Over the past couple of weeks, we have released before and after snapshots of holes throughout the Raleigh Country Club (RCC) course. This week we are wrapping up previews of the front nine holes, highlighting the barranca layout that takes us back in time with Donald Ross' original design to move water throughout the course. Check the blog next week for sneak peeks of Holes 10-13.

Hole #7

Players will notice a new bunkers on the right side as well as a slightly hidden bunker on the left side which will put a premium on finding the fairway off the tee. A barranca has been added on the right side that starts approximately 125 yards from the green and continues to the right of the green. Avoid the two green side bunkers with your approach shot, as a 5 net 4 is a great score on this demanding Par 4. 

Hole #8

The Par 5 eighth hole now features a bunker left off the tee and left of the lay up area. Although trees have been removed on each side of this hole, hidden barrancas will gobble up any shot that goes awry. For those wishing to take a shot at the green in two, beware of the crossing barranca approximately 60 yards from the center of the green. Any shot missed toward the 11th tee box will certainly spell disaster. A safely played shot to the center of this green will set you up for a possible birdie.

Hole #9

Accuracy will be a must off the tee as players face a plethora of bunkers on the shortest Par 4 at RCC. Out of bounds has now been moved to just behind the green making club selection critical for the uphill approach shot. The new green complex is something to behold as several new hole locations were added. Touch and feel will be of importance on this challenging green.

Photos courtesy of Chip Henderson Photography