Some green monsters are designed to intimidate, but the diehard player will always come back for more
Golf can be a tough game, especially for those of us who - in Lee Trevino's words - have a swing resembling a caveman killing his lunch. But every now and then, there comes a golf hole that leaves you thinking it might be a good time to switch to table tennis.
From the moment you step on the tee, your emotions flit between jaw-clenching determination and sheer terror. These are special holes that stay long in the memory: either as Everest-conquering triumphs or humbling tales of despair. Tournaments are often decided on these holes, and reputations won or lost.
Look no further than Jean Van de Velde, who went from national hero to national lampoon at the famous Carnoustie course in Scotland. Almost certain of becoming the first Frenchman to capture the British Open in 92 years, Van de Velde stood on the final tee, needing only a double bogey 6 or better to win. In what can only be described as the greatest one-hole meltdown in the history of golf, he found rough winds, water and sand in tragic succession to post a triple bogey 7.
So what makes these holes - often described as 'signature holes' by club promoters - so special?
Many would argue that great golf holes are like great works of art: no formula is involved. It is more a chance collision of nature, topography, design and creative inspiration.