Thanks for those pictures, Sean. What a not pity that some of us were lucky enough to play in the afternoon when the clouds and rain had disappeared. It was difficult for us to see the merits of Rye when playing in warmth and sunshine.
As for the commentary, I agree on the complete incongruity of the 11th, but will defend the 10th as a reasonably good hole. I do not at all remember the pond on the 11th from my previous visit in 1981, and sources have told me that it was not there in 1977, so my memories may be right. Whoever and however that got put on such a fine course defines GCA criminality. Overall I was relatively underwhelmed. Rye is a unqiue club and a fine golf course, but it paled in relationship to it neighbours that we played over the next 4 days for numerous and vaired reasons. I have taken a * off the course/club on the Rihcelin Scale (@2009, all rights reserved).
I'll also disagree with your comparison of the 14th and the 6th at Dornoch. IMHO, the only similarity is that they are both par-3s. Is it possible to get a 17 at Rye's 14th (as I have seen a reasonably good golfer do at the 6th at Dornoch)? Does one's arse pucker when standing on Rye's 14th tee? Is there a magnificent seaside view?
Regardless of what I think, I will defend to my death your right to hold such a loopy opinion....
PS--I can't exactly figure out which part of Tom MacW's Darwin post are his and which are Bernie's, but to call Douglas Rolland "a local professional" is needlessly dismissive. Darwin would have known that he was one of the great players of his day and highly respected in the world of late-19th century golf. I always thought that Rolland was in charge of the initial design of Rye and Colt assisted him. It seems most logical given the relative expereince and reputation at that time of the two men.
Rihc
First, I think you owe me some royalties for the Rihcelin Scale.
Second, don't get yer knickers in a twist - they are likely your only clean pair after this week.
Third, yes, #13 is pales in comparison to Dornoch's 3rd, but it does remind me of it.
Fourth, I can understand why folks would be underwhelmed by Rye, but why were you underwhelmed?
Fifth, is taking 17 a good thing?
Sixth, yes, #10 is ok for the land it sits on, but it could be improved.
Seventh, please don't die for my rights.
Eighth, why does Rye pale in comparison to the other courses you played this week?
Ninth, so Rye has been stripped of a star - how many are left?
Tenth, you are right, I think the idea of Rolland getting chucked aside in this assigning of credit is shameful, but understandable coming from Coltheads.
Eleventh, wash yer scivvies.
Ciao