Without this website, I might have heard of, but would probably never have visited Sand Hills, Ballyneal, Dismal River Rustic Canyon, or Black Mesa, all of which are among my most-prized golf experiences.
Without other participants, I would never been granted access to MPCC-Shore, Riviera, Ballyneal, Victoria or El Niguel (!!!). Again, treasured memories.
My ongoing architectural education (via this discussion board and books recommended by its participants) has improved my appreciation of places like Stevinson Ranch while tempering my desire to visit places like Hawaii, Florida, and Palm Springs (with the notable exception of Stone Eagle) for golfing purposes.
My GCA experiences certainly makes every round on great courses much more fun, though my course management isn't necessarily any more proficient for the effort.