The recent threads on Merion, National and now Shawnee have really disappointed me. I want the new members to know that while those type of threads can happen on GCA, the genius of the site is how it can create connections between people, not undermine them.
As many know, I have been a part of the Cobb's Creek initiative since its infancy. I'm proud to say I was post #2 on that Herculean thread, right between the posts of Mr. Cirba and Mr. Bausch. I equate it to being employee #2 at Google, but as my wife reminds me... we have no hope of financial security as a result of our endeavor!
Nearly 3 years after Mike uncovered those aerials, we are still consumed with the dream of restoring the property back to its rightful position as a top tier golf facility open to all. I am not exaggerating when I say that I have spoken/emailed with Mike or Joe almost every other day for 3 years (I have the cell phone bills to prove it!) and it has brought me so much joy in the process. We have made considerable progress and I'm sure Mike will provide an update at the appropriate time. GCA has given me far more than I could ever give back, but I'll certainly try to even the score.
The magic of GCA is that is provides a way to immediately connect with others who share a love for golf course architecture. Period. It really becomes special when you leverage that network and apply the collective knowledge/passion and individual skillsets towards a common goal that could benefit others in the community. When you see the potential impact it can have in real life, it is remarkable. Trust me, I am still amazed nearly 3 years later.