Hirono has been called the Augusta National of Japan; this moniker speaks to both its exclusivity and its quality. (“The story is that there are many CEOs in Tokyo waiting for their invitation to play here,” Ben quipped.) The parkland layout wanders through pine-covered hills and valleys, across gulleys and ravines; the prominent characteristics of Alison’s design ethos are all evident at Hirono—large, deep bunkers, sideways-tilting greens and prominent use of water hazards.
When Pete Dye first visited the site near La Romana, Dominican Republic, that would one day become Teeth of the Dog in 1968, it was hard to imagine much of anything growing there, let alone the Caribbean’s most celebrated golf course.
Amongst aficionados of golf course design, the Caribbean has not traditionally been viewed as a standout destination. This, simply because... Read more »
Back in 1990, John Garrity experienced that thrill of discovery in a very profound way, uncovering an 1891 Old Tom Morris design on the isolated Scottish island of South Uist. The course -Askernish - had not simply eluded American visitors. It had literally been lost to the ages!
A reliable, familiar destination is a wholly understandable impulse in choosing a golf experience, especially when time, and perhaps money,... Read more »