Golf in the Desert

The Waste Management Open in Phoenix starts tomorrow at the TPC of Scottsdale.  Outside of The Masters and the HP Byron Nelson Championship, this is my favorite tournament to watch.  Having lived in the desert for 8 years I know how nice it is there in the winter time.  However, it's not too great there this week.
But the main reason is the golf course.  The last four holes are simply the most exciting stretch of holes outside of the back 9 at Augusta.  Starting with the risk vs. reward par 5 15th hole.  An island green tempts the longer hitters to challenge the green for their second shot.  Then you move to the greatest hole on the PGA TOUR.  The par 3 16th hole only measures 160 yards but when it's surrounded by 20,000 spectators, in a stadium setting, the hole takes on an entirely new dimension.  Tiger Woods hole-in-one there in 2008 might be the single greatest scene I've ever witnessed in golf.  The 17th hole is a short par 4 measuring 332 yards.  Water on the left by the green and a very undulating green make this hole a blast to watch.  Then you reach the par 4 18th hole and you must drive it straight to avoid the water on the left and bunkers on the right.
I've seen golfers go through this stretch as much as 5-under par and or have a complete train wreck.  Whoever wins, this stretch of golf will be riveting television all four days.