The change: Large mounds in the landing area of the fairway were reduced approximately 80-85 percent and 20 pine trees approximately 35 feet hight were planted on the right side. On the left side, a group of about six trees were added behind the existing large trees. Also, a large mound on the right of green was removed and replaced by six pine trees.
The effect: When the changes were announced, this was the one people thought would be most dramatic. On paper, it is. When seen in person, it isn't. There are still some mounds that the golfers can slingshot their drives off and get an extra 40 yards of roll. The main reason it will play harder is because the newly planted trees will catch wayward drives and force the golfer to lay up to the water-guarded green instead of going for it in two shots. The new trees on the left will make it tougher for golfers to go for the green in two shots. Also, the trees planted to the right of the green will make it tougher for golfers to get up-and-down for birdies and pars. Tiger Woods will still be able to hit a 9-iron into this green.
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