Golf is a game of talent, judgement, power and finesse.
Some golfers have an abundance of the above, other golfers aspire to gain a semblance of the above.
Each of the above blend to create the collective that creates a comfort zone when it comes to playing a golf course.
What is the general membership comfort zone when it comes to yardage, contour/slope of the greens, hazards and speed of the greens ?
What's your comfort zone ?
While weather and conditions create numerous variables, assume for the sake of these questions, that conditions aren't soggy, and that the climate is moderate/benign. Also, assume par 72.
Looking at the courses I enjoy, yardages from 6,400 to 7,000 seem ideal, as do green speeds of 9-11, almost irrespective of the contouring/slope. As to water hazards, I can tolerate anything that's not goofy or over the top.
However, the overriding consideration for me, IS ......... width.
With ample width, all of the other factors I've listed seem secondary.
I can tolerate greens with more contour/slope, with speeds at 9-11, with bunkers galore.
I may struggle from time to time, but, the overall challenge remains enjoyable.
It's only when I'm really squeezed off the tee, with serious consequences for an errant drive that I get uncomfortable, and, I consider myself a decent to very good driver.
What architectural feature/s or configuration/s takes you out of your comfort zone ?
Name the course that does this to you.
Since architects must forge a disinterested challenge for all levels of golfers, isn't width, or perceived width, the greatest architectural asset for a GCA ?