I've always enjoyed playing Shandin Hills, in part because I tend to be a decent bunker player and it's difficult to get around this course without finding the sand. While most of the bunkers were in... Continue »

I've always enjoyed playing Shandin Hills, in part because I tend to be a decent bunker player and it's difficult to get around this course without finding the sand. While most of the bunkers were in poor condition (Flooded and thin ) which is what we have all come to expect since the Covid no rakes permitted policy became the norm. So I was not upset by that because I kind of expected it. However, normally the greens at Shandin Hills are pretty good, but they were the worst I have seen them. Bare spots, irregular surfaces, they really need to be rolled. I understand they will be punching the greens next week, so hopefully that will help?

Fairways were spotty, good good, some needing attention. Same with the tee boxes and rough. Staff was great and since we were out first, no issue with pace of play, walking in about 2 1/2 hours. What's strange is I have played this course many times, always at first light, so conditions should be similar, but I can never remember the freeway being so loud, to the point where it was difficult to hold a conversation with my playing partner from anything more than a few feet away. I can not remember ever having this problem before. I mean you were always aware of the freeway, but it was so loud, it actually was annoying at times ??? Maybe my old age is catching up with me ?

I would give this place several weeks to "heal" before returning. Maybe by then the greens will be back to normal