Feature Courses - The Golf Guide
Transcription
Feature Courses - The Golf Guide
Summer 2015 Lower Alabama 8 Summer 2015 Vol. 17 Issue 3 The Golf Guide, Inc. 206 Morlyn Drive Stephenson, VA 22656 540-431-5034 540-431-5078 (Fax) www.golfguideinc.com sales@golfguideinc.com Publisher Nick Ciattei Designer – Magazine & Web Site Cheryl Brown, Site Schemes siteschemes.com Staff Writers Mike Ahrnsbrak, PGA Diana Barge Paul Etgen Larry Ringer, PGA 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Opening Shot COVER STORY 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Goose Creek 8 . . . . Golf Destination: Lower Alabama 12F����������������������������������������Feature Courses 29P��������������������������������PGA Tour Schedules 31F����������������� Feature Course Regional Map 32A������������������� Additional Regional Courses 34F���������������������������������������������� Front Royal 36M���������������������� Mid-Atlantic Tournaments 38L���������������������������������Links At Gettysburg facebook.com/golfgetaway twitter: @golfguideinc The Golf Guide is a trademark of The Golf Guide, Inc. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The Golf GuideTM is not responsible or liable for any errors, omissions, or other information. For editorial comments or additional copies, contact The Golf Guide, 206 Morlyn Drive, Stephenson, VA 22656. ©2015 The Golf Guide, Inc. All Rights Reserved Published Four Times Annually YEARLY SUBSCRIPTIONS AVAILABLE BY SENDING $15.00 (CHECK OR MONEY ORDER) TO ABOVE ADDRESS 40O��������������������������������������� Out Of The Bag 42N�������������������������������������������New Products 44G����� Golf Destination: Fredericksburg, VA 48A����������������� Accommodations & Packages 54S��������������������������������������Shanks & 3-Putts 55G�����������������������������������������Golf Discounts 61P���������������������������������������������Pro’s Corner Front Cover: Goose Creek, Hole 13 Par 3 Above: Frederic Tree, Lakewood Golf Club, Mobile, AL Opening Shot The Boys of Summer Fortunately for residents here, the DMV (District of Columbia/Maryland/Virginia) boasts owning many sports teams with great histories. Two area professional baseball teams have returned to prominence touting multiple playoff appearances in recent years making Oriole Park at Camden Yards summers a whole bunch more enjoyable for fans of the great American pastime. Both the Baltimore Orioles and Washington Nationals won their respective divisions last year, and while we are not here to predict this season’s outcome, we can definitely say the buzz and excitement of baseball can be felt throughout around the beltways. OH say can you see the O’s topping the American League East this year? Much will depend on the pitching staff holding up over the course of the long season and Buck Showalter’s magical managerial moves that qualify him as one of the best baseball minds in the game. The Nats on the other hand have by far the best starting rotation in baseball, and Bryce Harper’s emergence as an MVP whose numbers should secure plenty of curly W’s could lead to a successful division repeat for the DC baseball club. While many of the baseball players themselves love to hit the local links on their days off, I truly enjoy making a day of it by playing 18 during the morning or afternoon and then catching a ballgame later that evening. This area offers many courses from which to choose, but I’m going to show bias and select ones that I believe form perfect golf/baseball doubleheaders. Nationals Park For name’s sake alone, I can’t resist choosing Diamond Ridge and the great old muni Clifton Park as ones to hit before a game at Oriole Park at Camden Yards, still one of the best venues for a MLB game. Rocky Point and The Woodlands just outside the beltway also make home runs in my book for the double play. East Potomac Golf Course just across the Washington Channel can be relied on as a safe bet to usher in a game at Nationals Park. Lake Presidential though seems a perfect fit as long as president’s mascots aren’t racing through the seventeenth hole! South Riding, Pleasant Valley, and Goose Creek in Northern Virginia should also be considered for positions in anyone’s starting lineup when choosing a course to play before heading downtown. Let’s not forget that a plethora of minor league ball parks in the region are affiliated with the two major teams that also make for great sports doubleheaders. O’s fans can catch future stars at fan friendly facilities in Bowie, Frederick, and Aberdeen while Nats fans may see the next Strasburg in Potomac or Hagerstown. If you have not treated yourself to a doubleheader before, grab three of your buds and step up to the plate, or should I say first tee! You will most likely enjoy this great sports day so much that you’ll be planning your next go-round before the seventh inning stretch ends! 2 G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M SU M M E R 2 0 1 5 3 Cover Story Cover Story Goose Creek Golf Club ~ History in the Making maker’s layout that requires knowledge and strategy over power. Nick Ciattei Folks in Northern Virginia will tell you that no area has changed as much over the past 60 years as Loudoun County has. Some may point to growth in Fairfax and Prince William counties, but no other landscape has made an about-face like what has happened in the county of Loudoun. What Hole 3 Par 3 was once predominately farmland and horse farms has now matured into the perfect mix of housing and retail while holding on to its countryside charm in many areas. Goose Creek Golf Club, however, has hardly changed since it was built in 1952. Yes, the area surrounding the course has been dramatically transformed, but Goose Creek in Leesburg has remained virtually the same as it was more than 60 years ago. You will not find any housing, swimming, or tennis at Goose Creek. You will just savor some of the finest and most affordable golf in all of Northern Virginia and appreciate its splendid location right off Rt.7, the main connector through the county. The approximately 100-acre course boasts one remarkable distinction. Golfing great Ben Hogan shot the course record of 59 in the late 1950s. This unmatched accomplishment is portrayed in a series of timeless photographs that grace the clubhouse walls. Arnold Palmer has also played this course. The King entertained a crowd estimated at 1,500 spectators during the 1972 Loudoun Memorial Hospital Golf Tournament. The two names, Hogan and Palmer, go hand in hand with classic golf just like the Goose. Now, we can’t guarantee you a super low score or a huge gallery, but we can assure you that you will be smitten by Goose Creek. Hole 8 Par 4 The front nine at Goose Greek Golf Club opens with an uphill par 5 and downhill par 4. Having modest lengths, they both afford good scoring opportunities. The par 3 third gives testament to the Hole 13 Par 3 seamless quality of the course, being one of the more recently designed holes, and plays uphill at nearly 170 yards from the tips. Avoiding Tuscarora Creek, a tributary of the course’s namesake, and the deep bunkers on the left must be your first goals. Successfully handle the two-tiered green to accomplish your mission. A series of par 4s from holes four through eight shape an interesting part of the course in which each hole plays over, around, or next to the Tuscarora. The sixth hole is rated the hardest at Goose Creek playing 411 yards with O.B. down the entire left side. A demanding drive over the creek will set up an uphill second shot. Par here is a keeper. Both seven and eight may be short by today’s par 4 standards, but Goose Creek’s signature small pop-up greens add to the challenge. The par 3 ninth, a story in itself, has achieved the reputation as being one of the toughest par 3s in the region. The hole plays from a tee box set back in the trees to a narrow sloping green perched onto a hillside. A deep bunker to the right and some considerable environmental areas are just part of the quandary on this infamous hole, rated one of the most difficult at Goose Creek. Longer than the front side, the back nine at Goose plays somewhat easier with extra free space. Goose Creek itself borders the left side of three par 4s that open the inward side, with each hole getting progressively more daunting. Thirteen, the first of two lengthy par 3s on the back, plays 236 yards from the blues. Water down the left in the form of an attractive pond can distract the task at hand. Back to back par 5s on holes fourteen and fifteen form a scoring Although there have been some tweaks to the course over the years, Goose Creek has not changed as much as its surroundings have. Most notably, in 2007 popular architect Rick Jacobson redesigned a couple of the holes, which harmonize very well with Designer Bill Gordon’s original layout. The 6410 yard par 71 has been deemed a shotHole 2 Par 4 4 G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M SU M M E R 2 0 1 5 5 Cover Story zone on the back side. The first plays uphill to a two-tiered green that slopes significantly from back to front. The later hole plays downhill with hazards crossing the fairway and near the green that demand your complete attention. Two of my favorites, sixteen and seventeen, par 3 Hole 15 Par 5 and par 4 respectively, combine both length and beauty. Feathery native grasses surround both of the green complexes. Goose Creek ends with a short par 4, rated the easiest hole on the course, so put a circle on the scorecard because that birdie will keep you coming back for more. Goose Creek Golf Club maintains excellent conditions that are as good if not better than some of the costlier clubs in the region. The bentgrass fairways provide country club playing surfaces without the “Bushwood” tariff. I am pleased with the pace of play, one noticeable and favorable trait Hole 17 Par 4 at the Goose. Don’t expect an agonizing five plus hour round here. Play normally requires four hours or less. The course website provides online tee times and everything you need to know about memberships, gift certificates, outings, and much more. Members are privy to a great in-house event schedule. Greens and tee boxes are located in close proximity to one another making it an ideal course for walkers. Women appreciate this course also. In the days of longer, overly demanding layouts, Goose Creek brings us back to “hit it, find it, and hit it again.” Wednesday women’s and Thursday men’s leagues are held here in season. Plus, Loudoun Junior Golf Association originated here where children from 8 years and up can participate in either their Traditional or Masters memberships. As you can see, the course stays pretty busy. General Manager Jeffrey Berg and his staff do a first-rate job handling the events, members, and daily fee players that frequent this establishment. We end this string of words on a real positive note. The Loudoun County Board of Supervisors recently approved Goose Creek’s plan to renovate the golf course and construct new practice facilities and a new clubhouse. I find it so refreshing to hear that it looks like one of our great ole golf institutions, Goose Creek in Leesburg, will be around for another 60 years. For more information visit goosecreekgolf.com 6 G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M SU M M E R 2 0 1 5 7 Golf Destination Golf Destination Welcome to L.A. (Sweet Lower Alabama) Paul Etgen Welcome to L.A.? Apparently I slept a little longer on the plane than I thought. I heard this greeting on more than one occasion on my recent golf adventure. I quickly realized that L.A. meant Lower Alabama, an amazing oasis housing many of the state’s top tier golf courses. Stewart Lodges is located 20 miles outside of Mobile in Loxley within the gated confines of Steelwood Country Club. I’m not used to being pampered but that is exactly what happens here. There is nothing that the great staff will not do to make sure your golf vacation is memorable. Shuttles to and from airports and golf courses put your mind at ease, and private guest rooms, baths, and an amazing pool/hot tub/patio area do likewise for your body. Executive Chef (and GM) Danny helps you plan your meals, and he and his staff prepare it for you. Being a guest grants you access to the very private Jerry Pate designed golf course as well as the 200-acre, well-stocked fresh water lake. A beautifully appointed conference room also waits on the main level. As advertised, Stewart Lodges remains – Unspoiled. – Unexpected. – Unparalleled. The next two days had us experiencing golf courses by renowned architect, and Southeastern favorite, Earl Stone. Stone’s reputation for designing playable courses is confirmed at Timber Creek in Daphne and Rock Creek in Fairhope. He builds courses with an 18 handicapper in mind. Don’t take this the wrong way. His courses will still challenge everyone. With three nines Timber Creek and several sets of tees from which to choose, Timber Creek offers everyone something. Forests of magnolias, dogwoods, and pines – coincidentally the names of the three nines – line the rolling fairways. With natural beauty at a premium and such lush and plentiful woods around us, we were not surprised to come across wildlife. At one point I thought I was under attack from some half raccoon, half squirrel crossbreed. Thankfully my favorite search engine identified the huge mutant as a fox squirrel, and I continued my round with only mildly frayed nerves. I thoroughly enjoyed playing this course and recommend it highly for its value. I couldn’t believe that such a nice layout was very affordable, a theme that repeated itself the rest of the week. Unlike Timber Creek’s rolling design, Rock Creek has elevation changes. Some called for a two-club change for this golfer. From the back tees Rock Creek 8 plays to almost 7000 yards. I generally trip over the back tees as I walk toward the more genial middle tees, 6300 yards on this particular course. Well deserving of the 4 ½ star rating, Earl Stone created a course as picturesque as it was fun. Rock Creek’s a primary goal of serving up hospitality is achieved beautifully. From unloading the bags all the way through our round to the Cinco de Mayo themed lunch, complete with piñata, we were made to feel as though we were the most important golfers there. Score another victory for Mr. Stone. Day 4 proved to be a banner day for me as I was able to knock an item off of my bucket list. I saw an alligator! Thank you, Lakewood Golf Club. Granted it wasn’t a monster or on land or even moving, but it was still an alligator. I’m counting it. Lakewood, at the Grand Hotel Marriott, is the only Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail course not designed by the World Golf Hall of Fame inductee. Do not worry though. Lakewood It stands up with the best of Alabama. Lakewood offers two wonderful 18 hole tracts, Dogwood and Azalea. Designed by Perry Maxwell, who built the 2001 U.S. Open host Southern Hills Country Club, Lakewood became the first professional quality course in L.A. when it opened in 1947. A little bit of everything resides at the Dogwood course, which is a sight to behold. Lakes, streams, marshes, woods, rolling fairways, and tight greens make for lots of excitement. Be sure to stand in awe of the old growth oaks that reside at Lakewood, including the Frederic Tree. Located along #10, the Frederic Tree was rescued by course maintenance after Hurricane Frederic ravaged the area in 1979. Dogwood’s tale of two nines begins with the front nine that meanders through the aforementioned liquid challenges. Water comes into play on eight of the holes. The sixth hole became my favorite only because it was there that I spotted Arnie the Alligator, at least that what I named him. While water causes trouble on the back nine too, I enjoyed the walk through this glorious woods. Shot placement proved to be the way to go on the back side instead of length, which is a real treat for me because length is not what I am known to achieve. I have not discussed lodging much because my publisher would wonder why I turned in a ten page article when there was only room for three. The Grand Hotel turned out to be that magnificent. Every imaginable amenity waits to Rock Creek G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M SU M M E R 2 0 1 5 9 Golf Destination whisk you away to a relaxed state of mind. With too many pleasures to list or expound on, the cannon firing in the afternoon emerged as the highlight of my stay. A brief presentation celebrating the rich military history of the area is followed by a processional along the Magnolia Grove Falls boardwalk to the cannon pointing out across Mobile Bay. After another brief history lesson, the cannon is loaded, with a blank of course, and fired. I found it very exhilarating and loud. It took at least five minutes before I could hear the ice clinking in my drink. Magnolia Grove Crossings The last two days of our trip brought us to the historic Battle House in downtown Mobile and another gem on the RTJ Golf Trail, Magnolia Grove. Wow! While insufficient as a description, that word first flew out my mouth upon entering the Battle House. If your travels take you through Mobile, you must stay here. And you need to check out the Whispering Wall, an architectural marvel and the coolest thing ever! With your back to your buddy stand 30 feet apart and whisper into the wall, and your friend will hear what you said perfectly. Magnolia Grove is a masterpiece of design throughout the 54 hole complex. The clubhouse does not have enough wall space to post all the awards that have been rained down upon this jewel. Our first round had us on the Falls Course. Having the distinction as being the only course on the trail with a par 71, you should not feel slighted in the least by that lost stroke. Five sets of tees allow the player to choose the amount of earth they wish to traverse. The afternoon found us on the Short Course, named the “Best Par 3 Course in America.” The following day we played where the lady pros play, the Crossings Course. Let’s just say that the way I played I just may have made the cut. An absolutely gorgeous parkland type design, the Crossings offered numerous challenges in the form of elevation changes, water, and distractions. Wildlife could be seen everywhere, keeping this nature lover from his appointed rounds. A true high point of the trip was a conference call with Roger Rulewich, chief architect behind the RTJ Golf Trail. I wasn’t aware until this call that most of the courses on the trail were built simultaneously. A more daunting undertaking cannot be found throughout the history of golf course planning. Lower Alabama – a far more thrilling and fun adventure than the more famous L.A. out west. And safer. Book now and book often. The affordability of the region allows for more than one trip of a lifetime. For more information visit alabama.travel 10 G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M SU M M E R 2 0 1 5 11 Feature Courses Feature Courses Basye, VA Designer: Ed Ault Head Professional: Doug Zimmerman Front Royal, VA Designer: Tom Clark Head Professional: Mike Ahrnsbrak #4 Best Courses you can play in Virginia — Golfweek #31 America’s Top 50 Women–Friendly — Golf Digest Woman #14 Best New Courses in America — Golfweek #6 Best New Affordable Public Courses — Golf Digest “Top Must Play Courses” —GolfStyles 2014 Rated HHH1/2 —Golf Digest “Most Family Friendly Resort”—Mid-Atlantic/Southeast Region 2010 Experience Virginia’s most beautiful golf in the Shenandoah Valley. The 18-hole par 72 features bentgrass tees, fairways, and greens. Seven sets of tees (including two PGA Family Tees) allow for a challenging, yet pleasurable, golf experience for players of all skill levels. Measuring just over 7300 yards from the tips, the layout consists of two very distinct 9-hole sides. The front features several holes cut through hardwoods, while the back nine plays in a valley. Blue Ridge Shadows has been continually ranked as one of America’s Top 50 Women-Friendly courses in the United States by Golf Digest Woman Magazine! Surrounded by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, the resort features a full-service Holiday Inn Hotel and Spa. You will find the facility just one hour from the Washington, DC, beltway, just off exit #6 on I-66. Although quietly tucked away in the mountains of the Shenandoah Valley, beautiful Bryce Resort is home to an Ed Ault designed 18-hole championship golf course. The golf course, though relatively flat, offers lush scenery and views. With several tree-lined holes and fairway bunkering, Bryce Resort is an excellent test of a player’s a bility to keep the ball in play. With 48 strategically placed bunkers and Stony Creek winding throughout, Bryce Resort presents all the challenges of mountain golf at its best. For those wanting a broader menu of activities, you’ll find tennis, boating, skiing, their brand new ZipLine Adventure, and much more, including a restaurant, lounge and lodging. Located in Basye, VA, 11 miles west of Interstate 81 at Exit 273, Bryce Resort is a four season resort providing great golf value and should be a definite stop on your next swing through the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. 866-631-9661 540-856-2124 blueridgeshadows.com bryceresort.com YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE BLACK 7315 7275.5 143 BLUE 6787 7273.1 138 WHITE 6204 7270.4 130 GOLD 5551 7268.2 122 RED 5006 7270.0 120 YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE BLUE 6260 7169.7 127 WHITE 6027 7168.9 123 GOLD 5297 7165.3 116 RED 5175 7169.9 118 Front Royal, VA Designer: Lynwood Morrison General Manager: Adam Engley Head Professional: Rob Howells Berkeley Springs, WV Designer: Robert Trent Jones, Sr. Head Professional: Kenneth McCarthy “Best of Shenandoah Valley” —Northern Virginia Daily 2014 “Top Must Play Courses” —GolfStyles 2014 “Top Must Play Courses” —GolfStyles 2014 Rated HHH1/2 —Golf Digest #1 Municipal Golf Course in West Virginia —Golf Digest One of the best values you can find in the Mid-Atlantic is Bowling Green Country Club. Two 18-hole golf courses roll across Virginia farmland with charming mountain views, excellent conditions, and challenging play. The North course features several lakes, towering willows and even an island green. The par 71 tract is not incredibly long, but requires well thought-out shots. The South course is a favorite amongst seniors and ladies, but has plenty of character golf for players of all abilities. A shorter course, from today’s standards, the South provides challenges with rolling fairways and large, undulating greens. Bowling Green North and South, two of the best the Shenandoah Valley has to offer, is located between Winchester and Front Royal, off Route 522. Wingfield Golf Properties now manages the courses. One of the Mid-Atlantic’s most popular golf destinations each year is the scenic Cacapon Resort State Park. This challenging championship golf venue is set in the rolling foothills of the 2,300 foot Cacapon Mountain and is the centerpiece of the 6,000 acre park near Berkeley Springs, West Virginia. Designed by famous golf course designer Robert Trent Jones, Sr., the layout makes prime use of the rolling hills at the base of the ridge. Rated as one of the 130 best designed courses in the United States, this outstanding facility features 73 well-placed sand bunkers and three ponds. Holes 4 and 8 share a double green that is more than 100 yards wide. USA Today put Cacapon on its list of the “Top 100 Golf Courses” in the country. The resort is located 30 minutes from I-81 on Route 522, and just two hours from Baltimore and Washington, DC. North: South: 540-635-2024 540-635-2883 304-258-1022 bowlinggreencountryclub.net North Course cacaponresort.com South Course YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE BLUE 6827 7272.3 126 WHITE 6267 7270.4 123 YELLOW 5910 7268.0 119 RED 5647 7270.6 118 YARDAGE RATING SLOPE YARDAGE RATING SLOPE BLUE6364 70.5 133 5938 68.8 125 WHITE6098 69.2 131 5504 66.6 120 GOLD5570 66.7 125 5140 64.9 115 RED 5075 69.2 122 4893 68.4116 12 G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M facebook. com/golfgetaway 13 Feature Courses Feature Courses Fairfield, PA Designer: Ault, Clark & Assoc. Head Professional: Phil Delpopolo Front Royal, VA Designer: William Carson Managed by: County of Warren “Top Must Play Courses” —GolfStyles 2014 Rated HHHH —Golf Digest “One of the state’s premier nine hole layouts” —Virginia Golfer One of Virginia’s oldest, continuously operating golf courses is still one of the best golf values in all of the Shenandoah Valley. Front Royal Golf Club is under the operation, direction, and management of the County of Warren and celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2013. This 1938 nine-hole layout features dual tee boxes to create a true 18-hole feel. Front Royal is reminiscent of the old Scottish links-style courses that require accuracy, not length. The challenge comes from the small undulating greens and deep bunkering. Four holes border the Shenandoah River, more than any course in Virginia, with none more dramatic than the par 5 seventeenth hole, which features a tee shot along the river’s edge. Front Royal Golf Club brings back the 4-hour round of golf. It’s a fun and excellent test of golf you’re sure to enjoy. Conveniently located just off I-66 at Exit 6 on Country Club Road in the beautiful and historic Shenandoah Valley. Carroll Valley Golf Course is pleased to be starting its 5th season under the ownership of the adjacent Liberty Mountain Resort. Set amidst picturesque rolling hills, surrounded by the inspiring Catoctin Mountains, Carroll Valley offers 18 holes of Pennsylvania’s best golf. Many upgrades have been made to the course including the installation of a state-of-the-art irrigation system, rebuilding tee boxes, installation of drainage systems, and new bunkers. The resort is currently constructing a new $14 million dollar lodge that will include an expanded pro-shop, state-of-the-art indoor golf simulators, more dining options, and an indoor pool and fitness center. Guests will continue to enjoy the stellar championship course and friendly faces you have enjoyed over the years. This mature layout designed by renowned architects Ault and Clark winds its way around streams, lakes, hills, and native trees. “Stay and Play” golf packages with specials are featured at the Carroll Valley Golf Course at Liberty Mountain Resort. 800-548-8504 540-636-9061 libertymountainresort.com frontroyalgolf.com YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE BLUE 6688 7172.3 128 WHITE 6345 7170.7 127 GOLD 5647 7166.7 123 RED 5022 7268.8 116 YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE BACK 5870 7069.4 116 FRONT 4688 7067.3 119 Luray, VA Architect: Malcolm M. Purdy Club Manager: Putt Lancaster Fredericksburg, VA Designer: P.B. Dye General Manager: Mike Byrd “Top Must Play Courses” —GolfStyles 2014 Discover The Gauntlet, one of Virginia’s finest golf courses in Fredericksburg. Opened in 1995, their par 72, 6900yard, P.B. Dye championship layout features lush zoysia fairways and smooth, consistent bentgrass greens. Set around the lake of Curtis Memorial Park in Fredericksburg, The Gauntlet made its mark by being named one of Golf Digest’s Top 10 New Courses to Play in the US. The Gauntlet Golf Club aims to please the most demanding players with four set of tees. The front nine is interspersed with meandering wetlands, while the back nine features generous tiered greens. The Gauntlet Golf Club offers an outstanding practice facility. The Gauntlet staff is available for lessons, and their clubhouse has a full-service bar and grill and fully-stocked golf shop. Perfect for your next golf outing, banquet, wedding, or special event. Located minutes from I-95 just off Rte. 17 in Fredericksburg. Enjoy outstanding golf in the breathtakingly beautiful Shenandoah Valley at Caverns Country Club Resort. Nestled in the shadows of the Blue Ridge Mountains and overlooking the fabled Shenandoah River, the unique setting of the river and mountains creates one of the most scenic golf opportunities in the mid-Atlantic region. High above the banks of the river, 6499 yards of gently rolling fairways seem to touch the mountains with beautiful vistas of nearby farmlands. Call (540) 743-7111 for daily tee times and greens fees. Golfers from Canada and points north have found Luray, Virginia, with Caverns Country Club an ideal place for a golf excursion. Seasonal specials and vacation packages for golfers and non-golfers alike are available. These packages include special rates for lodging, golfing, and dining. If you are a fan of golf with a view, you cannot go wrong with a pleasant drive to one of the finest mountain courses in the mid-Atlantic. 888-443-6551 540-752-0963 luraycaverns.com golfgauntlet.com YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE BLUE 6499 7271.2 117 WHITE 6307 7269.8 115 GOLD 5650 7267.0 127 RED 5266 7272.4 120 14 G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE DYE 6723 7272.8 140 BLACK 6161 7270.2 134 WHITE 5807 7268.6 130 RED 4819 7264.2 119 facebook. com/golfgetaway 15 Feature Courses Feature Courses Leesburg, VA Course Architects: Bill Gordon, 1952 Rick Jacobson, 2007 General Manager: Jeffrey Berg Middletown, MD Designer: Rick Jacobson Pro Shop Manager: Bradley Klein The challenging Hollow Creek Golf Club at Glenbrook was designed by nationally acclaimed golf course architect Rick Jacobson. With new ownership in place, Hollow Creek is open for public play. Located in the historic Middletown Valley and surrounded by the Catoctin Mountains, this 18-hole public golf course is part of a residential development located in the fast-growing Frederick area about 40 miles outside Washington, DC, and Baltimore. The layout features dramatic elevation changes of up to 100 feet. Hollow Creek itself comes into play on five holes. The mountainous setting provides scenic views in every direction. The course offers a high-end golf experience at an affordable price. Hollow Creek is also the first course in Frederick to feature footGolf. The 15,000 square foot French Country clubhouse, overlooking the 18th hole, is home to the new Valley Grill & Sports Bar with 30 giant TVs and an exciting new menu. Hollow Creek Golf Club is just 4 miles from I-70 in Middletown, Maryland. The classic Goose Creek Golf Club, conveniently located in historic Leesburg, has been home to Northern Virginia’s golfers for more than half a century. Goose Creek rekindles the spirit of days past, providing today’s golfers a classic golfing experience at a great value. The Goose’s wellknown layout permits a quick pace of play, allowing more time to relax on the patio or in the grill. The golf course is challenging from tee to green and is designed to offer a fun and exciting challenge to golfers of all skill levels. The 18hole, 6410-yard, par 71 layout features three tee stations, winding fairways with strategically placed bunkers, ponds, creeks, and trees providing a variety of golf challenges. A spacious clubhouse and outdoor patio provide the perfect place for hosting an outing or just relaxing after a great round of golf at Goose Creek. This Northern Virginia landmark for more than 60 years is located just off Rt. 7 in Leesburg. 703-729-2500 301-371-0400 goosecreekgolf.com hollowcreekgolfclub.com YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE BLUE 6410 7171.8 130 WHITE 5937 7169.6 125 RED 5170 7170.7 123 YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE BLUE 6780 7272.0 135 WHITE 6394 7270.3 133 GREEN 5719 7267.6 124 RED 5105 7268.7 121 Harrisonburg, VA Designer: Bill Love Head Professional: David Johns Staunton, VA Architects: Fred Findlay / Raymond F. Loving Club Manager: Eric Cobb “Top Must Play Courses” —GolfStyles 2014 “Best in the Valley” - Daily News Record 2012 The historic Ingleside Golf Club in Staunton offers 18 holes of golf in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. Our service-friendly atmosphere and well-maintained facility foster enjoyment of the game at any level. We invite you to join us for play. Ingleside has 6405 yards of golf from the longest tees playing to a par of 72 on native bluegrass. Designed by Fred Findlay and Raymond F. Loving, Jr., the Ingleside golf course opened in 1928. The layout features tree-lined fairways and no real water hazards. Ingleside Golf Club is located just minutes from historic downtown Staunton just off Interstate 81. Ingleside is home to a unique 18-hole course, a full-service professional shop, a practice area with range, putting and chipping greens, and facilities for hosting tournaments and outings of 100 or more participants. Ingleside offers memberships and welcomes public play as well. The nineteenth hole grill features al fresco dining overlooking the course. Ingleside now features on-site lodging for stay-and-play golf packages. Heritage Oaks is the beautiful public course located in and operated by the City of Harrisonburg, Virginia. Designed by Bill Love, this course combines links- and parkland-style holes that meander along a diverse piece of property, giving golfers a challenging yet fair test of golf. Towering oaks, hence the name, are abundant. Voted “Best In The Valley” four out of the past five years, Heritage Oaks plays to a par 70, measuring 6324 yards from the back tees, providing plenty for accomplished golfers. Three other spacious sets of tees make the facility an excellent layout for golfers of all skills. Heritage Oaks incorporates many modern day golf course features like generous landing areas and large bentgrass greens with moderate undulations. Heritage Oaks is home of The First Tee Program. A great day of golf awaits everyone at the Heritage Oaks, just off Route 33 West on Garbers Church Road, Exit 247B, I-81. 540-442-6502 540-248-7888 heritageoaksgolf.com inglesidegolf.net YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE GOLD (Back) 6324 70 70.2 129 BLACK (Middle) 5891 70 68.5 124 WHITE (Senior) 5298 70 66.1 118 GREEN (Ladies) 4542 70 66.6 114 16 G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE BLUE 6405 7270.2 123 WHITE 6110 7268.8 120 RED 5323 7271.4 114 twitter : @golfguideinc 17 Feature Courses Feature Courses Front Royal, VA Designer: Shapemasters Club Manager: Richard Jenkins Fredericksburg, VA Designer: Bill Love Head Professional: Jamie Loughan Located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, Jackson’s Chase offers panoramic views of Signal Knob and surrounding mountains, and harbors a chapter of history’s past. Enjoy a round of golf on the very ground where General Stonewall Jackson gave chase during the Civil War more than 130 years ago. Situated on 300 acres in Front Royal, VA, and measuring over 6500 yards from the tips, Jackson’s Chase has many holes that give you the opportunity to bust it from the tee. Still, there are other holes that cut through existing forest where safety is the better part of valor. It is only befitting when you play on this historical ground, that strategy will come into play for you just as it did for General Jackson. Located just minutes from Interstates 66 and 81, Jackson’s Chase now has new local ownership and is committed to bringing you one of the best golf experiences around. The totally redesigned clubhouse and grill are just the beginning. Come to the Jack to meet old freinds and make new ones. Located in historic Fredericksburg, Virginia, approximately one hour south of Washington, DC, Lee's Hill Golf Club is one of the pioneers of upscale golf in the region. From its celebrated opening in 1993 to present day, the course has always attracted excellent reviews and was immediately listed in the top ten in Northern Virginia. The Bill Love designed championship course winds throughout authentic civil war battle trenches and the actual 1862 campsite of General Robert E. Lee and his troops. In 2007, new local owners purchased Lee's Hill, and the renovations and rebirth is something to see. If you have not played this beautiful layout in awhile, you need to see the revitalization and improvements yourself. The new team is committed to providing excellent conditions and they are always recognized for their outstanding customer service. Located 3 miles from I-95, Exit 126, just off Route 17 South. Lee's Hill Golf Club truly gives golfers the best of past and present. 540-635-7814 540-891-0111 jacksonschasegolfclub.com leeshillgc.com YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE BLUE 6513 7271.1 129 WHITE 6100 7269.9 124 GOLD 5389 7266.8 115 RED 4526 7269.1 114 YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE CANNON6834 7272.9 135 RIFLE 6268 7270.2 126 SABER 5925 7268.9 122 PISTOL 5064 7269.2 115 Harrisonburg, VA Designers: Russ Roberts, Buddy Loving, Ault, Clark & Assoc., Lester George Head Professional: Mike Gooden Gettysburg, PA Designer: Lindsay Ervin, Stephen M. Klein Head Professional: Jason Pandoli “Top Must Play Courses” —GolfStyles 2014 “#9 in PA, America’s Best Golf Courses” —Golfweek 2006 Rated HHHH1/2 —Golf Digest Rated HHH1/2 —Golf Digest “Top Must Play Courses” —GolfStyles 2014 Outstanding golf awaits you at Lakeview Golf Club in Harrisonburg, VA, one of the most unique 36-hole facilities with four different nines built by four different architects at different times. Play them all and decide which one is your favorite. Spring Nine has a winding spring-fed creek and several doglegs. Peak Nine has more tree lined fairways while the Lake Nine incorporates more water hazards. The Mountain Nine is the newest and combines all of the other nine’s characteristics along with breathtaking views. Subtle undulating greens and a well-maintained landscape are some of the reasons Lakeview is widely recognized as one of the best in the Shenandoah Valley. The service-friendly atmosphere and professional staff foster enjoyment of the game at any level. Lakeview plays host to the area’s top golf events and has an outstanding practice complex. Get ready for the complete golf experience at Lakeview Golf Club located just off I-81, Exits 245 and 247. Set among the rolling hills and mountains of Adams County, The Links At Gettysburg is situated near the area’s most historic countryside. Prepare for sensory overload when you battle this challenging layout. The magnificent upscale championship course features steep 35’ rock cliffs, stonelined tee boxes, red rock paths, ten lakes, and waterfalls, offering a great round of golf for all levels of ability. The beautiful clubhouses accommodate up to 200 guests; a triple-tier brick patio overlooking the 11th, 12th, and 18th greens accommodates 300. Visit today on Mason-Dixon Road, minutes from Route 15 and less than an hour away from Baltimore, MD; Washington, DC; and Harrisburg, PA. Experience the beauty and unique challenge of The Links At Gettysburg. lakeviewgolf.net thelinksatgettysburg.com 717-359-8000 540-434-8937 18 (Mountain/Spring)(Peak/Lakes) YARDAGE RATING YARDAGERATING BLUE 6978 73.7 651770.9 WHITE6439 71.3 6153 69.5 GOLD5679 67.5 572767.1 RED 5264 70.3 563769.8 G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE GOLD 7069 7274.1 144 BLUE 6666 7272.4 141 WHITE 6277 7270.5 130 GREEN 5802 7267.7 128 RED 4977 7268.8 120 facebook. com/golfgetaway 19 Feature Courses Feature Courses Charles Town, WV Designer: Guy Rando Head Professional: Wayne Clark Charlottesville, VA Designer: Buddy Loving, Bill Love Head Professional: Rion Summers Rated HHHH —Golf Digest Rated HHHH —Golf Digest One of the top courses in the state of West Virginia is Locust Hill Golf Course in Charles Town. Locust Hill maintains championship golf conditions with outstanding bentgrass tees and greens. Playing at just over 7000 yards from the tips, this facility provides plenty of challenge. Lakes, ponds, and streams bring 35 acres of water into play on ten holes. The finishing four holes are as good as you’ll find anywhere, wrapping up with the 455-yard, par 4 eighteenth which features a dramatic approach shot over a large lake. Golf Digest awarded Locust Hill one of the “Top 125 in Country for Best Value.” The course handles corporate and charity golf outings. With the excitement of Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races, the area has plenty to offer. Golf, Racing, and Gaming make for the perfect sporting getaway. Locust Hill is located west of Charles Town off Route 51, a little more than a beautiful hour´s drive from the Baltimore and Washington beltways. Meadowcreek Golf Course is a cut above most municipal golf courses. Sporting greens of Penncross bentgrass and Bermuda fairways, this beautiful tract is surrounded by panoramic views of Central Virginia. Meadowcreek Golf Course is adorned with large, stately oak trees, flowering dogwood and cherry trees, and proudly hosts many regional tournaments. This challenging, but player-friendly, course was designed and built in two nine-hole phases. The first nine was designed by Buddy Loving, a renowned golf course architect with many other highly respected golf course designs to his credit. The second nine was designed by Bill Love of the outstanding architectural firm of Ault, Clark & Associates. Located just off Rt. 29 on Pen Park Road, Meadowcreek Golf Course is a “must play” for golfers of all abilities. 304-728-7300 434-977-0615 locusthillgolfcourse.com meadowcreekgolf.org YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE BLACK 7005 7273.5 128 WHITE 6394 7270.7 122 GREY 5772 7267.9 117 RED 5112 7272.0 120 YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE BLUE 6200 7169.9 133 WHITE 5685 7167.8 125 RED 4527 7066.6 119 Middletown, MD Designer: Arthur Hills Head Professional: Steve Miller Fairfield, PA Designer: Ault, Clark & Assoc. Head Professional: Ed Reely “#5 in the Mid-Atlantic Region & Top 50 in the US” —Golf Advisor 2014 “Top Must Play Courses” —GolfStyles 2014 “Rolex Top 1,000 Courses” —2011 “#10 in MD, Best Public Golf Courses” —Golf Magazine 2012 Rated HHHH —Golf Digest Pre-Civil War clubhouse, picturesque views of the Catoctin Mountains, a large natural grass practice facility and 18 well-manicured holes are just the beginning. Overall, golfers will find a fair, challenging and gratifying course with two distinctly different 9-holes. The front nine is considered more open compared to the longer, tree-lined back nine. With a four star rating by Golf Digest, Mountain View features a full grass practice range, short game area, and putting green. What distinguishes Mountain View from other golf clubs is not only its exceptional playability and great condition but its great value. After your round, reminisce while enjoying a bite and cold beverage in our Grill–Pavilion with picturesque views of the 9th, 10th, and 18th holes. A must play FOUR STAR Golf Digest course located just minutes from the historic Gettysburg battlefields. Come play this hidden treasure where you’ll frequently find the smoothest and quickest greens in the area. Recipient of national attention, Maryland National, in Middletown, MD, is acclaimed as a tremendous layout with impeccable turf conditions. Adding to the beauty of the course is a well-trained and very hospitable staff all of whom make the golfer feel warmly welcomed from the moment they arrive. Nestled in the beautiful Catoctin mountains of Frederick, Maryland National offers majestic views of the surrounding countryside. This par 71, 6811yard masterpiece includes open links-style holes, wetland carries, and wooded tree lined fairways, surely keeping your interest at every turn. Additional amenities include a spectacular clubhouse with restaurant, on-board GPS, and complimentary practice use facility. Maryland National, located just off I-70, 45 minutes from DC and Baltimore, is a must play for your next rewarding day of golf. 717-641-7380 301-371-0000 mtviewgc.com marylandnational.com 20 BLUE WHITE GOLD RED YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE BLACK 6811 7173.6 139 GOLD 6474 7172.0 136 WHITE 6069 7170.0 131 GREEN 5549 7167.4 124 RED 4844 7168.3 120 G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M twitter : @golfguideinc YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE 6608 71 71.2 128 6230 71 69.4 125 5945 71 66.3 116 5193 70 68.4 118 21 Feature Courses Feature Courses Myersville, MD Designer: Joe Lee Head Professional: David Freiss Ruther Glen, VA Designer: Tom Walker Director of Golf: Jim Mason “Top Must Play Courses” —GolfStyles 2014 “#7 in MD, America’s Best Golf Courses” —Golfweek 2015 “Top Must Play Courses” —Golfstyles 2014 Pendleton Golf Club is one of Virginia’s most exciting new and picturesque golf courses. Pendleton opened to the public in September of 2006 and is located mid-point between Richmond and Washington, D.C. in Ruther Glen. Named after Virginia’s first acting governor Edmund Pendleton, this course lives up to its lofty namesake. Designed by Thomas Walker, former lead designer at the Gary Player Design Company, this spectacular layout combines creative mounding and undulating greens to challenge all levels of players. The course stretches to more than 7000 yards from the back tees, while ladies will find the 4500 yard length accommodating. There are five sets of tees in all. Pendleton also features one of the best practice facilities and driving ranges in the Mid-Atlantic. The grass tee alone at the range is OVER an acre. Call 804448-4727 or visit us on the web at pendletongolfva.com. Encompassing more than 150 acres of breathtaking mountain views without one house, condo, or townhouse spoiling any fairway, Musket Ridge Golf Club is the final gem designed by the late Gentleman Joe Lee and is known as one of his finest works, joining the ranks of Doral and LaCosta. From the first hole’s dramatic elevated tee shot, golfers will view this course as one of the Free State’s best. Undulating greens, strategically located visible hazards from elevated tee boxes, and unique bunkering are trademarks of this superbly conditioned golf course. The friendly, professional staff believe that a day on the golf course should reward golfers with the “perfect golf” experience, and the food is second to no other public golf course. Surrounded by abundant natural beauty and unique topography, Musket Ridge is conveniently located just off I-70, west of Frederick, in Myersville, MD. 301-293-9930 804-448-4727 musketridge.com pendletongolfva.com YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE GOLD 6902 7273.0 140 BLUE 6416 7271.1 130 WHITE 5884 7268.9 123 RED 5333 7271.1 124 YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE BLACK 7093 7275.5 141 BLUE 6635 7272.8 135 WHITE 6090 7269.9 131 GOLD 5547 7267.5 124 RED 4525 7267.0 115 Keezletown, VA Designers: Russell Breeden & Jeff Forbes Head Professional: Brad Powell Fayetteville, PA Designer: Ed Ault/Bill Love Head Professional: David Beegle “Top Must Play Courses” —GolfStyles 2012 “#5 Best New Affordable Course” —Golf Digest 2003 Rated HHHH1/2 —Golf Digest “The Top 10 Courses for the Money Right Now” in the country —Links Magazine 2014 “Top Must Play Courses” —GolfStyles 2014 “#9 in PA, Best Public Golf Courses”—Golf Magazine 2012 Rated HHHH —Golf Digest In the heart of the Shenandoah Valley sits one of America’s most spectacular golf courses. Packsaddle Ridge Golf Club in Keezletown, Virginia, is a stunning 18-hole championship golf course featuring incredible views of the valley below. Golf Digest in 2003 voted Packsaddle #5 “Best New Affordable Course.” $40,000 worth or renovations were completed in the fall of 2014 on the front nine. This breathtaking facility was built on more than 500 acres of rolling countryside. Designed by renowned golf architect Russell Breeden along with Jeff Forbes, this 4-year project required an incredible one million tons of rock and 750,000 tons of top soil to be moved. The result is a layout that will challenge all types of golfers and overload your senses with natural beauty. Packsaddle Ridge is located 15 minutes off Exit 247, east of I-81. The perfect combination of traditional and modern golf can be found in Fayetteville, Pennsylvania, at Penn National Golf Club, home of two four star, 18-hole championship courses. The Founders Course (1968-Ed Ault Design) is a classic northeastern-style masterpiece featuring large contoured greens, tree-lined rye/bluegrass fairways, sculpted bunkers, and a 7-acre lake. Iron Forge (1996-Bill Love) is a contemporary design with bentgrass tees, fairways, and greens and fescue bluegrass roughs. Iron Forge has links characteristics with well-placed mounding and tall native grasses in the outer rough areas. “Play among the stars” at Penn National, located 18 miles west of Gettysburg, close to I-81 and I-70. Stay & Play packages are available at the on-site 52 room Inn. 800-221-7366 540-269-8188 penngolf.com packsaddle.net 22 YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE BLACK 7024 7274.2 139 BLUE 6398 7270.7 131 GREEN 5929 7268.2 128 WHITE 5470 7265.7 118 RED/GOLD4663 72 66.8 116 G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M Founders Course Iron Forge Course YARDAGERTG/SLP YARDAGERTG/SLP BLUE 697273.8/137BLACK 700973.5/133 GREEN646571.0/131BLUE 660271.6/130 GREY 579168.2/124WHITE 630070.3/128 LADIES535271.1/120GOLD 600168.8/ 124 LADIES 5246 69.9/121 facebook. com/golfgetaway 23 Feature Courses Feature Courses Front Royal, VA Designer: Buddy Loving Head Professional: Jeff Forman Chantilly, VA Designer: Tom Clark General Manager: Jon Fulton “Top Must Play Courses” —GolfStyles 2014 Rated HHHH1/2 —Golf Digest “Top Must Play Courses” —GolfStyles 2012 Rated HHHH—Golf Digest Pleasant Valley Golf Club is a must play in the Washington, DC area. Conveniently located in Chantilly, Virginia, just 25 miles west of our nation’s Capital, it is a beautiful, natural layout in a park-like setting - no homes bordering the golf course, just great golf holes. Opening to rave reviews in 1998, the golf course was designed by Tom Clark of Ault, Clark & Associates and features a pristine landscape of rolling hills, hardwood trees and native grass meadows. You’ll also enjoy a modern clubhouse with a fully stocked Pro Shop. The course features a practice facility and 18 championship holes, with several sets of tees to challenge all abilities. Pleasant Valley Golf Club is a great venue for your charity or corporate golf outing. The Shenandoah Valley Golf Club, located 8 miles north of Front Royal, is 27 holes of Virginia’s best golf. Its scenic beauty is unparalleled, with views of the Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge and Massanutten mountain ranges on every hole. This superbly conditioned course on 250 rolling acres features bentgrass tees and greens and plush ryegrass fairways. With three nines, the red, white, and blue, you have a great chance to get in 27 holes. The club has hosted many golf championships, numerous VSGA tournaments, and Middle Atlantic Section PGA events. Home of the Shenandoah Valley Golf Club Teaching & Fitness Center, the area’s only indoor heated center. Constantly lauded for its condition, playability and overall value, Shenandoah Valley Golf Club, located just minutes from I-81 and I-66 between Winchester and Front Royal, is golf in the country at its best. 703-222-7900 540-636-GOLF(4653) shenandoahvalleygolfclub.com pleasantvalleygc.com YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE GOLD 6915 7273.5 137 BLUE 6509 7271.6 136 WHITE 5953 7268.8 129 RED 5106 7268.9 118 RED/WHITE WHITE/BLUE BLUE/RED YARDAGE SLOPE YARDAGE SLOPE YARDAGE SLOPE BLUE 6121 12763741296443 128 WHITE 5687 12159301226065 124 GOLD 4759 11350671135216 114 RED4759 11546121154761 121 New Market, VA Designer: Rod Smith & Ed Ault Pro Shop Director: Derek Davis Winchester, VA Designer: Denny Perry General Manager: Gerri Lum Rated HHH1/2 —Golf Digest Rated #1 in Shenandoah Valley—Virginia Living “Top Must Play Courses” —GolfStyles 2014 “Nominated Top 100 New Course” —Golf Digest 2004 Rated HHHH—Golf Digest Shenvalee Resort’s beautiful 27-hole PGA course first opened in 1927 with Bobby Jones performing the honors. You’ll discover enjoyable and relaxing golf in one of the most historic settings of the Shenandoah Valley. The golf course includes five sets of tees providing playability to players of all skill levels. Rye grass fairways, bentgrass greens, and rolling countryside terrain make Shenvalee an area favorite. The course is always in great condition and the down-home southern hospitality is exceptional. Shenvalee has lodging, a restaurant, and a sports lounge on-site. Located just off Interstate 81 in New Market, VA, the facility hosts groups of all sizes and from all areas of the U.S. and Canada as a true traditional golf destination. The Shenvalee Resort is Shenandoah Valley golf at its finest. Located in the Shenandoah Valley west of Winchester, VA, Rock Harbor Golf Course offers the region’s most exciting two layouts. Designer Denny Perry unveiled even more challenges on the recently opened new holes on the Boulder Course. Boulder’s unique combination of 6 par 5s, 6 par 4s and 6 par 3s make it a one-of-a-kind must-play and see! Forty acres of lakes dominate the Rock Course, which includes two signature par 3s, the island green seventh and the Heart of Virginia seventeenth. Six sets of tees allow players of all skill levels to enjoy these fun courses. The fast Penn A-4 bentgrass greens are recognized as some of the best in the region. You first conquered the Rock, now take on the Boulder. Just minutes from Interstate 81 off Route 37, Rock Harbor lies within one hour from Northern VA or Frederick, MD. 866-273-1934 888-339-3181 rockharborgolf.com Rock YDGPARRTGSLOPE BLACK 729972 75.0 135 BLUE 680872 72.8 132 WHITE 625272 70.0 126 ORANGE 542472 66.2 117 YELLOW 468472 63.1 110 GREEN 369272 N/A N/A 24 Boulder YDGPARRTGSLOPE 756872 78.6 140 695272 73.4 132 630472 69.8 127 550472 65.6 114 483172 61.0 100 366772 N/A N/A G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M shenvalee.com Yardage BLUE BLACKWHITE RED OLDE NINE 3034288028282341 CREEK NINE 3272308328472528 MILLER NINE 3267306627902337 twitter : @golfguideinc 25 Feature Courses Feature Courses South Riding, VA Designer: Dan Maples General Manager: Jon Fulton Ijamsville, MD Designers: Ernie Els & J. Michael Poellot General Manager: Ted Goodenow “Top Must Play Courses” —GolfStyles 2014 “100 Must Play Courses of the Middle Atlantic” —Golf Digest Rated HHHH—Golf Digest “Top Must Play Courses” —GolfStyles 2014 “#6 in MD, America’s Best Golf Courses”—Golfweek 2015 “#3 in MD, Best Public Golf Courses”—Golf Magazine 2012 Rated HHHH1/2 —Golf Digest Imagine yourself playing South Riding Golf Club – a golfer's dream come true. Set in the gentle hills of Northern Virginia, amidst the hardwood trees, grassy meadows, and picturesque water features, South Riding boasts a Dan Maples signature championship golf course, which has challenged golfers since 1997. South Riding Golf Club is a semi-private club that is open to everyone, and the only requisite to becoming a member is that you are looking for a world-class golf experience in a relaxing environment. The course is located in the award-winning community of South Riding in Loudoun County, just 25 miles west of Washington DC. South Riding Golf Club is popular with all skill levels and offers a challenging layout with a variety of tee placements. No matter what your handicap, you will feel welcome at South Riding Golf Club. Designed by architect J. Michael Poellot and two-time U.S. Open Champion Ernie Els, Whiskey Creek is as big and bold as the land itself. Bordered by a high ridge of hardwoods and a winding, free-flowing creek, the course features wetlands, rock outcroppings, stone walls, streams, and dramatic views of the Catoctin Mountains. Like most of the tested and true championship courses, Whiskey Creek is an honest golf course with its challenges and hazards in plain sight. The holes at Whiskey Creek are designed to test a player’s shotmaking ability, never more evident than the par 5 closer, with ruins of an old farmhouse splitting the fairway with great risk-reward opportunities. Come see the drama that awaits just minutes off I-270, Exit 26, on Route 80 in Urbana, Maryland. 703-327-6660 888-883-1174 southridinggc.com YARDAGE CHAMPIONSHIP7148 TOURNAMENT6473 MEDAL 6070 CLUB 5720 FORWARD 5001 whiskeycreekgolf.com PAR RATINGSLOPE 72 74.8 140 72 71.6 132 72 69.8126 72 68.5118 72 69.6122 YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE BLACK 7001 7274.6 138 BLUE 6525 7272.1 136 WHITE 5979 7269.3 129 RED 5296 7270.5 121 New Kent, VA Designer: Rees Jones Head Professional: Matt O’Grady Mercersburg, PA Designer: Rick Robbins Director of Golf: Rich Hogan “Top Must Play Courses” —GolfStyles 2013 “#6 in VA, America’s Best Golf Courses” —Golfweek 2015 “Perfect Five, Breathtaking, Terrific Value”—Golf Magazine Whitetail Golf Resort is a spectacular Rick Robbins design that brings “golf with a view.” Quite simply, this is one of the area’s most beautiful golf courses. Each hole has been designed to take advantage of the natural beauty that surrounds the area. Whitetail is a combination links and mountain style layout. The front nine winds across the valley, while the back nine features six holes that play into the mountain with dramatic elevation changes and breathtaking views. Located just minutes from I-81 and I-70 and approximately 70 minutes from Baltimore and Washington. Come to the mountains of south central Pennsylvania for a golf experience that is true to the game. Whitetail now has a state of the art clubhouse, Grille Room, and pro shop. Whitetail Golf Resort is owned and operated by Whitetail Ski Resort & Snow Time, Inc. The Club at Viniterra is Virginia’s most beautiful and exciting new golf course. Located in New Kent between Richmond and Williamsburg, this 18-hole championship course designed by acclaimed architect Rees Jones is adjacent to New Kent Winery and is the centerpiece of the unique and upscale Viniterra residential community. Spread out over a vast and diverse piece of land, the course measures anywhere from 5200 to over 7700 yards, giving it infinite flexibility. The Club at Viniterra uses multiple tee boxes and wide fairways to assure an enjoyable experience for all skill levels. The U.S. Open doctor has crafted a jewel, and The Club at Viniterra is a must–play in the mid-Atlantic region. You will be amazed by the raw beauty of this Jones masterpiece located minutes from I-64 in New Kent, VA. 804-932-3888 888-493-4169 viniterragolf.com golfatwhitetail.com YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE Professional7759 72 77.1 147 BLACK 7326 7275.2 142 BLUE 6864 7273.1 137 WHITE 6495 7271.4 133 GREEN 6124 7269.8 129 GOLD 5891 7268.7 127 BURGUNDY5213 72 71.1 128 26 G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE BLACK 6950 7273.5 138 BLUE 6433 7271.3 126 WHITE 6433 7271.0 134 GOLD 5817 7269.1 122 RED 5234 7270.5 123 facebook. com/golfgetaway 27 PGA Tour Schedule Feature Courses Hedgesville, WV Designer: Ray Johnston Head Professional: Ron Springer Rated HHHH —Golf Digest “Top Must Play Courses” —GolfStyles 2014 pgatour.com Located at the northern entrance to the Shenandoah Valley in Hedgesville, WV, the Woods, part of a 2,000-acre community, features 36 holes including the Mountain View Championship Course and the Stony Lick Mid-Length Course. The Mountain View Course wanders around a wooded plateau between The Woods pro shop and the Third Hill Mountain, which dominates its view. Carved from a forest, Mountain View’s fairways are framed by dogwood, maple, oak, and pine trees. The Stony Lick Mid-Length is the first 18-hole course of its kind in the area, providing golfers of all levels terrific fun without taking five hours and losing a dozen balls. Stony Lick is also home to the eastern panhandle's only footGolf course. GolfStyles Washington writes that golf at The Woods is “Fun & Fair.” Escape to The Woods, Exit 16 West off I-81. lpga.com JULY 2–5 The Greenbrier Classic The Greenbrier (The Old White TPC) (GOLF/CBS) JULY 9–12 John Deere Classic TPC Deere Run (GOLF/CBS) JULY 16–19 Encompass Championship North Shore Country Club (GOLF) The Open Championship St. Andrews–The Old Course (ESPN) Women’s U.S. Open Championship Lancaster Country Club (ESPN2/NBC) Marathon Classic Highland Meadows Golf Club (GOLF) Barbasol Championship Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail (GOLF) 304-754-7222 thewoods.com Mountain View YDGPARRTGSLOPE BLUE 6621 72 71.9 125 WHITE 604172 68.3 113 GREEN 544272 65.7 111 GOLD 493871 67.9 115 pgatour.com/champions.html Stony Lick YDGPARRTGSLOPE N/AN/AN/A N/A 369262 59.9 97 350062 58.8 92 303962 56.4 87 JULY 23–26 RBC Canadian Open Glen Abbey Golf Club (GOLF/CBS) The Senior Open Championship Sunningdale Old Course (ESPN 2) Meijer LPGA Classic Blythefield Country Club (ESPN 2) JULY 30–AUG 2 Quicken Loans National Robert Trent Jones Golf Club (GOLF/CBS) 3M Championship TPC Twin Cities (GOLF) Women’s British Open Trump Turnberry Resort (ESPN 2/ABC) AUGUST 6–9 Bridgestone Invitational Firestone Country Club (GOLF/CBS) Shaw Charity Classic Canyon Meadows Golf & CC (GOLF) Barracuda Championship Montreux Golf and Country Club (GOLF) Urbana, MD Designer: Brian Ault Head Professional: Ed Coyle “America’s Top Pace of Play Golf Courses” —Zagat Survey “Top Must Play Courses” —GolfStyles 2014 “#9 in MD, America’s Best Golf Courses” —Golfweek 2015 Worthington Manor Golf Club is one of the Mid-Atlantic’s premier championship daily fee and membership clubs. Intelligently carved from Maryland’s countryside, this magnificent 18-hole, 7000-yard, Ault-Clark Signature Course features lush bentgrass from tee to green. Holes are routed dramatically through wetlands and across rolling farmland. Worthington Manor has received rave reviews, nominated for Golf Digest’s Best New Course in America (1999) and Maryland Course of the Year (2001) by the National Golf Course Owners Association. This modern facility provides professional, courteous service, 10 minute tee times, and permits carts off the paths. Worthington Manor, located in Urbana, MD, just one mile west of I-270 on Route 80, is sure to be your “country club for the day.” 301-874-5400 AUGUST 13–16 The PGA Championship Whistling Straits Golf Club (TNT/CBS) Cambia Portland Classic Columbia Edgewater Country Club (GOLF) AUGUST 20–23 Wyndham Championship Sedgefield Country Club (GOLF/CBS) Boeing Classic TPC Snoqualmie Ridge (GOLF) Canadian Pacific Women’s Open Vancouver Golf Club (GOLF) AUGUST 27–30 FedEx Cup PLAYOFFS The Barclays Plainfield Country Club (GOLF/CBS) Dicks Sporting Goods Open En-Joie Golf Club (GOLF) Yokohama Tire LPGA Classic Capitol Hill–Senator Course (GOLF) SEPTEMBER 4–7 Deutsche Bank Championship TPC Boston (GOLF/NBC) SEPTEMBER 11–13 The Evian Championship Evian Resort Golf Club (GOLF/NBC) SEPTEMBER 17–20 BMW Championship Conway Farms Golf Club (GOLF/NBC) Pacific Links China Championship 27 Club Golf Club (GOLF) The Solheim Cup St. Leon-Rot Golf Club (GOLF) SEPTEMBER 24–27 The TOUR Championship East Lake Golf Club (GOLF/NBC) First Tee Open at Pebble Beach Pebble Beach Golf Links (GOLF) worthingtonmanor.com YARDAGE PAR RATINGSLOPE BLACK 7034 7274.4 144 BLUE 6525 7271.8 134 WHITE 6058 7269.3 125 RED 5206 7270.1 127 28 G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M Bold Type Denotes Major SU M M E R 2 0 1 5 29 Feature Course Regional Map MARYLAND PENNSYLVANIA Diamond Ridge 410-887-1349 . . . . . . . . . 1 Fox Hollow 410-887-7735 . . . . . . . . . 2 Greystone 410-887-1945 . . . . . . . . . 3 Hollow Creek 301-371-0400 . . . . . . . . . 4 Maryland National 301-371-0000 . . . . . . . . . 5 Musket Ridge 301-293-9930 . . . . . . . . . 6 Rocky Point 410-887-0215 . . . . . . . . . 7 Whiskey Creek 888-883-1174 . . . . . . . . . 8 Woodlands 410-887-1349 . . . . . . . . . 9 Worthington Manor 301-874-5400 . . . . . . . . . 10 Carroll Valley Resort 800-548-8504 . . . . . . . . . Links At Gettysburg 717-359-8000 . . . . . . . . . Mountain View 717-641-7380 . . . . . . . . . Penn National 800-221-7366 . . . . . . . . . Whitetail Resort 888-493-4169 . . . . . . . . . 1 2 3 4 5 VIRGINIA Blue Ridge Shadows 866-631-9661 . . . . . . . . . Bowling Green North 800-659-0163 South 540-635-2883 . . . . . . Bryce Resort 540-856-2124 . . . . . . . . . Caverns 888-443-6551 . . . . . . . . . Front Royal 540-636-9061 . . . . . . . . . The Gauntlet 540-752-0963 . . . . . . . . . Goose Creek 703-729-2500 . . . . . . . . . Heritage Oaks 540-442-6502 . . . . . . . . . 1 2 3 4 5 Ingleside 540-248-7888 . . . . . . . . . 9 Jackson’s Chase 540-635-7814 . . . . . . . . . 10 Lakeview 540-434-8937 . . . . . . . . . 11 Lee’s Hill 540-891-0111 . . . . . . . . . 12 Meadowcreek 434-977-0615 . . . . . . . . . 13 Packsaddle Ridge 540-269-8188 . . . . . . . . . 14 Pendleton 804-448-4727 . . . . . . . . . 15 Pleasant Valley 703-222-7900 . . . . . . . . . 16 Rock Harbor 866-273-1934 . . . . . . . . . 17 Shenandoah Valley 540-636-GOLF (4653) . . . . . 18 Shenvalee Resort 888-339-3181 . . . . . . . . . 19 South Riding 703-327-6660 . . . . . . . . . 20 Viniterra 804-932-3888 . . . . . . . . . 21 WEST VIRGINIA Cacapon Resort 304-258-1022 . . . . . . . . . 1 Locust Hill 304-728-7300 . . . . . . . . . 2 Woods Resort 304-754-7222 . . . . . . . . . 3 golfguideinc.com 888-306-3673 6 7 8 Click for larger image PA MD WV VA FeatureCourses Story Additional Regional Additional Regional Courses MARYLAND Bay Hills – Arnold Beaver Creek – Hagerstown Black Rock – Hagerstown Blue Mash – Olney Bowie – Bowie Breton Bay – Leonardtown Bulle Rock – Havre de Grace Carroll Park – Baltimore Clifton Park – Baltimore Clustered Spires – Frederick Compass Point – Pasadena Cross Creek – Beltsville Eisenhower – Crownsville Enterprise – Mitchellville Exton – Aberdeen Fairway Hills – Columbia Falls Road – Potomac Fore Sisters – Rawlings Forest Park – Baltimore Frederick Golf Club – Frederick Geneva Farms – Street Glade Valley – Walkersville Glenn Dale – Glenn Dale Gunpowder – Laurel Hagerstown Greens – Hagerstown Hampshire Greens – Silver Spring Harbourtowne – St. Michaels Hope Valley – Mt. Airy Lake Arbor – Mitchellville Lake Presidential – Upper Marlboro Laytonsville – Laytonsville Links at Challedon – Mt. Airy Little Bennett – Clarksburg VIRGINIA 410-974-0669 301-733-5152 240-313-2816 301-670-1966 301-262-8141 301-475-2300 410-939-8887 410-685-8344 410-243-3500 301-624-1295 410-255-7764 301-595-8901 410-571-0973 301-249-2040 410-278-4794 410-730-1112 301-299-5156 301-729-4000 410-448-4653 301-846-0694 410-893-1114 301-898-5555 301-262-1166 301-725-4532 301-733-8630 301-476-7999 410-745-5183 301-865-0026 301-336-7771 301-298-9999 301-948-5288 301-829-3000 301-601-9209 Maple Run – Thurmont Marlton – Upper Marlboro McDaniel College – Westminster Mitchell’s – Reisterstown Mount Pleasant – Baltimore Mountain Branch – Joppa Needwood – Rockville Northwest Park – Silver Spring Oakmont Green – Hampstead Paint Branch – College Park Patriots Glen – Elkton Patuxent Greens – Laurel P.B. Dye Club – Ijamsville Pine Ridge – Lutherville Poolesville – Poolesville Potomac Ridge – Waldorf Rattlewood – Mt. Airy Redgate – Rockville Renditions – Davidsonville River Downs – Finksburg Rocky Gap – Flintstone Ruggles – Aberdeen Severna Park – Arnold Swan Point – Swan Point Timbers at Troy – Elkridge Trotters Glen – Olney Turf Valley – Ellicott City University of Maryland – College Park Waverly Woods – Marriottsville Westminster National – Westminster Westwinds – New Market Wetlands – Aberdeen Willow Springs – West Friendship 301-271-7870 301-856-7566 410-848-7667 410-833-7721 410-254-5100 410-836-9600 301-948-1075 301-598-6100 410-374-1500 301-935-0330 410-392-9552 301-776-5533 301-607-4653 410-252-1408 301-428-8143 301-372-1305 301-607-9000 240-406-1650 888-451-4144 410-526-2000 301-784-8400 410-278-4794 410-647-8618 301-259-0047 410-313-4653 301-570-4951 410-465-1500 301-314-4653 410-313-9182 410-876-4653 301-831-6191 410-273-7488 410-442-7700 814-623-8700 717-792-9776 717-624-9551 717-359-4480 717-352-7271 717-352-3222 814-652-5193 717-359-7125 717-764-2674 717-485-4157 717-597-1188 717-792-9771 717-533-0890 717-225-4247 814-443-8000 717-792-9771 717-279-7409 Lancaster Host – Lancaster Little Creek – Spring Grove Lykens Valley – Millersburg Meadow Brook – Gettysburg Nemacolin Woodlands – Farmington Overlook – Lancaster Piney Apple – Biglerville Pleasant Valley – Stewartstown Quail Valley – Littletown Rocky Spring – Chambersburg Rolling Acres – York Royal Manchester – Mt. Wolf South Hills – Hanover Springwood – York Tanglewood Manor – Quarryville Waynesboro Muni. – Waynesboro Wyncote – Oxford 717-397-7156 717-225-1702 717-692-3664 717-334-0569 800-422-2736 717-569-9551 717-677-9264 717-993-2184 717-359-8453 717-264-7742 717-755-1406 717-268-0490 717-637-7500 717-747-9663 717-786-2500 717-762-3734 610-932-8900 PENNSYLVANIA Bedford Springs – Bedford Briarwood – York The Bridges – Abbottstown Cedar Ridge – Gettysburg Caledonia – Fayetteville Conocodell – Fayetteville Down River – Everett Flatbush – Littlestown Grandview – York Great Cove – McConnellsburg Greencastle Greens – Greencastle Heritage Hills – York Hershey – Hershey Hickory Heights – Spring Grove Hidden Valley – Hidden Valley Honey Run – York Iron Valley – Lebanon 32 1757 – Dulles Algonkian – Sterling Appleland – Stephens City Aquia Harbour – Stafford Augustine – Stafford Birdwood – Charlottesville Brambleton – Ashburn Bristow Manor – Bristow Broad Run – Manassas Bull Run – Haymarket Burke Lake – Fairfax Station Cameron Hills – King George Forest Greens – Triangle Four Winds – Rappahanock Academy General’s Ridge – Manassas Park Greendale – Alexandria Greene Hills – Stanardsville Gypsy Hill – Staunton Hanging Rock – Salem Herndon Centennial – Herndon Hilltop – Alexandria Hobbs Hill – Tappahannock Hunting Hawk – Glen Allen Independence – Midlothian Jefferson District – Falls Church Keswick Club – Keswick King Carter – Irvington Lake Montecello – Palmyra Lake Ridge – Woodbridge Lansdowne – Leesburg Laurel Hill – Lorton Massanutten – McGaheysville Mattaponi Springs – Ruther Glen 703-444-0901 703-450-4655 540-869-8600 540-659-4478 540-720-7374 434-293-4653 703-327-3403 703-368-3558 703-365-2443 866-BULL-RUN 703-323-1641 540-775-4653 703-221-0123 804-742-5647 703-337-0777 703-971-6170 434-985-7320 540-332-3949 540-389-7275 703-471-5769 703-719-6504 804-443-4500 804-749-1900 804-594-0261 703-573-0444 434-923-4363 804-435-7842 434-589-3075 703-494-5564 703-729-8400 703-493-8849 540-289-9441 804-633-7888 Meadows Farms – Locust Grove Oak Marr – Oakton Old Hickory – Woodbridge Old Trail – Crozet Ospreys – Woodbridge Penderbrook – Fairfax Pete Dye @ Va Tech – Radford Pinecrest – Alexandria Pohick Bay – Lorton Poplar Grove – Amherst Potomac Shores – Potomac Shores Primland Resort – Rivers of Dan Prince William – Nokesville Rapidan – Locust Grove Reston National – Reston Raspberry Falls – Leesburg Royal Virginia – Louisa South Wales – Jeffersonton Spring Creek – Gordonsville Stonewall – Gainesville Tanyard – Louisa The Club at Ironwood – Staunton The Crossings – Glen Allen The Homestead – Hot Springs The Manor – Farmville The Tides Golden Eagle – Irvington The Vista Links – Buena Vista Twin Lakes – Clifton Virginia Golf Academy – Clifton Virginia Oaks – Gainesville Westfields – Clifton Westpark – Leesburg Wintergreen – Wintergreen 540-854-9890 703-255-5391 703-580-9000 434-283-8101 703-497-1384 703-385-3700 540-633-6732 703-941-1061 703-339-8585 434-946-9933 855-808-6051 276-251-8012 703-754-7111 540-547-7274 703-620-9333 703-779-2555 804-457-2041 540-937-3250 540-832-0744 703-753-5101 540-967-1889 540-248-7272 804-261-0000 540-839-7739 434-392-2244 804-438-4460 540-261-4653 703-631-9099 703-830-2400 703-754-7977 703-631-3300 703-777-7023 800-860-3809 304-789-2481 304-363-9551 304-457-2156 304-623-3701 304-327-9822 304-866-4121 304-624-5807 304-876-2544 304-622-3241 304-269-1139 304-636-9704 800-634-5233 304-536-1110 304-745-4900 304-358-2261 304-478-3406 Lakeview Resort – Morgantown Mill Creek – Keyser Mountaineer – Morgantown Oglebay Resort – Wheeling Paradise Lakes – Morgantown Pipestem – Pipestem Polish Pines – Keyser Preston – Kingwood The Raven – Snowshoe Mountain Riverbend – Buckhannon Sleepy Hollow – Charles Town Stonewall – Roanoke Twin Falls – Mullens Tygart Lake – Grafton Valley View – Moorefield Woodbrier – Martinsburg 304-594-2011 304-289-3160 304-328-5520 304-243-4141 304-291-0827 304-466-1800 301-786-4131 304-329-2100 304-572-6500 304-472-6295 304-725-5210 888-278-8150 304-294-4000 304-265-3100 304-538-6564 304-274-9818 WEST VIRGINIA G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M Alpine Lake – Terra Alta Apple Valley – Fairmont Barbour – Philippi Bel Meadow – Mt. Calre Bluefield Elks – Bluefield Canaan Valley – Davis Clarksburg – Clarksburg Cress Creek – Shepherdstown Crows Nest – Clarksburg Deerfield – Weston Elks – Elkins Glade Springs Resort – Daniels The Greenbrier – White Sulphur Springs Hide-a-way – Clarksburg Highlands at Fisher Mountain – Franklin Holly Meadows – Parsons SU M M E R 2 0 1 5 33 Feature Story Feature Story Front Royal Golf Club ~ A Walk in the Park By Nick Ciattei Warren County’s 108 golf holes make it Virginia’s leader in golf holes per capita. The original nine-hole course at Front Royal Golf Club dates back to 1938 and was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the same people responsible for building nearby Skyline Drive. After a very successful run as a country club and gathering place from the 1950s through the early 90s, the course suffered several devastating floods, and the Warren County Parks and Recreation Department assumed operations in 2006. Holes 2 & 11 Par 4s Front Royal Golf Club has long been known for some of the most unique and best putting surfaces in the entire Shenandoah Valley. The links-style layout’s 18 different tee boxes give the nine holes a different look and option of attack when playing them as a full eighteen. Being a great course for those who like to walk, the Parks Department routed a walking trail parallel to a couple of the holes. Playing to a par Holes 5 & 14 Par 4s 70 and measuring in at just over 6000 yards, this course tests all aspects of the game. Holes one and ten, both par 4s, require an accurate tee shot to avoid out-of-bounds to the left and a crop of pines and willows to the right. The second shot plays uphill to one of the course’s most challenging greens. The dogleg left on the par 4 second hole thwarts finding a flat lie making it almost impossible on your approach shot. The eleventh, which is 20 yards longer, along with this hole play uphill after your drive. You are at the highest point of the layout here amidst quite special views, including vistas of “the Drive.” Holes three and twelve, par 3s, play to another one of FRGC’s slick greens that slopes from back to front. Surrounded by as much myth and legend as Bigfoot, the fourth and thirteenth holes at Front Royal, notorious par 5s, ride along a roller coaster fairway to what has to be one of the most talked about greens in the region. Most commonly described as “the top of a Volkswagen,” several members have even spread their ashes over this green. This writer believes they wanted a resting place where they can watch their friends agonize over putts not found anywhere else. The course shifts gears for what locals call the bottom four. The fifth and matching fourteenth par 4s play to a green perched 30 feet above the fairway. Holes six and fifteen may share the same green but play totally different. The former’s straight away approach contradicts the latter’s sharp dogleg right. Number seven, one of the great short par 4s in the valley, yields scores from aces to eights. The second time through, this hole plays as a par 3. Both the eighth and seventeenth holes bring the river into play. You may not be aware that, as only a handful of tributaries do, the Shenandoah River flows from south to north. After playing as a dogleg right par 4 the first time, the par 5 on the back side measures Holes 8 Par 4 & 17 Par 5 just 486 yards, but the tee box hangs onto a ledge just up from the river. The drive must thread through a shoot of trees to the right and the water to the left. A great chance for birdie and even eagle await if you find dry land and avoid the trees. The par 3 finishing holes on each side play uphill to another sharply sloped putting surface. Located a short drive off I-66 and bordering the deepest part of the Shenandoah River, FRGC also features a full service clubhouse, boating, and fishing. Front Royal Golf Club offers a fun and playable tract and with the other recreational sidebars allows affordable daily use and membership tariffs. While I don’t play the course as often as I would like, I always enjoy a nice walk in the park when I do. For more information visit frontroyalgolf.com Ad Photo: Holes 7 Par 4 & 16 Par 3 34 G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M SU M M E R 2 0 1 5 35 Mid-Atlantic Tournaments VSGA One–Day Tournaments DateTournament DateCourse Location Location July 6 Delta Dental Last Chance PGA Qualifier Augustine Golf Club July 8 Stonewall Golf Club Gainesville July 8 West Virginia Senior Series Locust Hill Golf Club July 13 Dominion Valley Country Club Haymarket July 8 MAPGA Junior Tour Musket Ridge Golf Club July 15 Greene Hills Club Stanardsville July 9 West Virginia Senior Series The Club at Cress Creek July 16 Loudoun Golf & Country Club Purcellville July 10 MAPGA Junior Tour Shenandoah Valley Golf Club July 20 The Piedmont Club Haymarket July 13–15 Maryland Open Championship Columbia Country Club July 21 Old Hickory Golf Club Woodbridge July 14–15 VSGA Junior Girls’ Championship Nansemond River Golf Club July 22 Spring Creek Golf Club Gordonsville July 16–18 State Open of Virginia Ballyhack Golf Club July 29 Laurel Hill Golf Club Lorton July 20 MAPGA Junior Tour Winchester Country Club August 6 Pleasant Valley Golf Club Chantilly July 20–21 Pennsylvania Father–Son Championship White Manor Country Club August 10 Army Navy Country Club Fairfax July 20–24 West Virginia Open Championship Berry Hills Country Club August 17 Spotswood Country Club Harrisonburg July 21 MAPGA Junior Tour Bowling Green Country Club August 18 Augustine Golf Club Stafford July 21–24 VSGA Women’s Amateur Championship Country Club of Fairfax August 24 Chantilly National Golf & Country Club Chantilly July 22 Maryland Amateur Public Links Clustered Spires Golf Club August 25 Raspberry Falls Golf & Hunt Club Leesburg July 23 Maryland Father–Son Championship Maryland National Golf Club September 3 The Club at Viniterra New Kent July 27 Mid-Atlantic PGA Assistant Championship Spring Creek Golf Club July 27–29 Pennsylvania Amateur Championship Country Club of Scranton July 27–31 VSGA Senior Women’s Amateur The Homestead–Old Course July 28–30 WV Women’s Amateur Championship Sleepy Hollow Golf Club July 28–30 VSGA Junior Stroke Play Championship Chantilly National Golf & Country Club August 3–4 Pennsylvania Sr Amateur Championship Longue Vue Club August 4–5 VSGA Youth Championship The First Tee of Chesterfield August 10 Raspberry Invitational Raspberry Falls Golf & Hunt Club August 10–11 MAPGA Junior Tour Championship Wintergreen Resort–Stoney Creek August 10–12 Pennsylvania Open Championship Rolling Green Golf Club August 17–19 MAPGA Professional Championship Congressional Country Club August 24–28 VSGA Senior Amateur Cavalier Golf & Yacht Club August 26 Bull Run Pro–Am Bull Run Golf Club August 26 WV Senior Series Canaan Valley Resort September 1–3 VSGA Women’s State Team Matches Spotswood Country Club Middle Atlantic Section 36 G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M SU M M E R 2 0 1 5 37 Feature Story Feature Story Links At Gettysburg ~ Fore Score Nick Ciattei The Civil War battle at Gettysburg proved to be the bloodiest battle fought on U.S. soil over 7,000 casualties from both sides. The Battle of Gettysburg ended on July 4, 1863. Four months later President Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address not far from where The Links At Gettysburg stands today. Tiny Civil War cannons serve as tee markers honoring the region’s history. With five generous sets of tees ranging Hole 1 Par 4 from 4800 to just over 7000 yards, this strategic and stunning Lindsay Ervin-Stephen Klein layout gives players of many levels the chance to experience this Southern Pennsylvania gem. of a par 4 sixteenth that measures nearly 500 yards from the gold cannons. Anything short on your approach to the tough par 4 seventeenth will be swallowed by two large bunkers that protect the green. Keep it straight and out of the hazards on the par 5 eighteenth, a dandy of a closer and you can end your round with a birdie. Aesthetically, The Links At Gettysburg Hole 18 Par 5 knows few rivals. With so many visual treats, this golf course is recognized as one of the top daily fee tracts in the fourstate region. Two clubhouses and a triple-tiered stone patio sit gracefully on the property. This picturesque facility along with award-winning dining create an ideal spot for couples looking for a place to tie the knot. A stunning, French Country development of single-family homes and luxury condominiums, also situated on the property, only add to the area’s landscape. The peaceful Pennsylvania countryside and outstanding golf at The Links At Gettysburg make it well worth the venture and an easy address to remember! The Links At Gettysburg’s front nine poses less threat than its rather daunting back nine, so try to score low on the outward half. The first tee shot is generally played as a par 4 lay-up hole. This beauty’s fairway drops off significantly at about 225 yards out. The approach runs downhill over a creek and a handsome stone wall. Cosmetically one of the most unique holes you may ever play, the 187-yard Hole 3 Par 3 par 3 third’s green is hewn into the side of a 25 foot rock wall. One of the course’s main features, these signature structures along with red clay cart paths leave lasting impressions. Holes four through six, the easiest section of the course, introduce you gently to the links-style play encountered from here on out. Face the toughest tee shot of the day on the 600yard par 5 seventh. From an elevated tee, you’ll play to a landing strip with water left and right. Wetlands, two large sand traps, and another 20 foot red rock wall protect the green on the short, 323-yard par 4 eighth, the ultimate risk-reward hole. The front nine closes with a solid par 4, where the second shot plays uphill. For more information visit thelinksatgettysburg.com As previously noted, the inward nine at The Links is renowned for its difficulty and challenge and brandishes water of some sort on each hole. On the tenth, a good drive leads to a short iron played to an elevated green. Bunkers and natural forest frame a lovely green complex on the dogleg right eleventh. On what is perhaps the most photographed hole for its raw beauty and location, an arched stone bridge serves as the only path to the par 3 twelfth’s huge island green. Similar in feel and look, the par 4 thirteenth and par 5 fourteenth bookends each involve water down the left and woodlands to the right. The 233-yard par 3 fifteenth plays over water to a 40-yard deep green. Breathe deep on the whopper Ad Photo: Hole 10 Par 4 38 G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M SU M M E R 2 0 1 5 39 Out of the Bag Out of the Bag Ending the much anticipated wait, Rock Harbor Golf Course in Winchester, VA, has opened the remaining holes on their Boulder Course. The positively unique layout incorporates some incredible vistas of the Shenandoah Valley and beyond. It’s definitely a jaw dropper! Six par 5s, six par 4s, and six par 3s make this one-of-a-kind layout a must-play on everyone’s list for this year. Designer Denny Perry accommodates each and every golfer with his customary six sets of tees. The Boulder Course joins the Rock Course providing Frederick County VA with the only two 18-hole public golf courses. The Greenbrier, the historic American resort in the foothills of West Virginia’s Allegheny Mountains, has named Lee Trevino, the legendary golfer and winner of six major tournaments, as the resort’s new Golf Pro Emeritus. Trevino holds the honor of being one of only four players in history to win the U.S. Open twice, The Open Championship, and the PGA Championship. The Merry Mex, one of the most celebrated golfers in the game, was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1981 and was ranked the 14th greatest golfer of all time by Golf Digest magazine in 2000. Lee garnered 29 PGA Tour victories as well as 29 Champions Tour titles. Trevino competed for the United States in the Ryder Cup six times, including the 1979 Ryder Cup on The Greenbrier championship course, and compiled an overall Ryder Cup record of 17-7-6. The Greenbrier has long been a destination golf retreat with close associations with some of the best golf players of all time including Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Ben Hogan, and most notably, Sam Snead, who made The Greenbrier his home for more than 60 years. Chalk up some additional accolades for Maryland National Golf Club in Middletown, MD. The wonderfully challenging Arthur Hills layout was recently ranked by Golf Advisor 2014 as the #5 golf course in the Mid-Atlantic Region and one of the Top 50 in the US! Golf Advisor (golfadvisor.com) combines actual reviews from golfers with their staff writers to rank courses. Criteria reviewed included pace of play, conditions, staff friendliness, food and beverage, and value. Maryland National has been recognized as one of the Free State’s best golf courses since its 2002 opening. If I were a golf course owner and wanted to host an outdoor concert, I think I would follow the lead of Rocky Gap Casino Resort in Flintstone, MD. Where else would you have the rock band Night Ranger play but on the driving range? Night Ranger gained huge popularity in the 1980s and is known for hit singles such as “Sister Christian,” “Don’t Tell Me You Love Me,” and “When You Close Your Eyes.” The concert is set for Saturday, September 12th. Surrender Dorothy kicks off the concert with the gates opening at 5 pm. Along with admission your ticket purchase includes a complimentary Rocky Gap logo folding camp chair. Find out more at rockygapcasino.com and rock on! The latest regional golf course to adapt the Tee It Forward program at their facility is Penn National Golf Club & Inn in Mt. Alto, PA. Additional sets of tees have been installed to accommodate skill levels of golfers at both the Founders and Iron Forge Courses. Tee 40 G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M It Forward determines tee placement based upon how far you hit your drive. The Level 1 tees play to about 3100 yards and are for beginners or people who get 100 yards of carry on their drive. The Level 2 tees come in around 4100 yards for those who hit the drive a little further with 140 yards of carry. Head PGA Professional David Beegle say members at Penn National have been ecstatic about the new tees that provide them a better approach to the game as they play well into their golden years. Hey, you can still put money on the line no matter where you start your play! Hopefully recent reports can be interpreted as a sign of good things to come in the golf industry. PGA PerformanceTrak, in cooperation with the National Golf Course Owners Association (NGCOA), reports that golf facilities continue to post year over year gains in 2015. The number of rounds played during April of this year increased by 5.7% over April 2014 with the number of days open up 5.4%. Growth in monthly rounds and revenues continued its positive impact on YTD results through April with rounds played up 4.8% for the year over the same period last year. Increases in median revenues through April 2015 ranged from +2.4% for golf fee revenues to +6.2% for food and beverage revenues. For a majority of the US overall, precipitation was lower than usual for the first quarter of the year. Most of the Northeast faced declines in play in the month of April due to much colder weather at the start of 2015. A few states in the Southeast and the Ohio Valley reported increases in rounds played despite wetter than usual conditions this year. A total of 32 states reported more play for the month of April 2015 versus 2014. West Virginia increased play in April nearly 12% over last year. Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania all showed increases as well. The Commonwealth welcomes a new course opening near Richmond. Magnolia Green Golf Club is located just southwest of the capital city in Mosely. The May opening completed the project that started as the nine-hole Westham Golf Club back in 2010. The semi-private Nicklaus design, executed in association with Tom Clark, is getting nice reviews upon its unveiling. Billy Casper Golf has been chosen to manage the course, which will be the cornerstone of a residential development. “Magnolia Green has more of the look and feel of a course in the Carolinas, making it unique to the Richmond market,” says General Manager Bobby Kidder. Green fees range from $40 to $60 on weekdays and from $50 to $70 on weekends, and club memberships are available. SU M M E R 2 0 1 5 41 New Products New Products OptiShot 2–Home Course Advantage optishotgolf.com Sometime in their playing careers, perhaps in a sports bar or maybe at a golf show, many golfers have hit a ball on a golf simulator. Why not bring that same experience right to your home with the OptiShot 2 Golf Simulator? OptiShot not only entertains you, it helps you practice. OptiShot transmits data to your Mac or Windows computer in real time after every swing and tracks speed, tempo, club plane, and hand path. Simple to set up, it can fit in your briefcase and allows you to come close to playing some of the great golf courses like Torrey Pines and Kapalua. I made room in my garage to give it a whirl and can hardly wait to use it again when the weather in the mid-Atlantic goes south. OptiShot also has an interactive feature that allows you play against other golfers online. Put this product on your wish list. (Ciattei) govino–Wine After Nine govino.com With summer here we take time for family picnics, camping trips, hikes, and of course, golfing. Whether in my backyard, by the campfire, on a mountain, or on the 19th hole, when it’s time for a cool drink, I always keep my govino “glassware” handy. Govino wine and cocktail glasses go anywhere. Forget plastic and styrofoam, all govino products are made from a flexible, BPA free polymer and properly showcase all types of wines, beers, and spirits. And best of all, govino products can be recycled and reused. You don’t have to worry about broken glass, so they are perfect poolside. I never ran across the interesting “thumb-notch” before, but I found it delightful when kicking back with my favorite chilled chardonnay. We will serve no wine till after nine and definitely none without our govino. (Barge) GolfBuddy WT5–Watch Your Actions gpsgolfbuddy.com GolfBuddy’s latest line proves again that they undoubtably develop the crème de la crème of golf GPS watches that are best in class. The WT5 takes comfort and accuracy to another level while the BB5 is the first of its kind. Loaded with features that a golfer can really use, the WT5 watch has a sleeker design, which made it really comfortable for me to continue wearing off the course, and colors that I really like. The GolfBuddy WT5’s waterproof feature helps if you are one of those must-play golfers. One new product, the BB5, caught our eye but was not available for review. The world’s first GPS wrist band appeals to those who prefer something even more slimmer and lightweight. Both devices come preloaded with 37,000 global courses, automatic course and hole recognition, and can be recharged. Keep a watch over your next shot and your next round with GolfBuddy. (Ciattei) Pitchfix Twister–Better Fix pitchfixusa.com Remember the board game Twister? Playing that popular pastime today would be awful for my golf game (oh, my aching back), but Pitchfix’s new Twister repair tool won’t cause any pain. These folks also brought you the switchblade divot tool that I now keep as a staple in my golf bag. The Twister’s innovative three prong design allows golfers to simply push it in and out of the affected area. Sometimes we tend to pull with our divot tool hurting grass root structure rather than helping it. The Twister combats that by restoring the ground and relieving compaction simultaneously. The easy procedure assists golfers to repair rather than destroy. If you are one of those who complain about ball marks on the green, do your part to make the game better for all with Pitchfix divot tools. I recommend them to all of my golfing compadres. Plain and simple, it’s just a better fix. (Ciattei) 42 G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M Nikon Coolshot 20–Up Close and Personal nikongolf.com The Nikon name has been used around the Ciattei family for years, having owned several of their quality cameras. So I was delighted to test the Nikon Coolshot 20 rangefinder. I reacted immediately to its size. Being super light and compact makes the Coolshot 20 the most practical rangefinder for someone who wants the basics without all the bells and whistles. A simple push button-aim at intended goal-push button system will place accurate distances in the palm of your hand, literally. It measures up to 550 yards so you can plan out multiple shots unless you’re Godzilla. The family of Nikon rangefinders includes the Coolshot 40 and 40i, which both feature advanced enhancements to improve your game. Nikon has always been one of the most respected names in the camera industry, and their golf participation hits the target perfectly. (Ciattei) Shavetech Travel Shaver–On the Go Groom shavetech.com Imagine this scenario. You have your normal tee time set with the boys, but the better half has made plans for that afternoon allowing you only a short time to get ready at the club before you meet your party after your round. Now you can use the Shavetech Travel Shaver, a very handy product perfect for this circumstance or other occasions. This USB rechargeable electric razor requires only a quick charge on the home charger, laptop, or car for 30 minutes of shave time. I found the shave close and comfortable. With a compact, very cool sleek design, the Shavetech Travel Shaver makes a perfect partner for business trips or weekend getaways, and it may just save the marriage if you have to dash off to the neighbor’s cocktail party. So, after you clean up on the links, give yourself a good groom with Shavetech. (Ciattei) YouVees Sunscreen Swipes–Grease is NOT the Word goadventuress.com Here at The Golf Guide we always preach about the dangers of the sun and that you should always be on the defensive. Before hitting the links this summer, be sure to protect yourself from harmful rays with SPF 30 and water resistant YouVees Adventuress Sunscreen Swipes. We really enjoy this product because it allows you to apply sunscreen without the mess. We reviewed YouVees once before, but the latest packaging provides a sealed finger pocket for cleaner application. Just place your fingers in the pocket and swipe yourself down. You’ve just rid yourself of that clumsy leaking tube or bottle in your golf bag, plus you can go right to the first tee without greasy hands affecting your grip. You see enough grease in your life. You might as well not deal with it on the golf course. (Barge) Altec Lansing–Sound Proof alteclansing.com Today’s modern golfer likes some of the things we never thought would be available on a golf course. Many products have been designed to assist player performance, but this one aims strictly to enhance his or her entertainment enjoyment. Altec Lansing has created visionary headphones that are perfect for a day on the links or driving range. These earbuds are ideal for even the sweatiest sports or most intense outdoor activities/workouts. The In-Ear Sport Headphones are Bluetooth enabled, and you can sync up to two different devices at the same time. I tried them out when playing nine one afternoon and the buds held true to form with the “behind the head” design that didn’t interfere at all with my swing. I was able to jam out to Springsteen and The Raspberries without disturbing companion players. A quick charge provides 20 hours of music. Altec Lansing had me swingin’! (Ciattei) SU M M E R 2 0 1 5 43 Golf Destination Golf Destination Fredericksburg, Virginia ~ Stuck in the Middle with You Nick Ciattei The City of Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania County in Virginia were inevitably swept up by the urban masses that came from both the north and south. Located handsomely between Washington, DC, and Richmond, Virginia, the independent city and county lay unprotected like sitting ducks from Lee’s Hill extraordinary growth over the past 20 years. The fact that Interstate 95, one of the nation’s busiest highways, runs directly through their middles secured that destiny. Today, the city and county are considered to be part of the Northern Virginia sprawl adopted by the ever-expanding population of Washington, DC, as a suburb. Despite some growing pains, Fredericksburg offers a nice place to live with quiet residential neighborhoods and a charming, historic downtown area situated on the banks of the famous Rappahannock River. Along with its expansion, Fredericksburg has become a viable golf destination on the East Coast, especially because of its aforementioned location. Some of the best courses in the Commonwealth call this area home. Fredericksburg has always been stuck in the middle, even when we look into its history. In 1862 the war between the United States and the Confederate states put this small city halfway between the capitals creating a logical geographical rally point for armies. Over the next two years, the town and its surrounding countryside served as the setting for four of the Civil War’s largest and bloodiest battles, the “place to be” for action in the conflict’s eastern theater. More than 150 years later, Fredericksburg still shows the scars of war that can be seen not only in national parks and monuments but also at several golf courses. The history of the City of Fredericksburg abounds with ties to presidents Washington and Monroe, King George II of British heritage, and explorer John Paul Jones. The University of Mary Washington resides here, and the city has the unique distinction of being the most haunted city in the nation, per capita. America. To this day, Dye’s no guts no glory trademarks hold their own, and the holes remain as exciting today as they were back then. You will find challenges around every corner here. The course opens like the first hill on a giant roller coaster with many of the most demanding holes early in your round. It will always stand as one of the midAtlantic’s most revered layouts. Gauntlet Just across Curtis Lake in Stafford, you’ll find Augustine Golf Club that opened in 1995 and quickly became one of the most sought after tee times in the area. A former member of the Golden Bear’s design team, Rick Jacobson carved an aesthetic beauty along rolling hills through towering pines and hardwoods. The layout achieved Augustine instant acclaim being voted one of the top five new courses in America. Raspberry Golf Management polished up this beauty in recent years to maintain it as one of the best the mid-Atlantic has to offer. About 20 minutes south of Fredericksburg lies Pendleton Golf Club. The course was nominated as one of the top 100 new courses in the country the year it opened. Tom Walker, who used to be Gary Player’s right-hand man in golf course design work, created a breathtaking layout that combines creative mounding and undulating greens through the thick woods of Ruther Glen. The same can be said for Mattaponi Springs where 330 acres of undulating countryside provide a dramatic backdrop for one of the most beautiful courses in the Commonwealth. Both Pendleton and Mattaponi make the short easy drive into Caroline County well worthwhile. All discussions on golf in the mid-Atlantic and the so-called upscale revolution in the 1990s start with the opening of Lee’s Hill Golf Club. This course’s opening in 1993 is thought of as one of the ground-breaking moments in new course development in the region. I recall it creating such a buzz that my golf group from the Shenandoah Valley area made several treks down Route 17 to Lee’s Hill each spring. Designed by Bill Love of Ault, Clark and Associates, the course combines history and challenge. Built on an actual campsite of General Robert E. Lee’s troops, the layout winds through authentic Civil War trenches. The Gauntlet Golf Club, the P.B. Dye thrill ride set on the shores of Curtis Lake, opened in 1996 and was quickly recognized as one of the best new courses in Pendleton 44 G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M SU M M E R 2 0 1 5 45 Golf Destination Another course under the Raspberry team, Old Hickory Golf Club is located in Woodbridge north of Fredericksburg in Prince William County. This classic parkland course was designed by yet another Player protégé, Tim Freeland. Routed through mature hardwoods with wide sculpted fairways and colorful bunkering, Old Hickory makes a perfect course to visit when heading in or out of Fredericksburg. Old Hickory Bill “Farmer” Meadows’ philosophy on life called for it to be memorable and fun, and he incorporated these attributes into Meadows Farms Golf Meadows Farms Course. You’ll find the longest hole in the United States here, a par 6 measuring 841 yards; a couple of island greens; a waterfall hole; and a baseball diamond. Even with all the quirks, you can expect terrific quality. In Prince William County to the north you’ll find two more fine facilities just minutes off of I-95. Forest Greens Golf Club is located across from Quantico Marine Forest Greens Base. This excellent Clyde Johnston course plays over rolling hills with dramatic elevation changes. Johnston is known for his design work in the Carolinas, and he doesn’t miss a beat here. The region recently welcomed the Jack Nicklaus-designed Potomac Shores Golf Club to the area. The project that started in 2007 was finally completed last year with a spectacular end result. Upscale all the way, Potomac Shores’ Potomac Shores first-class golf experience is worthy of the Golden Bear’s name. About an hour east of Fredericksburg, over the Potomac River into Maryland, discover the hidden beauty of Swan Point Golf and Yacht Club. Reminiscent of Low Country Carolina golf, the award winning Bob Cupp design integrates grand views along the Potomac. Swan Point also makes a great arrival or departure course for those coming from the east or north. Golf in Fredericksburg has definitely changed along with the times, as has the entire landscape of the area. One of the most historical regions of the mid-Atlantic nevertheless remains. Just as our forefathers made this Virginia area part of our heritage years ago, now you can lay claim to Fredericksburg for your next golf trip, and make it one for the ages. 46 G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M SU M M E R 2 0 1 5 47 Accommodations & Packages Accommodations & Packages AP 48 G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M SU M M E R 2 0 1 5 49 Accommodations & Packages 50 Accommodations & Packages G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M SU M M E R 2 0 1 5 51 Accommodations & Packages 52 Accommodations & Packages G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M SU M M E R 2 0 1 5 53 Shanks & 3–Putts The State of Golf Senior Special (62+) Mike Ahrnsbrak — Golf Guide Senior Writer PGA Professional, Blue Ridge Shadows Golf Club Green Fee & Cart $ Mountain/Spring Course Special $ 40 When I moved to Virginia’s northern Shenandoah Valley in 1985, the area had 108 holes of golf – Shenandoah Valley (27), Bowling Green (18), Front Royal CC (9), Millwood CC (9), Carpers Valley (18), Winchester CC (18) and the Summit (9). Golf courses hosted golfers coming from Northern Virginia to enjoy our fast pace of play and good course conditions at the right price, which kept the courses both busy and profitable. 44 + tax 18 Holes plus cart Good 7 days a week Monday thru Friday Monday – Thursday Fast forward to witness today’s difficulties facing golf course owners and operators. Although we’ve seen some growth in population, the number of people playing golf has declined. At the same time, however, a staggering number of golf courses now occupy the area. The region currently has 183 holes – Rock Harbor (36), Winchester (18), Millwood (9), Appleland (12), Bowling Green (36), Shenandoah Valley (27), Jackson’s Chase (18), Blue Ridge Shadows (18), Front Royal (9), and Virginia National opened and closed during this period. Senior (55+) $29 Active Military $31 Green fee and Cart Monday–Thursday 4 for $140 Fridays & Weekends/Holidays after 11 am 4 for $156 Sunset Special – after 5pm every day – $ 20 per person Unfortunately for golf course owners, the large number of courses makes it difficult to make a profit on your investment. Golfing consumers, however, enjoy many opportunities to play some excellent golf courses for not a lot of money. Until more golfers start playing more golf again, it will continue to be a buyer’s market for golfers. This is happening in many places around the country, and around the globe for that matter. There has never been a better time to introduce your sons, daughters, and grandchildren to the great game of golf. Each course offers player development programs that are fun, inexpensive, and SAFE that will teach you how to enjoy the game I’ve loved for more than 50 years. When you look at the long-term, the golf industry is making strides to become more relevant to the next generation. PGA Junior League Golf, Drive Chip and Putt, Get Golf Ready, and other wonderful programs are gaining exposure. Getting golf back in the 2016 Olympics will surely have a global impact. For more information on these programs go to pga.com. So when you’re looking for something to do this summer, PLAY GOLF! Bring a friend who either hasn’t played for a long time or who has never played before with you to the golf course so they can see why you enjoy the game so much. Bring your children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews to the course and let them hit a few balls or putts. Check with your local PGA Professional about their player development programs. Believe me, you will enjoy the feeling of having shared your love of golf – the game of a lifetime – with someone else! IRON FORGE COURSE FOUNDERS COURSE $ Seniors 60+ 55 Green Fee and Cart Monday – Thursday $20.00 OFF Regular Rates Green Fee & Cart Monday thru Thursday 54 G O L FG U I D E I N C. CO M Monday thru Friday Anytime $ 29 per person Saturday & Sunday after 12 pm $ 39 per person NORTH & SOUTH COURSES Foursome Monday thru Friday — $99 Twosome Monday thru Friday — $49 Foursome on Weekends — $139 Twosome on Weekends — $69 Excludes Holidays Lakeview Golf Club Harrisonburg, VA 540-434-8937 lakeviewgolf.net Packsaddle Ridge Golf Club Keezletown, VA 540-269-8188 packsaddle.net 2015 Golf Season Pass Senior (55+) Offer good seven days a week after 11 a.m. Cannot be combined with any other offer or discount special. Expires 8-31-15 Blue Ridge Shadows Golf Club Front Royal, VA 540-631-9661 blueridgeshadows.com Good for up to a foursome. Cannot be combined with any other offer or used in tournaments or special events. Expires 10-31-15 $ 41 Cacapon Resort State Park Adult Unlimited Play Good Monday thru Thursday Anytime! Offer good Monday thru Thursday only excluding holidays. Good for up to a foursome. Cannot be combined with any other offer or used in tournaments or special events. Expires 10-31-15 Bryce Resort Basye, VA 540-856-2124 bryceresort.com Penn National Golf Club & Inn Mont Alto, PA 800-221-7366 penngolf.com Play 18 Holes With Cart Foursome Special Green Fee and Cart Monday – Friday Friday – Sunday $ 35/Player 49 weekdays 59 weekends $ Price includes cart and is not valid with any other offer. Good for up to four players. Expires 10-31-15 $ GREEN FEE & CART Bowling Green Country Club Front Royal, VA North 540-635-2028 South 540-635-2883 bowlinggreencountryclub.net Monday – Thursday $ $ 99 120 Seniors (60+), Active Military, & First Responders Tuesday thru Thursday 2-players, unlimited golf, 18 holes w/cart and complementary bucket of range balls = $70 Maryland National Golf Club Middletown, MD 301-371-0000 marylandnational.com Sundays after 1 PM & Monday – Thursday all day! 18 Holes for 39 $ .95 Senior (Age 55 & up) Rate Must present coupon at time of use. Includes cart, riding only. Cannot be combined with any other coupon or group packaging. Expires 8-31-15 650 plus tax Includes 4 “spend the night” and “18-hole rounds for a friend” coupons Goose Creek Golf Club Leesburg, VA 703-729-2500 goosecreekgolf.com Rates include green fee and cart for 18-holes. Cannot be combined with any other offer, must present coupon at check-in. Expires 8-31-15 Good for up to a foursome. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Expires 10-31-15 $ Offer good Monday thru Thursday. Good for up to a foursome. Not Valid for twilight, winter, or senior rates.. Must present coupon. Expires 10-31-15 18 Holes for 32 $ 37.95 Sundays $ .95 Sundays after 1 PM & Monday – Thursday all day! 18 Holes for $30.95 Senior (Age 55 & up) Rate 18 Holes for $24.95 $ 28.95 Sundays Cacapon Resort State Park Berkeley Springs, WV 304-258-1022 cacaponresort.com South Riding Golf Club South Riding, VA 703-327-6660 southridinggc.com Coupon #891a $ Reciprocal play at Canaan Valley, Twin Falls, and Pipestem resort state parks. Call Ken McCarthy, Cacapon Resort Golf Pro, for details and other pass options. Expires 12-31-15 Shenvalee Golf Resort New Market, VA 888-339-3181 shenvalee.com Price includes cart and is not valid with any other offer or discount programs. Good for up to 4 players. This offer is good Monday through Thursday only and excludes Holidays. Expires 8-30-15 42 Midweek Any Time Monday thru Friday Excludes Holidays Meadowcreek Golf Course Charlottesville, VA 434-977-0615 meadowcreekgolf.org Valid Monday–Friday. Cannot be used for outings or combined with other offers. Must present coupon. Expires 8-31-15 Green Fee and Cart Senior Mondays $ 25 $99 Monday – Thursday $ 119 Fridays $ 139 Saturday & Sunday 18 Holes With Cart Free Hot Dog and Drink Carroll Valley at Liberty Mountain Resort All-Inclusive 2 FOR 1 GREEN FEE Play with 4, Pay for 3! Save 25% Senior (55+) 50 yrs. and older Lee’s Hill Golf Club Fredericksburg, VA 540-891-0111 leeshillgc.com Offer good Tuesday thru Thursday. Not valid for twilight rates or any other discount offer. Must present coupon. Expires 10-31-15 Valid all 7 days. Green Fee & Cart. Valid for up to one foursome. No holidays, outings, or other offers combined. Expires 10-31-15 The Woods Hedgesville, WV 304-754-7222 thewoods.com The Woods Hedgesville, WV 304-754-7222 thewoods.com Price includes Greens & Cart fees. Tax extra. Up to 4 persons may play per coupon. Rate is per person. Starting times up to 7 days in advance. No holidays. Based on availability. Appropriate golf attire required (no jeans/denim). The Woods is a non-metal spike facility. No outside coolers. Not valid with other discounts. Expires 10-31-15 35 per player Monday thru Thursday 18 Hole Greens Fee & Cart Heritage Oaks Golf Course Harrisonburg, VA 540-442-6502 heritageoaksgolf.com Foursome Special Price includes cart and is not valid with any other offer or discount programs. Good for up to 4 players. Expires 8-31-15 $ Price includes Greens & Cart fees. Tax extra. Up to 4 persons may play per coupon. Rate is per person. Starting times up to 7 days in advance. No holidays. Based on availability. Appropriate golf attire required (no jeans/denim). The Woods is a non-metal spike facility. No outside coolers. Not valid with other discounts. Expires 10-31-15 All Inclusive Prime Season 2 Nights/3 Days of Golf Weekdays starting at only $382 at any Raspberry Golf Trail location with your next foursome! Monday thru Friday Only 18-Hole Green Fee Only For Up To 4 Golfers $ 44 Good Monday thru Thursday Anytime! Rock Harbor Golf Course Winchester, VA 866-273-1934 rockharborgolf.com Whitetail Golf Resort Mercersburg, PA 717-328-4169 golfatwhitetail.com Pro’s Corner Are You A Watcher or A Competitor? Green Fee and Cart. Offer good Monday through Thursday. No holidays. Good for up to a foursome. Not valid with any other offer, special or promotion. Must present coupon when checking in for golf. Expires 9-30-15 Price includes cart and is not valid with any other offer and Good Monday thru Friday excluding holidays. Must have coupon to receive this offer. Expires 10-31-15 Locust Hill Golf Course Charles Town, WV 304-728-7300 locusthillgolfcourse.com Ingleside Golf Club Staunton, VA 540-248-7888 inglesidegolf.net Must be 50 years or older. Cannot be combined with any other offer or used in tournaments or special events. Expires 9-28-15 Front Royal Golf Club Front Royal, VA 540-636-9061 frontroyalgolf.com 18-Hole Green Fee Only, Must rent a cart. Coupon good for up to a foursome. Offer good Monday thru Friday only. Expires 8-31-15 BRAND NEW WEBSITE!!!! frontroyalgolf.com Pleasant Valley Golf Club Chantilly, VA 703-222-7900 pleasantvalleygc.com Larry Ringer, PGA Teaching Professional MAPGA Hall of Fame Musket Ridge Golf Club, Myersville, Maryland I thought it was great to be able to watch a young Jordan Speith resoundingly win the prestigious Masters title in April and make it look easy. Now, here we are later in the season, and we can observe the Nationals contend for a National League title. The televised NBA Finals feature a deceased president (LBJ) coming back to play for the Cleveland Cavaliers. (Oops! you say that is not the same person? My mistake, sorry.) Plus, we just recently witnessed American Pharaoh take the first Triple Crown in 37 years. Good for up to 4 players. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Price per person. Must present coupon when checking in for golf. Expires 10-31-15 Wow! This has been a great season so far. I wonder what I can sit down and watch on the tube next. I check the TV Guide for upcoming events or tune into Sports Center and catch up on the news. I have to ask all of you reading this article a question. When are you going to go out and compete? How about now! Get off your duff and go hit some golf balls, or just go to the putting green to relive that tremendous feel you had while shooting your low score last year. Carroll Valley at Liberty Mountain Fairfield, PA 800-548-8504 libertymountainresort.com If you do not take the time to do some of these things now, Fall will be here. The time you vowed to take to work on your game will be lost, and you will get consumed by the NFL and great tournaments on the PGA Tour. These things can be recorded and seen later with your family or even not at all. I watch highlights on Sports Center and still have time to practice my game. Why not take some time right now to map out a plan to get some rounds in before the July 4th weekend? Then you can get some of your buddies together and hustle them before you spend the holiday with your family. Prime season May 1 thru October 18, 2015. Includes 18-Hole round of golf on our Carroll Valley Championship Course with cart per day, range balls, hotel accommodations, a full hot buffet breakfast, and four-course dinner per each night's stay. Everything you need for a great getaway just steps from the first tee! Call 717-642-8282 x3357 to book your stay. Raspberry Golf Trail 16 Premier Courses in VA, MD, PA raspberrygolftrail.com I suggest that you start by just chipping and putting for about forty-five minutes each day. That way your feel should be better, and you will not be so darn stiff hitting all those practice balls. Why try to cram all aspects of the game into one practice session? After a week of chipping and putting, combine some short iron practice on the range with that daily dose of around-the-green work. Then, after one week your body should be ready for more time and longer clubs. If you can sit in front of a television for three hours watching golf, why not be a competitor and play? If you really feel the need to work on that game and want some help, do not hesitate to meet your local PGA Professional and get help with those basics once again. Remember, if you need someone to work on the plumbing in your house, you call a plumber. For that same reason, you always call a PGA Professional for help with your golf game. Happy Golfing and don't be a watcher until you have had a chance to be a competitor again. Larry Ringer, PGA Teaching Pro at Musket Ridge Golf Club 304-279-7524 larryringerpga@hotmail.com Price includes cart and is not valid with any other offer or discount programs. Good for up to 4 players. This offer is good Monday through Thursday only and excludes Holidays. Expires 8-30-15 All players must be Raspberry Golf Trail card holders (purchase online or at the course same day). Not good with any other offers, discounts, league or outing play. Redemption windows strictly enforced. Check raspberrygolftrail.com or specific club websites for eligible times. Expires 8-31-15 SU M M E R 2 0 1 5 61