Realized I didn’t post at all in the GC 2022 thread. Rather than resurrect that thread, I’ll list the noteworthy courses played in 2022 along with several I’ve played thus far in 2023:
Waiehu GC, Maui (April 2022) - really affordable muni on the northwestern shore of Maui, rightfully called the “poor Hawaiian’s Pebble Beach”. Offshore winds are constant and bordering on brutal at times. The views on the front 9 are especially nice on the 3 holes that run right along the water, and the ocean is readily visible on several holes on the back 9 that run into the hills.
Turtle Bay GC, Oahu (April 2022) - though it was in nicer condition as part of an upscale resort compared to Waiehu, this wasn’t as fun or visually exciting. Only ocean view was from the 17th green.
Cog Hill G&CC, Illinois (June 2022) - loved loved loved this course and layout, and totally understand why it fit Tiger Woods’ eye to the tune of 5 titles there. Weather was definitely an issue the day we played, as we got poured on and had to take shelter due to a tornado warning.
Medinah CC, Illinois (June 2022) - got to play the historic #3 course, and it was every bit the championship test it’s been for multiple majors and a memorable Ryder Cup. Thankfully we finished our round and were comfortable ensconced in Medinah’s majestic clubhouse when tornado conditions a few miles away sent most anything not anchored down cartwheeling across the grounds.
North Shore CC, Illinois (June 2022) - meh course, nice clubhouse.
Camelback GC, Padre course, AZ (Feb 2023) - decent track in north Scottsdale that was more traditional than the ubiquitous desert layouts that are everywhere in the Valley.
The Raven, AZ (Feb 2023) - a huge surprise of a track right in Phoenix that had the lushest course conditions I’ve ever experienced in a course in the Valley. I seriously marveled at what their water sources must be. Would play again in a heartbeat.
Papago GC, AZ (Feb 2023) - absolutely rigorous test of a desert course, and can understand why it’s the home course of the Arizona State golf teams.
Valhalla CC, KY (Mar 2023) - even playing in pouring rain on the front 9 and decent portion of the back, along with punched greens, I was grinning from ear to ear for pretty much the entire round. Beautiful course and rightfully deserving of hosting multiple PGA Championships (including next year’s) as well as a Ryder Cup.