First off, thanks to Ben for putting this together and everyone else who contributed. As a longtime Buckeye State resident, it's always fun to
read everyone's thoughts about the tracks in my home state.
A few of my random observations on some of the lesser-discussed tracks on this list:
1. I had Denison (Granville) in my top 10; an absolutely fantastic old Ross course save for a bizarre stretch on the back 9. I've heard murmurs that there are plans to bring it back to its original routing or at least get rid of the clunkers.
2. I'm probably biased because it's in my hometown, but Westbrook CC is another one to see if you ever find yourself driving between Cleveland and Columbus. It maxes out at about 6500 yards which will deter some, but the course is a another Ross clinic in routing 18 solid holes on a tiny piece of land.
3. Ashland Golf Club another relatively short track (6400) that is rarely mentioned but also worth a play. Designed by Willie Park Jr. (front nine only I think), it's a great example of a former country club that went public and appears to be doing well. The par 5 9th features a downhill tee shot followed by a massively uphill approach to a postage stamp of a green. AGC was also popular because back in the day because they featured a beer vending machine out on the course. As you might imagine, this was a major selling point with junior golfers.
4. I know there are issues with the cart paths and it could stand to lose quite a few trees, but I'm also a huge fan of Manakiki. It's just a blast of a golf course on a great piece of land, not to mention it's one of the better values I've ever played. It can be had for $20 walking during the week which is borderline criminal.
5. Keeping with the theme of short tracks (I swear it has nothing to do with the fact that I'm typically the Jim Furyk of my foursome), Portage CC in Akron needs more love IMO. If you like short, quirky Langford designs you will like Portage. I actually fall into the pro-Firestone CC camp and I'd go 8-2 Portage if given 10 rounds.
6. I had Columbus CC as a 5.5 on my original list but I'm optimistic it's going to make a Moraine-esque leap once it reopens in May. The early reports that I've heard from a buddy who is a member there sound very promising.