LPGA International's Hills Course, carved from the Florida pines near Daytona Beach, embodies a stern test designed to challenge aspiring professionals. It doesn't whisper of a bygone Golden Age, but rather speaks the modern language of strategic angles and exacting distances. Arthur Hills, the architect, imposed a layout that rewards calculated risk and punishes indecision with water hazards lurking throughout the course. The Hills Course doesn't demand brute strength, though length is rewarded, but instead subtle shot shaping and a deep understanding of green complexes. Favoring those who can work the ball both ways, the course features generous fairways that tighten considerably as one approaches the meticulously manicured greens. The overall presentation reflects its role as a testing ground, a constant reminder of the unforgiving nature of tournament golf. While not steeped in the history of a century-old links or parkland course, the Hills Course has played its part as a Qualifying School site for the LPGA Tour, and hosted the Symetra Tour Championship. In this regard, the Hills Course serves as a proving ground. And although it lacks the celebrated status of golf's elite venues, LPGA International's Hills Course has etched its name in professional golf as it has witnessed countless players take their first steps toward glory.