Sunday May 13th, 2007  

The Raptor has some recollections about this hole as it set up in the 70's.  At that time, the tree cover around the green wasn't as thick as it is presently.  Therefore a 30 foot tall expanded metal fence was erected to shield the players standing on the 5th tee box from potential incoming shots.  In addition, a 4 x 8 foot sign was placed directly behind the putting surface instructing the group on the green to wave up the players on the tee box.

In the present day, the grounds crew has constructed a super ultra cool hedge and rock wall buffer that is designed to deflect poorly hit drives coming from the 5th tee.  I can't believe that it would work 100% of the time though. 

On more than one occasion, The Raptor has heard mention that the club planned to hack up the 4th, 5th and 6th holes in order to mitigate the danger and in many ways this would be a travesty.  I really wonder if a golf course can insulate it's players from getting struck by a errant shot.  I can think of 2 or 3 people that have been hit, many times with harsh results.