Purgatory at Purgatory Golf Club

Purgatory Golf Club lives up to its name: a sprawling test of golfing penance carved into the farmlands of Noblesville, Indiana. This early 2000s, links-style behemoth, the brainchild of architect Ron Garl, doesn't subtly suggest challenge, it screams it across its 127 bunkers and devilishly contoured greens. Errant tee shots find themselves swallowed by seemingly endless fescue, leaving even seasoned players facing daunting recovery attempts. This is not a course for the faint of heart; better to bring your "A" game or a sense of humor.

Garl's design prioritizes length and penal hazards, but also offers strategic options for those who can manage the risk-reward equation. Wide fairways can be deceptive, often funneling into challenging approach angles. While the course hasn't hosted any major professional tournaments, it has garnered a reputation as a stern, demanding test played by local enthusiasts who appreciate its unforgiving nature.

Purgatory is a course defined by its extremes: extreme length, extreme bunkering, and extreme potential for high scores. While it may not be destined for golfing Valhalla, it remains a unique and memorable experience, and a constant reminder that sometimes, golf is indeed a difficult game. In fact, it's almost a badge of honor among local players to say they've managed to break 80, and many a wager has been settled on its challenging layout.