How would you design an executive course?

[Chris Buie]

An executive course is certainly a way to help the novice discover the joy of golf.  Another way which I think is brilliant is the "Midnight Golf" practice facility that our resident genius Mr. Doak designed in Detroit. 

http://www.golf.com/golf/courses_travel/article/0,28136,1967328,00.html

Regarding Mr. Moore's comments about #3 course I'll have to disagree.  I find it to be an interesting layout with mostly very good green complexes - some pretty damn close to first rate.  Some holes are better that others of course, but I would not characterize any of them as screwy.  Here is what Crenshaw said about #3:
"I just don't think people understand how good those holes are. They're filled with interest. "
The problem with #3 is that they cram packed a bunch of houses and condos right on the fairway.  They had to alter the teeing areas as well - shortening todays 8th and 15th holes, for example.  As it originally was it would be a course you would definitely want to play.  As it is today I would say it is worthy of a round if you have an opening in your golf schedule. 
Here is the 7th hole.  Looks like a classical Ross par-3 to me.

The original 8th tee was just about where that house on the left is.

[Peter Pallotta]

Tim N - thanks much for your post #6, that was really good and clear.

Peter

[Matthew Petersen]

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Generally, the executive courses I have played have been pretty bland.  How would you design one to be economical and accomodating to the beginner but interesting for a GCA geek or a good player who is introducing someone to the game?

How about some form of replica course with several (if not all) holes modeled after famous par 3's and shorter par 4's around the world? If you pick and choose carefully you could come up with something for all.

Your thought reminds me a bit of the "Cloud Nine" at the Angel park facility in Las Vegas. My wife played there once and she is a beginner and really enjoyed it. Though I don't know that the idea of replica holes meant anything to her.

http://www.angelpark.com/sites/courses/custom.asp?id=225&page=4216

[Greg Tallman]

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Generally, the executive courses I have played have been pretty bland.  How would you design one to be economical and accomodating to the beginner but interesting for a GCA geek or a good player who is introducing someone to the game?

How about some form of replica course with several (if not all) holes modeled after famous par 3's and shorter par 4's around the world? If you pick and choose carefully you could come up with something for all.

I already did that 8 -3's and 1-4 (naturally that was #10 Riviera).  The problem is most of the famous par 3's are so because they tend to be on the difficult side.  It was, however, a good opportunity to learn by recreating the holes while giving the owner what he wanted.

Tim; That is funny as I had, as part part of my response, noted that #10 Riviera mihgt prove too tough for the concept and thus the choose carefully. That sid I think it would be the perfect type of course on which to pick up the game and all its nuances. Given the ñproper instruction on how to play the hole (Keep it left, don't challenege the bunkers until you are ready... etc) it could be quite fun and a great learning ground.