The thread on POW had me pondering the Blue Course. I have an obvious bias when it comes to all things U of M. I have particularly enjoyed the course over the years and have wondered what keeps it from being a cracker? I think the course has arguably three great holes: #s 3, 6 and 11 (unique because two of the holes are par 5s). Additionally, #s 7-10 are very good. The front nine in general is very, very good. The course has a good set of greens and plenty of elevation change. I also think there are no bad holes and the routing is solid.
A few drawbacks are that the par 3s are good without being exceptional in any way. The opening hole is a bit bland. I spose most of all for me is that there is a stretch of holes which don't inspire me: #s 15-17. These holes hard on the heels of 12 -14 (though these holes are ok in themselves), just don't seem to flow very well. Nothing wrong per say, but not much right either. They aren't bad holes, but I feel they are much of a muchness. Slight leggers which require very accurate driving to get a good view of the greens. Though #15 stands out a bit because it is an excellent green, but not much.
Does anybody have any thoughts? Am I being overly critical or is the front nine superior to the back nine?
Ciao
Sean