Nicolai Hojgaard 16/1 © TaylorMade
Driving through the Punta Cana estate takes me back to when I was here back in late 2008. I was taken round the Tom Fazio-designed course, but at that time the grass had just been seeded. Those memories trigger my excitement as we turn up the road and past the practice ground on my left, which is probably where you will be dropped off. But first I have a few people to meet, and as I’m shaking hands I can see the course just behind the pro shop – it’s just tugging at me.
I jump in the buggy with my caddie and it’s down to the well-appointed practice ground to loosen up, then it’s off to the first tee. Now, I have to say that if you miss this fairway you should head back down to the range! It’s wide and even from the back tees at 433-yards, it’s a nice opening hole – the sea is not in full view but you get some tantalising glimpses, and when the wind blows I am sure you will be able to feel it.
