Tony,
I've always liked Old Marsh, and I agree, it doesn't get enough attention on this site.
I think one criticism might be valid, namely, the constant spectre of a watery grave on almost every hole.
There's a pressure at Old Marsh that's almost constant, keeping one's ball out of the water.
It has an errosive nature on the experience.
The first time I played Old Marsh, my host made several bets with me on the number of balls I would lose to the "water".
That was my first indication that quite a challenge lay ahead.
As to the mounds on # 5, I like them, it's Pete's tribute to # 17 at Prestwick, rock and all.
When the hole is cut far right, it may be too punitive as the water is very close to the green, but, the hole is a clear departure from anything that exists in South Florida and many points North.
Old Marsh has always been one of the best conditioned golf courses in South Florida.
There's usually a good breeze to add to the challenge.
There are a lot of good holes, but, the abundance of water hazards has its critics.
While the fairways are generous, the wind reduces their effective width, and sooner or later, most people will go through a sleeve or two.
Old Marsh is very well run and very well maintained.
I think it's a terrific golf course, but, I can see how some find it overwhelming.