Home Blog Page 3

Crystal Mountain: One of Michigan’s Best Year-Round Resorts

By
David Theoret
-
0

Depending on your perspective – or favorite season – Crystal Mountain is either a ski resort with 59 well-groomed downhill runs or a golf resort with 36 holes of championship golf. Yet, regardless of the season, it’s one of Northern Michigan’s best resorts.

Crystal Mountain has the most unique history of any resort I have ever written about. It began as a school project when a geography teacher at Benzonia High School tasked his students to find the best place in Benzie County, MI to start a ski area. After much research and debate the class determined the Buck Hills Range offered the best combination of terrain and snowfall.

The Buck Hills Ski Area became a reality in 1956 with a rope tow powered by an old pick-up truck engine and a warming hut built with donated lumber. In 1960, Buck Hills became Crystal Mountain Resort when it was purchased by 96 shareholders, many of whom had homes nearby. The new owners made many substantial upgrades including a new lodge with dining and 21 rooms for overnight guests.

By 1966, ownership had dwindled to a small handful of owners who realized that the best way for the resort to be profitable was to make it a year-round destination. Fast forward to 1981 and sole ownership of Crystal Mountain came down to the flip of a coin between George Petritz and Robert Meyer. Crystal Mountain has been owned by the Petritz family ever since.

Golf entered the equation at Crystal Mountain in 1977 with the opening of the Betsie Valley golf course. Mountain Ridge followed in 1995. Both Betsie Valley and Mountain Ridge have received the prestigious 4-star rating from Golf Digest Magazine and are members of America’s Summer Golf Capital, a collection of resort properties that feature 26 golf courses across northern Michigan. Both courses play out of the same clubhouse, which features a well-stocked pro shop, The Thistle restaurant and bar, and an outdoor patio complete with a bar, grill, and oftentimes live music.

Before your round, be sure to visit Crystal Mountain’s 10-acre learning center and practice facility. You’ll find a targeted grass range, along with a short game area featuring chipping and putting greens complete with sand bunkers for practicing. Everything you need for a quick tune-up before heading to the first tee! The Learning Center is also home to Crystal Mountain Golf School, which has been recognized as one of the best golf schools by Golf Digest. They feature a variety of single or multi-day lesson options including private, group, women-only, and juniors.

Since opening in 1977, the Betsie Valley course has received many upgrades, most recently from the summer of 2021 to the spring of 2022. Renovations included widening the fairways, building new tee boxes, a forestry management project to clear out brush, redesigned cart paths, and more. Even with all of these changes, the course still retains its original character and is now more playable than ever before.

Betsie Valley is spread across the rolling terrain which is blanketed in mature forests of pine and hardwoods. Water comes into play on several holes, and although there are only a few bunkers on the entire course, the majority of golfers tend to find at least one during their rounds. The tight, tree-lined fairways are often accented with wildflowers and lead to small, severely sloped greens making Betsie Valley more of a shot-maker’s course. Golfers are welcome to walk or ride the course.

Both nines start with short but challenging par fives. The first hole plays 462 yards with water on either side of the landing area off the tee, so accuracy is required right off the bat. It’s a double dogleg and requires three good shots in a row to get on the green. Most players will opt to layup rather than try to get on in two as the fairway gets very narrow the closer you get to the green. The green is guarded by water on the right and fescue grass to the left.

Remember those “few bunkers” I mentioned? Two of them are located just right of the 7th green, which is bad news for most golfers. It’s a short, 129-yard par 3 with a narrow approach that feeds errant tee shots right of the green and into those bunkers!

You may think that the 10th hole is a short par 5, at only 444 yards, but as you stand on the tee box studying the dramatic uphill nature of the hole, all of a sudden 444 yards isn’t short anymore! In fact, it may play up to 75 yards longer! It’s a dogleg right that just seems to keep on turning, and with trees lining both sides of the fairway, it emphasizes shot control over distance.

The Mountain Ridge course was carved from the mountainside, offering both a challenge and some terrific views. The golf course covers a range of elevation changes from subtle to spectacular; in all, you’ll ascend over 200’ during your round. Mountain Ridge is situated among huge Northern Michigan pine trees that frame many of the fairways and greens. Water is a predominant factor on the first four holes, guarding the left side of both #1 and #2 greens, and then off the tee on Numbers 3 and 4. You won’t see the wet stuff again until the 9th hole. After that, you only see it on Numbers 10 and 12. Bunkers and sandy waste areas are more prevalent on Mountain Ridge than on Betsie Valley and usually factor into play. This course emphasizes brains over brawn, and having a sound strategy for each hole is important.

Like Betsie Valley, Mountain Ridge is very playable and offers the same four sets of tees and combo yardage with distances ranging from 6,973 to 5,018 yards. I found the White Tees again to be a fitting challenge.

With a course this beautiful there are many memorable holes but what I remember most are the par 3s; they were scenic, challenging, and fun to play. The second hole plays 143 yards, slightly downhill into an hourglass-shaped green with bunkers on either side as well as water on the left. The green is deeper than it is wide, so distance control is important.

The 183-yard, 5th hole plays slightly downhill and sometimes one club less than usual. With one large bunker front left and three more surrounding the back of the green, playing to the front right portion may not be a bad idea, regardless of where the pin is. Be sure to take in the views before you tee off.

Number 12 may be the toughest of these four. It plays 177 yards and the deep-faced grass bunker in front of the green gives it the feeling of a much shorter hole. Don’t be fooled though; as you will want to hit one extra club to carry your ball onto the green avoiding the grass bunker in front. Anything hit short right will likely find the waste area or bunker.

Mountain Ridge hole number 17 is the course’s signature par three, playing 169 yards straight downhill. The green slopes front to back, which makes it harder to stop the ball on the putting surface.

When it comes to accommodations, Crystal Mountain has the widest variety of any golf or ski resort—everything from hotel-style rooms that sleep two or four guests to mountainside homes that sleep up to 14. There are bungalows and cottages to choose from; all are equipped with everything you’ll need during your visit and, if you need something, just ask. They have the politest staff I have ever met. Visit the website for a complete rundown of everything they offer, including a long list of houseguest perks.

Crystal Mountain offers several dining alternatives from pizza and subs at Betsie River Pizza to casual fine dining at The Thistle. As its name implies, this Scottish-themed venue has something for everyone. It’s best described as come-as-you-are fine dining. The menu is eclectic with everything from burgers

and fries to Cornish hen and rack of lamb. Breakfast is served daily at the Wild Tomato with just about any breakfast food you can think of. They also serve lunch and dinner. During the winter, Wild Tomato adds several “igloos” to their property where you can enjoy a cocktail and shareables outside under the twinkling lights of the Michigan sky.

A golf vacation to Northern Michigan just isn’t complete without a visit to Crystal Mountain. Visit their

website at www.crystalmountain.com to see everything they have to offer year-round and plan your

next visit.

The Club at Renaissance Fort Myers, FL – A Low-Density Club in a High-Density State!

By
David Theoret
-
0

Concert Golf Partners is one of the fastest-growing private club ownership companies in the US. Their specialty is taking private clubs that are underperforming and under-utilized, giving them an infusion of much-needed capital, and turning them around so that members can thoroughly enjoy their private club membership. Concert currently has over 30 properties in its portfolio, spanning 16 states from Massachusetts to Texas.

While this is true for the majority of properties, it is not the case with the Club at Renaissance in Fort Myers, Florida. In fact, The Club at Renaissance is one of the most impressive private clubs in their portfolio. Since its inception, The Club at Renaissance has been a thriving and debt-free community for most of its existence and the community is nearly sold out. Over the past several years the club has experienced growth while at the same time maintaining its exclusivity. Worthington Group Partnership built and developed the community in 2003. In 2020, Worthington unveiled “a club-wide overhaul, playfully dubbed “Renaissance 2.0. It included a new pool bar and outdoor dining patio, a golf performance academy, a fire pit, bocce ball courts, pickleball courts, and more. Renovations to the golf course were completed in the fall of 2020 and Concert purchased the property in September 2022.

It’s no wonder that Florida is the fastest-growing state in the country. With warm temperatures that promote outside activities year-round, people are flocking in droves to the Sunshine State. On a recent return trip to the area – I lived in Fort Myers for five years – I could not believe how much more traffic there was and how busy the major hubs had become. Renaissance – located just off Daniels Road, one of the main arteries in Fort Myers – breaks that mold. It’s one of the lowest-density communities in Southwest Florida with only 386 homesites on 500 acres. Renaissance offers an intimate experience for both club members and residents.

The centerpiece of the community is the Arthur Hills-designed championship golf course which is regarded as one of the best courses in southwest Florida. The Club at Renaissance earned Golfweek Magazine’s America’s Top 40 New Golf Courses 2005.

Members can choose from five sets of tees with yardages ranging from 7,248 yards for low-handicappers to 4,660 yards for juniors, seniors, and ladies. The scorecard takes things a bit further and lists an additional three yardages from hybrid/combo tees, so finding a suitable yardage is a snap. There’s water present on every hole and, unfortunately for most golfers, it’s on the right!

The Club at Renaissance has several memorable holes. Number 2 is a par 5 that plays 461 yards from the Tee #2. The hole starts with a tee shot that requires about a 200-yard carry over water depending upon the line you take. Whatever you do, be sure to avoid the fairway bunkers. Water forms the right side of the fairway the rest of the way and there’s a menacing fairway bunker in the middle of the landing area of your layup shot. The elevated green is protected in front with large bunkers. It’s a challenging golf hole and a three-shot hole for many golfers.

Number 3 is a challenging driving hole. This 351-yard par 4  features trees all down the left with a couple of bunkers in the landing area just for good measure. Water on the right comes into play about 200 yards off the tee. Since the fairway is extremely narrow at about the 300-yard mark, I found that hitting something other than drive off the tee left a short to mid-iron approach into this long, narrow green that is protected on the left by two bunkers and the water on the right.

Straight-way, short par 5s are usually a great place to post a low score, right? If you believe that, then the 9th hole may prove you wrong! Number 9 is a challenging par 5 that plays 454 yards from Tee #2, and with a good drive, it will present another risk/reward opportunity. Now for the obstacles. Trees line the left side and there’s water on the right from tee to green. If you can drive over the two fairway bunkers in front of you, you’ll be left with a second shot of about 220 yards. Should you choose to layup, you’ll need to play the shot toward the water to avoid the large fairway bunker in the landing area. A single bunker guards the left front of the green and water guards the right side.

All four of the par 3 holes are challenging with water, mounding, and a lot of bunkering coming into play. This is evident on the 12th hole, which plays 140 yards. The green is well-protected with four pot bunkers on the left as well as a large mound, and water to the right. With all of the hazards that surround this long and narrow green, there isn’t much room for error. It’s yet another picturesque hole at the Club!

Number 15 is a very challenging par 4 and The Club’s #1 handicap. From Tee #2, the hole plays 398 yards with water down the right side. If a fade is in your shot repertoire, aim your tee shot directly at the fairway bunker on the left. Find the fairway bunker and par just became a lot more difficult. A good drive will leave a mid to short-iron into the green, which is protected by a lone bunker in front.

In the event you favor the courts over the course, Renaissance’s six championship red clay courts will make you feel like you’re playing at the French Open. Their tennis program offers a variety of competitive and social activities, including Round Robin socials, men’s and ladies’ clinics, individual and group lessons, themed tennis activities, and the annual Member-Guest Tennis Invitational. There’s a ball machine available if you want to tune up your game, and the Tennis deck is the perfect place to enjoy a cocktail with friends after your match.

Although pickleball has been around since the 1960s, it only recently gained popularity. To keep up with the demand, The Club at Renaissance added two new state-of-the-art pickleball courts. You’ll find organized clinics and socials; private and semi-private lessons are also available. These new courts are lit for evening play!

The Florida sun can be relentless at times and the sparkling, resort-style pool is reason enough to head to the Club on a hot summer day. The pool is open seasonally and the Rendezvous Pool Pavilion offers poolside service so you can enjoy lunch and a cold beverage while soaking in the rays!

Whether you’re a golfer, racquet sports player, or just enjoy a good meal, The Club at Renaissance is the place to be. Renaissance is such a robust and active Club that there is always something going on. Weekly dining events include Tuesday and Thursday Pub Nights with Happy Hour, Tenderloin and Pasta Night, Saturday Grill Out at the Pool, and the best Sunday Brunch in Fort Myers. À la carte dining is available two days a week with great weekly specials and a menu that changes to reflect the season.

Are you interested in becoming a member? Several membership plans are available; from an Executive Golf Membership for those 44 and younger to a Heritage Golf Membership for those who are 75 and up. Social and non-resident golf memberships are also available on a limited basis. If you’re interested in becoming a member and experiencing this serene beauty of a low-density club for yourself, give them a call at (239) 561-6355 or visit them online at www.theclubatrenaissance.com.

The Resurrection of Crescent Pointe Golf Club in Bluffton, SC

By
David Theoret
-
0

Metropolitan Golf Group – located in Monroe Township, NJ – is well on the way to making a name for themselves in the Hilton Head Island area of South Carolina. In April 2023, MGG paid cash for Crescent Pointe Golf Club in Bluffton, SC, the only Arnold Palmer-designed publicly accessible golf course in the area. In September, they added the Davis Love III-designed Eagle’s Pointe Golf Club – also in Bluffton – to their portfolio.

Crescent Pointe originally opened for play in 2000 and quickly gained a reputation as one of the “Lowcountry’s best layouts.” In 2010 the Lowcountry Golf Course Owners Association named Crescent Pointe its 2010 Golf Course of the Year.

The course weaves its way around strands of towering pines, magnolias, and ancient oak trees. Wetlands and lakes enter the picture on several holes and need to be navigated as you make your way to Palmer’s large, well-undulated greens where slopes and breaks tend to be on the subtle side. There are several forced carries over water but, if you’re playing from the right tees, they shouldn’t be a problem.

This highly playable, strategic design rewards good shots but doesn’t over-penalize poor hits. You’ll find generous fairways, large, elevated greens, and a variety of bunkers.  Palmer tended to build bunkers in areas where grass was hard to grow. This leads to large waste bunkers that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also define landing areas and can be somewhat penal in nature. You’ll find beach bunkers on three holes at Crescent Pointe with sand that stretches to the edge of the lagoon. The majority of bunkers have been designed in true Palmer style and follow the natural undulation of the land very closely.

Crescent Pointe also features something unique to the area: rolling terrain with noticeable elevation changes; an element that is missing from many Lowcountry layouts.  Several holes play along the Colleton River with expansive marsh views.

Crescent Pointe offers golfers six sets of tees. The back (Palmer) tees play 6,773 yards with a course rating of 72.9 and a slope of 137. Move up to the White Tees (6,003/68.5/125) and you just might be able to keep a little dignity. For those who prefer the forward tees, you can choose from yardages of, 5,533, 5,005, and 4,126 yards. There truly is something for every level of golfer.

As you might expect, the course has a number of memorable holes. Number 2 is a 152-yard par 3 that is all carry. There’s a bunker short of the green and another in the back with a rock-walled pond guarding the entire right side. This hole is reminiscent of Number 17 at Bay Hill in Orlando. Bailout left of the green and you may find yourself hitting a chip shot from among the grass mounds.

The 6th hole is a risk/reward par 5 that plays 465 yards from the White tees. It’s a dogleg right around water, in fact, to get to the green, you’ll need to play over the water at some point. A good drive will leave a decision to either lay up short of the water or try and make it onto the island green. Beware of the large bunker left of the fairway should you choose to lay up. Apart from the water that surrounds the green, there are bunkers on either side.

Number 10 at Crescent Pointe is a fun par 4 that plays 387 yards and places an emphasis on accuracy off the tee. It’s a slight dogleg left with 5 bunkers in the landing area on either side of the fairway. Water comes into play on the right with more sand guarding the front right and entire left side. Anything left of the cart path will be in the trees and anything long can easily find the water.

The 11th hole is an interesting par 5 that plays 494 yards from the White Tees. Longball hitters need to be aware of the water that crosses the fairway in the landing area. Favor the left side of the fairway on your layup shot and hit something just short of the trio of bunkers. Success thus far will leave a short chip shot into a triangular green with two bunkers on the right side. Anything right of the cart path on this hole will again find the trees.

Eighteen presents a challenging way to end your round and has the distinction of being the only hole at Crescent Pointe that has no water hazards. The hole plays 387 yards from the White Tees and features large waste bunkers on either side of the fairway up to the dogleg. A good drive that carries the right-side bunker and cuts the corner will leave a mid-iron approach shot into a long, narrow green. A large bunker guards the left side and wetlands guard the right, so the emphasis is on accuracy once again.

Before your round, warm up on Crescent Pointe’s full-length driving range, where you can hit every club in the bag. You’ll want to because odds are you’ll use every one of them. There’s also a nice short game area and practice putting green.

When you head to the pro shop to check in, take a few moments and look over the great selection of golf equipment and logoed golf apparel Crescent Pointe has to offer. You’ll also find a wide assortment of polos, gloves, hats, shorts, and socks for both men and women. Remember, if you can’t dazzle them with your game, you might as well look the part!

The best way to take advantage of everything Crescent Pointe Golf Club has to offer is to become a member. You’ll have full access to the practice facility, dining room, and golf course, and be able to spend quality time with your family as you develop new friendships. Memberships are available for individuals, families, and corporations.

Metropolitan Golf is well on the way to returning Crescent Pointe to its original glory. I’m confident they will do the same thing with Eagle’s Pointe in the near future. For more information or to book your next round, give them a call at (843) 706-2600 or visit them online at www.crescentpointegc.com. They’re just a short, 3-mile detour from the bridge to Hilton Head Island!

Dunes West Golf & River Club – Lowcountry Golf at Its Finest

By
David Theoret
-
0

The history of the land where Dunes West Golf and River Club and the surrounding community are built dates back to 1696. The property changed owners multiple times between then and 1930 when Henrietta Hartford – one of the nation’s wealthiest women – purchased it. She developed the property into a stately manor, including a 32-room house furnished with imported European antiques, a guest house, a saltwater swimming pool, tennis courts, stables, servants’ quarters, and a nine-hole golf course. The estate burned to the ground a few years after she married Prince Guido Pignatelli of Italy in 1937, and was sold to the O.L. Williams Veneer Co., which is now part of Georgia Pacific.

The gated Dunes West community features ten tennis courts, three pools (one adult only and one with a slide and zero entry for toddlers), a fitness and aerobics room; a boat ramp with optional boat dry storage, a playground and miles of sidewalks for walking, running and biking. Property owners are not required to join the golf club.

Over the years, the golf course has received its fair share of accolades:  2009 Golf Course of the Year by the Charleston Golf Course Owners Association, Top Ten New Resort Course by Golf Digest, and America’s Fifty Best Courses by Golf Week Magazine.

Manager Rich Rankin attributes much of the club’s success to his staff, who “help us present a great product and a great experience for our members and guests.” He adds, “One of the special attributes of Dunes West is that the club’s owners  are constantly upgrading the course and everything else about the club.” This has included everything from adding drainage and rebuilding sand traps to new maintenance equipment. A new wedding ceremony site was added and sits beneath three centuries-old oak trees overlooking Wagner Creek. To date, Dunes West has hosted over 1,200 weddings.

The golf course at Dunes West does not resemble the 9-hole original course in any way, however, the clubhouse does sit on the very spot of the princesses’ 32-room mansion. The oak trees that frame the drive up to the clubhouse and the right side of the 18th fairway were planted by Princess Pignatelli herself and serve as a reminder of the property’s history.

Dunes West Golf and River Club is ideally situated along Wagner Creek and the Wando River, which produces some spectacular views of the surrounding aquatic life. The course was designed by renowned golf course architect Arthur Hills and is a “must-play” for any golfer in or around Charleston, SC.

Dunes West offers golfers five sets of tees; the scorecard adds a “hybrid” yardage by combining the Blue and White Tees, so finding a yardage that fits your game shouldn’t be difficult. Yardages range from 6,826 yards for more skilled golfers to 5,048 yards for women, juniors, and seniors. I found that the Blue Tees (6,091 yards) provided a fitting challenge and still let me leave with a little dignity.

Hills took full advantage of both the Wando River and Wagner Creek when he built this masterpiece, yet water only comes into play on seven holes. As you make your way around the course, you’ll see saltwater marshes and coastal tidelands; all commonplace for those who live in South Carolina’s Lowcountry, but visually stunning for those who don’t. Many of the fairways are wide and forgiving with mounding on the peripheries, leading to new Paspalum-grass greens guarded by both sand and grass bunkers. The grass bunkers are every bit as challenging as the ones filled with light, fluffy sand. Greens come in all shapes and sizes, are mildly undulated, and all roll true.

Before your round, be sure to visit Dunes West’s practice facility. It’s a short cart ride from the pro shop and features a full-length driving range with multiple targets that will let you hit every club in your bag. There’s a sand trap in the short game area and a large putting green to get the feel of what you are about to encounter.

There are several challenging holes on the front nine at Dunes West, but none of them were more memorable than the three finishing holes. Number 16 is the toughest hole on the inward nine and plays 369 yards from the Blue Tees. Water comes into play over the trio of fairway bunkers on the right off the tee. An ideal tee shot between the 150-marker and the trees on the left will leave what many consider to be the toughest 2nd shot at Dunes West, over sand traps to a small green with water looming on the right, two sand bunkers on the left and grass bunkers behind the green right. Par is a great score here!

Number 17 is a par 3 that plays 159 yards and is by far the most challenging par 3 at Dunes West. With water on the right side and sand left and long, there is no room for error off the tee. Miss the left fairway bunker long and you’re facing a tough lie in a grass swale. The green is small, and slopes left to right towards the water.

Number 18 is a great finishing hole and will give any golfer all they can handle from the back tees; from the Blue tees, it’s a manageable 383 yards. The biggest challenge on this hole is to control your drive off the tee. Keep it in the short grass and leave yourself a clear shot into the green and you can finish strong, just be sure to avoid the marsh area short left.

After your round, step into The Grille Room for a bite to eat or your favorite adult beverage. They offer breakfast and lunch seven days a week, as well as dinner on Thursday nights. Friday is Charcuterie Night with wine, craft beers, and cocktails and brunch is served on Sundays. Also, be sure to check out their weekday specials like $3 beers on Tuesday and $10 lunch entrees on Wednesday.

As you can imagine, Dunes West Golf and River Club is also a popular venue for weddings and events. It starts with the drive up Wando Plantation Way with all of its arching live oak trees, to the antebellum-style clubhouse with its fantastic water views. They have an excellent staff of event coordinators and culinary artists who put together some of the area’s best cuisine.

Dunes West offers memberships for both residents and non-residents. As a member, you’ll receive advanced tee time booking, discounts on food and beverage as well as merchandise in the pro shop, charging privileges, access to member-only tournaments, activities, and events, and a whole lot more. Simply complete the form on the website for more information.

On my latest visit to Dunes West Golf & River Club in Mt. Pleasant, SC this past August, it was 97° outside with a “feels like” temperature into triple digits. I was amazed at the number of people who were already on the golf course and how many were waiting to tee off. According to the cart attendant, there were 237 rounds booked for that day. It was a great testament to what golfers think of this golf course.

If you are relocating to the Charleston area and are seeking an active lifestyle,  then Dunes West Golf and River Club is where you need to be. For more information on becoming a resident or member, you can call Dunes West at (843) 856-9000 or visit them online at www.duneswestgolfclub.com.

Harbor Shores Golf Club – Play Where the Champions Play

By
David Theoret
-
0

Most golfers in the Midwest know about Harbor Shores and these days it may not be much of a stretch to say that a good percentage of visitors to the Benton Harbor area are there because of Harbor Shores.

For those unfamiliar with the property, Harbor Shores is a 530-acre mixed-use development with residential homes, hotels, a lakefront park, and a Jack Nicklaus signature golf course. The course was built in 2010 when Benton Harbor, Michigan was a less-than-desirable place to live. Downtown buildings were being abandoned and the area had become a dumping ground for garbage, oil sludge, and just about anything else you could think of. To make matters worse, the soil had become contaminated. To get the Harbor Shores site ready to build a golf course, over 100,000 cubic feet of solid waste, contaminated soil, and trash were removed. That’s over 60 dump truck loads of trash!

Harbor Shores is the only Jack Nicklaus Signature Course on Lake Michigan and the first beach, golf, and residential community in Southwest Michigan. It offers golfers the opportunity to play a championship golf course in championship condition. In essence, you can play where the pros play, under the same course conditions that the pros play in. When it opened in 2010, Golf Magazine ranked Harbor Shores No. 3 on their “Best New Courses You Can Play” list. A couple of months ago, Harbor Shores earned a spot on Golf Digest’s prestigious list of “America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses,” coming in at No. 90 on the list. The club also moved up six spots to No. 19 on Michigan’s Best in State list.

If you’re out to have a good time and be challenged, pick the set of tees that best suit your game.  That’s important because if you try to bite off more than you can chew, this course can eat your lunch. Harbor Shores is a fantastic golf course that plays 6,734 yards from the Black Tees. It has a course rating of 73.6 and a slope of 146. Move up to the Gold Tees  (6,159/70.2/139) and you’ll still be challenged yet able to leave with a certain amount of dignity.

Harbor Shores’ scorecard categorizes the holes into 4 groups: Inland, Dunes, Woodland, and River.  The Dunes holes offer fantastic views of Lake Michigan and the dunes that surround it, while the Woodland holes wind through rolling hills, ravines, and a hardwood forest. When I think back upon my round at Harbor Shores, three holes stand out in my mind, Numbers 6, 7, and 10. Every hole out here is memorable in its own right, but these three rise above the rest.

The 6th hole is Harbor Shores’ #1 handicapped hole. It’s a challenging par 4 that plays 389 yards from the Gold Tees with a semi-blind tee shot to a fairway that ends about 230 yards; hit it any further and you’re in trouble. This takes a driver out of many golfers’ hands. There are also three fairway bunkers in the landing area that must be avoided. A good drive will leave an approach shot between 140 and 150 yards, slightly downhill, over water into an angular green protected by both water and sand. Should you not feel up to the challenge, there’s a large bailout area to the left.

The No. 1 handicapped hole is followed by the No. 3 handicapped hole. Six and Seven may well be the most challenging back-to-back holes in the state.  Hole #7 is also the course’s signature hole and to me, much more challenging than its predecessor. It’s a dogleg right that plays 396 yards from the Gold Tees and requires a long drive from an island tee box, over wetlands, with a lake on the right, and bunkers. From there, your approach shot plays uphill with about a 25’ elevation change (two or three extra clubs). Should you come up short, you may easily find the deep bunker halfway up the hill which then requires you to be part mountain goat to hit an effective sand shot! Hit it over the green and you could very well find the beach – literally! Once you finally reach the green at the top of the dunes, you’ll be treated to incredible views of Jean Klock Park and Lake Michigan.

The 10th hole was made famous by the Golden Bear himself and the green is recognized as one of his most famous. It’s a 475-yard par 5 with woods on the right, so favoring the left side off the tee helps to avoid all kinds of hazards. A layup shot played down the left side will leave the best angle into the notorious 4-tiered green. The green measures over 10,000 sq. ft. and being on the correct tier is everything if you want to avoid a potential 3-putt – or worse. The 10th green is best remembered for its grand opening round when Jack Nicklaus showed Johnny Miller how to make a 102-foot putt from the bottom level to the upper level. If you haven’t seen it, check it out on YouTube!

Harbor Shores offers some exceptional practice facilities including a full-length driving range, 2 short game areas, and a lighted putting green. The Learning Center uses Trackman technology for game improvement and club fitting,

If you’re hungry after your round, you don’t have to leave the clubhouse to get a great meal. The Grille has a very diverse menu for a golf course. Not only do they take the staples such as wings, burgers, and fries to a new level, but they also serve non-traditional plates like homemade hummus, loaded baked potato fritters, Michigan berry salad, and grilled shrimp tacos. The Big Dog Pork Tenderloin sandwich is almost big enough to be shared!

For those interested in an overnight stay, the Inn at Harbor Shores is a great place to bed down for the night, even if you’re not playing golf the next day. The Inn features 92 luxury guest rooms, a full-service spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, and a selection of dining options. They offer king, queen, and family accommodations with a view of either the golf course or one of Michigan’s oldest deep-water harbors. All rooms are equipped with safes, coffeemakers, refrigerators, and balconies where you can enjoy the cool evening breezes.

Planks Tavern on the Water is the premier waterfront dining spot in St. Joseph with great food for both big and small appetites. They serve brunch from 7 a.m. – 3 p.m., and dinner from 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. 7 days a week. For brunch, they offer several different “benedicts” including the Hillbilly Benny – sausage gravy with bacon crumbles and American cheese on a biscuit and the Still Crabby Benny – tomato, avocado, lump crab, and zesty hollandaise sauce on an English muffin. For dinner, try the Norwegian Sea Trout – seared in a maple chipotle sauce and served with Brussels sprouts, pancetta, cherries, and almonds.

Harbor Shores Resort can be easily reached from three major markets; Chicago is about 90 minutes away while Detroit and Indianapolis are within three hours. The Resort has become a popular weekend getaway destination for couples, buddy golf trips, weddings, team-building events, and just about any other reason you can think of that might involve a golf course. The restaurant is a popular waterside spot for boaters from all over the area.

If you’re a serious golfer in any of these three markets, test your skills at Harbor Shores. You’ll use every club in the bag…at least once!

For more information on everything that Harbor Shores Resort and Golf Club has to offer, visit them online at www.harborshoresresort.com.

Cat Island Club – A Collaboration of Two Great Golf Course Architects

By
David Theoret
-
0

Golf course architect George Cobb had a remarkable career. Among his contributions to golf is the 9-hole par 3 course at Augusta National, which is seen by millions each year on the Wednesday before the Masters. The Cat Island Club in South Carolina was his final design as he “passed the baton” to his understudy, John LaFoy. LaFoy himself has built a remarkable career with such notable courses as The Cardinal and Pines Golf Course in Diamondhead, MS, Pine Tree Country Club in Birmingham, AL, and West Lake Country Club in Augusta, GA. LaFoy was tasked with finishing this final George Cobb design and did a masterful job. When the course debuted in the summer of 1985, it was enjoyed by both locals and out-of-state residents and became one of the most desirable clubs in the area for years.

However, after several years of neglect and poor management, the property was in disrepair and was subsequently purchased by Resort Development Partners (RDP) on June 1st, 2022. RDP owns and operates several clubs around the country and has developed a sterling reputation within the golf industry. The company immediately called on LaFoy to help them return the golf course to its former glory. LaFoy and the staff at Cat Island Club have worked tirelessly to see that every mound, undulation, and contour has been restored to what both Cobb and LaFoy meant it to be.

Several members I spoke with have already seen big changes in the way the course is run. For starters, RDP hired Tim Mervosh, a golf industry professional with over 35 years of experience in the golf industry. One of the first things Mervosh did was open up lines of communication between himself, RDP, and the membership base. This was something that was lacking in previous ownership. Keeping members informed helped to manage expectations that arose from supply chain issues and eliminated any doubt that RDP was “in it for the long haul!”

LaFoy has done a wonderful job of blending Cat Island Club into its natural surroundings. Water comes into play on at least 12 holes and makes for a couple of Kodak moments from the 16th and 17th tees. The Port Royal Sound comes into play on six of these.

As I stood on the first tee at Cat Island Club in Beaufort, SC, one of the members offered me some words of advice, “Favor the right side of the fairway.” I took his advice and hit it down the right side and, when I drove up to the ball, I could see why.  There’s a pond on the left side that is reachable from the tee. If you do hit it left off the tee, you might get lucky and find a bunker! The water comes into play on approach shots to center or left pin placements. Looking back, I should have kept him around for the rest of the round!

LaFoy and Cat Island Club prove that a hole doesn’t have to be long to be challenging. The 3rd hole is a 341-yard par 4 that doglegs to the right. Your tee shot plays over water which forms the right side of the fairway up to the dogleg. Once you get to the corner, trees line either side of the fairway and there’s another water hazard to cross. The green is flanked by bunkers on either side. Consider something less than a driver off the tee and leave yourself a manageable shot into the green. See for yourself why this hole is handicapped #1!

Another interesting feature at Cat Island Club is the back-to-back par 3s on Numbers 4 and 5. Number 4 plays 150 yards and is all carry over water into an angular green with a large bunker between the water and the green. At 142 yards, Number 5 is slightly shorter with the marshland from the previous hole on the right which is not good news for most golfers! Two large bunkers guard the left side of this elevated green which slopes back to front.

Number 8 is the only par 5 on the front side and is handicapped as the 13th toughest hole on the golf course. That means it’s a great opportunity to pick up a shot or two. From the Blue Tees, it plays 478 yards with a slight dogleg right. You won’t find any water hazards on this hole, and you may not find your golf ball in the long Bermuda rough if you miss the fairway! A good drive will leave an opportunity to go for the green which is elevated and protected with sand in the front right.

The views for Numbers 16 and 17 steal the show. As you stand on the tee box of the 118-yard par 3, 16th hole, you can’t help but be impressed by what you see behind the putting surface. Sixteen showcases South Carolina’s Lowcountry at its best with a boat dock beyond the green and countless miles of marshland behind that. The par 4, 17th hole is a dogleg left that plays 341 yards and starts with a tee shot from a manmade tee box in the middle of the marshland. Playing your tee shot over the marsh and down the left side of the fairway will leave a good angle into the green which is long and narrow.

Cat Island Club takes the game seriously as can be seen by their members-only practice area, complete with a full-length driving range, short game area, and putting green. Their highly qualified staff of golf professionals can help with every aspect of your game including private and group lessons, clinics, club fitting, and repair. The pro shop includes all kinds of equipment, accessories, and logoed apparel from top manufacturers including FootJoy, Swannies, and Titleist. Their member pricing on golf balls, gloves, and other golf necessities is competitive with local golf outlets.

If you’re looking for a club where status is measured by how much you’re worth, how big your house is, or the car you drive, then Cat Island Club probably isn’t a good match. Membership here leans towards God, country, and family. Patriotism is also on high display here and with Parris Island nearby it’s no wonder! There are many Military veterans in the area and Cat Island Club is no exception. They’re easy to spot; they’re the ones standing at attention and saluting whenever Revelle plays at nearby Parris Island. When the course officially reopened, the Marine Honor Guard raised the flag and there was a flyover of F35 fighter planes; talk about impressive! LaFoy himself served in the Marine Corps.

Cat Island Club strives to provide its members with an exceptional lifestyle and a family-friendly environment. There is something to do for every member of the family including both social and athletic activities for all ages.

On my recent visit to the club, I was overwhelmed by how much use the swimming pool complex received. It includes a lagoon-style pool, a kiddie pool, an adult-only pool, and a jacuzzi. In case hunger or thirst overtakes you, there’s a full-service bar and poolside grill with a casual menu. It’s not unusual to find entire families here for the day.

The clubhouse is the main gathering place for members. It has a warm and comfortable atmosphere and features a private wine room, a full-service liquor bar, and a unique Grab ‘n Go area where members can pick up snacks and drinks at the turn. The Oak Patio is destined to become a center of activity at the club for anyone seeking outdoor dining. It offers views of two lagoons and the 18th green and is a special place to watch the sun slip down beneath the Lowcountry marshland.

Cat Island Club is currently accepting new members. There are several membership classifications with low initiation fees and very reasonable monthly dues. It’s the best and most economical way to be a part of Cat Island Club and take advantage of everything they have to offer. For more information, call General Manager Tim Mervosh at (843) 524-2000 ext. 103 or visit them on the web at www.catislandclub.com.

The Club at Longview 2023 – Destined to Be the Top Private Club in Greater Charlotte

By
David Theoret
-
0

The Club at Longview in Waxhaw, NC was the vision of real estate developer Mel Graham. The property’s history dates back to the 1800s when it was first known as The Longview Black Jack Farm. In 1953, Graham’s father acquired a small piece of the property as an annex of the Graham Dairy Farm. Many years later, whenever a piece of land adjacent to what his father owned became available, Mel purchased it. Eventually, he had amassed over 1,000 acres.

Fast forward to 2001. Mel’s vision for The Club at Longview is put in motion. When world-renowned golf course designer Jack Nicklaus paid a visit, he studied the gently rolling hills with its pines and hardwoods, creeks, ponds, and nature preserves. He told Mel Graham that this land was always meant to be the home of a great golf course. Two years later, on October 20, 2003, their visions came to fruition and The Club at Longview officially opened! The Rev. Billy Graham performed the dedication service alongside his nephew Mel and Mr. Nicklaus.

Old-world charm and architecture can be found throughout the Club and the surrounding community; it’s a direct result of Mel’s travels throughout Europe. Like fine wine, the architecture has withstood the test of time and improves with age. The Club at Longview features Tifway 419 Hybrid Bermuda fairways and roughs and A-1 Bentgrass greens. The golf course features several tree-lined fairways, an abundance of water hazards, rolling hills, and subtle elevation changes that will have you thinking about club selection. There are no tee times at Longview, playing a round of golf is as simple as showing up with your clubs.

Ask anyone who knows me who my least favorite golf course designer is, and they will all tell you without a doubt that it’s Jack Nicklaus. I think he makes his courses too tough for the average golfer. Imagine my surprise when I was sitting in the clubhouse after my round talking to General Manager Steve Windham and found out that The Golden Bear designed The Club at Longview. I found it to be a very enjoyable yet challenging layout. It is easily the most enjoyable Nicklaus design I have played to date.

The Club at Longview has many memorable holes but none more so than the final two that come at the end of the round. Seventeen plays 467 yards from the Member Tees and takes two well-struck shots if you want to get on in two. The bad news for slicers is that a lake makes up the right side of the fairway and extends well past the landing area. There are also two fairway bunkers on the left side of the landing area. Should a good drive give you the option to attempt at the green, you’ll need to carry a large wetland area that crosses the fairway and extends up the hill towards the green. For those of us who have no hope of getting on in two and lay up short of the green, beware of the fairway bunker in the middle of the fairway. The green is well-elevated and protected by a deep bunker on the right. An approach shot that finds the front left portion of the green will likely roll off the green and down the hill, making for a tricky up and down. It’s a fun and challenging golf hole.

The view from the 18th tee is stunning. The tee boxes are perched up high on a slope and overlook the lake with the clubhouse serving as the backdrop for the 18th green. The 18th hole is the longest par 4 on the golf course, playing 401 yards from the Member Tees with that same lake on the right again. The safest play off the tee is the left side of the fairway but beware of the fairway bunker in the landing area. A good drive will still leave a mid to long iron into a well-undulated green protected on the right by water and a beautiful stone wall. Par – or better – is a great way to finish your round.

The Club at Longview is considered by many to be one of the top golf clubs in North Carolina. In addition to 18 holes of Jack Nicklaus Signature golf, there’s a generous practice area located near the Clubhouse that features a full-length driving range, three separate putting and chipping surfaces, and on-site professional instruction. There’s talk of turning one of the out-buildings adjacent to the driving range into an indoor club-fitting studio complete with a Trackman simulator.  Longview provides its golf members with everything they need to enhance and develop their game.

Lessons are available from Longview’s staff of golf professionals for all Members regardless of skill level and can take place on either the practice areas or the golf course. They can also help with one-on-one golf club fittings for any club in your bag. During your visit, be sure to check out the Golf Shop which stocks all of the latest equipment trends and technology and logoed apparel from many of the top manufacturers.

One of Longview’s most popular amenities is the pool. It’s not uncommon to see families enjoying the family pool with water fountains and sprays, an infant pool, and a toddler pool. There’s also an adult pool with lap lanes and a jacuzzi tub. In the event you work up an appetite, you can enjoy full-service poolside dining. During the summertime, the club hosts family and adult-themed pool parties. The pool is open 7 days a week during pool season.

If you’re serious about staying in good shape, you’ll enjoy the Club’s Fitness Center. Their staff of certified fitness professionals take a personal interest in your well-being and offer countless ways to help get you in better shape. Within the fitness area, you’ll find the latest in cardiovascular and state-of-the-art workout equipment.

Dining is always a consideration when considering a new club and The Club at Longview offers members a variety of dining options. Regardless of the venue you choose, the Chef and his staff take advantage of locally sourced fresh ingredients. Many of these seasonal ingredients are only available at certain times of the year, which leads to an ever-changing menu that is always prepared with finesse and flair. The menu includes a mix of old favorites and new selections. Dishes you won’t find at too many clubs include Bacon, Jalapeno, and Cheddar Hushpuppies, and Ragin’ Cajun Chicken Pasta. No matter what you order, you’re sure to enjoy it!

No amenity at Longview is more coveted than their Youth Lodge. Not only does it give mom and dad the opportunity for some quality time, but the kids enjoy themselves. The Youth Lodge takes up the entire upper level of the Activity Center and is 100% for the kids with age-appropriate play areas, a movie theater, arts and crafts areas, game tables, and more. With scheduled events, Mom and Dad can make plans ahead of time.

In 2021, Mel Graham made the decision to sell the Club, and Concert Golf Partners was chosen as the long-term successor. The company‘s commitment to excellence along with the desire to update the facility so it could continue along its illustrious path made it an excellent fit to take over ownership. The staff is second to none; most of them know every member by name and are willing to go the extra mile and help make The Club at Longview a special place.

Concert Golf CEO Peter Nanula has said no major changes are expected to the course. Over the next two to three years, Nanula said Concert Golf plans to invest several million dollars into upgrades of the 25,000-square-foot main clubhouse and the 10,000-square-foot activity center. Concert Golf has already put roughly $3M in capital improvements into the property and more are underway. Recently completed projects include the expansion of the outdoor patio, a new pool pavilion, and a new turn house. Currently under construction are a new golf pro shop and a new Member bar and lounge.

If you like what you’ve heard so far, consider arranging a visit to Longview to see everything they have to offer. Members are never assessed, and Longview offers several types of membership s including golf, social, and corporate. There’s also a National Membership for those who live 100 miles from the Club. Call and speak with their Membership Director. And, as a member of a Concert Golf property, you’ll have reciprocity with other similar Concert Clubs.

The Club at Longview’s goal is to be the premier club in the region. I’d say they are well on their way! For more information on what The Club at Longview has to offer give them a call at 704-443-2500 or visit them online at www.theclubatlongview.com.

Blue Tees Golf: Player+ GPS and Max 3 Rangefinder Are Hard to Beat

By
David Theoret
-
0

Whether you prefer a handheld laser rangefinder or a GPS unit that you can take a quick glance at for yardage, Blue Tees Golf has the right product for you.

Their all-new Player+ GPS features a touchscreen display giving you precise control of the GPS in an easy-to-navigate format. It allows you to measure your drives and keep track of them so you can brag to your friends and have proof to back it up. It will also keep you informed of hazards such as bunkers water hazards, and OB and you won’t need a scorecard because you can keep track of it right on the GPS/speaker. You can receive your front/center/back distances either visually or audibly for added convenience.

The Player+ has a 100-foot range giving you some flexibility and the IPX7 waterproof design will withstand water and wet weather conditions, providing you with peace of mind. The industrial-strength magnetic strip lets you attach the speaker to your golf cart so that it is always within reach. The power bank on the Player+ allows you to charge your smartphone and other devices during your round and the 10+ hours of battery life are more than enough for a weekend of golf on a single charge.

When it comes to sound, it’s hard to beat what Player+ has to offer. It produces high-quality sound with radical deep bass, letting you enjoy your golf experience with crisp, clear audio. You can also link it to other golfers’ devices and create a shared golfing experience, enhancing the social enjoyment of your round.

My preference is a handheld rangefinder that can give me accurate distance to the pin and, at the same time, scan the distances to hazards. Blue Tees Golf’s Series 3 Max Rangefinder is not only an easy-to-use and accurate tool but also easy on the wallet.

The Series 3 offers multi-coated 4K optics 7x magnification and a proprietary visual display. It quickly locks onto your target which is a nice feature to have; especially when you’re playing with impatient partners! The Series 3 Max also measures slope and uses Continuous Arc Technology to generate the true distance between you and your target. Turning it off for tournaments is as easy as flipping the toggle switch.

One of the most remarkable features of the Series 3 Max Rangefinder is something called Auto-Ambient technology. It automatically adjusts the text being displayed to red or black in contrast to the prevailing lighting conditions. Series 3 Max can pick up a target from as far away as 900 yards with an accuracy of +/- 1 yard. And, when you lock onto your target, you get a short vibrating series of pulses to let you know.

A few months ago, I was playing with a friend who had his rangefinder attached via the magnetic strip to the roof support. We hit a bump on the cart path and the next thing I knew he was picking up the pieces of his shattered unit. This won’t happen with the Series 3 Max because of the all-new Magnetic Strip. It’s built-in to the rangefinder and uses industry-leading magnet strength. It will attach securely to your golf cart, golf club, or any other magnetic surface. What’s more, the exterior casing of the unit is sturdy and water-resistant making it excellent for use regardless of the weather.

Blue Tees Golf’s Series 3 Max rangefinder comes with a waterproof leather carrying case making it easy to find in your bag. There’s also a microfiber cloth for quick cleaning and 3 extra batteries. The Series 3 Max has a 2-year manufacturer’s warranty and 60 60-day money-back guarantee.

These and more can be found on their website at www.bluteesgolf.com.

Leupold Golf GX-2c and Gx-6c Laser Rangefinders Are Best in Class

By
David Theoret
-
0

Over the past 20 years, I’ve tried a number of laser rangefinders and GPS units and I always come back to Leupold. When it comes to optics companies, no one has a reputation or longevity like Leupold. This 5th-generation, family-owned business was founded in 1907 and is still owned by the Leupold family. In 2014, the NRA conducted an equipment survey and found Leupold to be the most popular scope manufacturer for both the high-power and high-power hunter competition rifles. They are also well-known for their binoculars and performance eyewear. So, it only makes sense that this success would spill over to golf rangefinders.

Recently the display on my Leupold GX-5 started to fade and according to the technicians at Leupold, it cannot be fixed. I decided to replace it with another Leupold unit since I have never had a problem with any previous units.

My dilemma is whether or not I spend the money to get a similar unit – in this case, the new GX-6c – or save some cash and purchase the GX-2c.

Without going into technicalities, Leupold has some proprietary technologies that make their laser golf rangefinders some of the fastest and most accurate in the business. Their products are among the best in the industry in terms of performance and reliability. Here are some of the features that can be found in either the GX-2c or Gx-6c:

True Golf Range Technology (TGR) is a sophisticated way of saying “slope.” The difference with Leupold is that it takes into account altitude and temperature and gives extremely accurate readings.

Club Selector is my favorite feature and can only be found on certain Leupold models. It allows you to program your club distances directly into the device.  Then based on the distance and variable items like slope, altitude, and temperature the Gx-6c selects the correct club for you. When used with TGR Technology, it can take the guesswork out of club selection.

One feature that seems to separate Leupold from many others is Fog Mode, which helps the laser cut through fog or mist to give you more accurate readings. This is especially useful if you live in a particularly rainy area.

The Prism Lock feature gives you both an audible and visual alert when the rangefinder has successfully locked onto a flagstick with a prism in it, something many courses are adding.

Flag Lock is similar to Prism lock but allows the device to differentiate between a flagstick and other background elements such as trees.

Digitally Enhanced Accuracy (DNA) uses digital processing which picks up “less noise” than traditional rangefinders and gives more accurate results down to 1/10th of a yard.

Scan Mode allows you to hold down the range button and scan from one target to the next, getting multiple yardages quickly.

PinHunter 3 is Leupold’s latest laser technology which helps to eliminate false readings and separates things like background trees.

The GX-6c has one major feature not available in the Gx-2c – Image Stabilization. It uses technology similar to what you would find in a stabilized camera lens and makes it extremely easy to lock onto the flag no matter how shaky your hands might be.

The other feature where the GX-6c shines is the display. It uses a high light transmission optical system with a bright red display for ease of reading whereas the 2c uses a high-resolution LCD display. A CR2 lithium battery is included with each as is a two-year limited warranty. Line of sight distance is USGA legal on both models.

Leupold Rangefinders are missing a couple of features that other manufacturers hype up – a magnet to attach it to the golf cart for easy accessibility and a vibration feature. I’ve never had a rangefinder with a vibration feature – a beep is good enough for me – and I’ve played with several people where the magnet failed, and their rangefinder crashed onto the cart path. One guy accidentally ran his over!

In the end, I opted for the GX-6c, less of a learning curve. After all, it’s hard to teach an old dog new tricks. For more information on either model or to purchase a new Leupold golf rangefinder, visit them online at www.leupoldgolf.com.

The Amelia River Club Continues To Be a Year-round Favorite For Both Locals and Visitors

By
David Theoret
-
0

In a part of Florida that is known for prestigious private and resort golf clubs, the Amelia River Club has been recognized as one of the most prestigious courses in all of North Florida.

The Club is located on Amelia Island, just north of Jacksonville and within minutes of the historic town of Fernandina Beach. It’s and a favorite of both local golfers and visitors to the Amelia Island area for many years. It’s not your typical daily fee facility; the fairways are always in pristine condition with well-manicured fairways and sculpted bunkers that lead to smooth TifEagle greens that roll fast and true.

This Tom Jackson-designed course gives you five sets of tees to choose from and can be played anywhere from 4,706 yards for seniors, juniors and ladies, to 6,860 yards for low handicappers. The scorecard also adds in a couple of Combo yardages so finding one suitable for your game shouldn’t be a problem.

At 6,349 yards from the Blue Tees, Amelia River Club is long enough that you’ll have ample opportunity to “grip it and rip it!” You’ll also need a fair amount of ball control and accuracy if you want to score well. There are no houses in the course, just you, lush green fairways, and that little white ball!

Some of the holes are wide open and highly susceptible to the winds that often blow off the nearby water. Others feature tree-lined fairways sculpted around stands of live oaks, sable palms, pines, and wax myrtles. Water comes into play on at least thirteen holes; creeks cross the fairway in several places and there’s a good chance you won’t know they’re there. You’ll also find a lot of mounding on the peripheries of the fairways. The greens are well-protected with sand traps and grassy mounds.

There’s nothing like starting the day off with one of the toughest holes. Number 1 is a 521-yard par 5 that is the #3 handicap and for the majority of golfers will be a 3-shot hole. Favor the left side off the tee, the landing area is wide open so all you need to do is steer your tee shot clear of the bunkers on the right. A good drive will leave a choice to either layup or go for broke. Your best bet is to lay up short of the water and make birdie with a good chip shot. Miss the green to the right and you’ll have some large trees to deal with.

The 14th and 15th holes are great risk/reward opportunities where longball hitters can make up some strokes on their partners. The par 4, 338-yard 14th hole is a dogleg left although it’s more like a left turn than a dogleg. For longball hitters, going directly at the green over the water requires about a 260-yard carry. Mere mortals will just hit it about 220 yards straight off the tee and leave a short to mid-iron into the green. Number 15 is a slight dogleg left that plays 325 yards and may be reachable with a well-struck drive. There’s a single fairway bunker on the left side and the long, narrow green is protected by three pot bunkers on the left and a large, deep bunker on the right. Good drives on these holes can shave a few strokes.

As it is with several courses in northeast Florida, Amelia River Club’s signature hole is a par 3 with an island green. That seems to be the theme up here! Number 17 plays 147-yard over water into an island green. The triangular green is guarded by a small bunker front left. Distance control and accuracy are needed to score well.

Number 18 is a challenge and a good way to end a great round of golf. It’s a par 5 that plays 518 yards from the Blue Tees. Trees frame the fairway off the tee which can make your drive a little intimidating. It’s a very slight dogleg left so favor the right side off the tee. The fairway widens in the landing area of your layup and then you’ll have a short pitch shot onto a well-elevated and odd-shaped green that’s protected by three bunkers on the right and trees on the left.

Before your round, warm up on Amelia River Club’s full-length driving range where you can hit every club in the bag. If your game needs some work, check out Amelia River Club’s state-of-the-art Performance Center which opened in the fall of 2022. The Performance Center offers club fittings and golf lessons to help you get the most out of that new set of clubs. They use the latest technology including Trackman, which can provide instant feedback and help determine the best clubhead and shafts for your particular golf swing.

In the event you need a lesson, Amelia River Club’s staff will work with you to improve your game. Whether you’re new to golf and want to learn the fundamentals, or you’re a seasoned player who just needs to tweak a few things, they’ll work with you to find the best solution for game improvement. The club’s experienced staff can put together a package that includes preferred lesson scheduling “on-course” playing lessons, and much more. Give them a call to set it in motion!

Inside the Cape Cod-style clubhouse, you’ll find the newly remodeled pro shop with all kinds of golf accessories, necessities, and logoed apparel, as well as the River Bar and Grille. The menu features all kinds of delicious breakfast items, as well as burgers, handheld sandwiches, and salads if you play later in the day. Adult beverages are also available, and the bar and grill are open until 5 pm with both indoor and outdoor seating.

Can’t get enough of the Amelia River Club’s golf facilities? Consider becoming a member. The club offers several membership categories including Single and Family Full Memberships, Corporate and Social Memberships. Your monthly membership fee entitles you to unlimited greens fees and range fees, reduced cart fees, advance tee time booking, and discounts in the pro shop and restaurant. There are no fees after 2 pm if you’re walking. For more information on booking your next round of golf at Amelia River Club, give them a call at (904) 491-8500 or visit their website, where you can book a tee time online.  www.ameliarivergolf.com.

1234...37Page 3 of 37
The Golfin Guy
The Golfin' Guy

EVEN MORE NEWS

POPULAR CATEGORY

©