The relatively small number of bunkers gives a clue, IMO.
Tim,
I'd bifurcate the question.
I'd differentiate between fairway and greenside bunkers
Wouldn't Augusta be nearly as good a course if every single bunker were removed?
Absolutely NOT
For members play?
NO
For play during the Masters?
NO
Pat,
Just to repeat: I am not suggesting all or even any of the bunkers be removed. What I am arguing is that Augusta is so blessed from a topography point of view that if you did remove them you would still be left with an excellent course, certainly for Members and maybe even for Masters.
Assuming you disagree, walk me through the back nine and share your view hole by hole.
Here would be my take for the 15 HCP:
#10 - with or without bunkers, our 15 can't reach the green in two. Plays for a five. Downhill drive goes about 225. Decides to play right or left of famous fairway bunker. Has a pretty good chance of succeeding, but yes the shot would be easier without the bunker. In any case, the third shot won't be that easy. Debate able whether right side green side bunker has much impact especially if third shot is hit from left.
#11 - the lone bunker doesn't have much impact on our 15. He has to aim to the right on his second shot. Third is little bump and run where bunker doesn't matter.
#12 - ok, removing the back bunkers eliminates a terrifying shot for our 15, but the target is still very small and a damn hard hole
#13 - it is a three shot hole. Bunkers not an issue for 1 & 2 unless you want to argue certain locations make a thin third shot more likely and that sand shot back is no bargain either. Still it is going to be an excellent hole after the bunkers are removed
#14 - nothing needs to be said
#15 - see other thread. Still a very hard hole for our 15 HCP.
#16 - I am sure this will be debated, but IMO the size and slope of the green presents lots of challenge. Making par is still pretty tough.
#17 - removing bunkers doesn't impact tee shot, but will impact approach, I will concede. Still, the green itself presents a pretty good defense.
#18 - the fairway bunkers, IMO, don't have much impact. Our 15 still has to hit a big tee shot. Also, removing the front left bunker won't make the hole any piece of cake. Still very difficult for our 15 to get a second shot on the green much less getting it close. Still a great hole.