Set on the northern outskirts of Toronto, Eagle’s Nest by Doug Carrick is a strong, intimidating faux-links wedged between a couple of regional roads and what appears a future housing estate. Naturally or otherwise, the site is dominated by a series of peaky dunes and ridges that frame many of the holes and screen the course from suburbia. Carrick insisted upon the links theme with his design, but curiously used both smooth, grass-faced pot bunkers and more rugged, sprawling sand wastes – often in very close proximity to each other. He also routed holes around two large irrigation dams and built a lot of pushed-up greens that are particularly cruel on those who catch an edge and feed away.

In some ways Eagle’s Nest is like playing a slightly toned down Arcadia Bluffs or Whistling Straits, but away from the water. Some won’t enjoy it, but it seems perfect for the muscular public course golfer in Toronto looking for a stern test of their game.