If CPC is the best 17 hole golf course in the world is Pebble Beach the best 13 to 15 hole course? I understand Bob Huntley's remarks, and as I recall, he doesn't have much love for #17 either, but I don't agree with the criticisms. (Sorry, Bob. I hope that this doesn't exile me from my favorite spot in the world.)
#18 is uncomfortable from the tee on a course that generally gives you numerous options. It is not an ideal hole, but on any other course, it would not be so maligned. From just my one time on the course, the hole is in keeping with the Doctor's philosophy of allowing an indifferent shot to be overcomed by an extraordinary recovery. I tried to hit a high "power" fade that turned out more like a wounded-bird cut that drifted far right. There I had three options, chose the more risky blind shot over the trees, hit it very well, but got the ball caught-up in a tree overhanging the right side of the green complex. In ten minutes I went through several emotions- from extreme disappointment on the tee shot, hope for a chance at a Seve recovery, exhiliration on what I thought was a fantastic second shot, and deep depression when I got to the green and the ball was no where to be found. A great up and down from near the tree where the ball was lodged gave me only minor relief. So, for me at least, a hole that can create such excitement and mood change in a very short period of time can't be bad. I should be damned to play 18 (the hole and the course) at CPC every day for eternity.
Our host at another unforgettable course, Sand Hills, once remarked that playing his course just one time was cruel, like making love to the most wonderful woman (like Tommy's Ms. Devenue) and having only one chance with her. I am very envious of slapper, and maybe my opinions of 18 would differ if I played it four times over two days. I agree with Sandy Tatum's characterization of CPC, and I doubt that there is a better club course in the world.