The folks in my area went through the deck of cards and answered some as time allowed, but I thought it was interesting enough that I brought the deck home.

I found it buried under some paperwork in the home office last night, and decided to answer the questions and post them, in the hopes that others would do the same.

Feel free to copy/paste the questions, and post them in your blog, and answer them in your own way. Also, link back here if you like, but don’t feel obligated. Finally, if you do post these, leave a response with a link to your post so I can see your responses too. This was a really fun exercise, so I hope others join in!

Without further adieu, here are the questions and my personal answers.

What classic car would you like to own? 1968 GTO

What are you a snob about? Alcohol (Gin, Vodka and Whiskey, but not really beer)

If you could own a second home where would it be? On a golf course within driving distance.

If you could be great at one sport which would you choose? Golf

What animal would you love to have as a pet? Hobbes, from Calvin and Hobbes

Whose life do you find most inspiring? My stepmother’s. She’s worked her butt off all of her life, and still isn’t anywhere near easy street, but I’ve never seen her sad, disappointed, or with a “woe is me” attitude. Wow.

Who was the best teacher you’ve had? Mr. Keyes, senior year in HS, English; he made me think about something more than grades.

What’s your favorite junk food? Taco Bell

If you had one year to live what would you do differently? Stop saving and start spending!

What’s your favorite candy? Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups

Which era of history would you choose to live in other than the present? The Roaring 20’s.

If you could spend one week at any hotel which one would you choose? The Carriage House at the American Club, Kohler, Wisconsin (honeymooned there, and am impressed every time I walk in the door.)

Which mystery or unsolved case would you like to know the truth about? Who shot JFK?

Do you have any superstitions? Not really

What’s your favorite philanthropy or cause? Anything to help Public Libraries

Who has the best voice you’ve ever heard? Andrea Bocelli. For rock music, the lead singer from Queensryche (Geoff Tate), hands down.

What’s your ultimate vacation? 2-3 weeks with the wife golfing through England, Scotland, and Ireland.

What movie made you laugh until you cried? Napoleon Dynamite, but only after watching it 3 times.

What advice would you appreciate from a happy and successful octogenarian? What’s the secret(s) to a happy marriage?

What’s the best meal your mom cooks? Tater tot casserole

If you could go back to childhood and buy yourself one thing what would it be? A ridiculously generic domain name.

What’s your biggest pet peeve? People that chew with their mouth open

What was the best TV sitcom ever? Seinfeld/That 70’s Show – Tie.

What’s your favorite scent? Freshly cut grass

Which pet is the favorite of any you’ve had? Buddy the cat

What’s your favorite month of the year? September. My anniversary, football starts, Chili and Soup are back in season, and golf is still good, only less expensive.

Who’s the greatest athlete that ever lived? Tiger Woods will be, but I’d say Secretariat.

If you could only read one magazine which one would you subscribe to? Easy; Consumer Reports.

What would you like to learn to do on your computer? Web programming, in a SEO-friendly way.

What’s your ideal weekly schedule? 5 day workweek, one or two days from home.

What are five things every visitor to this country should see? Snow on Christmas Day, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, a drive through New England in the Fall when the trees are changing colors, a sunset over the Pacific Ocean, and the Florida Keys.
If you could ride any animal which would you choose? A whale

If you could have dinner anywhere in the world which restaurant would you choose? Toque, in Montreal (had dinner there once with my wife, and it was my first true “experience” dining. Never forget that.

What’s the most difficult habit you’ve tried to break? Stopping eating when I’m near full, rather than finishing my plate, like I was raised to do.

What have you learned this week? I have a better life than I thought I would have at this point in life.

If you could take only one CD for a cross-country roadtrip, which would you choose? If it were summer, a pre-1980 Van Halen CD, ladies choice. If it were winter, Pink Floyd’s The Wall, Rush’s Exit Stage Left or Queensryche’s Empire, in that order.

What chore would you love to never do again? Clean the kitty litter box.

What kid’s toy have you always wanted? Jarts

If you could spend the day with any celebrity whom would you choose? Krusty the Clown from the Simpsons

What was your first job? Washing dishes at Ruth’s Anchor Inn.

See, I told you it was fun. Now it’s your turn; copy/paste the questions, answer them yourself, and leave a link in the comments. I can’t wait!

Manistee National (the Canthooke Valley) isn’t a monster, but it is 6,517 yards from the Blues, which I normally play. Honestly, that’s plenty long. The course starts out with a bang; a 439 yard par 4. Luckily, the tee shot is downhill, so you’ll gain some yardage. Try to be on the right-side of the fairway. It will help your approach, by missing a large tree in front of the left-side of the green.

The second is a short par 4. Keep it in the fairway, and you should have a potential birdie, easy par. The third is a 519 yard par 5 that is potentially reachable, but the tee shot has to be a boomer. From the tee, you want to brush the trees on the left-hand side. I’d suggest taking your cart past the tee before hitting so you can see the angle of the fairway.

If it’s hit well you’ll be able to go for it in two, and miss out on the dip in the fairway from about 150 – 100 yards in. If you have to make it a three shot par 5, be prepared for an uphill third, and note where the pin is on the green.

The fourth hole is an all-carry par 3. There is another well-placed tree on the left side of the green, so be careful. If the pin is behind it, don’t even think of going for the flag; play it safe, and hang it out to the right side of the green for a two-putt.

Also, try not to be long here. The day we played it, one of the members of our group (who will remain nameless; OK it was me), hit it past the green, and while looking for the ball, we found this.

The fifth is a 447 yard par 4, and the #1 handicap hole on the course. The tee shot needs to hug the left-hand side AND be very long. The fairway gets really thin near the landing area, so be sure to hit it up the left. Otherwise, you’re going to be in a hollow at best, or OB at worst. Being up the left also gives you a better approach, taking a row of pines out of play.

The seventh epitomizes a feature that comes into play on multiple holes on this course; the importance of tee shot placement. On this hole, you HAVE to be on the right-hand side of the fairway to have any chance of going for the green in regulation. There’s lots of room, so feel free let it fly. Here’s a picture of the approach from the right side. If you were left, you can see that you’d have a collection of pines to deal with, potentially causing you to chip out.

The eighth is what one would assume is a reachable par 5, at only 519 yards. The difficulty is that the green is severely uphill, and the green is two-tiered, making the approach distance very important. I’d suggest making it a three-shotter, only to ensure good placement of the shot to the green. If you’re on the wrong tier, this is an easy hole for a 3-jack.

The tenth is also a par 5 that may be reachable, but if your tee shot stays on the high side of the fairway, and doesn’t trickle down to the lower-level, when you look around for a sprinkler head, you may find this one. One of my favorite sprinkler heads ever!

Twelve is a “meaty” par 4, weighing in at 444 yards. The hole is relatively straight, but not from the direction of the tee. If you’re not playing the Blues, be sure to walk up to that tee to see the entire hole. This will help you direct your tee shot (which should brush the pines on the left.) No trouble on this hole; it’s just very long.

The fourteenth is a favorite of the local players. If your driver is on, it is reachable, even though it weighs in at 340 yards. There is nothing wrong with playing this as a regular par 4, but if you’re feeling strong with the driver (and accurate), go for it. As long as you clear the bunker, and keep between the pines, you’ll have a chip for an approach and a potential birdie.

The 16th is another hole where you have to be on the correct side of the fairway to have any chance of hitting the green in regulation. On this hole, aim for the right side. The fairway dips right about where you’re tee shot is going to land, but if it looks good from the tee, you’ll be fine. That should leave you about 160+ to the green. A par here is all good.

The 17th is another all-carry par 3. It’s only 143 from the Blues, so distance isn’t the issue; control is. The green has a bunker in the front and left side, and a steep hill behind it, leaving the only bail short and right. The green isn’t too large, so anything that lands on it is a potential birdie. Easily one of the prettiest holes in Manistee County.

Canthooke Valley finishes on a great risk-reward hole. This par 4 is only 324 from the tips, but you have to carry a lake, and there’s lots of trouble if you miss the fairway. For the best approach, you actually want to be on the left side of the fairway, which is hard to do. If you’re shooting a great round, use a 5 or 6-iron to the fat part of the fairway, but if you’re playing skins and it’s tied, or if there’s some money on the line, go for it. This is the perfect finishing hole, as far as I’m concerned.

The two courses at Manistee National are both challenging in their own ways. Cutters’ Ridge is more of a resort course, while Canthooke Valley is more of a course you could play every day (which I used to do). If you’re ever in Northwestern Michigan, I strongly suggest playing both courses at Manistee National. I have never been disappointed, and I’ll bet that you won’t be either.

Other Michigan Golf Course Reviews:

Heather Golf Course, Boyne Highlands, Harbor Springs, Michigan
Bay Harbor Golf Club, Bay Harbor, Michigan
The Heathlands, Onekama, Michigan
Hemlock Golf Club, Ludington, Michigan
Arcadia Bluffs Golf Course, Arcadia, Michigan
Arthur Hills Golf Course, Boyne Highlands, Harbor Springs, Michigan
The Bear Golf Course, Grand Traverse Resort, Acme, Michigan

Return to the Golf Course Reviews Homepage.

The North Course starts right out the back door of the clubhouse. The first hole is fully in view, and relatively easy (369 from the back tees). Readers know that I’m a fan of “warm-up” holes, and this course doesn’t disappoint with its opening, short dogleg right.

The second hole is a meandering par 5, that may be reachable, but not for me. The approach to the green is all uphill, so I’d suggest making it a 3-shot par 5, and try to start par-par (or possible birdie).

The 4th is a lengthy, 204-yard par 3. Luckily, you’re better short than long here, and the green is slightly raised. Definitely try to stick it, but being short isn’t the end of the world either.

The 5th is a short par 5 that is potentially reachable, but the tee shot and approach are both uphill, so plan on taking extra clubs here. Be careful not to go long as you approach into the green; there isn’t a lot of room for error behind the green. Fortunately, there is room to bail to the right of the green, so if your chipping game is on, it may be the right play. Here are pictures of the tee shot, and approach, respectively.

The 7th is a 402 yard par 4, but don’t worry; this hole is entirely down-hill. From the tee, you can see a little bit of the lake, but as you near your approach (and eventually the green), it comes into full view. This is one of the best views on the course, so have your camera ready!

The 8th is a very scenic par 3, with some of the best bunkering of the entire Eagle Ridge Resort.

Once you’re on the 8th green, you may see some boaters or fisherman. The day we were there, it was fisherman, and they were so close we could’ve reached out and touched them.

Eleven is a 533-yard par 5, with an elevated tee shot. If your driver is working, Fire at will. It’s one of those holes where you feel like the ball will go a mile.

Thirteen is a relatively tough par three (for me, anyways), mainly because it requires a mid-iron (185 yards from the Black), yet the green is surrounded by bunkers, forcing you to stick it. Easier said then done. There is a little room to bail (front-left and back-right), but not a lot, so take a little extra time focusing on this tee shot.

Fifteen is another great par 5 (If you haven’t noticed, I like the par 5’s on this course.) This is the longest one at 566 yards, but the approach into the green is downhill by quite a bit. It’s not reachable for me, but if you plan a three-shotter, the second shot should be left at about 135 or more. If not, you may have a very steep, downhill lie. Here, you can see the 150 yard stake in the fairway, and the drop-off to the4 green.

The finishing hole is actually pretty easy (Handicap = 14), which is a little disappointing to me, but not the end of the world. Hit a strong drive up the left side, and you should have a pretty good approach to the pin. Lots of bunkers, but by this time of the round, you should be as precise as you’re going to get, so go for the flag.

We discussed the three courses at Eagle Ridge, and if we could only play one, it would be The General. If it were only two, it would be The General and the South Course, with this course coming in third. The third place designation is not by a long-shot, by any means, but we both felt this was the least scenic of the three. On a positive note, my wife thought this was the easiest of the three for women, so it may be the right course for you.

Other Illinois Golf Course Reviews:

The General Golf Course, Eagle Ridge Resort, Galena, Illinois
Whisper Creek Golf Club, Huntley, Illinois

Return to the Golf Course Reviews Homepage.

My Dad and I on the 15th green

The second is a straight-forward par 3, but on the third, the fun really starts. It’s a 559 yard par 5 that is almost reachable, if you cut enough of the corner. The tee shot looks like you should aim straight, but before you hit, take the cart just past the women’s tee, and see how far to the right you can hit your ball. You’ll probably be aiming over the trap and bush on the right-side of the tee. The fairway is fat, so swing away. The green is very tight (which forces me to make it a 3-shotter), with bunkers in the front, and OB behind it.

On 4, the tee shot is all about placement. Do what you can to reach the flat area of the fairway but be warned; a driver may be too much. If you leave it on the hill, you may have an approach that looks like this.

The fifth is a 445 yard par 4, which is the #2 handicap hole on the course. Driver for sure here, and stay up the left-side to catch the downslope, but don’t land in the left bunker.

Your approach (which is almost blind) can be a bit long if needed, because this green is HUGE. It’s two-tiered, but it’s better (for me anyway) to be long here than short, and in the bunker guarding the front of the green.

The 6th is a par 5, but with a hammer for a tee shot, is reachable. Like the third hole, the green is really guarded, with a bunker in front and OB behind it, but don’t let that scare you.

The 7th is another fun hole that is a severe dog leg to the right. Seasoned players (of this course) may go for the green by cutting the corner and hitting a huge cut, but for the rest of us, hit a 200-220 yard shot into the middle of the landing area.

This should leave you around 100 to the green, which is uphill. Oh yeah, and you’ll be landing it blind (especially if the pin is in the back), so hit a crisp one here.

#10, #11 and #14 are all short par 4’s (333, 345 and 295 yards, respectively). If you don’t have the 50-75 yard shot in your bag, hit hybrids off the tee, to leave yourself good approaches. They really are all attackable holes, so if you had some pain on the front 9, here’s your chance to make some strokes up. Here are pictures of all three, in order:

Fifteen is THE hole. It’s a downhill par 3, that is easily one of the most scenic holes in the area. (The first picture in this set of my Dad and I was taken on this green.) It’s so far downhill that it’s easily a 2-3 club difference, depending on wind. It’s so dramatic of a shot that you should be happy if you keep it on the green, let alone near the pin. Bring your camera for this one; it’s the best.

The 16th isn’t a long par 4 (360) but it is ALL uphill. Driver is probably fine, but your approach is also uphill, so be sure to adjust for it. Here are a couple pictures of the tee shot, and the approach.

The 18th is an animal; there’s just no other way to say it. It’s the #1 handicap hole on the course, and for good reason. It’s 605 yards from the tips, and absolutely impossible to go for in two, so don’t even think about it. The tee shot is wide open, so go ahead and let it fly.

The second shot should leave you with about 150 in (the water is at about 140 or so, so be sure not to go long on this shot.) Because it will be an uphill, blind shot, you should take a little more club, but don’t take too much, or you’ll be wet. This usually causes players to play safe, which leaves them about 160-170 for their third shot (over water). The green is very large, with multiple undulations. Although I’m sure it’s happened, in the dozens of times I’ve played here, I’ve never seen anyone birdie the 18th. A par is quite an accomplishment here!

As I said, I really love this course. It’s short enough that my Dad doesn’t feel intimidated, it’s scenic enough that my wife loves playing here, and it’s challenging enough to keep me coming back. Plus, it’s as reasonable as it gets (In-season weekend is $65). Now you see why we’re smiling so much!

Kate and I with the 16th hole behind us

Other Michigan Golf Course Reviews:

Heather Golf Course, Boyne Highlands, Harbor Springs, Michigan
Hemlock Golf Club, Ludington, Michigan
Canthooke Valley, Manistee National Golf & Resort, Manistee, Michigan
Bay Harbor Golf Club, Bay Harbor, Michigan
Arcadia Bluffs Golf Course, Arcadia, Michigan
Arthur Hills Golf Course, Boyne Highlands, Harbor Springs, Michigan
The Bear Golf Course, Grand Traverse Resort, Acme, Michigan

Return to the Golf Course Reviews Homepage.

We arrived a bit early for our 10:30 tee time, and actually got to hit the range, practice a few putts, and tee off about a half-hour early. Thanks to the starters for getting us on early – much appreciated.

Oops, before I forget. When we checked in, I noticed about a dozen cans of Deep Woods Off on the counter, and decided they were there for a reason. Heck with the sunscreen; this was WAY more important. It didn’t help that it rained (very hard) the night before. Needless to say, we spent very little time in the shade.

The course starts our easy enough, with a straight-away par 4 that has a slight turn to the left. It’s not the longest hole (438 from tips, but only 413 from the Blues, which I played), but it is a good starting hole. I’ve played courses that start tough from the get-go, and I prefer a few warm-up holes. Here’s a shot form the back of the green towards the tee.

The second is actually a very short par 4, giving the player a chance at birdie/easy par very early in the round. Again, fairly straight, and only measuring 325 from the blues. I’d suggest a hybrid, leaving a 100 yard shot, but you’ll probably blast a driver. I know I did the first time I played it!

The third is another short par 4, this one only 278 from the Blues, but beware; this hole is trouble. There are two landing areas for your tee shot, and they are at different distances from the tee. The fairway is almost two different fairways, depending on where you land (ironically, there is a two-fairway hole coming up.) It’s short, but a par is all good here.

The seventh hole is the opposite of the 2nd and 3rd holes. It’s a loooong par four, playing to 459 from the Blues, into the wind. I thought I hit a pretty good driver, and still had 200+ to the green. Consider making it a 3 shot par 4, instead of trying to kill it on the first or second shot. I should’ve played hybrid, wedge, wedge.

The ninth is a great par 4, with sand bordering the entire right side of the hole. If your driver is on, you can cut a lot of this hole off, leaving less than 140 to the flag. Instead of playing safe to the fat part of the fairway, let one rip over the foliage to the right of the fairway, and if it carries well, you’ll be rewarded.

At the turn, we stopped for a couple sandwiches. As we were waiting, I noticed that on the bar, there was a sign that had been printed and added for a specific type of alcohol. I thought it was just too cool not to take a picture. I think it speaks for itself.

I’ve always thought the back was more interesting (and more of a challenge) than the front. I also think that this is a good thing, because by now, you should be warmed up and ready for it. The tenth starts you right off with a challenge; a large bunker directly in the middle of the fairway. Play up the left if you can.

The 11th is a great par 5 that is potentially reachable (505 yards from the blues), except for the green. This is probably one of the scariest second shots, if you decide to try for it. The green is elevated by at least 20 feet, and is thin, forcing you to stick the approach. In addition, there is a significant bunker that borders 4/5 of the green. A par is possible, if you give it the respect it deserves, and play it as a three-shot par 5. Here’s the view of my third shot.

The twelfth is also a par 5 (that’s right; back-to-back par 5’s), but this one is 564 from the Blues. Also, it is one of the most interesting hole designs I’ve seen. The fairway splits, with a group of large trees in the middle, forcing you to make a choice. If you go left (which you can barely see from the tee), the path is a little wider, and it may give you a view of the green for your third. If you go right, you will definitely have a blind shot for your third, to a very small green. I don’t think I’ve ever parred this hole, but I really do love it. It’s always a challenge.

The 13th is an all-carry, 189 yard par 3. The bunkers in the front are trouble (the wife hit here, and got the fried-egg lie; the ball was almost completely covered.) I hit a strong 6-iron, and actually two-putted for a par. The green is large, so better long than short here.

From the 14th tee, you can’t really see where you need to hit it, but trust me; a driver is fine, if well placed. There is sand up the right-hand side that slopes down towards the fairway, so hit it strong and long right up the middle, and you’ll be rewarded with a short approach.

The 18th is a tricky hole. This is a true dogleg, with the fairway ending, and the hole to the left. Club selection here is key (I chose the wrong one). If you’re too short (like I was), you won’t be able to approach the green, due to tall pines on the left. If you’re too long, you may end up in the junk. I’ve played with guys who will hit driver over the pines on the left, right at the green, or about 50 yards short. If you’re a big hitter, it may be the play for you.

A friend of mine read a few of my reviews, and asked “Why don’t you ever post your score?” I never thought it was a big deal, but since he asked, I’ll start posting going forward. I shot a 91 at Hemlock Golf Club. Not my proudest moment, but considering I hadn’t played here in a few years, I was pretty happy with it.

I’d recommend playing Hemlock Golf Club to anyone. The scenery is great, the course offers up some very challenging holes, and the price is very reasonable. Just remember to bring the Deep Woods Off; you’ll thank me later.

Other Michigan Golf Course Reviews:

Heather Golf Course, Boyne Highlands, Harbor Springs, Michigan
Canthooke Valley, Manistee National Golf & Resort, Manistee, Michigan
Bay Harbor Golf Club, Bay Harbor, Michigan
The Heathlands, Onekama, Michigan
Arcadia Bluffs Golf Course, Arcadia, Michigan
Arthur Hills Golf Course, Boyne Highlands, Harbor Springs, Michigan
The Bear Golf Course, Grand Traverse Resort, Acme, Michigan

Return to the Golf Course Reviews Homepage.

In Flickr, the description for the above photos reads as follows: The first image reads “Harborside International Golf Center, Chicago, Illinois” and the second one reads “Harborside International Golf, Port Course, Chicago, IL”.

You’ll notice that there is some additional text that Flickr is adding to the SERP. In both cases, it reads “Click this icon to see public photos and videos tagged with golf il golf…”. Not the end of the world, but not optimal either.

Now let’s look at an optimized description for an image.

As you’ll see, there was enough text in the description of this image to keep Flickr from adding any of their text. I’m not sure what the threshold is, but one thing is clear:

When it comes to Flickr Descriptions, better too long than too short.

Hope this helps!

Possibility 2: Maybe search budgets are too small to care about.
Great point here. Although more and more companies are coming online, and dipping their toes in the SEM space, it’s still a pittance for most companies.

Possibility 3: Maybe everybody in the business has drunk too much Google Kool-Aid.
This is true to a point, but I think those companies that are a little more advanced have noticed Google for what it really is; The new Microsoft, with a better product, and better PR. The difference is that Google is still looked at as cool by the masses, and Microsoft never was. In the end, Google will have far more data than Microsoft ever had. Two thumbs up for PR.

Possibility 4: Maybe it’s impossible to evaluate search performance.
This point seems like Dave may have been looking to ad a fourth bullet, without really making a point. On a side note, love the opening dig: “In-house mediocrity vs. outsourced excellence”. Didn’t the first bullet say SEM agencies don’t have a clue? Doesn’t he work for an SEM agency? How did we go from not having a clue to excellence in a few bullet points? Please leave the response in the comments.

I think the mature online marketing companies are pulling SEM internally for a number of reasons, but first let’s discuss what I mean by “mature”. I’d define it as a company that’s tried it in-house (and probably failed), outsourced it to an agency or two and seen better results, but over that period of time, have noticed the fee becoming a bigger and bigger part of the SEM program. At some point, the VP of Finance sees that fee, and decides they could probably do it internally for less. The reality is that maybe they can and maybe they can’t, and it may take some time to get their sea legs, but it is possible they can do it as well as an agency.

Even though most agencies don’t have a clue (Dave’s words), a lot of individuals at agencies do, and are willing (or already have) made the switch to in-house. Couple that with the legal value of having internal folks managing it (although more important to affiliate SEM than agency SEM, but still valid), as well as the removal of the monthly maintenance fee (or % of spend, or whatever the model), and it’s pretty clear this is the direction the industry is headed.

As companies mature in the SEM space, the natural progression is to pull it in-house. It’s better from a budgeting standpoint and from a legal standpoint, plus you don’t have that painful monthly fee. Finally, in-house folks have a vested interest in succeeding, as it may be tied to their bonus, or it may just be job security.

For all the mud that Dave has slung at our community, I personally think he works for one of the better agencies out there. Kevin Lee (Co-founder of Did It) and I were on the Board of SEMPO together, and I’ve never had a conversation with him and not learned from it.

I wouldn’t expect Dave’s opinion to go against his business model. I do however, feel that it is flawed, and someone from the other side of the fence needed to speak up.

In the end, I think more and more companies will transition their SEM in-house. From where I sit (in-house for > 5 years, SEMPO in-house committee, etc.) it’s a natural transition I’ve seen time and time again, and I don’t expect it to end anytime soon.

We arrived a little early, spent some time in the pro shop and on the range, and when we went to the starters shack, we found out that it would be only the two of us in our group. Although we enjoy playing golf with others and meeting new people, we also enjoy each others company enough, and besides; it gives me more opportunities for taking pictures. Here’s the only one I didn’t take at the course; one of Kate and I.

I remember reading somewhere that Nicklaus likes to start his courses with a practice hole, and the first hole could have been just that. Very straight-forward, not too long, and a green that undulated, but nothing serious. Here’s my approach.

Actually, through the first three holes (par 4, 4 and 3 respectively) I thought to myself, “Is this it?” I really wasn’t that impressed. Even as my fourth tee shot landed over a hill and out of sight (but still in the fairway) I wasn’t really impressed. And then I reached the top of said hill, and knew that I was in for something special. The second shot plays downhill to a very tight green. It’s large, but well guarded by bunkers. I chickened out, and gave myself a third shot approach of about 120.

Then came the fifth. It seems easy enough, for the uninitiated; a slight dogleg left, and just over 400 yards. From the tee, it’s a little difficult to see just how thin the fairway is. It’s all OB left, and a fence line with houses on the right. This is easily one of the toughest driving holes I’ve played. Even if you get a good poke off the tee, the approach is over a chasm of junk, with little room to bail. Nicklaus went from warm-up to world class in 5 holes. Here’s a shot from in front of the ladies tee (showing the thinness of the fairway) and a looking back from the green.

The 6th is an all-carry par 3, with bunkers on both sides of the green. The pin was front, making the landing area as tight as possible. It really made for a beautiful hole though.

This brings us to two details about The Bull; one I liked and one I disliked. Near the ladies tee on this hole, there was a “Personal Tee” marker from U.S. Kids Golf. These are placed on courses for beginner’s to use, and placed in such a position that the person playing may actually make a par. I’ve seen them on par 4’s from about 150 yards out. I LOVE this, and wish more courses would implement it. Very impressed.

Now for the dislike. The on-course restrooms are, in my opinion, an embarrassment for this course. The Bull is an impressive Nicklaus design, on par with the neighboring Meadows Valley and River Courses at Blackwolf Run, and easily one of my favorites in the Midwest. The on-course restrooms are porta-potties. For a course this nice, it is borderline unacceptable. What really surprised me was that there were houses within throwing distance of the porta-potties (note one in the background of the image below). Why didn’t they add the plumbing for on-course restrooms? It isn’t like there aren’t water lines running to these houses. I truly hope there’s a good reason, or that they are considering adding them at a future date.

The seventh is another wonderfully, tight hole. The tee shot has got to be precise to have any chance of hitting this elevated green. Also, your approach is basically blind. Be careful off the tee here.

As is often the case, the 9th works its way back to the clubhouse. Again, an uphill approach is in play, although not blind.

The tenth is relatively easy. I wonder if Nicklaus made this a “practice” hole too, for those playing only 9 holes. In any case, it’s a dogleg right, with some water on the right, but some room to bail on the left. This should be a par (although it was a bogey for me; stupid 3-jack.)

The 12th is a very scenic, long par 3. It’s 236 from the tips, and over 200 yards for all but the shortest set of tees. It’s a struggle to par here, with trouble everywhere. The water doesn’t really come into play, but there’s bunkers surrounding the green, and hitting it long is OB, so if anything, be a little short.

I really liked the 16th hole. It’s one of those holes that doesn’t reward the long hitter (which, ironically is me), but the accurate player (which, sadly is not me.) It’s a dogleg left, but a good tee shot can cut off a lot of the hole, so give it a shot. The green is pretty well guarded by bunkers (no surprise there), but there is room for bailing to the back right. I also like the 16th because I got one of my favorite pictures from this golf course on this hole. Note that the flags were US flags, to commemorate Memorial Day.

The 18thg hole is probably the toughest finishing hole I’ve ever played. It’s a 485 yard par 4 from the tips, and it’s all into the wind. That’s right; I said a 485 yard par 4. That’s US Open length, AND it’s into the wind. Even the tees I played were 462; a true monster. I played it as a three-shot hole, and hoped to one-putt (which I didn’t). I can imagine that tournaments played here are lost more often than won on this hole. Definitely something to remember.

I would be happy to play The Bull again. Once you play a course, you remember some of the nuances, and I think I’d probably have a better finishing score. I will say that I was disappointed with the on-course restrooms (more so for my wife than myself), but other than that single, minor issue, this is a must play.

If you are traveling to Kohler and planning to play some of the course there, I would consider including The Bull at Pinehurst farms in your travel plans. It’s less than 10 minutes away, a Nicklaus design, a shotmaker’s delight, and a fraction of the cost.

If you go, be sure to comment below with your thoughts.

Other Wisconsin Golf Course Reviews:

The River Course, Blackwolf Run, Kohler, Wisconsin
Irish Course, Whistling Straits, Kohler, Wisconsin

Return to the Golf Course Reviews Homepage.

I’ve played the Irish Course at Whistling Straits twice; once during my honeymoon (when I played all four of the Kohler golf courses), and again in August of 2007. It borders the Whistling Straits course, so you do have views of Lake Michigan, but not nearly as many as you do on the Straits. Of course, you still get the wind, and it is a Pete Dye design, so the challenge is still there for sure.

Caddies are required, and it’s a walking-only course. I think I read somewhere that they’d allow a golf cart for the physically handicapped, but I’ve never seen one on the course. If you’re not used to walking, or are not in the best of shape (like me), plan on playing in the morning, and either soaking in a hot tub in the afternoon, or getting a massage. This course is anything but flat, and will require a good degree of stamina.

The Irish Course starts out tough enough; slight uphill par 4, directly towards Lake Michigan (think windy). Take plenty of club on the approach, which is also uphill.

The second hole looks simple enough from the tee; it’s also a par 4, and measures 360 from the Blue (only 372 from the Black). Oddly, it’s the 6th handicap hole on the course. There’s water on the right, but the real challenge is the approach. The green is small, very thin, and is well-guarded. Since the tee shot is short, be sure to leave yourself a perfect distance for the approach (and include the wind). Here’s where the caddies really start coming into play.

The fifth is an almost unreachable par 5. The tee shot has to be perfect, and there’s trouble everywhere, including dozens of bunkers, a waste area, a long carry, and a river running through the middle of the fairway. Again, the green is abnormally small, and heavily guarded. My advice (as is the norm with Dye designs); play it safe. Ask your caddy; he’ll tell you the same.

The 8th hole is a downhill par 5, and a beautiful hole. Be sure to hammer the drive; this hole is potentially reachable. Although 542 from the Blue, the second shot is downhill, and the wind doesn’t seem to be too large of a factor here. With two great shots, it’s possible (but remember the key word… great).

Here’s the tee shot (which should favor the right side):

And here’s the approach on 8:

The ninth isn’t necessarily a hard hole, but the ever-present railroad ties (Dye is famous for them) become apparent here. Personally, I think they add a lot.

The tenth is a visually difficult hole. It is completely uphill, so plan on hitting a blind approach. Again, the caddies help a lot for this type of shot. It’s hard to show just how uphill this hole is, but the picture below was taken from the tee, and the golfers on the far left of the shot are on the group in front of us, on the green.

The 11th and 13th are both straight-forward par 3’s, but they are both so beautiful, with their railroad ties and numerous bunkers, that I had to include pictures of both.

Here’s the 11th:

And here’s the 13th:

The on-course restrooms are basically hidden from sight, but if the need arises, they are some of the cleanest restrooms I’ve even seen (and of course, full of impressive Kohler fixtures.) I had to take a couple shots. Here’s the outside of the restroom facilities:

And here’s a close-up of one of the Kohler sinks (I think it’s the border is the Straits course):

One thing did surprise us while playing the course; the sound of cowbells. The caddy noticed the weird look on our faces, and mentioned that the sheep (which are allowed to roam the course at will) must have been up and moving around. The first time we played the Irish Course, most of the sheep were lying down. The caddy said that was a sure sign that it was going to rain soon. They were getting their rest. True to form, it rained that night, and we had to reschedule our round at the Straits Course.

The 14th is a relatively straight par 5, with one (personal) stand-out feature; a massive bunker on the left side of the green. It’s OB right, so there really isn’t a place to bail. Playing out of this bunker was a great premonition of playing the Straits Course; almost every hole there has a bunker like this.

If you don’t pass out from all the walking (OK, I’m REALLY out of shape), the 18th is a great finishing hole. A par 5 with an elevated green. Playing 536 from the Blues, it’s potentially reachable, but not for me. A great tee shot goes down into a valley, making the second almost completely uphill. I say make the third shot your approach, and give yourself a good distance.

At the 18 green, a staff member will meet you and give you a ride back to the clubhouse. Although it’s within walking distance, you’ll be thankful to be able to sit down on a cart (I GOT to get to the gym!)

Of the four courses at Kohler, The River Course is my favorite, followed by this one. It’s not as penal as the Straits, but not as easy as the Meadows. It’s a true test, within throwing distance of Lake Michigan. If you can only pick two, pick this one.

Finally, be sure to tip your caddy well. All you did was walk it; they had to drag your bag.

Other Wisconsin Golf Course Reviews:

The River Course, Blackwolf Run, Kohler, Wisconsin
The Bull at Pinehurst Farms, Sheboygan Falls, Wisconsin

Return to the Golf Course Reviews Homepage.

Specifically, someone had typed in the term “cantigny golf course in illinois“, and my Flickr account was appearing in the 2nd and 3rd position. Here’s a shot of the 2nd result.

The important thing to note is that there is a TITLE to the image above it (Cantigny Golf Course, Wheaton, Illinois) and a description beneath it (Picture of the 4th tee sign on the Lakeside Nine, Cantigny Golf in Wheaton, Illinois.)

Here’s the interesting part. In the Google SERP, it displayed BOTH of these. Here’s a screenshot of the listing:

As you can see, the TITLE of the image is showing in the TITLE of the result, and the Description of the image appears underneath it.

Taking this one step further, I could maximize my Description, so it was more keyword-rich, and more “clickable”.

So get out there and start maximizing your images on Flickr! You know you want to.