This came up in a meeting yesterday, with a client who said that Paul Cowley's boss told him that "if you get good players out there with some buzz, you get the other players."
First, is that correct, in your opinion, as to what generates play? Obviously, Davis Love III has the good players perspective, but is he on the money, given how few of them there are relatively? (For the record, I have always thought so, but am wondering)
Second, assuming yes, then what features do low handicappers look for that would make them tell their friends that a course is a "must play" in the area?
Please recall that this conversation is in regards to a new semi private club and housing course in a saturated local market, and on decent, but nothing out of the ordinary land compared to its nearest competitors (i.e. don't use Bandon, the Old Course or other unique places as an "aha" example, please - The course is where it is.)
You may, however, postulate as to maintenance, cart girls, experience, etc. as to what draws the low hanicapper out to a particular course vs. another, in addition to design features.
Thanks in advance, and it will be interesting to hear the comments.