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Their first decision was to resurrect a defunct par three, now the 9th, and combine what had become the 9th and 10th holes to create a testing par five. A new par three with an island green, now the 3rd, was introduced; four new greens were built and the remainder restored to their original dimensions. New tees were introduced on most holes, all the bunkers were rebuilt and several new ones installed, and the irrigation and drainage systems up-graded.
Perhaps most significantly, and the major work, came the levelling of three severely sloping fairways that had always blighted an otherwise fair and enjoyable course. The 1st, the old 9th and the 18th, built before major earth moving was technically possible, have become not merely fairer holes but outstanding ones. The 18th fairway, for instance, had been a steep sided hill on which it was virtually impossible for the average player to hold his tee shot. Solution: shunt 18 feet of hill top sideways and downwards. Now it’s a gentle climb to a level area with a cluster of strategic bunkers on the right to show the required line.
The first hole had been similar, but in reverse, a down-hill fairway sloping towards the river and with the green nestling over the far bank. Now it’s a delight, a classical opening hole with a specified target area, everything in view and an invigorating challenge for those who breakfast on red meat. It’s a 200 yard carry over the nearest point of the river, and 260 yards to the green if you’re feeling frisky. Wiser heads suggest a long iron and a pitch over the water. A four is still well-earned and christens the card in agreeable fashion.
The River Bovey contributes nuisance value on the first eight holes but it’s a pretty nuisance, only a few yards wide in places. It may also be the longest ball washer in the world of golf and anyone who negotiates his round without raising a splash deserves to win the drinks and probably will.
An indication of the challenge awaiting: at a recent PGA Euro Tour event for aspiring young professionals only two of the 135 starters bettered par for 54 holes. The winner was three under par, the runner-up one under. The course record, set following the changes, was established at 66. Everyone had a fun time, though.
It confirmed that at 6,303 yards, par 70, from the white tees the new-look course provides a grand combination of challenge and fun for even the most accomplished player. For those of a certain vintage, or perhaps playing their youngsters for pocket money, the card for the yellow tees is 5,708 yards (5,201 for the ladies). It’s never crowded and 36 holes a day would be a snip.
It's sheer bliss, a preview of golfing heaven and a golden bonus to an outstanding hotel.
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