Shivas . . . you ignorant slut . . .
your 16th at CPc example is so flawed and goofy, it's not worth any intelligent man's time to respond, so here I go: . . . .First, even the short hitters go for that green. So either everybody is smart or everybody is dumb, with one exception....
Given that choice, definitely everybody is DUMB. (Actually, we all go for it and some are smart, but MOST are DUMB.) Assuming the goal is to take the route that either leads to the best chance of minimizing your score or beating your opponent, it is just not rational to go for it for most people, most of the time. The fact that we do probably says a lot about what we are really looking for out of golf (see Patrick's recent thread) and but very little about the inherent strategic beauty and balance of this hole.
Those who don't, can't. Where's the choice and the smart play in that? It's not a smart play to bail left if it is your only possibility.
The first time I played the hole I went for it and, as you witnessed, failed miserably. The second time I played left, and after a weak chip, was happy with a two putt bogey. Of course I am so bad that you might just categorize me in or close to the "those who can't" camp.
But my playing partner also played left, then chipped to about 7 ft. No score to protect, no big money match, just playing for fun. He must be in the "those how can't" camp too, right? You would know, I think you played a team match against him in the King's Cup? Tall left-handed guy from Moorpark in So. Cal? Probably didn't have a choice. Probably cant carry the ball 200 yds. Probably, when it comes to athletic endeavors, he is too weak of mind to see that
everyone always goes for it so
going for it is always the smart play. By the way, how'd that match go?
Laying up on 16 at CPC was one of the most exhilarating things I've ever done in golf, perhaps second only to playing the course itself. Those who refuse to use their heads and to see it as an option have no idea the thrill they are missing.
As to the rest of your post, what an odd, conspiratorial world you must live in. With everyone always out to take away your inherent rights, such as your right to hit ball far -- No wait, the hole allows you plenty of room to hit ball far (especially with the intended back tee) so it must be your inherent right to have your ability to hit ball far with only semi-accuracy have you reap great benefits over others who cant. What was MacKenzie thinking with his different route stuff? What a moral relativist!
There is a place for people like you, it is called the LDA Tour. Just please stay away from real golf courses, okay.
. . . . oh yeah, I almost forgot, the AWMS (Angry White Male Society) called looking for your phone number. They are putting together a swimsuit calendar, and are considering you for Mr. February. I hope you don't mind that I gave them your number.