Patrick:
I too have been a defender of Spanish Bay since day one, more or less. Oh I certainly acknowledge it's likely the least great course inside the drive (although Poppy Hills would contend as well); and the prices they charge for it are ludicrous. I also certainly understand the "what might have been" arguments that you and Bob give. If Bob wants to say it was a cock-up, I won't argue that much.
My point has always been this though: compared to most courses outside the drive, it holds up it's head just fine. And judging it based simply on what it is and not what might have been, it's pretty darn good also. I'll never argue much for it's absolute greatness; but when people say it sucks or the like, that's when my eyebrows raise.
So.. your question is a fair one. And if the standard is courses inside the drive, then I'd guess I'd get to 7-8 times out of 100, so we're not that far off. I'm just not sure that clearly defines the merits of Spanish Bay.
Answer this: out of 100 rounds divided among Spanish Bay, Poppy Hills, Quail Lodge, Carmel Valley Ranch, Bayonet, Blackhorse, Old Del Monte, how many does Spanish Bay get?
'm thinking at least 20. Make it other lesser-priced public courses and the number rises significantly.
And that more defines its merits, I think.
TH