There are several reasons Olympic is challenging. Firstly, the slope in the fairways. It never let's you get completely comfortable over a shot. You need to account for the slope to fade or draw the ball as well as calculating for uphill and downhill shots. You definitely have to think how you are going to play the shot and how your shot shape and yardage will be affected. Also, as the fairways firm up for the open, working the ball into the slopes off the tee is a must. I don't know if a player who works the ball one way will have a chance (bubba might be a good pick). Secondly, the slope in the greens. The majority of the greens slide in one direction with little subtle movements in them. To make putts, you need to be well positioned under the hole to give yourself a reasonable chance without too much break. Well positioned approaches will lead to some realistic birdie chances. Lastly, the yardage plays way longer than the scorecard indicates. The blues tees are just under 6600 and easily play over 7000. Several holes play uphill, temperatures are usually cool, and the air is heavy...all adding up to a longer course. Whites at 6200 are sufficient for your average golfer. The course is very fair, but you need to execute to shoot a great round. The trees aren't that close to the fairways. 12 is the only hole that has the intimidation factor from the trees for the member tees. The place is magical and I hope it is a great open.