JakaB,
I've never played Rustic Canyon, so I can't address your question.
Steve Shaffer,
Predisposition is difficult to overcome.
How many are willing to go against the grain ?
I can't quantify it, but, I think it's a factor.
Redanman,
First impressions usually define one's perspective, but, with Hidden Creek having so many subtle features, repeated evaluation would seem to be a requirement.
Brad Klein seemed to like the par 5's but made note of his feelings with respect to the approach to # 17. That approach might be viewed differently from 40 yards back.
Mounds/knobs in front of the green have an obscuring effect.
The third shot is slightly uphill and would be more challenging from further back.
I happen to like all of the par 5's. I'm considerably shorter these days, but play from the back tees and see how some of the hazards may not come into play off the tee, even into a breeze. I'd be anxious to hear Brad Klein give a more in depth assessment of his views on the par 5's. I'd also like to learn more about the 3rd category, "natural setting and overall land plan".
Shivas,
My math produced an 8.8 rating, not 8.5, so perhaps there is some weighting. Again, Brad can clarify this for us when he posts