on the course and proposals for improvement. Mixed tee competitions are being promoted by England Golf and we see this as the way forward. Unfortunately the more masochistic element of our Senior section will take some convincing. Some of them seem to think that it must be either the white tees or golfing oblivion.


The ladies too can resent suggestions that "their" tee could be moved forward so as to make the hole more interesting and enjoyable. I fail to see the pleasure to be gained from hitting driver, 3-wood, 3-wood, 3-wood, seven iron, wedge into a par 5.

Golf is such a fantastic pursuit for older folk, in terms of exercise and social inclusion, that it is a travesty that anyone should feel the need to give it up simply because they can no longer hit the ball very far. Particularly as eminent a proponent  and sage of the game as yourself.

I look forward to seeing your photos of Cheshire courses. Have you been to Reddish recently? We must meet up.

Jayne and I are always up for a game at Knutsford or the marvellous Wirral Ladies!




And anyway, you're not even that old!  One of my regular playing partners is 87 next month, and has just bought a new Motocaddy. He went for it because of the 5 year guarantee! ;)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Thomas Dai on October 31, 2017, 03:48:49 AM
There is a stigma amongst men about playing from the Red tees as "Red" in their mind indicates "Ladies".
There is also a stigma about good lady players using further back "Mens" tees.
Time to change the colours? Especially get rid of "red"!
Gold, silver and bronze or something and any player plays from any of them depending on their personal ability?
atb

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Adam Lawrence on October 31, 2017, 03:56:53 AM
There is a stigma amongst men about playing from the Red tees as "Red" in their mind indicates "Ladies".
There is also a stigma about good lady players using further back "Mens" tees.
Time to change the colours? Especially get rid of "red"!
Gold, silver and bronze or something and any player plays from any of them depending on their personal ability?
atb


I like the system used a lot in Scandinavia where the tees are numbered to indicate their length -- the 6800m tees are the '68s', 6000m tees are '60s' etc. Informative and non discriminatory.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on October 31, 2017, 04:12:58 AM
There is a stigma amongst men about playing from the Red tees as "Red" in their mind indicates "Ladies".
There is also a stigma about good lady players using further back "Mens" tees.
Time to change the colours? Especially get rid of "red"!
Gold, silver and bronze or something and any player plays from any of them depending on their personal ability?
atb


I like the system used a lot in Scandinavia where the tees are numbered to indicate their length -- the 6800m tees are the '68s', 6000m tees are '60s' etc. Informative and non discriminatory.


Adam


Does each set of blocks actually have the course yardage on it and the yardage of the hole?  This idea is intriguing.


Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Duncan Cheslett on October 31, 2017, 04:32:22 AM
There is a stigma amongst men about playing from the Red tees as "Red" in their mind indicates "Ladies".
There is also a stigma about good lady players using further back "Mens" tees.
Time to change the colours? Especially get rid of "red"!
Gold, silver and bronze or something and any player plays from any of them depending on their personal ability?
atb


I like the system used a lot in Scandinavia where the tees are numbered to indicate their length -- the 6800m tees are the '68s', 6000m tees are '60s' etc. Informative and non discriminatory.


Adam


Does each set of blocks actually have the course yardage on it and the yardage of the hole?  This idea is intriguing.


Ciao


I agree. It sounds an excellent idea.


Tees not only have to be made non-gender specific, but to all have the same par and stroke index. Many par 4's for men play as par 5's for Ladies. I find this ridiculous. Move the tee forward so that it plays as a par 4 for anyone who only hits the ball 150 yards max.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Adam Lawrence on October 31, 2017, 05:38:54 AM
Where I've seen that system used the tee markers themselves tend to be the numbers. Hole length info on scorecard and possibly on a board in a convenient spot by the tee blocks.


I remember debating with my group what tees to play at Bro Hof Slott in Sweden. We settled on something like the 58s (5,800m so about 6,300 yards). Should be nice and manageable right? First hole was a par five that played -- FROM THOSE TEES -- about 520m (570 yards). I hit a super drive, an OK five wood and a very good five wood and was in the fronting bunker!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ian Galbraith on October 31, 2017, 05:59:00 AM
...

I like the system used a lot in Scandinavia where the tees are numbered to indicate their length -- the 6800m tees are the '68s', 6000m tees are '60s' etc. Informative and non discriminatory.


That is so simple and eminently sensible that it will never catch on !
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Thomas Dai on October 31, 2017, 07:16:52 AM
It is indeed an intriguing system.
Still an ego element though - the “I am a good player”....even though he isn’t really.....”so I’m gong to play off the 68’s/70’s”. Not sure how you irradicate ego and stigma though. Cattle prod maybe!
Atb
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: jeffwarne on October 31, 2017, 08:23:58 AM

I like the number tee idea


Taking it a step farther
Why does a forward and mid tee have to be rated for both men and women?


i.e. shouldn't a 5000 yard course simply be rated -and your handicap be based on that regardless of gender?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Rick Lane on October 31, 2017, 09:47:13 AM

I like the number tee idea


Taking it a step farther
Why does a forward and mid tee have to be rated for both men and women?

That's a really interesting question and probably worthy of its own topic.  My initial reaction is that men hit it 240 and women hit it 170, so from the same tees, they end up in different spots with very different approach shots to the same greens. My assumption being that each hole is then rated differently because of that, for each gender.   But your point seems correct:   So what?  So a woman playing that hole, or 18 of them, will have a higher handicap. You could ignore gender and just treat it like it is for a long hitter versus a short hitter?   But maybe someone on this thread knows the reason? 


i.e. shouldn't a 5000 yard course simply be rated -and your handicap be based on that regardless of gender?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ira Fishman on October 31, 2017, 06:03:08 PM
The numbered tee idea is brilliant.  But I would take it one step further because we are so conditioned by the colors: make Black the Forward tees, Blue the next, White the next, Gold/Green the next, and Red the far back.  That way all of the people who should be playing Gold/Green can say that they played the Blues.


Ira
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Rich Goodale on October 31, 2017, 07:31:30 PM
Most of my serious golf these days is with low handicap seniors, including several former Walker Cup players.  6500 is the standard length, and even the best of them hit driver/3 iron to most of the 400+ yard holes.  Hitting a 500 yard par-5 in two is as rare as an orgasm for many of them.


I had dinner recently with a once very good stick who now plays from the ladies tees. I'll be there with him soon, assuming I am still alive.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: BCowan on October 31, 2017, 07:39:48 PM
2016 List

1.   Old Town (Maxwell)        9.2
 2.   Pinehurst #2 (Ross)       9
 3.   Orchard Lake (Alison)     8.5
 4.   Holston Hills  (Ross)       8.4
 5.   Mid Pines (Ross)             8.2
 6.   Franklin Hills (Ross)        8.1
 7.   Inverness  (Ross)           7.6
 7.   Moraine (Campbell)        7.6
 9.   Kingsley  (DeVries)         7.4
10.  Kirtland                          7.3
11.  Battle Creek (WPJ)        7.2
12.  Old Elm (Colt/Ross)        7.1
12.  Timuquana (Ross)          7.1
14.  Scioto (Ross)                  7
15.  UofM (Maxwell/Mack)      6.9
15.  Pine Needles (Ross)       6.9
17.  Ravisloe (Ross)               6.8
17.  Indianwood Old (Reid)    6.8
19.  Oakland Hills South         6.7
20.  Belvedere (Watson)        6.6
21.  Lookout Mtn (Raynor)      6.5
22.  Naples National               6.4
23.  Dormie (C&C)                   6.3
23.  Diamond Springs(DeVries)6.3
25.  OSU Scarlet (Pre JN)         6.2

I graded harder this year on firmness.  softness was a bigger deduction.

2017 List

1.   Old Town                   9.2
2.   Pinehurst #2             9
3.   Orchard Lake             8.5
4.   Holston Hills               8.4
5.   Brookside (Canton)  8.3
5.   Mid Pines                    8.3
7.   Moraine                      8.2
8.   Franklin Hills               8.1
9.   Meadowbrook           7.9
10. Inverness                   7.6
11. Kinglsey                      7.4
11. Flossmoor                  7.4
13. Kirtland                       7.3
13. Greywalls                  7.3
15. Battle Creek                7.2
16. The Golf Club              7.1
16. Old Elm                         7.1
16. Timuquana                    7.1
19. Scioto                            7
20. UofM                              6.9
20. Pine Needles                 6.9
22. Ravisloe                         6.8
22. Indianwood Old             6.8
24. Oakland Hills S               6.7
25. Belvedere                       6.6


Splendid list, thanks for staying on topic
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JC Jones on October 31, 2017, 09:10:09 PM
2016 List

1.   Old Town (Maxwell)        9.2
 2.   Pinehurst #2 (Ross)       9
 3.   Orchard Lake (Alison)     8.5
 4.   Holston Hills  (Ross)       8.4
 5.   Mid Pines (Ross)             8.2
 6.   Franklin Hills (Ross)        8.1
 7.   Inverness  (Ross)           7.6
 7.   Moraine (Campbell)        7.6
 9.   Kingsley  (DeVries)         7.4
10.  Kirtland                          7.3
11.  Battle Creek (WPJ)        7.2
12.  Old Elm (Colt/Ross)        7.1
12.  Timuquana (Ross)          7.1
14.  Scioto (Ross)                  7
15.  UofM (Maxwell/Mack)      6.9
15.  Pine Needles (Ross)       6.9
17.  Ravisloe (Ross)               6.8
17.  Indianwood Old (Reid)    6.8
19.  Oakland Hills South         6.7
20.  Belvedere (Watson)        6.6
21.  Lookout Mtn (Raynor)      6.5
22.  Naples National               6.4
23.  Dormie (C&C)                   6.3
23.  Diamond Springs(DeVries)6.3
25.  OSU Scarlet (Pre JN)         6.2

I graded harder this year on firmness.  softness was a bigger deduction.

2017 List

1.   Old Town                   9.2
2.   Pinehurst #2             9
3.   Orchard Lake             8.5
4.   Holston Hills               8.4
5.   Brookside (Canton)  8.3
5.   Mid Pines                    8.3
7.   Moraine                      8.2
8.   Franklin Hills               8.1
9.   Meadowbrook           7.9
10. Inverness                   7.6
11. Kinglsey                      7.4
11. Flossmoor                  7.4
13. Kirtland                       7.3
13. Greywalls                  7.3
15. Battle Creek                7.2
16. The Golf Club              7.1
16. Old Elm                         7.1
16. Timuquana                    7.1
19. Scioto                            7
20. UofM                              6.9
20. Pine Needles                 6.9
22. Ravisloe                         6.8
22. Indianwood Old             6.8
24. Oakland Hills S               6.7
25. Belvedere                       6.6


Splendid list, thanks for staying on topic


Which holes did you not like at Old Elm?  Did you play well when you were there?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: BCowan on October 31, 2017, 09:44:17 PM
Jason,

  With OE, it was more that there wasn't enough great holes.  I loathe the retention/irrig pond on #2.  Like the quirky 3rd which looks improved with pond removal (since I've played) and I like the 18th hole a lot.  I think half the par 5's have weak greens for short par 5's.  I do like the double green however.  I didn't play good and the weather was poor.  I don't play well 80% of the time these days and I usually like courses more when I play worse.  We have a better Colt in Detroit with Bloomfield Hills if it ever gets fully restored.     
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Nigel Islam on October 31, 2017, 11:35:07 PM
Jason,

  With OE, it was more that there wasn't enough great holes.  I loathe the retention/irrig pond on #2.  Like the quirky 3rd which looks improved with pond removal (since I've played) and I like the 18th hole a lot.  I think half the par 5's have weak greens for short par 5's.  I do like the double green however.  I didn't play good and the weather was poor.  I don't play well 80% of the time these days and I usually like courses more when I play worse.  We have a better Colt in Detroit with Bloomfield Hills if it ever gets fully restored.     


That retention pond is a ways off the fairway. I played Old Elm this year, and thought it was absolutely fabulous. Golf needs many more courses like this. Bunkered moat on a short par 4, double green, bunkers, greens, and fairways intermingling. I was so excited walking down the first just at the presentation of the place.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mark Pearce on November 01, 2017, 03:50:23 AM
There is a stigma amongst men about playing from the Red tees as "Red" in their mind indicates "Ladies".
There is also a stigma about good lady players using further back "Mens" tees.
Time to change the colours? Especially get rid of "red"!
Gold, silver and bronze or something and any player plays from any of them depending on their personal ability?
atb
I like the system used a lot in Scandinavia where the tees are numbered to indicate their length -- the 6800m tees are the '68s', 6000m tees are '60s' etc. Informative and non discriminatory.


Adam


Does each set of blocks actually have the course yardage on it and the yardage of the hole?  This idea is intriguing.


Ciao


I agree. It sounds an excellent idea.

Tees not only have to be made non-gender specific, but to all have the same par and stroke index. Many par 4's for men play as par 5's for Ladies. I find this ridiculous. Move the tee forward so that it plays as a par 4 for anyone who only hits the ball 150 yards max.
I completely disagree with this.  The one time my wife played Crail Craighead she scored well against her 14 handicap.  However, she noted that, for her, from the Ladies tees, the course was a boring driving course because the red tees were sufficiently far forward that most of the fairway hazards were taken out of play.  Many of the par 4s would have been much more interesting driving holes had they been longer par 4s or even par 5s from the Ladies tees.  It's difficult to make holes work well for a range of skills and physical abilities.  If that means some holes are different pars for different golfers but play interestingly for all then that's far better than a uniformity on the scorecard and boredom on the course.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Michael Graham on November 01, 2017, 04:33:11 AM
"completely disagree with this. The one time my wife played Crail Craighead she scored well against her 14 handicap. However, she noted that, for her, from the Ladies tees, the course was a boring driving course because the red tees were sufficiently far forward that most of the fairway hazards were taken out of play. Many of the par 4s would have been much more interesting driving holes had they been longer par 4s or even par 5s from the Ladies tees. It's difficult to make holes work well for a range of skills and physical abilities. If that means some holes are different pars for different golfers but play interestingly for all then that's far better than a uniformity on the scorecard and boredom on the course."


Saved you an edit Mark.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: BCowan on November 01, 2017, 07:15:58 AM
Jason,

  With OE, it was more that there wasn't enough great holes.  I loathe the retention/irrig pond on #2.  Like the quirky 3rd which looks improved with pond removal (since I've played) and I like the 18th hole a lot.  I think half the par 5's have weak greens for short par 5's.  I do like the double green however.  I didn't play good and the weather was poor.  I don't play well 80% of the time these days and I usually like courses more when I play worse.  We have a better Colt in Detroit with Bloomfield Hills if it ever gets fully restored.     


That retention pond is a ways off the fairway. I played Old Elm this year, and thought it was absolutely fabulous. Golf needs many more courses like this. Bunkered most on a short par 4, double green, bunkers, greens, and fairways intermingling. I was so excited walking down the first just at the presentation of the place.


The retention pond is a huge eye soar and reminds us how much water is used now vs when built. There are many 6300 yard courses. There are more quality holes at Ravisloe and Mt Prospect imo.  The bunkers are shaped poorly, toothie.  The shared fairways are nice and I like it, not anywhere near as good as Old Town.  Presentation and maint are over valued on here imo.  Just hand mow all around and have 20 folks a day play and ull get a fine presentation.  Much more impressed with Flossmoor presentation with poa/bent, the firmness, and I'm sure the budget is less then OE.  My buddy who I played with gave it a 6.5 and trunkslammer gives it a 6 so I'm not the only one
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: PCCraig on November 01, 2017, 09:48:54 AM
Jason,

  With OE, it was more that there wasn't enough great holes.  I loathe the retention/irrig pond on #2.  Like the quirky 3rd which looks improved with pond removal (since I've played) and I like the 18th hole a lot.  I think half the par 5's have weak greens for short par 5's.  I do like the double green however.  I didn't play good and the weather was poor.  I don't play well 80% of the time these days and I usually like courses more when I play worse.  We have a better Colt in Detroit with Bloomfield Hills if it ever gets fully restored.     


That retention pond is a ways off the fairway. I played Old Elm this year, and thought it was absolutely fabulous. Golf needs many more courses like this. Bunkered most on a short par 4, double green, bunkers, greens, and fairways intermingling. I was so excited walking down the first just at the presentation of the place.


The retention pond is a huge eye soar and reminds us how much water is used now vs when built. There are many 6300 yard courses. There are more quality holes at Ravisloe and Mt Prospect imo.  The bunkers are shaped poorly, toothie.  The shared fairways are nice and I like it, not anywhere near as good as Old Town.  Presentation and maint are over valued on here imo.  Just hand mow all around and have 20 folks a day play and ull get a fine presentation.  Much more impressed with Flossmoor presentation with poa/bent, the firmness, and I'm sure the budget is less then OE.  My buddy who I played with gave it a 6.5 and trunkslammer gives it a 6 so I'm not the only one


Every time I think I've read the craziest post on GCA, Ben comes out of nowhere and retakes the lead.


"trunkslammer gives it a 6 so I'm not the only one" HA!!!!
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: BCowan on November 01, 2017, 09:51:09 AM
Jason,

  With OE, it was more that there wasn't enough great holes.  I loathe the retention/irrig pond on #2.  Like the quirky 3rd which looks improved with pond removal (since I've played) and I like the 18th hole a lot.  I think half the par 5's have weak greens for short par 5's.  I do like the double green however.  I didn't play good and the weather was poor.  I don't play well 80% of the time these days and I usually like courses more when I play worse.  We have a better Colt in Detroit with Bloomfield Hills if it ever gets fully restored.     


That retention pond is a ways off the fairway. I played Old Elm this year, and thought it was absolutely fabulous. Golf needs many more courses like this. Bunkered most on a short par 4, double green, bunkers, greens, and fairways intermingling. I was so excited walking down the first just at the presentation of the place.


The retention pond is a huge eye soar and reminds us how much water is used now vs when built. There are many 6300 yard courses. There are more quality holes at Ravisloe and Mt Prospect imo.  The bunkers are shaped poorly, toothie.  The shared fairways are nice and I like it, not anywhere near as good as Old Town.  Presentation and maint are over valued on here imo.  Just hand mow all around and have 20 folks a day play and ull get a fine presentation.  Much more impressed with Flossmoor presentation with poa/bent, the firmness, and I'm sure the budget is less then OE.  My buddy who I played with gave it a 6.5 and trunkslammer gives it a 6 so I'm not the only one


Every time I think I've read the craziest post on GCA, Ben comes out of nowhere and retakes the lead.


"trunkslammer gives it a 6 so I'm not the only one" HA!!!!

Carlton Banks,

    You take the lead in the biggest Dbag on this site. 
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: PCCraig on November 01, 2017, 11:39:19 AM
Jason,

  With OE, it was more that there wasn't enough great holes.  I loathe the retention/irrig pond on #2.  Like the quirky 3rd which looks improved with pond removal (since I've played) and I like the 18th hole a lot.  I think half the par 5's have weak greens for short par 5's.  I do like the double green however.  I didn't play good and the weather was poor.  I don't play well 80% of the time these days and I usually like courses more when I play worse.  We have a better Colt in Detroit with Bloomfield Hills if it ever gets fully restored.     


That retention pond is a ways off the fairway. I played Old Elm this year, and thought it was absolutely fabulous. Golf needs many more courses like this. Bunkered most on a short par 4, double green, bunkers, greens, and fairways intermingling. I was so excited walking down the first just at the presentation of the place.


The retention pond is a huge eye soar and reminds us how much water is used now vs when built. There are many 6300 yard courses. There are more quality holes at Ravisloe and Mt Prospect imo.  The bunkers are shaped poorly, toothie.  The shared fairways are nice and I like it, not anywhere near as good as Old Town.  Presentation and maint are over valued on here imo.  Just hand mow all around and have 20 folks a day play and ull get a fine presentation.  Much more impressed with Flossmoor presentation with poa/bent, the firmness, and I'm sure the budget is less then OE.  My buddy who I played with gave it a 6.5 and trunkslammer gives it a 6 so I'm not the only one


Every time I think I've read the craziest post on GCA, Ben comes out of nowhere and retakes the lead.


"trunkslammer gives it a 6 so I'm not the only one" HA!!!!

Carlton Banks,

    You take the lead in the biggest Dbag on this site.


Your opinion means nothing unless trunkslammer agrees...


 ;D
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Duncan Cheslett on November 01, 2017, 05:33:12 PM
"completely disagree with this. The one time my wife played Crail Craighead she scored well against her 14 handicap. However, she noted that, for her, from the Ladies tees, the course was a boring driving course because the red tees were sufficiently far forward that most of the fairway hazards were taken out of play. Many of the par 4s would have been much more interesting driving holes had they been longer par 4s or even par 5s from the Ladies tees. It's difficult to make holes work well for a range of skills and physical abilities. If that means some holes are different pars for different golfers but play interestingly for all then that's far better than a uniformity on the scorecard and boredom on the course."


Saved you an edit Mark.


A 14 handicap is very low for a lady golfer. She would probably be better served playing from the yellow tees.  The red tees are generally more suited to ageing men or average-to-weak ladies.


There is a huge range of ability among lady golfers. It is ridiculous to expect them all to play from the same tees.


This is why I favour multiple tees with pars and stroke indexes which match up. Then everyone - regardless of gender - can play from the tees which best suit their ability. The handicap system will ensure as far as possible an equal playing field.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: JHoulihan on October 17, 2018, 01:09:37 AM
I have spent many nights spent reading this list originally started by Jim in 2009. He encouraged me to learn about national courses. I was finally able to meet him this summer. Many years after buying his book and conversing online, finally shaking hands on the porch of what has now become our and many others favorite course.
1 Ballyneal CO
2 Kingsley Club MI
3 Dismal River (Red/Doak) NE
4 Prairie Club (Dunes) NE
5 Black Sheep IL
6 Flossmoor IL
7 Forest Dunes MI
8 Rock Hollow IN
9 Bear Slide IN
10 Trophy Club IN
11 Arcadia Bluffs MI
12 Prairie Club (Pines) NE
13 Thunderhawk IL
14 Wild Horse NE
15 Dismal River (White/Nicklaus) NE
16 Ak Chin Southern Dunes AZ
17 Desert Forest AZ
18 We Ko Pa (Saguaro) AZ
19 Talking Stick (North) AZ
20 The Fort IN
21 Cog Hill (#2) IL
22 Cantigny IL
23 TPC Scottsdale (Champions) AZ
24 Sagamore IN
25 George Dunne IL


Here is my new 25 after a recent visit to WI

1 Ballyneal CO
2 Prairie Club (Dunes) NE *Moved up*
3 Kingsley Club MI
5 Sand Valley (Mammoth Dunes) WI *NEW*
5 Lawsonia (Links) WI *NEW*
6 Dismal River (Red/Doak) NE
7 Black Sheep IL
8 Sand Valley (Sand Valley) WI *NEW*
9 Flossmoor IL
10 Forest Dunes MI
11 Rock Hollow IN
12 Bear Slide IN
13 Trophy Club IN
14 Arcadia Bluffs MI
15 Prairie Club (Pines) NE
16 Thunderhawk IL
17 Desert Forest AZ *Moved up*
18 Wild Horse NE
19 Dismal River (White/Nicklaus) NE
20 Ak Chin Southern Dunes AZ
21 We Ko Pa (Saguaro) AZ
22 Talking Stick (North) AZ
23 The Fort IN
24 Cog Hill (#2) IL
25 Cantigny IL

Justin
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on May 25, 2022, 11:00:24 AM
My Favourite 25

Kington...England...2*
Palmetto...S Carolina...2*
Old Town...N Carolina...2*
Castlerock Bann...N Ireland...1*
Cavendish...England ...1*       
St Enodoc...England...2*   
Welshpool...Wales...1*
Cleeve Cloud...England...R
Alnmouth Village...England...1*
Reigate Heath...England...1*
Aiken...S Carolina...1*
Lakewood Shores Gailes...Michigan...1*
Lederach...Penn...R
Pennard...Wales...1*
Royal Dornoch...Scotland...1*
Perranporth...England...1*
St Andrews New...Scotland...1*
Corballis Links...Ireland...R
Southerndown...Wales...1*
Appleby...England...R
Reddish Vale..England...R
Llandrindod Wells...Wales...R
Oxford...England...R
TOC...Scotland...3*
Elie...Scotland...1*
   
Updated 17.03.20

RECOMMENDATION GUIDE                  

3* Don’t Miss For Any Reason                 
2* Plan A Significant Trip Around This Course                 
1* Worth An Overnight Stay                 
R Worth A Significant Day Trip (no more driving than it takes to play and have drinks)                 
r  A Good Fall Back On/Trip Filler                 
NR Not Recommended       

Ciao

Almost six years on! Kington still on top.

Kington...England...2*
Old Town...N Carolina...2*
Palmetto...S Carolina...2*
Castlerock Bann...N Ireland...1*
Cleeve Hill...England...1*
Cavendish...England ...1*   
Alnmouth Village...England...1*
Gullane 3...Scotland...1*   
Welshpool...Wales...1*
Reigate Heath...England...1*
Aiken...S Carolina...1*
Lakewood Shores Gailes...Michigan...1*
Church Stretton...England...1*
Painswick...England...1*
Lederach...Penn...R
Reddish Vale...England...1*
St Enodoc...England...1*
Perranporth...England...1*
Porthcawl...Wales...2*
Corballis Links...Ireland...R
Southerndown...Wales...1*
Appleby...England...R
Minch Old...England...R
North Berwick...Scotland...2*
Pulborough...England...1*

Pennard...Wales...1*
Royal Dornoch...Scotland...1*
St Andrews New...Scotland...1*
Llandrindod Wells...Wales...R
Oxford...England...R
TOC...Scotland...3*
Elie...Scotland...1*


Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tommy Williamsen on May 25, 2022, 11:18:22 AM
Why no Dornoch or TOC?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on May 25, 2022, 11:22:24 AM
Why no Dornoch or TOC?


Too expensive these days.  Massive green fee hikes in recent years.

Ciao
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Cal Carlisle on May 25, 2022, 11:29:50 AM
This is a pretty old thread, I'd be curious to know if personal opinions have risen or fallen post reno / resto for the courses that have had them.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ira Fishman on May 25, 2022, 11:55:16 AM
Until it changes tonight.


Lahinch
CPC
NB
PH2
Somerset Hills
Ballyneal
Woking
Pasatiempo
St. George’s Hill
Bandon Trails
Swinley Forest
Friar’s Head
Primland
PD
Golspie
Mid Pines
The Island Club
Brora
Elie
RD
Pine Needles
Ballybunion Old
Streamsong Blue
Waterville
Kilspindie


In order of my enjoyment in playing the course, not my assessment of architectural merit (although there is a pretty strong correspondence). For example, there are several courses superior to Golspie, Elie, and Kilspindie, but those are just so darn fun to play. I also have a bias toward MP and PN because we have played them the most frequently. Toughest to leave off: Streamsong Red, Ridgewood, Old Mac, Crail Balcomie, and Hope Valley (too much home club bias for HV to include).


To answer Cal’s question, Somerset, Ballyneal, Friar’s Head, SS Blue are all new plays in the past year. Woking moved up because I find myself replaying in my head frequently. Primland moved up because we do not go there because staying there has become outrageously expensive, but I find myself missing the course—unique architecture and maybe the most aesthetically compelling course that is not on the water.


Btw, for those of you who like rankings, top100courses released their new Top 100s for Scotland, Ireland, and England about 10 days ago. St. Patrick’s busted into the Big 5 in Ireland.


Ira
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Michael Moore on May 25, 2022, 12:28:09 PM
Ira -
 
What makes a course abbreviation worthy?
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Kavanaugh on May 25, 2022, 12:36:00 PM
Ira -
 
What makes a course abbreviation worthy?


Pasa didn’t make the cut.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Mike Worth on May 25, 2022, 01:44:54 PM
Ok, I'll play :-).  Roughly ranked ordered. 


1.  Pine Valley
2.  NGLA
3.  Shinnecock
4.  St. Andrews (Old Course)
5.  Plainfield
6.  Fishers Island
7.  St. George Hill
8.  Kingsbarn
9.  Castle Stuart
10.  Prestwick
11.  Troon
12.  Royal Dornoch
13.  Sleepy Hollow
14.  Galloway
15.  St. Andrews (New)
16.  Pinehurst #2
17.  Kiawah Ocean
18.  Ballybunion (Old)
19.  Ridgewood
20.  Waterville
21.  Lahinch
22.  World Woods
23.  Boston Golf Club
24.  Jupiter Hills
25.  Kittanset


Honorable mention:

Highland Links, Brora, Hidden Creek, Atlantic City, Leatherstocking, Taconic
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Ira Fishman on May 25, 2022, 02:59:53 PM
Ira -
 
What makes a course abbreviation worthy?


Pasa didn’t make the cut.


Lol to both. Abbreviations are easier to type and use them for courses frequently abbreviated here so people know them.


JK, I know of your lack of warm and fuzzy for Pasa. I should have abbreviated it.


Ira
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Jon Heise on May 25, 2022, 03:56:47 PM
2022:


(I'm sure I've replied here a couple times but hey...)


No order outside of number one and number two being locked in.




1 Old Course
2 Pac Dunes
3 Muirfield
4 Portmarnock
5 Greywalls
6 Bandon Dunes
7 Old Mac
8 North Berwick
9 Lawsonia
10 Pasatiempo
11 Meadow Club
12 Chicago
13 Olympia North
14 Onwentsia
15 Streamsong Blue
16 Arcadia Bluffs
17 Crystal Downs
18 Cabot Links
19 Royal County Down
20 Sand Valley
21 Pinehurst No. 2
22 Culver
23 Trails
24 Kingsley
25 Pebble
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: John Handley on May 25, 2022, 05:48:45 PM
Haven't thought about this in a while:




1. Cypress Point
2. Royal County Down
3. St. Andrews Old Course
4. Royal Portrush Dunluce
5. Oakmont
6. Cal Club
7. Royal Dornoch
8.. Muirfield
9. Lahinch
10. Pebble Beach
11. Turnberry Ailsa
12. Pacific Dunes
13. Merion
14. Ballybunion Old Course
15. Los Angeles CC North
16. Pinehurst #2
17. Winged Foot West
18. Riviera
19. Bandon Dunes
20. San Francisco GC
21. North Berwick West
22. Kingsbarns
23. Carnoustie
24. Whistling Straits Straits Course
25. Maidstone




Honorable Mentions:
Portmarnock Old
Bandon Trails
Rock Creek Cattle Co.
Olympic Club Lake Course
Dallas National
Spanish Oaks GC
Twin Dolphin
Cruden Bay
Muirfield Village
Castle Stuart
Ballyneal
Royal Troon Old
TPC Sawgrass
Bethpage Black
Diamante Dunes
Whispering Pines GC

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: DFarron on May 26, 2022, 12:53:50 PM
My Top 25 for Pure Enjoyment




Cypress
Pebble
Shinnecock
Prairie Dunes
Chicago GC
Pasatiempo
Cal Club
Menlo CC
SFGC
MPCC Dunes
Olympic Club Lake
Spyglass
Yeamans Hall
Ocean Course at Kiawah
Muirfield
Old Course
Brookside GC Canton
Canterbury
Carnoustie
North Berwick
Camargo
Maidstone
Inverness
Scioto
Muirfield Village
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Sean_A on June 10, 2022, 03:27:22 AM
Haven't thought about this in a while:




1. Cypress Point
2. Royal County Down
3. St. Andrews Old Course
4. Royal Portrush Dunluce
5. Oakmont
6. Cal Club
7. Royal Dornoch
8.. Muirfield
9. Lahinch
10. Pebble Beach
11. Turnberry Ailsa
12. Pacific Dunes
13. Merion
14. Ballybunion Old Course
15. Los Angeles CC North
16. Pinehurst #2
17. Winged Foot West
18. Riviera
19. Bandon Dunes
20. San Francisco GC
21. North Berwick West
22. Kingsbarns
23. Carnoustie
24. Whistling Straits Straits Course
25. Maidstone




Honorable Mentions:
Portmarnock Old
Bandon Trails
Rock Creek Cattle Co.
Olympic Club Lake Course
Dallas National
Spanish Oaks GC
Twin Dolphin
Cruden Bay
Muirfield Village
Castle Stuart
Ballyneal
Royal Troon Old
TPC Sawgrass
Bethpage Black
Diamante Dunes
Whispering Pines GC

Twin Dolphin sorta stands out. What gives?

Ciao

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: archie_struthers on June 10, 2022, 05:47:11 AM
 ??? ??? ???


Pine Valley
Royal County Down
Portrush
Sand Hills
Shinnecock Hills
Merion
Friars Head
Seminole
Somerset Hills
Winged Foot (west)
Pebble Beach
Philly Cricket (old)
Lancaster CC
Rolling Green
Portstewart
Chicago Golf
Pinehurst #2
Bayonne
Lehigh CC
Indian Creek
Plainfield
Portmarnock
Galloway National
Castlerock
Saucon Valley  (Weyhill)

Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Tim Martin on June 10, 2022, 06:36:31 AM
??? ??? ???


Pine Valley
Royal County Down
Portrush
Sand Hills
Shinnecock Hills
Merion
Friars Head
Seminole
Somerset Hills
Winged Foot (west)
Pebble Beach
Philly Cricket (old)
Lancaster CC
Rolling Green
Portstewart
Chicago Golf
Pinehurst #2
Bayonne
Lehigh CC
Indian Creek
Plainfield
Portmarnock
Galloway National
Castlerock
Saucon Valley  (Weyhill)


Archie-That’s a great list!!!! 8) I’ve always wanted to play Indian Creek.
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Adam Lawrence on June 10, 2022, 08:23:21 AM
Haven't thought about this in a while:

1. Cypress Point
2. Royal County Down
3. St. Andrews Old Course
4. Royal Portrush Dunluce
5. Oakmont
6. Cal Club
7. Royal Dornoch
8.. Muirfield
9. Lahinch
10. Pebble Beach
11. Turnberry Ailsa
12. Pacific Dunes
13. Merion
14. Ballybunion Old Course
15. Los Angeles CC North
16. Pinehurst #2
17. Winged Foot West
18. Riviera
19. Bandon Dunes
20. San Francisco GC
21. North Berwick West
22. Kingsbarns
23. Carnoustie
24. Whistling Straits Straits Course
25. Maidstone




Honorable Mentions:
Portmarnock Old
Bandon Trails
Rock Creek Cattle Co.
Olympic Club Lake Course
Dallas National
Spanish Oaks GC
Twin Dolphin
Cruden Bay
Muirfield Village
Castle Stuart
Ballyneal
Royal Troon Old
TPC Sawgrass
Bethpage Black
Diamante Dunes
Whispering Pines GC

Twin Dolphin sorta stands out. What gives?

Ciao

Twin Dolphin is really good. Todd did an excellent job there. I haven't seen Diamante or several of the other contenders so I'm not able to say whether it's the best course in Cabo, but it is very good.

Here's my write up on the course from 2019:

https://www.golfcoursearchitecture.net/content/twin-dolphin-golf-club-natural-selection (https://www.golfcoursearchitecture.net/content/twin-dolphin-golf-club-natural-selection)
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bob_Garvelink on June 10, 2022, 07:52:59 PM
My top 25 is as follows


1. Bandon Dunes
2. Pacific Dunes
3. Bandon Trails
4. Sheep Ranch
5. Old Mac
6. Whistling Straits
7. Mammouth Dunes
8. Sand Valley
9. Arcadia Bluffs
10. Kingsley Club
11. Bay Harbor
12. Erin Hills
13. Oakland Hills South
14. Forest Dunes
15. Streamsong Red
16. Streamsong Blue
17.  The Loop
18. Dunes Club
19. Black Lake
20. Belvedere
21. Lost Dunes
22. Angels Crossing
23. Blackwolf Run
24. Treetops Signature
25. Greywalls
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bart Bradley on June 10, 2022, 09:20:56 PM
My top 25 is as follows


1. Bandon Dunes
2. Pacific Dunes
3. Bandon Trails
4. Sheep Ranch
5. Old Mac
6. Whistling Straits
7. Mammouth Dunes
8. Sand Valley
9. Arcadia Bluffs
10. Kingsley Club
11. Bay Harbor
12. Erin Hills
13. Oakland Hills South
14. Forest Dunes
15. Streamsong Red
16. Streamsong Blue
17.  The Loop
18. Dunes Club
19. Black Lake
20. Belvedere
21. Lost Dunes
22. Angels Crossing
23. Blackwolf Run
24. Treetops Signature
25. Greywalls


Bob: 


Seriously, how can Greywalls be so low?  Black lake above Greywalls?   


Bart
Title: Re: Whip it Out: Post your Top 25 Courses Played
Post by: Bob_Garvelink on June 11, 2022, 07:56:10 AM
My top 25 is as follows


1. Bandon Dunes
2. Pacific Dunes
3. Bandon Trails
4. Sheep Ranch
5. Old Mac
6. Whistling Straits
7. Mammouth Dunes
8. Sand Valley
9. Arcadia Bluffs
10. Kingsley Club
11. Bay Harbor
12. Erin Hills
13. Oakland Hills South
14. Forest Dunes
15. Streamsong Red
16. Streamsong Blue
17.  The Loop
18. Dunes Club
19. Black Lake
20. Belvedere
21. Lost Dunes
22. Angels Crossing
23. Blackwolf Run
24. Treetops Signature
25. Greywalls


Bob: 


Seriously, how can Greywalls be so low?  Black lake above Greywalls?   


Bart




Bart,


Ya know what.....after second thought you got me :)  In all seriousness I was sitting next to my wife on the couch while I was making my list and once she realized I was back on that "golf website" I felt like an opposing pitcher coming into Yankee Stadium to trying to close out a game.


I agree that Greywalls is a better golf course thank Black Lake and I will never forget when my buddies and I played it and the driver from the pro shop to the first tee.....we all had huge smiles on our faces.  Greywalls is extremely unique and a must play for anyone in the area.


With that being said Black Lake is one of my all time favorites.  I just love how secluded the courses is and I have yet to play a course that is cut so privately into as thick of forest as Black Lake is.  I also love the "Detroit" feel of the course.  My grandparents lived in the city of Detroit and so did my mother and when I see the local UAW workers up there enjoying some of the finer things in life it reminds me of old school Detroit.  So its probably more about the feel of Black Lake than the course itself if that makes sense. 


I also looked at my list again and have decided to make a new addition :)  I blame this on my wife and the evil eye she was giving me while I was cranking out my top 25 :)


I will say I do love courses on water as they just give me a euphoric feeling while playing but there is now way a Bay Harbor can be ranked better than Kingsley.  I hope to be retired in 10 years or so and my goal is to someday be a member at Kingsley Club.  That course stole my heart.  Hopefully someday soon I will be able to jump back on that amazing track :) 


So here is my new Top 25 Course list


1.  Bandon Dunes
2. Pacific Dunes
3.  Sheep Ranch
4. Whistling Straits
5. Kingsley Club
6. Bandon Trails
7. Old Mac
8. Mammouth Dunes
9. Sand Valley
10. Arcadia Bluffs
11. Erin Hills
12.  Oakland Hills South
13. Greywalls
14. Streamsong Red
15. Streamsong Blue
16. Bay Harbor
17. Forest Dunes
18. Belvedere
19. Black Wolf Run
20. The Loop
21. Black Lake
22. Treetops Signature
23. Angels Crossing
24. Dunes Club
25. Lost Dunes


With that being said I feel solid about my top 10 but after that it gets very hard....not an easy task :)  But I do agree...I like Greywalls better than Black Lake