A view of the flag on dogleg holes

[Mike_Cirba]

Does this concept work as over time the player becomes familiar with the hole and is aware that following the more direct route can lead to disaster?

Jerry,

I think it works like this;

After gettting burned, the player goes directly away the next time.

Then, a bit closer the next time..

Then, a bit closer the next time..


The other phenomenon I think happens is when they actually pull of the correct shot and get rewarded by being on or next to the green.

The memory of that success can buffer a whole lot of bruising.

[Ed Oden]

Mike, I agree with your thoughts.  But in addition to the conscious decisions you describe, I still feel there is a subconscious element that draws the golfer toward the flag.  So while I certainly understand that familiarity plays a role, I also believe the concept still works even with repeated play.

Ed

[Tony_Muldoon]

(Suggested name for the core concept: "optical angles.")

Mark

Pat Ruddy had just this concept in mind when he designed the 415 yard 16th at the European Club.  Even with out of bounds encroaching from the right and lots of room the the left he said he was amazed at how many of the Pro's in  the Irish PGA made a mess of it.  "You see Tony, it's something I like to call 'the hungry eye'.  Whad'ya'think?"