At last, we get to the final hole and close to being able to play it!! The 9th green is one I struggled with getting the shaping to match the design concept that Management wanted. Historically, this tiny green of just over 4,000 square feet has sloped steeply from back to front. The degree of slope was finely balanced (much like the greens at Augusta National) where shots hit beyond the hole require a delicate touch or the next shot may be a chip! I absolutely agreed with retaining that character of this short, uphill hole, but found it hard to make sure the final shape didn’t go “over the edge.” We were able to expand the green only slightly around most of its edge due to the steeper slopes but there was a larger flat area behind the bunker on the right. That area provided a great pin area and will bring the bunker into play. The very back edge of the green slopes away from the shot into a hollow so shots hit long will end up there. If you find yourself there, beware that a thinly hit chip from the back hollow can result in another chip from the front of the green. I’m confident we have continued to make the green the challenge on hole #9. If you expect someone to give you a putt over 1’ on the finishing hole, don’t hold your breath! Rick Robbins, ASGCA
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