I wish I would have chimed in earlier on this thread as I have a lot to share. Unfortunately, I have been without internet access for weeks. I am actually at an internet cafe checking my email and this thread.
First, I want to thank Tommy for all of his work in putting this together. I felt it was a success and enjoyed being a part of it.
Second, thanks to The Palms, The Plantation, and Stone Eagle (all private clubs) for hosting us and letting us in to play their golf courses. I think they are 3 of the best 5 courses in the desert.
Thanks to all of you that I played with. I enjoyed your company and look forward to playing with you all again.
Now, as for Stone Eagle, I would prefer to take it down one hole at a time as I think it is a course that warrants it. Tommy represented my overall opinion of the course accurately. I think it is the best course in the desert. My only major problem with it is its walkability. Obviously, little could be done about it considering the site it is on.
If anyone cares to discuss the holes individually or at least as a group of a few holes I'd be willing to do so.
Overall, I think the course is VERY playable. Since when are drives that are 50 yards off line supposed to be playable? It offers plenty of room to drive a golf ball in play and there is generally plenty of room for missed iron shots. Yes, there are a few holes where you simply have to "bring it" on a shot but what course doesn't have those? I think it is the intimidating visuals of rocks, elvevation changes, and bunkers that get in people's heads.
I give Stone Eagle a BIG thumbs up.
What about peoples views of The Palms and Plantation?
Sorry to take so long to post.
Jeff F.