The economic downturn has continued to afflict the golf industry, which once again saw a small number of new-course openings, especially in the private-club segment.

But once again, the theme is quality, not quantity. And there was no bigger story than one of the most anticipated new courses in recent memory. The overwhelming rookie of the year for 2010 is the much-hyped fourth course at Oregon's Bandon Dunes Resort. Owner Mike Keiser's tribute to his favorite designer, C.B. Macdonald (carried out by Tom Doak), did not disappoint, leading a small but quality-laden class of new layouts.

Like the Oregon coast for Old Mac, stunning backdrops provide a common thread for many of our new courses: the Pacific Ocean at Davis Love III's Diamante Cabo, the Nebraska Sand Hills for a pair of courses at the Prairie Club (pictured), the city skyline at Chicago Highlands, the Atlantic Ocean at Tom Fazio's Baker's Bay.

Another much-discussed new opening is Australia's Lost Farm at Barnbougle Dunes, designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw. It opened in December, too late to be considered for this year's roster. But based on the early reviews from Down Under, Lost Farm rivals its older sibling, Barnbougle Dunes, already one of the best courses in Australia. 

To be sure, we'll report more on Lost Farm in 2011. But for now, click the link below to start your tour of the best new courses of the year.

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