Thanks so much, Pat. You put together a day of education and fun that will be hard to beat. I know, if you continue with these that you'll somehow find a way.
I thought the structure of the seminar was brilliant. We first heard from Roger Hanson, who went into great depth to discuss the perspective of developer and owner in the building and membership issues of Hidden Creek. Roger talked of the differences between his public golf projects and his long and well-rewarded quest to find a project that he could work together with Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw. It is a fine effort and an interesting golf course. The lower profile but challenging greens in contrast to the higher hazards is a delightful change of pace.
Next Bill Coore, who seems to be a consummate gentleman as well an obviously gifted talent, enthralled us with his perspectives on golf architecture in general and HC specifically, his willingness to field any questions and give a thoughtful responses and approachability was a real treat. Tom Paul has been speaking to me at length for many years about what a great fellow Bill is on so many levels. I had very high expectations and they were far exceeded.
Jeff Riggs had a hard act to follow but he did a great job talking about grasses, construction and maintenance aspects of the golf course. He fielded a number of questions about his work at HC and also answered general questions as well.
So we had everything covered; the development, the architecture and the maintenance. Throw in some terrific GCAers from all over, a wonderful day for golf and to be able to play afterwards and have cocktails was a joy. Lloyd Cole stiffing one to inches on the last hole to carry he and Garry to victory over Bill and I was tough to take, but the long ride home was full of cheer because it was such a special day.
Thanks to Pat, Bill, Jeff, Ian and the entire staff at Hidden Creek and of course, Roger Hanson for his gracious hospitality.