This is my first attempt at a photo tour so I hope it works Ok.
St Clair is a 1927 design by Langford & Moreau, and recently restored by Kye Goalby. When I was new to GCA I learned of the group's appreciation of Langford's work, yet few if any knew about St. Clair. I play it a few times each year and brought my camera this last time. Here are few pics. Thanks to Kevin Reilly for his You Tube tutorial! If you make it to the St Louis area if may be worth a visit.
Very rolling terrain, as the clubhouse sits on a ridge with a veritable moat around it. Walkers are able to access the course by several of these bridges - so you're not out of breath after you 1st tee shot.
The 2nd hole is a 185 yard Par 3. Short right is dead at it funnels down into the trees. The 1911 in the background reflects the club's founding. As we all know, photos don't capture the elevation change as well. Fun hole.
Number 5 is a 270 yard par 4 risk reward hole - my favorite on the course. While drivable it has out of bounds on both sides. The smart play was a long iron to the flat and a wedge to an easy green. After the redo, its not so easy. The green has crazy undulation that I suspect was inspired by Mr. Goalby's tutelage under Tom Doak. 2 putt is not guaranteed
Number 7 is another hole that requires strategy. Only about 370 yards, the fairway begins a precipitous drop after the 150 mark leaving a downhill shot to a severely uphill green. The other option is bomb driver down the hill, at the risk of it running into woods on the left and right.
St Clair's par 3s are varied and this is one of its best. Number 9 is around 155yds back over the chasm towards the clubhouse, with another completely redone green - far harder than the previous one. St Clair is unique in that you end the front 9 with a 3, and begin the back with a 3 on 10. (My apologies for the thumb)
Not sure about other Langfords, but St. Clair has very few fairway bunkers. The land makes it penal enough. Number 12 is typical with holes that follow the terrain and the only sand is found greenside.
The finishing hole is par 5 back towards the clubhouse. While only 500 yards, a drive too long is no advantage here as you have to negotiate the downslope. A 3 shot hole for most players to an elevated green. Note the hilltop par 3 number 13 off the right. A straight uphill tee shot to a table top green.
Hope you enjoyed