Golf Course Architecture - Issue 58 October 2019

65 manager Peter Todd and his team were permitted to remove some non- native species, such as the Norwegian spruce, as well as trees that were declared unsafe, or were dead or dying. Todd explains that careful consideration was given to identify green locations with ample sunlight and air movement, with light patterns and even the location of falling leaves factored into the design of the golf course features. McMurray also identified a clearing for a new par-three second hole, which he says proved to be the key that made the final routing of the course work. The course now extends into land north of the previous layout, where holes six, seven, thirteen and fourteen have been laid out. This area is flatter and more open than the rest of the course, so relies on the quality of the new hole designs for its interest and character. The latter two are particularly memorable back-to-back short par fours. A central bunker in the landing area of the thirteenth compels golfers to make a decision from the tee, which could be anything from a mid- iron short of the hazard to a drive that challenges the hole’s dogleg. An enormous green extends at least fifty yards from front to back. But the toughest pin placement might be right at the front, in a spot guarded by a single bunker. A lofted approach landing short of a ridge in the green will be needed to avoid three-putt territory. On the fourteenth a perched green about 300 yards away, depending on your tee choice, might tempt long hitters. For everyone else, the primary challenge will be to avoid a string of bunkers that fronts an angled fairway. That will leave a short iron approach to a treacherous target that is protected by bunkers and a steep drop- off to the left side. Elsewhere, the par-five third hole is a highlight. Good tee shots are rewarded with a generous kick forward that will be needed to consider going for the green in two. The hole sweeps to the left and rises and narrows towards the green, with two large bunkers on the right pinching the entrance further. McMurray delivers width from the tee on most holes, but there are still a couple of occasions where golfers Ross McMurray’s routing for Royal Norwich has given the club a central hub around the clubhouse – with putting green, short game area, driving range, and the opening tees and closing greens of each nine and the academy course all in close proximity