Gene,
I think there is something about both courses that strikes me as sporty, and fun, while retaining their competitive challenge.
I had Dave and Ed to GCGC the day before their visit to NGLA, and found them to be terrific fellows, as you did. Through golf, one tends to meet some very nice people. I think playing GCGC a fairly flat course in the middle of densely populated Long Island, and NGLA a beautiful course perched above Sebonic Bay gave them a glimpse of what has spoiled us over the years. They were a delight to be with.
I find that while GCGC is an enjoyable course to play, once you get past the first five (5) holes, it seems a little more demanding, perhaps a shade less sporty, but it can still be fun to play.
NGLA and FH have some unique greens that can be both difficult and fun. I find the par 5's sporty, and the variety on the par 4's more than sufficient to hold your interest. They both seem to be well balanced golf courses. They also have an abundance of WIND which is the icing on the cake.
I can't imagine playing either course, and not enjoying myself, irrespective of how I play, and I think that is a critical test with respect to a golf course.