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The Wanderers Club – Great Golf in South Florida’s Horse Country

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The Wanderers Club brings together golf, tennis, and polo in a family-friendly atmosphere and offers a winter haven for equestrians, golfers, and sport enthusiasts alike, only minutes away from the aforementioned polo grounds. It’s a golfer’s hallowed ground smack dab in the middle of horse country. But the horses aren’t as far away as you think. In designing the 18-hole course, architects Peter Jacobsen and Jim Hardy incorporated a world-class polo field into the driving range. During the season, it’s not unusual to see golfers looking over at an ongoing polo match on the driving range to the right while playing the first hole.

The golf course at The Wanderers Club is always in spectacular condition; immaculate fairways, well-manicured bunkers, water hazards and undulating brush-cut greens await you as you play your way around the layout. This Jacobson Hardy masterpiece stretches to 7,052 yards from the back tees with a course rating of 74.4 and a slope of 135 to a par of 72. In all, there are 6 sets of tee markers, however with the combo tees on the scorecard, there are 8 playable yardages. Regardless of the tees you choose to play from, the natural beauty of the Florida landscape is yours to behold on every hole.

A few holes stand out in my mind. Number 8 is a short par 4 – 294 yards from the Green tees – that offers big hitters the opportunity to go for the green. For the rest of us, there’s a trio of bunkers in the landing area so you’ll need to decide to carry them off the tee or layup. It’s about 180 yards to carry the bunker on the left side, so choose your club accordingly. From there, you’ll need to be precise with your approach shot to this elevated and angled green that slopes back to front and is very well protected. Par is actually a respectable score on this hole.

Number 15 is a long par 3; 192 yards from the Blue tees with sand everywhere. It plays uphill and slightly longer than the stated yardage and there is some bailout area to the left. Just don’t go too far left or you’ll find the waste bunker.

Number 18 is a strong finishing hole; a 364-yard, par 4 around a lake. Sand bunkers dot the landing area on both sides. Navigate around them off the tee and you’ll have a mid to short iron into an angled green that is well protected by sand and water left. The more you approach the green from the right side, the more you take the water and bunkers out of play.

The professional golf staff at The Wanderers Club are dedicated to helping members get the most enjoyment out of their golf game. Whether you’re a scratch handicapper or a beginner, they will work with you to take your game to the next level. And, they have the perfect venue to do it. They have a large, full-length driving range stocked with Titleist practice balls where you can hit every club in your bag. There are also two short game practice areas to help perfect your prowess around the green and a practice putting green as well as a state-of-the-art, indoor/outdoor golf studio complete with video swing analysis and club fitting equipment. At the Wanderers Club, players can walk with a caddie or ride a cart.

If golf is the highlight of The Wanderers Club, tennis comes in a close second. On the tennis side, you’ll find six lighted Har-Tru tennis courts three of which are lighted and available for night play. Each court has shade shelters, comfortable seating and chilled water to keep you hydrated, with professional instruction available to all members. The club also organizes tennis events, clinics, and games throughout the week. The tennis courts are located steps away from the Clubhouse, pool, and driving range.

Health and fitness are a big part of any country club these days and The Wanderers Club is no exception. Their state-of-the-art fitness center overlooks the Junior Olympic-size swimming pool. The fitness center features a complete selection of cardio and strength training equipment including Peloton machines and free weights. Certified, experienced and highly qualified personal trainers offer carefully selected exercise classes, including Pilates and Yoga or they can help you design your own, personalized exercise program. After your workout, the massage and sauna rooms are available to club members to unwind and relax.

The Junior Olympic-size swimming pool at The Wanderers Club is a great place to unwind and relax, all while soaking up the Florida sunshine.  As an added bonus, the Club’s grill room has a full kitchen and offers service to members at the pool as well as tennis players or golfers looking to take a break at the turn. The new Children’s Playroom has a heated wading pool and adult attendants are on hand for parents who want to dine, play golf or tennis, or relax by the pool.

Within the clubhouse, you’ll also find a card room where you can hang out with the guys and catch a game, an air conditioned grill room and a classic family game room including table tennis, a pool table, air hockey, Hoop Fever, Skee Ball, Chexx Hockey, foosball, pinball and a Multi-cade Video Game console featuring all of the classic video arcade games. There’s also a 15-seat movie theater.

When it comes to dining, The Wanderers Club offers a couple of options. Duke’s Restaurant is a casual bar and restaurant which is ideal for a casual dinner and drinks or cocktail reception. Duke’s is located on the second floor of the clubhouse and overlooks tropical landscaping with sprawling golf course views. If you’d prefer to be outside and enjoy the weather, Duke’s Veranda is the perfect venue for club members who want to entertain or enjoy a delicious meal while enjoying the club’s scenery.

Stables Restaurant is the club’s formal dining room and is rife with character: exposed brick, wrought iron chandeliers, and beautiful wine displays. If you’re looking for a more elegant dining experience or an intimate gathering, this is your place. Choose indoor seating or dine outside under the covered terrace with fabulous views of the pool and golf course. The menu is both diverse and delicious and the wine list extensive.As far as locations go, it doesn’t get any better than this! The Wanderers Club is located minutes away from downtown Palm Beach, where you’ll find exclusive boutiques, world-renowned restaurants, and spectacular beaches. The Palm Beach International Airport makes for a short commute for visitors and guests to South Florida’s equestrian community.

Whether you’re looking for somewhere to host an intimate dinner for you and a few friends or host a celebration of epic proportions, the culinary staff at The Wanderers Club can help make your dreams come true. They create events that make memories that you will cherish forever and exceed your expectations. Their executive chef’s culinary selections are the highlight of every event their attention to detail is second to none.

If you’re interested in becoming a member of The Wanderers Club, they offer two types of memberships for individuals and families: golf and social. With a Golf Membership, you’ll receive complimentary greens fees and a preferred rate for your guests, complimentary range balls, a locker and club storage and golf handicap tracking. Tee times are not required at The Wanderers Club, just show up and play! You’ll also receive complimentary court fees at the tennis center and access to the fitness center, pools and children’s room, both restaurants, all social events and involvement in club-sponsored events. The Social Membership includes everything but the golf side.

As a member of The Wanderers Club, you’ll have access to one of the most intriguing precision sports at the world-renowned Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. On Thursday nights, Gladiator Polo brings action-packed excitement to the Equestrian Village, home of AGDF, highlighting the best of arena polo and providing spectators with an entertaining evening. The “Friday Night Stars” FEI Grand Prix Freestyle is one of the most compelling and graceful equestrian events for members to enjoy. There are many more events to take in during the season.

For more information on becoming a new member of The Wanderers Club, give them a call at (561) 795-3501 or visit them online: www.wc.coth.com.

Maggie Valley Club & Resort – Spectacular Views. Spectacular Golf

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The Maggie Valley Club & Resort has always been known for its southern hospitality. But did you know that this golf resort has some of the most spectacular mountain views in North Carolina?

This a hidden treasure of a golf resort can be found between the Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains at an elevation of 3,000 feet. Its year-round temperate climate makes it a great getaway for golfers and avid outdoorsmen and women. In addition to a 6,500-yard mountain-style championship golf course that will challenge the most seasoned golfer and delight a beginner, The Maggie Valley Club offers several amenities. You’ll find a driving range, short game area and putting green where golfers can hone their skills before taking on the links. There are also tennis courts, walking trails, a yoga and fitness studio, hot tub and a heated swimming pool. Numerous hiking and biking trails, rafting, fishing and zip-line adventures can be found nearby. Attractions such as the Biltmore Estate, Deals Gap, Cherokee Indian Reservation and Great Smoky Mountain National Park are just a short drive away.

For many, the draw to Maggie Valley Club is the golf course, where golfers can enjoy playing one of the most scenic golf courses in North Carolina. The course is truly a tale of two nines, as the names suggest. The front Valley Nine is relatively flat and plays along the floor of the mountain valley. The back Mountain Nine features elevations that rise and drop over a total of 800 feet. Both courses offer wonderful panoramic views of the valley and beyond.

Maggie Valley has a number of memorable holes. The 3rd hole is a par 4 that plays 430 yards from the White tees. It’s a dogleg left that can be cut down if you can clear the large tree on the left at the corner of the dogleg. Be warned, there’s water all down the left side. A good drive will leave a long iron or hybrid into a green that is protected in front by bunkers on either side. Par is a good score here.

 

From the White tees, the par 3, 9th hole plays uphill and slightly longer than the 165 yards advertised on the scorecard; a little over 170 according to my rangefinder. The green slopes slightly back to front so just select the right club and hit it. You won’t know how close you are to the pin until you get up to the green.

The last three holes of the Mountain Course are a lot of fun. Number 16 is a 360-yard par 4 that doglegs slightly to the left and plays uphill; way uphill. Find the fairway bunker on the right at the bottom of the hill and this hole just got a lot tougher! A good drive will leave a mid to long iron into a well undulated green protected on the left side by a single bunker. The green slopes back to front and there’s a lot more break there than you might think. Number 17 is an interesting hole. You can’t see the green from the tee, just a bunker at the bottom of the hill about 200 yards away. Hit the fairway from the tee and you’ll have a short pitch shot into a green that slopes away from you. A front pin can be tough to get close to. Number 18 is a great finishing hole. It’s a par 5 that plays 489 yards from the White tees. A creek crosses the fairway about 270 yards out and continues up the right side towards the green. The green is definitely reachable in two; if you have to lay up, beware of the bunkers that dot the rough on either side as you approach. Low scores are possible on Number 18.

 

Many golf and country clubs are defined by their dining, one area in which the Maggie Valley Club excels. What sets the Pin High Bar & Grille apart from other country clubs is the atmosphere you find when you step through the door. It could be described as “Casual Elegance,” an ambience that makes all who enter fell comfortable and welcome. Those looking for a relaxing restaurant in the area will want to check it out. Enjoy large-screen televisions and a fireplace inside while enjoying your favorite adult beverage from their fully stocked bar. Or step outside to their covered veranda with views of the first tee and enjoy the cool mountain breeze.

As far as the food is concerned, the Pin High Bar & Grille will exceed your expectations. Pin High supports local farmers and uses the freshest ingredients to produce meals that are as tantalizing to look at as they are to enjoy. Their everyday clubhouse menu includes both typical fare and a few unique dishes, such as an Elk Burger with or without Smoked Gouda. Their Nacho Appalachia appetizer is made with Elk chili; both are truly delicious. Thursdays thru Saturdays, Maggie Valley runs dinner features; during our visit choices included a Shrimp and Grit Cake appetizer, Potato Crisp Salmon and a YabbaDabbaDoo Ribeye steak, cut as thick as you like. Their desserts are incredible, including Mocha Pecan Ice Cream and Oreo Cheesecake, which is anything but typical.

 

There are several ways to enjoy everything that the Maggie Valley Club has to offer, but the most popular are their well-priced stay and play golf packages. One of these is the Buddy Package, which includes 2 night’s lodging in an upscale, fully equipped, two bedroom/two bath condo, 3 rounds of golf per person (greens and cart fees included), complimentary range balls and overnight bag storage. You’ll also receive a 10% discount on Pro Shop merchandise or at the restaurant as well as access to the Fitness Center, outdoor pool & hot tub. Each privately-owned condo is extremely comfortable and is adorned with modern furnishings and stately amenities. All of this for one low price, but you’ll need to call for details! Other stay and play packages are available that include thigs like admission to the Biltmore Estate and other local attractions. Daily fee golf rates range from $45 to $79 plus tax depending upon the season and include an electric cart. Group rates are also available.

Maggie Valley Club & Resort is the perfect place to host weddings and special events. Whatever the occasion, you’ll be surrounded by the beauty and splendor of the Smoky Mountains, gorgeous rhododendrons and other native flora. Whatever the event, Maggie Valley’s culinary staff will see to it that of all your needs are met quickly and efficiently. The culinary staff will help you put together a meal that meets your every desire…and your budget! Because of its location, many companies hold corporate meetings at Maggie Valley and take advantage of the meeting space that is available and use golf and other amenities for team building. Events at Maggie Valley are proven winners.

 

Another way to experience Maggie Valley Club on a regular basis is to become a member of this truly unique resort. You’ll have unlimited access to the golf course and all of the resort’s amenities including the tennis courts, fitness center, dining rooms and pool. You can take in all of the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, or just sit back and relax in the clubhouse. There’s a lot of value in becoming a member at the Maggie Valley Club & Resort.

 

All in all, Maggie Valley proves that a mountain golf course doesn’t need a lot of elevation change to make it a fun, memorable golf course. This course provides just enough to keep things interesting and makes you think about what club to hit. The greens may not be as fast as others in the area, but the undulation in them makes them every bit as challenging.

This is just a snapshot of what the Maggie Valley Club & Resort has to offer. For more information, visit their website at www.maggievalleyclub.com.

Gleneagles – Everything You Could Ever Want (or Need) in a Private Club Community

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Gleneagles Country Club is a private, residential country club community in Delray Beach, FL. It’s a community with everything you will ever need to live a physically fit and active lifestyle.

Within the guarded gates of Gleneagles, you’ll find 1,082 homes and condominiums set amidst world-class social and sports amenities: two 18-hole championship golf courses, 20 Har-Tru night-lit courts, 4 Pickleball courts, a clubhouse with over 90,000 square foot and 3 restaurants and lounges. In March 2018, a new 15,000-sq. ft. Healthy Lifestyle Center was opened. The Center features a state-of-the-art fitness center, spa, physical therapy services and resort-style pool complex.

For many, the main attraction to Gleneagles is the 36 holes of Championship golf. The history of golf at Gleneagles runs deep. Some of the club’s first members were some of the PGA Tour’s most legendary players: Doug Sanders, Sam Snead, Billy Casper, Gay Brewer, Bob Goalby, and Doug Ford. Over the years, Gleneagles has played host to many professional-caliber golf events. In February 2014, Colin Montgomerie filmed the Golf Channel Academy at Gleneagles Country Club.

Many members and guests describe Gleneagles as a “hidden gem.” Both the Legends and Victory courses were originally designed by Karl Litten and both c have been redesigned within the past 10 years by Kipp Schulties. There’s a comprehensive practice facility with an expansive driving range, short-game practice facility and practice putting green and a professional staff that will help you get the most out of the practice area and your golf game.

The Legends is Gleneagles’ signature course. From the back tees Legends plays 7,047-yards to a par of 72 course with a course rating of 74.3 and a slope of 141. With 13 different tee box combinations, there is a comfortable yardage for every player, regardless of their ability. The course is as naturally beautiful as it is challenging. As you make your way around the Legends course, you’ll encounter more than 50 different types of trees, a variety of wildlife, and rich landscaping such as Florida native caprock around the lakes. The golf maintenance crew is super meticulous and sees to it that the tees, greens, and bunkers are in top condition every day, year-round.

The Victory Course also opened in 1985 and is much shorter than its sister course. From the tips Victory plays 6,066 yards to a par 71, but remember, length isn’t everything. When you play the course you’ll see what I mean. With 47 strategically placed bunkers and narrow doglegs, straight beats long all day long. You’ll find the same attention to detail on this “tight” course and the native landscaping throughout the layout giving golfers lasting memories they won’t soon forget.

At the helm of the golf operations is Director of Golf, Joe DeMino, who was recently named “Professional of the Year” by the Southeast Florida Chapter of the PGA. Joe’s been at Gleneagles since 2010 and has been instrumental in the success of the golf program within the community. He’s put together a staff of golf professionals whose first concern is the membership and seeing that they have everything they need to have a memorable round of golf, every time they show up at the course.

When it comes to tennis, Gleneagles boasts one of the best designed tennis complexes in South Florida. The Tennis Center has 20 Har-Tru tennis courts, including a stadium court, a hard court, and 4 pickleball courts. This tropical paradise has been called home by residents such as tennis greats Ivan Lendl and Steffi Graf. The staff is USPTA certified and offers private and group lessons for players of all ages. If you’re looking to get in a little practice, there’s a complimentary ball machine complete with a PickupWall automated ball machine return unit.

If competition’s more your style, Gleneagles sponsors 25 teams in nine different leagues at various levels for both men and women. Gleneagles’ teams compete in the South Palm Beach County League, Palm Tennis Clay Mates and Golden Girls, 55 Love and the Grand Slam League just to name a few. Or you can stay at home and the tennis concierge staff will place you in games and monitor your satisfaction. The tennis social calendar is the envy of many and loaded with options year-round.

Pickleball is a sport that has become a big part of the Gleneagles’ racquet sports scene. Gleneagles offers intra club play for both men and women as well as competitive league with 10 other clubs. If you’ve never given the game a try, you owe it to yourself to at least check it out. You’ll be surprised at what you’ve been missing!

Gleneagles Country Club has the perfect combination of contemporary and casual dining in a delightful social setting. They employ a talented culinary team who will ensure your dining experience is a careful balance of traditional favorites as well as the latest trends in cuisine. The staff is friendly, courteous and most of all experienced; ready to tend to your every need. Whether it’s your favorite specialty cocktail or dietary restrictions that need to be met, they’re there to help you.

Members have their choice of three restaurants and two lounges as well as the large Waterfall Room that can be used for private parties and events. The Legends Dining Room serves breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner. The Legends Lounge is right next door, and features cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and live entertainment in the evening. The Veranda opened in 2015 and offers lunch and dinner in a comfortable outdoor venue complete with fire pits and breathtaking views of the golf course. The Grille Room opens daily for lunch and dinner, with casual dining and views of both the pool and putting green. The Glen Bar is a casual bar where members and their guests can enjoy evening cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. It’s also a popular spot to catch your favorite team and sporting event on one of several big screen TVs.

In the spring of 2018, Gleneagles opened The Healthy Lifestyle Center, a modern, state of the art facility designed to enhance the health and well-being of its members. This 15,000 square foot complex encompasses two floors and a new resort style pool complex. There’s a team of trained fitness professionals on staff to aid you in your ques for a healthier lifestyle. Physical Therapy services are also available as are personal trainers and massage therapists to help you get back to feeling your best!

And what is a top-tier country club without a spa? Here you can indulge in massages and facials and their talented team of estheticians and massage therapists will ensure that you have a refreshed mind, body, and spirit.

Social activities abound at Gleneagles and the club’s social calendar is sure to offer something to pique your interest. Members enjoy a great variety of social events – from casual to black tie. On select evenings, complimentary live music including piano, guitar and saxophone is featured in the Legends Lounge. The club also books several acts each year and features various impressionists, comedians, singers, illusionists, and theatrical performances. Gleneagles also offers several organized trips each year with luxury transportation.

As far as club activities go, Gleneagles has something for everyone. There are a variety of activities for children and teenagers during winter break and other holiday weekends, themed dining and entertainment, dance parties and kids’ bingo. Bridge is a big game here and lessons are available for various skill levels. Mah Jongg and Canasta are also popular games with the members, and the club hosts frequent get-togethers to help members find games.

You’re not going to find too many Private Country Club communities that are more involved with charity than Gleneagles. Gleneagles’ members are also highly regarded in the community for their tremendous contributions to a variety of philanthropic endeavors. Some of their causes include: Play for P.I.N.K and Special Olympics among many others.

Gleneagles is a club you need to join – literally. Membership here is mandatory when you buy a home. Prospective members have a variety of membership to choose from: Social, Golf, Tennis, and Full. Pick the one that best suits your lifestyle. Regardless of the program you choose, you’ll have full use of the fitness center, main pool complex, all club dining venues and lounges, card rooms and lounges, and seven satellite clubhouses each with their own pool and spa. Gleneagles is recognized by many of its peers in the area as a private country club community with one of South Florida’s best golf and tennis programs, and some of the best fine dining. It’s also one of South Florida’s private club community’s best values. Initiation fees range from $35,000 to $67,500, with annual dues starting at less than $1,000 per month.

Palm Beach International Airport and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport are each located about 30 minutes away, so getting friends and family in and out is a breeze. The nearest beach is located approximately seven miles east of the club and downtown city life is not much further away. The bottom line is there’s so much to do in and around Gleneagles. You’ll probably make enough new friends within the community that you’ll never want to leave, except maybe to shop for groceries. Although, you can now have them delivered!

The River Golf Club in N. Augusta – A Memorable Golf Experience

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Set along the banks of the Savannah River, The River Golf Club in North Augusta, SC is a semi-private facility that opened for play in 1998. The facility is conveniently located across from downtown Augusta, GA, just across the Savannah River. Shortly after the course opened, Golf Digest named it a top five new course nationally. Ever since that time, The River Golf Club has continued to enhance its reputation with improvements to the club. In 2002 they hosted a US Open qualifier and were the host site of the mini tour championship in 1999 and 2000

As you make your way around the course, you’ll see the evidence that the property was once an old rail yard as tracks and trestles dot the landscape. The layout winds its way around several lakes with plenty of wetlands, water hazards and, of course, gators. The River Golf Club was designed by internationally acclaimed golf course architect Jim Fazio and features lush fairways, great bunkering and terrific Mini-Verde Ultradwarf Bermuda greens with plenty of subtle slopes and lots of undulations. They’re as fast as any greens you’ll find in the area.

The River Club has several holes that you’ll remember for a while. Number 6 is an interesting hole. From the Blue tees, the hole plays 357 yards. Your tee shot is a short carry over water, and is best played up the right side, avoiding the fairway bunker and trees on the left. A couple of bunkers guard the front side of the green, so you’ll need to carry your approach shot on to it. The green is two-tiered so check your distance and make sure you’re on the right level.

 

With a good tee shot, Number nine is a reachable par 5. At 464 yards from the Blue tees, the best line off the tee is down the left side, that will take the water on the right side out of play; at least for now. A good drive will leave a long iron or hybrid into the green. Miss the green to the right and you’ll most likely find the water; there’s room left if you want to bail out. Sand also guards the front of the green on both sides. Birdies – or better – are within reach!

At 324 yards from the Blue tees, Number 16 is a short par 4. There’s water down the right side and you’ll have to cross it twice on your way to the green. The hole is best played with less than driver off the tee, which sets up a short pitch shot into a large green set at an angle. It will take two well played shots to have a chance at par or better. The railroad trestle on the right side adds a nice touch.

Number 17 is an intimidating par 3 with water all around the green. The hole plays 142 yards from the Blue tees, slightly downhill to an island green that is set at an angle. There’s also a bunker middle right that catches its fair share of balls. Par is a good score here.

After your round, be sure to stop by The River Golf Club’s restaurant located inside the clubhouse. Sit back and reminisce with your playing partners about shots that were and shots that could have been. You’ll find a good selection of domestic and imported beers and adult beverages as well as a wide selection of clubhouse food: salads, sandwiches, burgers and wraps. They also make a great Monte Cristo; turkey, ham and Swiss cheese on white bread, that’s dipped in batter and grilled to a golden brown and then dusted with powdered sugar and served with raspberry preserves. It’s absolutely delicious.

In addition to a great golf course and full-service restaurant, The River Golf Club also offers accommodations that are second to none. Accommodations at The River Golf Club include three cottages, Cypress, Palmetto and Sweetbay. Cypress and Palmetto have four bedrooms each, with two full beds and a private bathroom and shower in each room. Sweetbay has eight bedrooms, each with one king size bed, a private bathroom and shower. Wireless high speed Internet is available in all cottages along with televisions in each bedroom and the living room and full kitchens. There’s also a washer and dryer in each unit in case you packed too light. It’s a short walk to the course, clubhouse and practice facility and the deck and back porch overlook the lake and the eighteenth hole.

As a guest at The River Golf Club cottages, you’ll be treated like a member with preferred tee times and complimentary range balls as well as member privileges such as free bottled water and towels and merchandise discounts. The cottages can be booked up to two years in advance, with priority given to returning guests.

The River Golf Club offers several membership plans designed to meet the needs of anyone. Junior, Senior, Individual, Family, Out-of-Town and National plans are available. Each membership offers unlimited greens fees, priority tee times, practice range privileges, and complimentary handicap services as well as many other benefits. There are also no minimums or assessments.

During Masters week, the River Golf Club is a favorite and hosts guests from all corners of the world. They consistently provide outstanding course conditions and service. One of the most appreciated aspects of The River Golf Club is the pace of play. By scheduling only an appropriate amount of play during this time, they are able to ensure a proper spacing on the course. Your Masters package at the River Golf Club includes green fees, carts, taxes, range balls, tee packages, course yardage book, beverage cart service, breakfast and lunch.

The River Golf Club is the perfect place to host a golf event, corporate outing or banquet. Large outings are usually held on Mondays so that the course will remain open for our members. They also offer banquet packages meeting room rentals, and in-house catering. They also have an upstairs room that is a great spot for business meetings; followed by a round of golf!

Whether you’re looking to warm up before your round or spend some quality time on the practice range, The River Golf Club has some pretty impressive practice facilities. They offer a full-length driving range where you can hit every club in the bag. You can practice your short game on the chipping green and putt to your heart’s content on one of two practice putting greens.

It seems that a lot of golf courses have given up on trying to compete with the big box retail stores when it comes to golf apparel. But the River Golf Club wants to help you look your best when you step to the first tee. Their pro shop offers golf apparel from classic apparel companies such as FootJoy, Cutter and Buck and Adidas, as well as newer companies like Under Armour and Bald Head Blues, and many more.

The River Golf Club combines a spectacular layout with a fun and fantastic setting to create a golf facility that is friendly and enjoyable. With five sets of tees, the course is playable for golfers of all abilities and was designed with golfers in mind. When combines with their cottages, The River Golf Club is a “hidden gem” as far as golf travel packages go and could be the perfect location for either a family stay or corporate retreat. For more information, give them a call. at (803) 202-0110 or visit their website at www.rivergolfclub.com. For information on Masters Week or cottage rental information, contact Director of Golf, Chris Verdery at cverdery@rivergolfclub.com.

 

Mid South Club – The King’s Finest in the Pinehurst Area

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The Mid South Club is the other piece of the puzzle at the Talamore Golf Resort; a layout skillfully designed by Arnold Palmer. Although construction of the Mid South Club – originally known as Pinehurst Plantation – began in 1988, the course didn’t open until 1993. Even though the property exchanged hands a few times, the club continued to struggle until Talamore Golf Partners acquired the layout in 2004 and made some capital improvements, building several amenities, one of which is the beautiful, present day clubhouse.

After a successful rebuild of the New Course at Talamore, plans were set in motion to convert the greens at Mid South Club to Champion Bermuda. And, in an effort to make the course more player-friendly, a new set of forward tees was added to many holes, a welcome change for those just learning the game. During the off season, the cart paths were reworked; in many cases, heavily damaged areas were restored with a natural packed sand base and re-concreted where necessary. Amenities at Mid South Club have also received an upgrade. One of the tennis courts was converted to a basketball court and a new barbecue and hospitality area was added to the pool area.

Mid South Club consists of 545 acres of emerald fairways and towering pine trees, set within a private, residential community. You’ll find significant elevation changes, shimmering lakes and numerous wetlands that come into play throughout the course. Mid South Club does everything in a big way: big greens, big fairways, big bunkers, big lakes – and in some areas, big rocks (like those fronting the ninth and eighteenth greens).

From most tee boxes, Number 2 is the shortest par 4 on the course, but by no means the easiest. Yet it should be. It’s a modest dogleg right with a lake down the right side and lots of room to the center and left. If you play the hole correctly, the water shouldn’t even come into play, keyword, shouldn’t. The problem is too many players want to go big off the tee and cut the dogleg, leaving a wedge into the green instead of a 7 or 8-iron. Many of them end up reteeing or dropping another ball. That said, play out the left side of the fairway off the tee and leave yourself a manageable shot into the green. Play it like you should and you’ll be happy! Or donate a ball to the water gods; your choice.

The 12th hole is a hole you won’t soon forget. It’s a long par 4 – 442 yards from the back tees – that looks as beautiful as it is difficult. It’s a true Pinehurst golf hole – tall pine trees line both sides of the fairway, and requires a great tee shot followed by a long iron, followed by a good putt. That’s how most golfers play the hole, and by long iron, I mean probably a hybrid or fairway wood. It is Pinehurst at its simplest, Pinehurst at its best.

The Lodges at Mid South are the ultimate in high-end luxury condominiums. They sit adjacent to the clubhouse and offer fabulous golf and water views that stretch from 1st fairway all the way over to the 9th and 18th holes as well as the new 19th hole. Each unit at The Lodges features 1,800 square feet of living space, and amenities identical to the Talamore Golf Villas. Each bedroom features two queen size beds. Should you find yourself on the second floor, you’ll pass the welcome fountain and climb a gracious southern spiral staircase to the second level.

In addition to world-class golf and accommodations at both facilities, the Talamore Golf Resort takes great care of its guests with a complimentary breakfast buffet every day from 6:30 – 9:30, featuring all of your favorite breakfast food and some southern favorites: biscuits and southern style gravy and homestyle grits. Every Thursday night from April – October, Talamore hosts a Carolina-style BBQ pig roast with all the fixings: cole slaw, potato salad and rolls. Soft drinks, beer and wine are also available, or you are invited to bring your own. This BBQ extravaganza is hosted in the spacious, new Talamore Pavilion, or you can fill up a to go box and take it back to your villa.

When packaged together, the Mid South Club and The New Course at Talamore are a very formidable pair that will rival any two-course combination in the area. Throw in a few other local courses and you’ve got a golf vacation that will produce life long memories. For more information or to book your next golf vacation at the Talamore Golf Resort, visit them at www.talamoregolfresort.com.

The Talamore Golf Resort in Southern Pines, NC offers two of the area’s finest golf courses and accommodations that are second to none: The New Course at Talamore and Mid South Club, just down the street. Both properties have received numerous accolades from such reputable publications as Golf Digest, Golf Magazine, Pinehurst Magazine and GolfLink.com.

Talamore Golf Resort – The New Course and Mid South Club: A Formidable One-Two Punch

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  • The Talamore Golf Resort in Southern Pines, NC offers two of the area’s finest golf courses and accommodations that are second to none: The New Course at Talamore and Mid South Club, just down the street. Both properties have received numerous accolades from such reputable publications as Golf Digest, Golf Magazine, Pinehurst Magazine and GolfLink.com.

Back in 1991 when the Talamore Golf Resort opened its doors, the owners went out of their way to make it the ultimate golf experience by hiring world renowned golf course architect Rees Jones to create a one of a kind golf course in the Sandhills. But Talamore featured something even more unique than a new Rees Jones layout: llama caddies! It was the llamas that put Talamore on the international golfing map, and the press ate it up. In fact, there were more than 5,000 articles written and published all over the globe about Talamore and their llamas!

While the llamas are no longer around – there are rumors that Talamore is considering bringing them back, at least on a limited basis – the Talamore Golf Resort and the New Course are flourishing. The New Course has a lot of obstacles you would associate with the Sandhills region: towering longleaf pine trees, lakes, wetlands, massive bunkers and waste bunkers and over 150 ft. of elevation change. Although the course plays over 7,000 yards from the back tees, being able to hit the ball a long way isn’t always going to be a benefit. Jones created Talamore to be a thinking man’s golf course, one which requires position and control over brute strength. You have to manufacture shots if you want to score well.

When Talamore turned 25 a couple of years ago, management and ownership saw that as a good time to implement some needed changes. Superintendent David Walsh and his staff, along with General Manager/PGA Professional Matt Hausser and the skilled crew of Shapemasters set about to reimagine what the course should be all about. Through a combination of restoration and rejuvenation projects they were able to unlock the course’s hidden potential and make it more user friendly.

The biggest changes were made to the green complexes. Greens were restored to their original 1991 dimensions and converted from bent grass to Champion Bermuda, giving them a truer roll and a lot more speed. Sixty-inch TifEagle Bermuda green collars were also added around each green. A significant number of bunkers were removed; many areas were re-contoured to blend in with the surrounding terrain, providing more forgiveness in the landing zones and around the greens. The course conditioning was given a makeover and golf cart access was also improved, resulting in a 30-minute decrease in an average round of golf. Talamore is also home to the only sod wall bunkers in the Sandhills area; 12 bunkers that provide a fun and unique challenge.

Talamore’s toughest hole – at least by scorecard standards – is the 16th hole. From the back tees, this gentle dogleg left par 4 plays 444 yards with a narrow fairway off the tees, guarded by dense pine forests on either side. It’s uphill all the way, more noticeably on your approach, making a long shot that much longer. The fairway bunker short of the green on the right side really shouldn’t come into play, but the nasty pot bunker short left sees its fair share of play. Par is an excellent score here.

Talamore Golf Villas, which were constructed shortly after the club’s opening and have long been a favorite among golfers vacationing in the area. They offer wonderful amenities and panoramic views of the New Course’s signature holes. Inside, you’ll find plush and well-appointed accommodations including spacious living and dining rooms, bedrooms with two full-size beds and full kitchens. Each living room and bedroom has cable TV and wireless Internet access. There’s also a washer and dryer in each unit in case you lose a bet! Daily maid service is available too. Other on-property amenities include a gracious southern style Clubhouse, a pool with cabanas and a guest hospitality suite complete with and outdoor BBQ grove in their new outdoor pavilion with spacious seating, fireplaces and TV’s.

When packaged together, the Mid South Club and The New Course at Talamore are a very formidable pair that will rival any two-course combination in the area. Throw in a few other local courses and you’ve got a golf vacation that will produce life long memories. For more information or to book your next golf vacation at the Talamore Golf Resort, visit them at www.talamoregolfresort.com.

Whispering Pines Golf Course – A Myrtle Beach Original

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If you’re a golfer who has ever dreamed about stepping off the plane and right on to the golf course, Whispering Pines Golf Course in Myrtle Beach, SC can come as close as any club in America at making your dream come true. In fact, course owner Chip Smith has pictures of golfers lugging their golf bags and luggage across the street to play the golf course.

The golf course at Whispering Pines is as challenging as it is beautiful to look at. The course has been carved out of over 200 acres of mature hardwood and towering pine trees. The course originally opened in 1963 and was redesigned by Texas architects Finger, Dye and Spann in 1983.

If you like to see mother nature at her best, this is the place for you! In 1998, Whispering Pines was designated a “Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary” by Audubon International. At the time, they were only the 3rd course in South Carolina to achieve this honor.

For several years, conditions at Whispering Pines deteriorated and the course lost many of their regular players. In 2015, Atlantic Golf Management – who was the previous operators of TPC Myrtle Beach – stepped up and assumed management of the course. Atlantic has made many improvements, including better conditioning of the course, and have plans for many more.

You’ll find tree-lined fairways, strategically placed lakes, and well undulated TifEagle greens await your arrival at Whispering Pines. Although it’s located across the street from the airport less than five minutes from the heartbeat of the Myrtle Beach oceanfront, Whispering Pines offers golfers tranquility. There are no homes on the course, so no backyards or windows to worry about. It’s just you, mother nature and the occasional fighter jet buzzing overhead!

Favorite Hole: Number 14, Par 5, 463 yards. If you’re playing this course for the first time, you might look at the scorecard and immediately think “eagle opportunity.” But not so fast; this double dogleg is incredibly difficult to reach in two. Play your tee shot slightly right of the water and your layup shot slightly left of the large tree on the right side. That will leave a short pitch shot into a green cut on an angle and sloping back to front with two bunkers on the right side. This hole requires 3 well placed and controlled shots to have a chance at par or better.

Favorite Par 3: Number 6, 151 yards. This is an interesting little par 3 that plays over water to a green that slopes back to front. What makes it so interesting is that with a front pin placement, anything short stands a good chance of rolling back down into the water. Bunkers on either side of the green necessitate the need to hit the green.

Favorite Par 4: Number 8, 390 yards. Another of Whispering Pines challenging holes that feature a pond on the left side of the landing area and more water on the right. This creates a narrow landing area, so consider hitting a club that won’t carry to the pond. It will leave a longer approach shot, but better safe than sorry! From there you’ll play to an elevated green. A deep bunker guards the front left of the green and the mounding all around can make for an interesting up and down from the rough. Par is a good score here!

Favorite Par 5: Number 12, 538 yards. Off the tee, you’ll need to contend with a large tree in the middle of the fairway. Push your tee shot right and you could find the water. Once past the tree, you’ll find smaller trees along the edge of the fairway on the right side, so you’ll need to play your layup shot out to the left to have a clear line into the green. Two small, deep pot bunkers guard the left side; right of the traps and you’re likely to find more water! The green is small with some subtle undulations. No wonder this is the #1 handicap!

Whispering Pines has some impressive practice facilities including a full-length driving range; a chipping area and practice putting green. You can hit a few balls to get loose before your round or hit a few buckets and work on different aspects of your game so you’ll be ready for your next round. In case you can’t figure things out on your own, golf lessons are offered for all skill levels at the Whispering Pines Golf Academy.

 

Unlike many green grass golf pro shops that have given in to the big box golf retailers, the pro shop at Whispering Pines carries a good selection of golf apparel from such well-known companies as Antigua, Callaway, Divots and more. They also have the latest shoes from Nike and Callaway and the prices on the equipment they stock will match or in many cases beat the big box outlets. Whispering Pines pro shop also stocks a wide selection of balls, gloves, and accessories. Equipment and accessory brands include Adams, Titleist, Callaway, Cleveland, Nike, Wilson, and more.

Last Word: One thing you’ll notice at Whispering Pines is the size of the greens; for the most part they are small and elevated; a double whammy for many! This places a premium on accuracy on your approach shot. During your round, it’s not uncommon to see military jets doing some practice runs or flying over information. After all, the Myrtle Beach airport was once an Air Force base and the golf course was previously known as Myrtle Beach AFB Golf Club.

With an above average course rating of 70.9 and a slope of 128 from the White Tees, Whispering Pines offers most golfers a good challenge, with no gimmicks. As you stand on the tee, what you see is what you get, all you have to do is hit the shots and make the putts! It’s a great place to get in the first or last round of your Myrtle Beach golf vacation.

For more information on everything Whispering Pines has to offer, visit them online at playwhisperingpinesgolf.com. You can also book tee times through their website.

Courtyard Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach – A Great Place to Stay When You Play.

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Traveling to the Wilmington, NC area on business or just for some fun? Headed to some of the fabulous golf courses in the Wilmington area? Need a great place to stay? The Courtyard Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach is just the place you’re looking for. It’s centrally located from both Wilmington International Airport, downtown Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach. It’s close to I-40 and several major state highways and is very popular for local events such as the NC Azalea Festival and the Seaside Soccer Classic and local attractions such as the NC Aquarium, Battleship North Carolina, UNCW and the Wilmington Convention Center.

In recent years, The Courtyard Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach has undergone a massive transformation. This is evident as you step through the sliding glass doors into a remodeled lobby that is very chic and up to date. There is plenty of flexible space available for both work and play with free Wi-Fi throughout and several televisions tuned to the latest news and weather. You can also catch updates on flights and other airport information. Hungry? Check out the Bistro, just across from the check-in desk. They offer healthy and refreshing breakfast choices, several dinner options, beer, wine and many cocktail choices.

Step into one of the Courtyard’s guest rooms and you’ll see that all 122 rooms and 6 suites have also been remodeled. Our room had a comfortable sofa and chair and a flat screen TV that could be swiveled and viewed easily from anywhere in the room. HBO, ESPN and Fox News are all available. The bedding was all new, with crisp, clean linens, a thicker mattress and a custom comforter. The pillows were fluffier and larger too. There was also a mini fridge which was useful for storing leftovers from dinner at the Bistro and a microwave to heat them up for a late-night snack.  The rooms were so amazingly comfortable; it would have been nice to add a couple of days to our stay!  We really loved waking up refreshed from a great nights sleep, since we were off to another round of golf at one of the nearby courses.

You can check-inn any time after 3 PM – maybe earlier if you call ahead – and check-out isn’t until noon. All rooms are equipped with wireless Internet and for $.95 USD/day you can purchase an enhanced high-speed access package that enables video chat – so you can keep up with the kids and grandkids or say hi to your better half, download large files and stream videos.

The Courtyard Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach is located at 151 Van Campen Boulevard, Wilmington, NC 28493. You can get more information about this property on the Marriott website: https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ilmcy-courtyard-wilmington-wrightsville-beach/.  For additional images from our visit, click here: https://www.pinterest.com/thegolfinguy/marriott-wrightsville-beach-nc/

Golf in Georgia! – Rating Some of the Georgia State Parks’ Golf Courses

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Over the past couple of years, I have been blessed to have the opportunity to have played a number of the Georgia State Park golf courses and all have provided a pleasant surprise. All of the State Park golf courses are part of The Georgia Golf Trail, as are a number of some of the state’s best public access courses.

It has been my experience that most golf courses with the words: State, City or Municipal somewhere in their name are nothing more than glorified goat patches. Fields with tee markers at one end and a flag at the other. What seems to suffer the most at these courses are the greens; most don’t have the money to hire someone to do a competent job and they end up with patchy greens at best. Something else many of these facilities lack are practice facilities, especially full-length driving ranges.

Not so at the golf courses that are part of the Georgia State Parks Department. The greens for the most part are in great shape with the exception of one course that had been frost bitten. However these greens should be back in good shape within 3 – 4 weeks. Good undulation, a playable speed and overall well kept. All had full-length driving ranges. In fact, a couple were packed with golfers just there for the practice.

Arrowhead Pointe at Richard B. Russell State Park in Elberton, GA is probably the most challenging of all of the State Park courses. And the most scenic too. The course was designed by Bob Walker and is located in Richard B. Russell State in the Northeast Georgia mountains.  Ten of the 18 holes skirting the shoreline of Lake Richard B. Russell.  The water does not come in to play that often but it sure does make for some great pictures. There are plenty of elevation changes, doglegs and strategically placed bunkers that will have you using every club in your repertoire.  The TifEagle Bermuda greens have a lot of subtle breaks that will keep you on your game if you want to score well. To me, Arrowhead earns an easy A.

Brazell’s Creek at the Gordonia-Alatamaha State Park in Reidsville, GA is one of the most unique courses I have played…anywhere. The opening holes are a shot maker’s paradise, tee-lined and tight. Accuracy, especially off the tee, is needed if you’re going to score well on this nine. The greens are well undulated and while not on the fast side, they will challenge you. With all of the trees surrounding each hole, the last thing you need to worry about is the wind. After leaving number 9 green and stopping by the clubhouse for some beverage, you drive through the forest across a 1,500-foot wooden bridge. When you see the light at the end of the tunnel and emerge from the woods, what you see before you is the back nine.  All of it. No trees, just a wide open nine holes of golf. And lots of wind. Brazell’s Creek earns a B+.

The Highland Walk Golf Course at Victoria Bryant Park is also a good test of golf; it is also a good test of rangefinders with a slope feature. Saying some of these holes have a lot of elevation change is like saying Mt. Everest is just a big hill.  Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for the elevation changes, it beats paying the flat Florida courses I’m used to. You start out with a short downhill Par 4 that plays a lot less than the stated 297 yards. For many it’s drivable and a great way to get your round off to a great start. The signature hole is a 317-yard par 4 that requires a 220+ yard carry off the tee and then a blind approach shot straight up the hill. Highland Walk is a fun course and I’ll give it a B – unless you’re walking. Then it’s a C+, plus oxygen!

The Creek Golf Course at Hard Labor is another well designed and challenging layout. Out here you’ll find narrow tree-lined fairways and Champion Bermuda greens. As far as scenery goes, The Creek is a clear-cut winner with creeks winding their way across fairways, a water wheel, waterfalls and wild animals…. all of the distractions a golfer needs, especially when he’s not playing well. The first hole at The Creek has been voted “the hardest starting hole in Georgia.” Not bad for a State golf course! Ladies typically like this course as most of the water hazards that come into play off the tee for the men have been taken out of the equation for the women. My grade for this course is a solid B; ladies will probably give it an A.

The Lakes Golf Course at Laura S. Walker State Park is just a fun layout to play. The course was designed by Steve Burnes and many of the bunkers and waste areas feature native sand. The course has three large lakes that you will encounter and play around as you make your way around the course. There’s a good mixture of tree-lined and wide-open holes; water comes into play on quite a few too. Number 11 is one of those tree-lined holes. It’s a par 5 dogleg right that, with a good drive down the left side is reachable in two. You just need to keep it in play off the tee. Number 9 is a par 4 that features water all the way down the right side and a bunker in the landing area on the left. The Lakes earns another solid B. Once the greens fill in, we’ll upgrade it to a B+.

As you can tell from the grades earned, the golf courses at the Georgia state parks are worthy of a visit. Better yet, these are great courses for a buddy’s trip, or couples get away. All parks of cottages for rent and each cottage features two separate bedrooms with bath, a full kitchen, comfortable living areas with flat screen TVs and porches or patios.

Golf trips to any of the Georgia State Parks or anywhere in Georgia for that matter can be booked through Georgia Golf and Travel. For more information on all of you golf travel needs and desires within the State of Georgia, contact Doug Hollandsworth by phone at  or drop him an email, doug@georgiagolfandtravel.com. Georgia has a lot to offer golfers and the State Park courses are not only great, playable courses, they are also value priced.

BREC Golf Courses – Municipal Golf Courses That Exude Southern Hospitality

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Golfers in the Baton Rouge area should revel in the fact that they have a number of high quality municipal golf courses in the area. And those two words – quality and municipal – are not often used together when talking about golf courses, but BREC has done a great job to quell that myth.

In case you’re not familiar with them, BREC is the agency that puts people and parks together and helps people enjoy their time communing with nature in the East Baton Rouge Parish. BREC is a political subdivision of the state of Louisiana and was created in 1946 to develop, maintain and operate public park and recreational facilities. Throughout its 70-year history, BREC has been among the first park agencies to earn national accreditations. BREC is a two-time National Gold Medal Award winner and 13-time national finalist.

Whether you’re just learning the game of golf, a high-digit handicapper or a seasoned player, there is a BREC course in Baton Rouge that will provide you with hours of golfing enjoyment while taking in the natural surroundings as you chase around that little white ball.

For single-digit handicappers and seasoned players, BREC offers two courses that will challenge every facet of your golf game. The Santa Maria Golf Course is a Robert Trent Jones, Sr. course with a history of being recognized as one of the best public golf courses in southeast Louisiana. Santa Maria consistently receives Golf Digest’s highest ranking for a municipal course. The course is built on 150 acres of rolling terrain that winds its way around and through 15 lakes and two natural waterways. Majestic ancient oak trees line fairways and guard greens and grass and sand bunkers keep you honest. Four sets of tees have the course playing anywhere from 6,969 – 5,153 yards, providing a distance that is suitable for golfers of all levels. Inside the Spanish-style clubhouse you’ll find a well-stocked pro shop, a private conference/dining room and a fitness center. The Champions Grill overlooks the beautiful par-five finishing hole. Greens fees at their peak are never more than $45 on weekdays and $55 on the weekend. Making Santa Maria not only a fun and challenging golf course, but also affordable. There’s also a full-length driving range and practice facility as well as a learning center.

Speaking of the par 5 finishing hole, Number 18 is a 520 yard par 5 around a lake. Off the tee, you’ll need to avoid the fairway trap on the left side of the fairway. You’ll have to contend with two large oak trees on your layup shot; most likely you will be far enough back to play over them. Success to this point will leave you a pitch shot into a long, narrow green guarded by sand on either side. Miss the lake to the right and all is not lost. In fact you may have a shorter route to the green, providing you don’t mind a 200+ yard carry over water. Par is a great way to finish your round.

Another top-tier BREC golf course is Beaver Creek Golf Club in Zachary, LA about 20 minutes from downtown Baton Rouge off Hwy 61 and was designed by Craig Schreiner and Associates. Depending on how big a challenge you are looking for, Beaver Creek is a par 72 and can play anywhere from 6,950 yards from the Gold Tees to 4,955 from the Red Tees. A moderate slope rating means this course can be enjoyed by the masses! The course weaves its way through woodlands and wetlands, which provide a challenge all the way around. The front nine is fairly wide open and allows for some errant tee shots but you best have it figured out as you make the turn. The back nine has more water hazards and some tight driving holes as well as several forced carries over wetlands. A double green makes up the putting surface for both the 5th and 7th holes and gives Beaver Creek a little bit of Scottish flavor. On both the front and back side you’ll find gently rolling fairways with mounding on the peripheries as well as strategically placed bunkers. The course is perfect for beginners and will challenge even the most seasoned player. For practice, there’s a lighted driving range, a large putting green, and a short game chipping area. If you’re hungry, visit the Creekside Grill inside the clubhouse.

Another challenging BREC  course is Dumas Memorial Golf Course, located in Greenwood Community Park, approximately 15 miles north of downtown Baton Rouge and only five minutes from the Baton Rouge Metro Airport. This 18-hole layout measures 6,403 yards from the back tees but can play as little as 4,650 yards from the forward tees. From the back tees, the front nine plays almost 500 yards longer than the back and provides one of the best tests of golf in the parish, with 4 par 4s playing in excess of 400 yards. Most players will find that the front nine is more forgiving with wider fairways and larger greens while the back nine’s fairways are narrower and the greens are smaller. You’ll need pinpoint approach shots if you want to score well on this side. Players wanting to warm up before their round use the driving range next door at Clark Park.

The Webb Memorial Golf Course has a storied history. Built in the 1920’s and in one of Baton Rouge’s most affluent neighborhoods off of College Drive, Webb Memorial was originally a private club. The course officially opened in 1924 and didn’t become a municipal course until 1941. It is by far BREC’s most popular course which you will discover when you go to book your tee time. Tee times can booked up to 6 days in advance, something it may be wise to take advantage of since the course stays rather busy throughout the season. The course plays 6,349 yards from the back tees with a modest slope of 121; the forward tees measure 5,203 yards, with a slope rating of 106 for men and 116 for women. You’ll find large oak trees lining many of the fairways and one very unique feature on the back nine – a drainage culvert that comes into play on a couple of holes off the tee; especially on the short par 4, 16th hole.

The J.S. Clark Golf Course is an executive style, 9-hole layout built on 36 acres of land. This course is perfect for both golfers that are new to the game as well as experienced player seeking game improvement. The course is entirely irrigated and the 419 Bermuda grass tees and fairways and Tifdwarf greens are always in excellent condition. There are four sets of tees for players to choose from and the course is ideal for walking. BREC’s J.S. Clark Golf Course offers three sets of tees and plays anywhere between 1,281 – 1,861 yards. As you make your way around the layout, you’ll find the land fairly flat, making it perfect for hose just learning the game. The back tees are perfect for better golfers looking to improve their short game skills as a couple of the holes play less than 100 yards. The J.S. Clark Golf Course is located just minutes from the Baton Rouge airport. It is also the home of The First Tee of East Baton Rouge Paris, an authorized chapter of a national youth development program, that teaches juniors ages 7-18 life skills against the backdrop of the game of golf.

In addition to the golf course, there is also a wonderful PGA-style practice facility that includes a full length driving range that is lit for night use, a large putting green and a short game practice area. It’s the perfect place to stop by and hit a bucket of balls during your lunch break or play a quick nine on your way home after work.

The Historic City Park Golf Course was designed by world-renowned golf course architect Tom Bendelow. Nicknamed “The Johnny Appleseed of American Golf,” Bendelow is credited with over 600 course designs over a 35-year career during the first half of the twentieth century. From the Purple (back) tees, City Park plays 2,300 yards; from back here, there are a couple of par 4s that play over 370 yards and a par 3 that plays in excess of 200 yards. Even the most seasoned player will be challenged. Beginners will be challenged from the Gold Tees at 1,876 yards. Whether you walk the course or ride, you’ll be treated to rolling hills and elevation changes upwards of 25 feet. You’ll see mature trees, lake vistas and a small bayou with a wide variety of Louisiana wildlife. City Park has something for everyone.

The best way to enjoy all of the courses BREC has to offer is with an annual pass. For a mere $1,700 a year, you can enjoy all of the BREC courses, 7 days a week. You’ll also receive two tokens for a couple of buckets of range balls before each round, a 15% discount on food, beverages and non-sale merchandise in the pro shop. The pass is good for 365 days from the date of purchase. Visit the BREC website for a complete list of annual pass plans that are available. www.golf.brec.org.