I do want to get more input on what the contest should become and if we should try to get it a bit more 'established' (whatever that may mean to you).
??
Also, should it be (as the present one was):
18 holes
Yes, for the same reasons as Steve.
large tract of land
I think this works best for us amateurs, so we don't get too many dangerous situations and have more options to use the "natural holes" we find. Maybe a smaller site in the future?
conducted via sketchup
I still sketchup the best. Maybe a short tutorial showing how you could draw holes on paper and scan them into sketchup for those who prefer that method? (is that feasible?)
Or should those things change? Some possibilities are (this list is certainly not exhaustive, this is where I want as much input as possible):
Fewer holes
I wouldn't say in general, but maybe for a "specialty project" down the road (like remodeling #'s 10 and 11 at Stanford).
design in the style of an architect
I think this would be extremely difficult for people like me who have only seen one or two courses at most designed by major architects.
"problem" solving (e.g. a difficult stretch of land which must contain 2 or 3 holes to connect different parts of the course)
That sounds very cool, as long as it doesn't get too goofy. Also, I would hope this wouldn't lead to too much implied earthmoving.
take on a classic (with or without knowing its identity?)
Would be an interesting idea, although I'm sure quite a few would recognize the course, which would probably make it much harder for them.
Design teams (to take the pressure of everyone needing to learn the software)
How would the logistics work on this? It would be difficult not being able to talk directly with your partner. I suppose you could have a designer and a shaper?
Conducted using only topographic contour maps (no sketchup)
Nahhh
The list could go on, but I'd like the input of anyone and everyone willing to give it.