The relationship between the immediate approach area, green and area behind the green can be combined to lull the golfer into a false sense of security. In many cases this configuration can turn what appears to be a certain par or birdie into a bogie and worse.
Two great examples of this are the 10th and 13th holes at GCGC.
The approaches are wide open in front.
The green slopes away from the approaching golfer with a slight right to left cant.
Deep bunkers are found behind the green.
Fast and firm greens and approaches add to the deception.
The ideal location to putt from is below the hole, between the rear bunker and the hole, but most, hit short of the hole or the green, leaving them with difficult downhill and downhill sidehill putts, resulting in three putts, or dicey chips toward the deep rear bunkers.
Those that fly the ball to the hole usually find a deep, difficult bunker, and, the tendency is to hit their recovery above the hole when the hole location is in the rear of the green.
The golfer, viewing his approach sees a relatively benign approach, and in most cases, doesn't understand the conspiracy of features that lies ahead.
In most cases, only the flag/stick is visible, as the green falls away from the approaching golfer.
Has this combination of seemingly innocent features become a design feature of the past ?
Where is it employed on modern day golf courses ?
Why isn't it used more often, given that all land doesn't rise up to greet the golfer ?