Cape crusaders don't always help...

If Rule no. 1 in the architect/client relationship reads "I'LL be the one who designs the course", then Rule no 2 should be "Let the course speak for itself".

I'm sure Tom Fazio has enough on his plate just designing the Corales course in the Dominican Republic resort of Punta Cana, without co-owner Frank Rainieri deciding to ramp up expectation with a little casual hyperbole.

Without a ball being struck in anger, the 18th, a par 4 cape hole, now carries the label 'The Mother of all Holes' , courtesy of Ranieri, who apparently believes this hole may become the most famous and memorable ocean hole in the world.

And you know what? It may well be but if so, the accolade should evolve naturally from the wonder of those who play it. Because if it turns out to be something short of "the most famous and memorable ocean hole in the world", I suspect it won't be Frank Rainieri who carries the can for the faux pas but Tom Fazio, a man not without his critics among the ranks of golf architecure devotees.

For a more measured, if not unbiased, assessment of the closer, try Fazio design associate, Thomas A Marzolf.
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This will do nicely: American Express's Preferred Golf Club courses list gives an immediate flavour of each course with a short gallery of pictures just a click away. Note how well the Mohegan Sun 'clubhouse' blends...
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Pic of the Day XV