Try to stay dry on the River golf course at Rio Mar Country Club in Puerto Rico

RIO GRANDE, Puerto Rico -- The Mameyes River isn't the only water hazard tormenting golfers on the River Course at Rio Mar Country Club.

Greg Norman designed his challenging 6,945-yard layout around the river, wetlands and six other ponds that gobble up misses. Keeping the ball dry remains the biggest obstacle of the day.

Members seem to slightly favor the Ocean Course at the Wyndham Grand Rio Mar Beach Resort & Spa: It's shorter, easier and generally in better condition. The River Course, however, might be superior shot for shot.

Two bridges crossing the river connect the front nine to holes 11-17 on a back nine that sit in the shadow of the El Yunque National Forest, the only rainforest in America. Norman routinely asks players to aim at bunkers opposite water hazards or risk hitting the ball into oblivion. Ultimately, the sand is safer than sinking, right?

Jason Scott Deegan has reviewed and photographed more than 1,100 courses and written about golf destinations in 25 countries for some of the industry's biggest publications. His work has been honored by the Golf Writer's Association of America and the Michigan Press Association. Follow him on Instagram at @jasondeegangolfpass and Twitter at @WorldGolfer.
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Try to stay dry on the River golf course at Rio Mar Country Club in Puerto Rico