[Matt_Ward]

Pat:

I know you have played a good deal of Jersey golf layouts -- what would be your top three courses in order?

Many thanks ...

[Patrick_Mucci_Jr]

Matt Ward,

I've always avoided ranking courses as most do, primarily because of the categorized criteria created by others

I've developed my own imperfect system which is divided into:
 
Championship
Sporty
Other

With the "other" category subject to sub-sets, and with some golf courses being on the cusp of two categories.

Hence, Baltusrol Lower and Somerset Hills would never meet under my system as Baltusrol Lower is in the Championship category, while Somerset Hills is in the sporty category.

The same would apply to Shinnecock and NGLA.
Bethpage Black and Piping Rock.

[Matt_Ward]

Pat:

Given your definition on rating courses (e.g. championship v sporty) how would you define Pine Valley beyond the use of the word "other."

One last thing -- how bout listing your top three in the championship and sporty categories? You can simply insert your own criteria as you please.

To the group:

It will certainly be interesting to see the reaction of those attending the event next Saturday at Baltusrol. The club has made major strides in regards to two layouts at the facility.

[Patrick_Mucci_Jr]

Matt,

Given your definition on rating courses (e.g. championship v sporty) how would you define Pine Valley beyond the use of the word "other."

I'd put Pine Valley in the Championship and Sporty category.

One last thing -- how bout listing your top three in the championship and sporty categories? You can simply insert your own criteria as you please.

Baltusrol Lower, Plainfield, Pine Valley, Ridgewood E & W.

Somerset Hills, Hidden Creek, Montclair # 2 & # 4.

[Matt_Ward]

Pat:

Interesting lsting -- I'm assuming you just listed them without regard to order.

Can you tell me how high of a rating you would ascribe for  Forsgate / Banks Course, Hollywood, Essex County, Metedeconk National (1&3 nines), etc, etc.

Since you listed Hidden Creek among your top sporty layouts I am guessing you would include the course among your own personal top 10. Is that fair to say?

One last question -- under what category would you place Baltusrol / Upper?

Thanks ...

[Patrick_Mucci_Jr]

Matt Ward,

The Championship category was for the top players in the country.

If you look at the courses you mention as a test for the top amateurs in the state, they could fit into that category, but, for the PGA Tour players there aren't that many Championship courses.  Unfortunately, length becomes a critical factor in meeting that qualification.

Baltusrol Upper for the PGA Tour player would be sporty, and for the best amateurs in the State, on the cusp or in both categories.

[Matt_Ward]

Pat:

You raise an interesting point regarding the appropriate placement of courses -- in your case the use of the words "championship" and "sporty."

I know GW does rate courses according to classic and modern listings. I know I will be discussing with my publisher of Jersey Golfer the desire to post a listing with such a framework in mind.

In real terms -- it's like rating boxers -- you set them up against the weight limits they are within in order to get a better match of their talents. You know the best "pound for pound" type course(s).

Even with that said -- I still believe an overall ratings would still be worthwhile to include as well.

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