Oak Marr Golf Course Oakton, VA - 3/14/2008
This nine hole par 27 course is operated by the Fairfax County Park Authority. It provides a quick stop for golf to thousands in the densely populated center of Fairfax. The holes are each fairly different, though more seem to go uphill rather than down. Walking is the order of the day here so expect some light exercise. The shortest hole is 127 yards, and the longest is 200 so no driver needed here. The memorable ones are the last two holes. The eighth is a short par three over a small pond to a shallow green. The final hole has a bunker the size of a soccer field running down the entire right side of the hole. The range has more than enough hitting stations, with two levels and some heated tees. The best feature of the facility is the enormous practice greens where you can dump a bucket of balls and make your own “Pelz practice routine” complete with bunker play. At 1,456 yards the irons get some work. The putter must be given some slack on this course as the greens are bumpy and muni slow. Ayce
Pendleton Golf Club Ruther Glen, VA - 3/3/2008
On the way back from Pinehurst we decided to play this much talked about new course between Fredericksburg and Richmond, just 60 miles from the DC beltway. I was expecting a step down from Pinehurst courses, but such was not the case. Sure the trees were barren, after all it was the first week of March. But, Pendleton is frankly one of the nicest new courses anywhere. Every hole is totally different, and some are unlike any you have ever played. Number eight even has a cemetery in the fairway! The sixth green has a shelf in the middle of the green that must be fifteen feet high (imagine putting from one tier to the next!). You’ll find long, long lovely rides from one green to the next tee, with no reminders of Interstate 95 just two miles away. The greens have as much undulation as any greens outside of Augusta National and run about 11 on the stimp. Currently the weekday rate is half that of other high end courses so get down there for the $25 special. The outing rates are excellent as well. Oh, and remember the weather is always a little milder than Balt/DC so enjoy the warmth. Ayce
Front Royal Country Club Front Royal, VA - 2/18/2008
The claim to fame for this course is “a registered Virginia historic landmark.” A third of this nine-hole layout runs along the Shenandoah River, just off I66 at Route 522. Two sets of tees make this into an eighteen holer measuring just over 6,000 yards from the tips. The dual tees actually make the holes look distinct since they are set fairly far apart from each other. On a warm Presidents Day we had a chance to play the course almost alone so hitting a tee shot from each tee made it possible to play eighteen in record time. The first four holes have significant elevation changes in them. The fourth hole is a par four of over 400 yards, which goes uphill and doglegs left. The next two holes ease up a bit before the rambling cart path takes you onto a road, under a bridge, along the creek to the next four (it almost feels like a back nine!). Holes seven and eight have great views of the river. Be sure to notice the two houses perched atop the cliffs on the opposite side of the river. Do not overlook this fun course when out in the valley on Route 66. Very laid back staff and clientele make you feel at home in a hurry. Ayce
Hunting Hawk Golf Club Glen Allen, VA - 10/16/2007
On the northwest side of Richmond lies a course previously untested by Waggle staff, Hunting Hawk. So, AYCE agreed to trek to an outing on a picture perfect fall day. While the course is near Richmond, very little development is around the course. No fast food or even gas stations are nearby. This remoteness enhances the overall flavor of this well manicured, relatively flat layout. Each hole is framed by mature trees so an errant drive is gone. The greens are large without as much slope as some of the nearby courses. The routing of the cart paths makes for a pleasant ride around a very solid above average course. However, no particular hole stands out as being “spectacular” so the ‘wow’ factor is low. AYCE
Virginia National Golf Club Bluemont, VA - 10/13/2007
On a perfect Saturday afternoon in mid October, a group of two dozen golf fanatics ventured to the northwestern edge of northern Virginia for a terrific course—Va. National. This course has improved significantly over the spotty conditions of a year ago. The layout is unique, except for the last 3 holes of the front nine. But, the framing of the course by the mountains on on side and the Shenandoah River on the other more than compensate. Two of the holes on the back side have dramatic elevation changes. On one, the downhill par 3, the club difference from a flat hole is nearly three clubs! Perhaps the best feature about the facility is the rustic setting. While the drive from the western side of Va. 495 is an hour, you are worlds away from development and hustle. AYCE
General's Ridge Golf Course Manassas, VA - 10/12/2007
This is one of the most unique and difficult courses in the area. The hilly, wooded course seems to have been designed by sadists and not the Pete Dyes, but is sure is fun to play. The first two holes are straightforward, the third a 90 degree dogleg (which all macho types must try to drive), but the fourth hole is where the General’s Ridge trademark rears its head. It is a downhill par five that from the tee looks like a bowling alley. Smart players hit a couple of five irons and short iron it to a tough green, but who plays a course this fun like that!? Another favorite hole is the eleventh, where if you are on the green to the left of the hole you WILL three putt. Recently installed GPS has sped play on this hard track. Another improvement has been the clearing of some of the rough and hazards which were previously overflowing with stray balls. By all means play this course... but have fun and remember it’s just a game. Ayce
Mountain View Golf Club Fairfield, PA - 10/11/2007
The previous comments about the course being open is correct about the front but when you get to the back it tightens up. This is important to note as it gives the player the chance to get warmed up before heading to the back. Of note also is the front while open has the bunkers placed strategically to challenge the play. Avoid and score well, get in and you had better have practiced those bunker shots in the practice area. If heading south after completing a round you may want to stop at Tavern on the Green at Carroll Valley. They always have large $1 drafts (Bud Light and Yeungling), daily specials, and 2 for 1 appetizers from 4:30 to 7:30, 25 cent wing (10flavors) Mon-Thur. K. Farabaugh
Heritage Shores Club Bridgeville, DE - 10/10/2007
Heritage Shores Golf is located in the 55+ community of the same name. This 7004+ yard Arthur Hills design is in wonderful shape for just opening in July. Generous fairways off-set the water hazards found on 17 of the holes. It is definitely a "risk-reward" course. Links style in design, it is very playable from any of its 5 tee boxes, depending on the wind direction and force. Located in Bridgeville, DE on US Rt. 13 S, just below where 404 cuts off to the beaches, the wind can play an improtant part in scoring. The first hole is a so-so par 4 that bends left around a pond, but is followed by the No. 1 handicap hole - a par 5 that features water along the left, a blind second shot, and a deep bunker fronting the green with a narrow approach in front. Three shots is the safe play, but it is a "risk-reward" for those who like to gamble. All of the holes are well bunkered, with few blind shots... what you see is what you get. The par threes are manageable, but watch out for the 4th... short but deadly: shallow, wide, water short and right with a bunker left and a deep valley in the center. The course ends with a par 5 that is extremely well bunkered in the fairway and near the square - yes square - green. The ubiquitous water is all down the left side and is tucked right up to the green. Like #2, there is a small opening to the green - caution is advised. The greens are in excellent shape, as are the fairways, given its youth. Very enjoyable to play with a great restaurant overlooking the par 5 18th. The staff is friendly and helpful, with head pro Jason Diamond and assistant Brooks leading the way. It's an enjoyable course for any level. Alfal8r (88/92)
Beach Club Golf Links Berlin, MD - 10/5/2007
To the Ocean on another research trip – we ventured to the Beach Club which has recently undergone a transformation from the inner links and outer links to the Sand, Surf and Sun nines to make way for more development…egad, but sometimes those great courses have to make some money in other ways. Well what used to be commonly and cutely referred to as the “Outer Course and the Inner course is now 27 holes – but still very playable and still a nice facility. On this day, we were playing a scramble event for Charity and if you’re like me, sometimes a scramble isn’t really like real golf…but then again, it’s a day out of the office so it ain’t all bad. We played the Sand and Surf nines and they offered some nice challenges. A couple of the par 5’s are reachable but only with a big drive and approach. Most of the par 3’s were in the 150 range (white tees) and in general the course we played was a player’s layout (approx. 6000 yards) with most holes being average in length. I do remember the closing hole being a long par 4 against the wind requiring a big drive and low iron to a large and tricky green but for the most part, this is a fun score friendly course. The clubhouse and restaurant were both well staffed and the eastern shore folks sure treat you nice at this facility. Lefty (Team 64)
University of Maryland Golf Course College Park, MD - 10/4/2007
I was invited to play in yet another scramble tournament at the U of MD recently and enjoyed for the second time in a month a fine golf course albeit from a scramble point of view. The course was in pretty good shape for the lack of rain we’ve been having and the greens were actually holding shots and putting true. This course has the look and feel of being longer than you think with many wide fairways creating the illusion of longer than the yardage indicates. For some reason, it seems like Pennsylvania courses (near Harrisburg) are like this to me too…but in any event, this course is a value play for the normal golfer (like we all are) and I can definitely recommend it. We sank several putts on this day and managed to finish only one shot out of the money – if that one putt only would have gone in! You’ll need to try to get to the Par 5 #9 in two – it’s a fairly long (but reachable) uphill par 5. Don’t think it’s too easy though as our four guys could only par it! If you happen to play #18 in regulation and par this long par 4 consider treating yourself to a cold one in U of MD’s really nice bar and grill! Tell them Lefty from Waggle.com sent you! Lefty (Team 65)
Hollow Creek Golf Club Middletown, MD - 9/17/2007
I finally made it out to Hollow Creek by way of an invitation to play in a charity golf tourney. And, I'm happy to report that I am looking forward to playing there again and soon. This is a fun course to play - not too tough - but not too easy. Accuracy off the tee gives you a nice shot at the green to go for birdie but being a little wild won't punish too badly. I particulary liked the greens. Besides rolling true they had character. During the round you'll get to try a variety of uphill, downhill, and big breaking putts (occasionally all on the same green if you're not careful). The rolling course offers some nice elevation changes which makes you rethink your club selection as you make adjustments. My only knock was all the homes on the course. My playing partner told me on the first hole, "ignore the houses and it's a beautiful course", and he was right. The staff was friendly and they put on a nice event. The Frederick, Maryland area continues to impress me with the quality of its courses and should be a destination you consider for an upcoming round. Bogeyman
Las Vegas Paiute Golf Resort Las Vegas, NV - 9/11/2007
Continuing our quest of Waggle on the Road to review the Vegas Courses for you while at the PGA West Golf, we had to ensure that Wolf was still in superb shape (if you’ll check the review last time at this year it will probably say nearly the same thing – but then again, a lot can happen in a year). Bogeyman, the laughing Frenchman, and yours truly were again invited out to our favorite Vegas Track to inspect the course conditions and of course we accepted. Our early morning tee time was delayed several hours as we had some trouble in various casinos the prior evening which affected our sleep patterns so we ventured out in the afternoon heat at the Indian Reservation known as Paiute. The funny thing about this track is that even on a 100 plus degree day, we were not really uncomfortable and by the days end it was just like a fall day back east. Oh, the course, we’ve raved about it before and I’m happy to tell you that the Wolf course continues to be Bogeyman’s all time favorite and one of mine too. The laughing Frenchman cited some other track (probably in the South of France) but we don’t really consider his opinion on such matters. As usual, the greens were sneaky fast with many devious breaking putts to be read but they were fair and true. The staff was very friendly and helpful and seemed honestly glad to welcome you to their course. We managed to get around in pretty good time and really enjoyed the scenery and desert wildlife including large jackrabbits, coyotes and various other creatures. Paiute (any of the 3 courses) remains on the Waggle “must play” list when traveling to Vegas! Tell’em Waggle sent you! Lefty (84)
Royal Links Golf Club Las Vegas, NV - 9/10/2007
Waggle on the road took us to one of our favorite Research places for the PGA West Golf show in Sin City. No worries here as your loyal Waggle crew keeps their collective mind on doing what you want us to do which is provide good solid golf info. The fact that we have to play these courses is something we often dread but we do it anyway, all for you! Hey, it wasn’t easy getting ready to go play golf in the desert heat of Vegas – upwards of 105 on this particular day but the PGA west tourney beckoned us – so we played. This fine course features no water to negotiate but offers instead 115 bunkers – some of which are the kind you simply are glad to get out of. The course is a links style track and has several holes which you’ll recognize as knock offs of holes you see the pros playing. I particularly liked #10 which is the infamous “Road Hole” and you need to hit your tee shot over an imposing scoreboard to reach the center of the fairway at what looks like an impossible angle. Trust me and hit it over the left center of the scoreboard about 250-ish and you’ll be set for a nice approach for a birdie. The course was in excellent shape and was really fun to play. The fact that the PGA show had vendors and giveaways on nearly every hole slowed play somewhat but didn’t detract from our mission to review the course. We’ve played this course prior on one of our Super Bowl Research trips and it was fun and worthwhile both trips. I would rate it as a “play” although the cost is steep – it’s in line with other Vegas venues and definitely measures up for both fun and course condition. Lefty (80)
P.B. Dye Golf Club Ijamsville, MD - 8/26/2007
It had been quite some time – come to think of it, almost at the beginning of Waggle in 1999 since I’ve been to PB Dye Golf Club in Ijamsville just south of Frederick. I didn’t remember the deviousness of this track from my last play but definitely experienced it today! The slope rating from the blue tees of 134 is correct as you will pay for misses. A unique thing about this course is the “bouncing bunkers” on several holes. That is the large 6” by 6” buried wooden planks which may or may not deflect your errant shot into the bunker or on the green or elsewhere. Several holes have this feature and if you happen to not to hit them, don’t be too upset. I happened to find them on the signature hole, the par 3, #11 which is a “hit-the-green-or-be-doomed” type of hole. I thought I had bailed out properly to the right and long (avoiding the water hazard left and the environmental hazard short and the sandtrap short right) only to catch a “buried railroad tie” which deflected my ball across the green and into the waiting water hazard! On this day, when I was hitting the tee ball and most other shots pretty well, the difficulty on the greens and my short game gave me a higher than deserved score. For instance, two big shots got me to the #1 handicap par 4, 6th hole in regulation. Unfortunately, 4 putts later I had a double bogey! There are some massive greens on this course and Mr. Dye had tricked them up pretty good so bring your total game. The course fairways suffered from the effects of this summer’s drought and some was in need of some TLC. The rough on this day was definitely grown up and played tough. Some of the greens needed some attention (mostly by golfers not fixing ball marks!) but the course was very playable and I anticipate I’ll be back to give it another shot…or perhaps, it will give me another shot? In any event, the clubhouse featured cold beverages and PB Dye’s staff were very helpful and friendly! Lefty (87)
Blue Ridge Shadows Golf Club Front Royal, VA - 8/18/2007
On a beautiful Saturday in August, we held an outing for twenty lucky souls at Blue Ridge Shadows. Everyone was blown away by this outstanding new course. You could see the excitement in the eyes of the players, most of whom had never seen the course before. And, the course did not disappoint as each player remarked how interesting the layout was. Having played there before, I knew the course, but what I had not experienced was the level of service the entire Blue Ridge Shadows staff provided for outings. Starting with the bag and cart staff all the way through the GM, everyone was expecting us and made sure we had everything we needed. One bar/food server even made a point to thank us for coming and welcomed us back soon. If you are considering a location for a tournament be sure to check out Blue Ridge Shadows. They are truly an "exceptional golf outing venue." Bogeyman
Old Hickory Golf Club Woodbridge, VA - 8/12/2007
While most courses are dried out and somewhat unattractive, Old Hickory showed signs of watering and TLC. The course was in above average shape in August which means it should be beautiful this fall. The staff here is always very professional. Drink carts, water jugs, towels, and other niceities of a high end course are evident. The pace of play was very good for a Sunday—four and three quarter hours. The layout reminds me of NBA basketball in that the action is in the final 5 minutes. This time the final 3 holes provided the excitement and the outcome of a good round or a blown opportunity. Ayce
Virginia Oaks Golf Course Gainesville, VA - 8/5/2007
After playing on fried golf courses for weeks, it was nice to play a green one. The pro when complimented on the conditions muttered that I should see the water bill. I expressed appreciation on behalf of all golfers. This course has really improved in the past two years and despite all the houses remains a course to play. They do a number of outings at Virginia Oaks so be sure to inquire as to what is happening there before heading out. Try the wraps at the 19th hole for a winner. Ayce
Raspberry Falls Golf Club Leesburg, VA - 8/4/2007
Seems the curse of the grouchy starters and “player assistants” has hit this course (hopefully it’s not permanent and just due the hot weather). The kids who wear the neat outfits and grab your sticks still do a pleasant job, but one has to wonder how much torment they endure working with the codgers. It’s frustrating to be treated this way at such a ‘high end, country club for a day’. The fairways and greens were still green. But the rough was crunchy to walk through – so keep it in play! I was again surprised at the number of divots left unrepaired in the fairways. This is a problem that should not persist here. Other courses better stress player participation in using available seed mixtures on carts. Raspberry Falls remains one of the top courses in the area but here we expect better than what I experienced today. Ayce
Westpark Golf Club Leesburg, VA - 8/3/2007
I love to play this course when the ground is hard as drives go so much farther. I was one over with two holes to go when that realization hit me, a fact that led to bogies on 17 and 18 :( This course is always fun but when it is this dry, it becomes a lot easier. Hopefully some rain will restore it to the more lush conditions that the creeks throughout the course help accent. The creeks on this day were bone dry! The chipping green has been shut down, but the greens on the course were in good shape. Ayce
Hilltop Golf Club Alexandria, VA - 7/29/2007
On a steamy Sunday in July, I discovered a few more reasons to like this course. First, while most courses are burned up from the intense sun and lack of rain, the groundskeepers at Hilltop pour the water onto the smallish fairways. It’s fun to hit the ball off lush grass this time of year. Also, the temperature is slightly cooler atop the ‘hill’ due to an ever present breeze. Finally, when the inevitable shower rolls in, as it did on this day, the scurry to the clubhouse does not take long nor does the return back to your hole when the rain stops. Ayce
Links at Challedon Mt. Airy, MD - 7/26/2007
It’s amazing how the building of homes continues around this once isolated golf course. My playing partners commented that it was hardly a links style course and thus mis-named. It had never occurred to me since I remember it when nothing was around, but I conceded that he was correct. The course is an unusual blend of traditional, links, and strange. It is fun to play on an occasional basis. Their web site offers some very reasonable specials. This course is close if you live in Frederick, otherwise plan for a bit of a drive. In late July the fairways were toasted, greens OK. AYCE
Maryland National Golf Club Middletown, MD - 7/25/2007
A mid week jaunt to Maryland National was in the cards for the ‘ole Lefthander and what a nice time was had! The condition of the course was superb (although a green or two did have a few rough spots) and a quick round on this tricky and challenging course was just what the golf doctor ordered. As usual, several holes had their way with me and several double bogeys later, I’m thinking “will I ever shoot a score on this course” but a decent recovery on the back nine righted the ship and I came in about “normal”. The group I was playing with played the white tees and at just under 6100 yards, I had several close approach shots in the 100 yard range. Nonetheless a pushed shot or over-the-top pulled wedge later and I’m tapping in for bogey so perhaps the short tee boxes really do not matter? On the day, #16 was playing downwind and a big 3 iron-wood got me pin high just off the fringe but as usual, the short game failed and a tap in for par (4) was a disappointing finish! Alas, at least I was chipping for eagle! As usual, 17 and 18 provided a big finish/challenge and 2 bogeys later I was thinking what could have been. You now the feeling; I missed 3 putts that I should have made, took a double bogey on xx, here made one bad swing there that cost me a shot…all of a sudden, you should have shot par! Take it from Lefty, Maryland National will test your shot making skills – no matter which tees you play. There is a pretty good special in the US Golf Pass for discounted play at this fine track. Check it out at the Waggle.com pro shop. Then you can play Maryland National for a great price! Lefty (84)
Pleasant Valley Golfer's Club Chantilly, VA - 7/22/2007
This course was surprisingly green for the mid summer drought. Conditions were good and the hospitality of the staff has seemed to improve. There is no denying that this is a fun and fair place to play. The pace of play on the Sunday we played was snail like (no ‘player assistant’ was seen). A sign in the clubhouse beckoned for volunteer marshal positions. Be prepared for a slower experience for the somewhat excessive weekend green fee, but try to play Pleasant Valley this summer. Ayce
Clustered Spires Golf Course Frederick, MD - 7/20/2007
I got talked into playing this Frederick County Muni on a beautiful Friday – against my will but after playing it, I am pleased to say my attitude about this course has changed for the better. It had been about 5 years or more since I last visited CS and was not really expecting much as I recall what I remembered from my first visit was “it’s a muni, burnt out and very easy course”, but after this trip, I can recommend it as one to play if you want to go work on the game. It is fairly open however there are several challenging holes to test your shot making ability and water does come into play on a few holes. What impressed me the most was the condition of the fairways, greens and tee boxes as they were all very “green”, no doubt as the result of the irrigating efforts that I was informed of prior to playing. A nice little clubhouse and good ‘ole Frederick atmosphere makes Clustered Spires a great value play. Give it a look and tell’em Lefty sent you! Lefty (85)
Reston National Golf Course Reston, VA - 7/18/2007
The course of “dogs and joggers” lived up to its reputation on this hot summer day. Wish those locals who roam the course as if it were their private park were as ‘chilled’ on the golf course as when someone hits a stray shot in their yards! Funny how that works…. The gap between the forward and middle tees at RN is 600 yards so most folks end up playing the middle tees. These tees measure over 6500 yards on a course with some elevation, so this can present a long iron test for a lot of second shots. Conditions were good despite the heat, in fact sprinklers were on mid day on this date. The clubhouse improvements are very noticeable and welcome. Nice range and new putting green. AYCE
Lansdowne Resort Leesburg, VA - 7/16/2007
The older, Robert Trent Jones course seemed to be in average condition for the 288 person outing on this weekday. It is usually 90 degrees for carts while the newer Norman course is cart path only. Aside from that advantage, the RTJ seems old and tired alongside its new mate. The new clubhouse is a great improvement and the staff remains one of the best in the business. Since you can only play the courses as a member, guest (hotel or with a member,) or in an outing, hope that you can get on the new course. Unless you have played the RTJ track it pales in comparison to the Norman experience. While I never thought I would feel this way about the older resort course, the massive development of housing around it has changed my perception of this once very enjoyable course. Ayce
Swan Point Golf Course Issue, MD - 7/15/2007
Plan on taking a ride to Southern Maryland one of these days and play the beautiful Swan Point Golf Club along the banks of the Potomac River. I hadn’t played this course in probably 15 years and was anxious to get back as I remembered it to be very challenging with many water hazards. My memory was correct! At least half of the holes will challenge you with water coming into play and often times you’ll have to lay up to avoid getting wet from the Tee box. On other holes (from the Blue tees) you’ll have to make sure to get your drive airborne to clear the tall grasses growing in the environmental hazards nearby. After getting punished by the front nine, the back nine seemed a bit easier and gave up a few birdies to me and even an eagle for Bogeyman (who launched a 350 yard drive). Number 11 is a hit-the-green-or pay-the-price par 3 over another environmental area. The only “saving grace” is a sand trap which nearly surrounds the green and may actually help save your ball if you do miss the green. If you happen to mess up this hole (which Bogeyman and I both did) you immediately get a make up par three on #12! I enjoyed playing off the zoysia grass and although the greens were a little bumpy on some putts, they held shots extremely well. Traps and tee boxes were in excellent shape and overall, this was a very fun, challenging and playable course. Swan Point’s motto of “member for a day” rings true as all staff members were very courteous and helpful! Like I said, plan a trip to Southern Maryland and get out to Swan Point, you’ll love the course as well as the beautiful scenery! Lefty (85)
Bristow Manor Golf Club Bristow, VA - 7/9/2007
On a near 100 degree day in July the course hosted a scramble in honor of local police and rescue workers. By teeing off at 8 am golfers had no need for rescue from heat exhaustion, but another hour or two and things might have been tough. The course was in its usual good condition despite the heat and drought. Their zoysia grass seems to be holding up well. Post tourney activities included lunch in the pavilion (How do they get that tent so chilled?). As one of the few links style courses in the area, Bristow Manor offers a very nice change from the Ault designs which seem to abound in Northern Virginia. The staff did a good job and the pace of play was fast. Our outing was done in 4 hours and 15 minutes. This course is a nice bargain so make the drive just past the City of Manassas. AYCE
Stoneleigh Golf Club Round Hill, VA - 7/7/2007
In the two years since my last round at Stoneleigh, I have had the opportunity to play a lot of fine courses. That fact makes this unusual course even less appealing due to its unfairness. Most of us can deal better with a ‘hard’ course than we can with an unfair one. When you play Stoneleigh, be prepared to deal with both. Count on losing several shots to the unfair features of this cluttered layout. To its credit the course was in better shape than ever in the heat of early July. Lots of new staff are trying to put on a good face for the growing membership and the occasional commuter golfer. If you want “different” go to Stoneleigh. AYCE
Worthington Manor Golf Club Urbana, MD - 7/4/2007
Always like playing golf on the 4th of July. Part of that is the smell of course neighbors’ grills so that when the round is over, the grub at home tastes even better. Such aromas are scarce at WM because few homes border this fine course. Can’t have everything so I guess I’ll take a first class course and get my sniffs at home. Every time I play WM I am reminded of that line “it’s the economy, stupid.” In this case the line should be “it’s the greens.” These greens really make the course the wonderful challenge that it is. They must triple cut and roll theses things to get them to run about 14 on a stimpmeter. Were it not for the greens, scores would be quite low on this grip n rip beauty. Our holiday round was interrupted 5 times by showers, but still managed to be a blast for the 40 in our group. AYCE
Lee's Hill Golfer's Club Fredericksburg, VA - 6/24/2007
On a beautiful Sunday afternoon two dozen Waggle aficionados took the short drive to challenge each other and the course. Both challenges turned out to be fun for everyone, with two contestants winning the ‘each other’ part of our day and the course winning the other. Always in fine shape, Lee’s Hill manages to keep the flow of play moving by actually marshalling the course. Additionally the starter is close enough to the first tee to provide enough time between foursome. Hooray for good starters and player assistants! This course has some good weekend rates and offers adequate food and beverage. Lots of outings are played here as you might guess. It’s well worth the drive. Ayce
Jefferson Golf Course Falls Church, VA - 6/17/2007
I couldn’t have imagined a better Father’s Day (the first since my dad’s death in November) than to return to one of the first courses I played nearly a half century ago. This time my youngest son was along for his first visit to this poster child municipal course. As we teed up on the first of the diminutive par fours, memories flooded back. The snakes that resided left of the first green, the ubiquitous power lines, and of course the practice putting green that resembles a turtle’s back (Try keeping an approach on that baby when you have the touch of a young boy). This par 35 has changed some in the last 5 decades but all for the better. Conditions are adequate. The price is reasonable. Beginners abound on this feel good walkable nine holes. Newly added environmental areas seem to protect the house off the second fairway and add a buffer to errant tee shot crossfire more than to preserve some natural wonder some 200 yards from the beltway. This is an ego booster of a course that is almost an ageless wonder. At least it is for me since I saw a familiar smile of pride on my son’s face as he parred the final hole, albeit a par four 236 yarder. P.S. Thanks Dad for showing me this great game! AYCE
Baywood Greens Golf Course Long Neck, DE - 6/16/2007
I had heard so much about this beautiful golf course that I was very anxious to play it. Baywood Greens, located north of Ocean City Maryland in Long Neck, Delaware did not disappoint. From the minute you pull into the facility you’ll notice the beauty of this golf course. The large fountain, beautiful clubhouse and landscaping galore give you a preview of what you’re in for when you play the course. Oh yea, the course itself is a gem! Needless to say, pristine conditions existed throughout and I believe that the old cliché “you got to see it to believe it” would fit here. I’m sure there are other courses which may be just as nice, but for a public course, Baywood Greens gets my vote! The group I was with made the decision to play the “up” (green) tees which measured just under 6100 yards but I was pleasantly surprised that it still offered a challenge on most of the holes. For instance #6 is an over the swamp par three that measures 223 from the tips and 202 from the green tees. A forced carry and not much room to bail out will force you to hit that dreaded long iron to try to make a par. The back nine has water that comes into play on just about every hole. On #14, the player’s assistant told us to save the trouble and simply drop a ball in the water and hit 3 from the island fairway. He was 75% right in our group too! This tricky hole requires a few minutes to figure out prior to hitting your tee shot. Make sure to check the board and figure out how far to hit your tee shot. Depending on which tees you play, the “island” approach will require a tee shot of anywhere from 180 to 250 yards which will leave you a short approach to the green over yet more water. Don’t want to hit it that way? Then play the dogleg which will let you boom a big drive and leave you a mid iron to the green. We all played the “island approach” but as mentioned, my 3 playing partners were all hitting “3” on their approach shot! Final word of warning, take a look at the hole layout on #16 before you try to get to this par 5 in 2 as the water comes out across nearly ½ the fairway and is hidden from view. (Hint: miss right if you’re gonna miss!) You’ll be “closed” by the beauty of #18 as you’ll drive to the island tee boxes and see all the flower boxes to and fro. Enough already – this course is nice and challenging! As mentioned, the conditions were superb. Make sure to notice the grain of the green when putting as it will influence the break of your putt and may add a shot to your score if you don’t play it. Yet another challenge! Stop by for a beer and snack at the upscale bar/grill room or take a gander at the view of the course from the outer deck. It’s all good here at Baywood Greens. Make sure to tell Tony (the head golf professional) that Waggle.com sent you! Lefty (83)
GlenRiddle Golf Club Berlin, MD - 6/15/2007
For the second stop on the Ocean City Research Trip ’07, we paid a visit to Glen Riddle’s Man O War track that I’ve enjoyed a few times prior. I gotta tell you this is a peach of a course and I could play it again and again! As I believe is the norm for this course, conditions were superb with closely cropped fairways and beautiful greens. The rough is rough enough but in most places will allow you to find and hit your errant shot. (Trust me; I was there a few times!) I also would call this a “players course” as most of the time if you miss a green, you can still save par fairly easily (if you have any kind of short game) as the areas around the green allow you to “Texas Wedge” it if you choose. A couple of holes that I recall, #13 which is a scenic over-the-water 170+ yard par 3. Our group thought we did fairly well with a birdie and couple of pars but while hitting our tee shots on the long Par 5 14th, a big yell gave us a clue that one of the guys in our group had just Aced it…a cell call a few minutes later confirmed that fact! On the front nine, numbers 8 and 9, you’ll notice the old horse training track – which is now a hard sand hazard that you can certainly play out of – as well as an old starting gate for the thoroughbreds. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Glen Riddle is a “must play” Ocean City Course. We liked it so much that we played 36 on this day and both the short tees and regular ones gave us enough challenges! When in OC, you should definitely give this track a call! Lefty (80,83)
Renditions Golf Course Davidsonville, MD - 6/14/2007
The yearly mid June research trip to Ocean City usually features a play at a semi local course which just happens to be “on the way”. Renditions “Golf’s Grand Slam Experience” was the selection on this overcast but otherwise beautiful day. You can’t beat 70 degrees with a slight breeze to play golf! I’m very happy to say that Renditions is in fine shape. In fact, it may be in the best shape I’ve seen it in. The fact that the US Open was being played in good old Pittsburgh at Oakmont made playing #15 – which is a replica of #3 at Oakmont, the famous par 4 church pew bunker hole - even more special. As usual, this hole played tough and I again managed a bogey which wasn’t that bad considering my drive was LEFT of the church pew bunkers in the rough – but believe me the rough on this day was nothing like the rough we just witnessed at the real Oakmont – you could actually strike the ball without much grass interference. Nonetheless, the hole (and entire course) plays challenging and will require you to make good shots to score well. I also enjoyed #13 which is a replica of the island green at TPC Sawgrass. They say it’s the toughest par 5 in history and if you miss the green on this short (132 yards from the tips) par 3, a double bogey 5 is indeed a good score! A longer that I wanted right shot for me disappeared over the slope on the right side of the green leaving me with that “oh oh” feeling. But then arriving at the green and seeing the ball a couple of feet on the green, followed by a nice two putt gave me that satisfying feeling you get after making a tough par! I’m sure you’ll remember many other holes from famous golf tournaments as Rock Zang and his staff have done an excellent job with this course. Get a US Golf Pass from the Waggle.com Pro Shop and enjoy this course for a great price! And, make sure to tell them that Waggle sent you! Lefty (84)
Shenandoah Valley Golf Club Front Royal, VA - 6/9/2007
One reason to play this course has always been the nice drive to a cooler summer climate than the beltway confines. That still being the case, the drive got better since you now go past Blue Ridge Shadows en route to Shenandoah Valley. What a beautiful new course is Blue Ridge Shadows! But, on this day a group of buddies contracted for a small outing at an old favorite—SVGC. It gets better with age, and the price is still right. Something very folksy about Shenandoah Valley and the golf isn’t bad either. Sure the rise in fuel costs makes it a dollar more to get there, but it is still worth it. Bring some extra cash for the produce stands and make it up there. Ayce
Blue Ridge Shadows Golf Club Front Royal, VA - 6/8/2007
Having drooled watching the development of this new course at I-66 and 522 near Front Royal, I was not totally surprised to see it top the recent Pros N’ Hackers list of “Must Play-Best Value” courses. So within hours of reading the article, I was headed west on 66 for a visit. And I arrived at just the right time. The new General Manager, Mike Ahrnsbrak, was kind enough to put me out on the course with the owner Rick Magalis who was getting ready to tee off. What a treat to play a great new course with the developer along to tell you the past and future of the project!
Simply stated this is a course you need to play this year. It is new enough that once you discover this gem, you’ll want to share it with your golfing buddies. Unlike most new courses, it was not opened too soon. The developer explained that this was the sixth year since starting the project. This Tom Clark layout has very unique holes featuring elevation changes to compliment the flatter areas. As you enter the property you see the new Holiday Inn which is set to open next March, which will make the site a terrific golfing destination. Over two hundred homes will eventually be built on the lovely property which defines the Shenandoah Valley. There is something memorable about each hole, but my favorite is the par 4 thirteenth with the 70 foot waterfall behind the green, or maybe it is the split fairway eighteenth, or the tenth with its dramatic downhill tee shot, or….. Go choose your own! Ayce
Westfields Golf Club Clifton, VA - 6/5/2007
Westfields continues to be one of the nicest, best run courses you can play. In the Reston Chamber outing (lots of high end events here) everyone enjoyed the very well maintained course and the excellent post tourney meal under the pavilion. The signature hole is a par three over water that typically hosts the closest to the pin contests. With a back pin position, the beauty is all you want in a scenic and challenging par three. There are a couple of driveable par fours but unless you are in a scramble, be smart, don’t fall for the temptation as trouble can bite you on theses holes. Play these holes with a long iron off the tee and a wedge to the green for safe pars and birdies. Ayce
Maryland National Golf Club Middletown, MD - 5/20/2007
A Waggle.com mini-tournament at Maryland National Golf Club in Middletown Maryland just west of Frederick brought 20 very happy golfers out on a beautiful spring day. I had not been to Maryland National for a couple of years and am extremely pleased to report that this course has only gotten better with age. The conditions were pristine and the course – as usual – played challenging yet fair. The staff was extremely helpful and gave a pre-round “pep talk” which included info about the on-cart GPS. I found it to be quite useful and very user friendly. In fact, it tells you how far the cart in the group in front of you is so you know when it’s safe to hit. It also provides current sports scores – everybody needs that while playing a round of golf! I actually enjoyed the dreaded #18 today (as did Bogeyman – although there was an issue as to which ball he actually hit on his approach) with a closing par but unfortunately for me, too many other holes resulted in treacherous double bogeys and my score wasn’t as good as it should have been. Alas, it was a great time and the course is a blast to play. Throw in the super conditions, the cool GPS, excellent pro shop and even better bar/restaurant and you’ll have a great day at Maryland National. Be on the lookout for more Waggle mini-tournaments – you can sign up at the Waggle.com pro shop accessed from the home page. They are a really fun time – and even though they are called “tournament” they are really just a way to play discounted golf at a great course for less than “rack rate”. You’ll also receive prizes before and after the event – no matter how good or bad you shoot! Prizes to boot – what’s not to like! Take a look and sign up as they sell out fast! See you soon and hit’em straight. Lefty (91)
Whiskey Creek Golf Club Ijamsville, MD - 5/19/2007
On a beautiful spring day that was supposed to be overcast we ventured out to Whiskey Creek to check out the course. I’m very pleased to report that this course (as is the norm) is in superb shape and definitely worth the price of admission. I really enjoy the challenge which it seems every hole seems to put out there in one way or another. When you do get a chance to play, stop on #5 tee box and take a minute to enjoy the beautiful view - then picture your long iron or rescue wood sailing straight down the hill to the middle of the fairway to the150 yard marker (depending on which tees you play, you’ll need between a 170 to 230 yard shot) and make the tricky downhill approach to the green. As usual, this course played tough but fair. A hole to remember is number 15 which requires a mid to long iron (again depending on tees) to a green which runs parallel to the water. Depending on the pin position it can be an extremely challenging tee shot. Throw in a breeze and a par is a great score! The par 5’s on the back will challenge you as well. Especially #16 which played a long 516 into the breeze today. I sometimes struggle with distances on uphill approach shots and today was no different as a too-long approach shot left me with a tricky downhill putt which I promptly 3-putted. Alas, I’ll get them next time! I recommend Whiskey Creek as a pristine and challenging course which good golfers will enjoy (and non-good golfers might like it too!). Lefty (84)
Hollow Creek Golf Club Middletown, MD - 5/18/2007
I finally went out as a regular player to this fine track to really get a feel for it. You know how it is when you play a scramble – you play the course but really don’t get the true “feel” of it like you were playing it yourself. I gotta tell you that playing this course as a “regular” made me appreciate it more as simply always taking the best shot of a foursome and not having to think and play your own shot, in my opinion, detracts from the true experience of the course. Playing it alone really made me notice the courses trickiness and requisite shot making features. I also noticed that I was perhaps a little too harsh on my prior review as for the most part, this course is in pristine shape with only a few “ground under repair” areas roped off on the back nine. The fairways, greens and tee boxes were all immaculate. I also took another look at the houses which really are only in play on a few holes (at least today they weren’t!) so don’t let that scare you away. I noticed today that the greens were very fast but really nice to putt on. Make sure to try to play from the low side of the green when you play here to avoid those dreaded downhill putts. I really enjoyed the par 5’s on the back – both can be reached in 2 but both will require two pretty long pokes to get there and then there’s the aforementioned fast greens that need to be negotiated. My shot of the day was a stiffed 3 iron on the 200-plus yard number 6 to a back flag only to narrowly miss a 15 foot birdie putt. Let me tell you a birdie on this hole is like an eagle on others! When you play it you’ll see what I mean! On number 18, if going for it in two, take my advice and keep right! My playing partners who had also not played Hollow Creek in several years also changed their mind and have put this course on their “good to play list”. I think you will too as it is another fine upscale course in the Frederick area. Tell ‘em Lefty from Waggle.com sent you! Lefty (86)
Stonewall Golf Club Gainesville, VA - 5/11/2007
Just as good as it gets. That’s the way to describe a Friday outing in perfect May weather at Stonewall. This course is arguably one of the best public access courses in the Washington area. Be careful of the traffic mess on Route 66 due to construction lest you miss your tee time. Other than traffic it’s hard to find any negatives about this course. Enjoy spending a quarter per gallon less on gas while you cruise through Gainesville on the way. Bonefish Grill makes a nice stopping point, too. Ayce
Prince William Golf Club Nokesville, VA - 5/10/2007
Sometimes when you are not expecting much, you get a pleasant surprise. This is true even in golf, and particularly in a recent case at Prince William golf course. For the first time in eons there is lush grass to be found in fairways and rough. The greens are good and the pace was not bad. This improvement probably equates to staff attention as several green shirt clad folks were smiling their best around the clubhouse. Someone appeared to actually be in charge of the staff, glad handing the golfers as they hit the bag drop. This place provided a good golf experience at a fair price. Hopefully the changes are here to stay! This is a great course for beginners. Ayce
Hollow Creek Golf Club Middletown, MD - 5/7/2007
Coming back as defending champs of the Middletown Volunteer Fireman’s yearly event at Hollow Creek with a “reworked” team, we were expecting BIG things. We got them as a combination of enough mulligans and putts that dropped bettered our score from the previous year by one shot. Not that it matters to you readers, but for some reason, our lower score this year only resulted in a middle-of-the-pack finish! Perhaps we needed more mulligans? In any event, Hollow Creek in Middletown Maryland, just off of Alternate 40 slightly west of Frederick is a fairly new course which winds it’s way through the Glenbrook Neighborhood of recently built homes (some are still under construction). As with some of these type of “new home neighborhood courses” a few of the homes are in play – perhaps a reason to NOT live directly next to the golf course – and we managed to “check out” a few. You know the sound, you pull (or push) a drive way off line – hitting it on the screws but 60 yards off line and all of a sudden you hear that “whack” of a ball striking the side of a house, or worse yet “crash” from a window! As you all know, the correct thing to do is immediately point to your playing partner and start laughing hysterically. No, that didn’t happen to us, but it could on a few holes at Hollow Creek. Enough about that, this course IS nice. Unfortunately for this scramble event, we played from the white tees which for the most part were moved up so many of the par 4’s were extremely short – bordering on being drivable (maybe that’s the reason for the super low scores?). From the real white tees, the course is listed at 6394 and offers enough challenges to be interesting. The conditions at this time were mostly very good - although there were some spots where some recent seeding was evident and some additional TLC is needed to bring it to “pristine” status – but all in all, did not detract from this fine course. I really appreciated the challenging approach shots on the finishing holes for each nine. Get out to Hollow Creek and you will too! Lefty's Team (63)
Bowling Green South Country Club Front Royal, VA - 5/5/2007
Last summer I had the pleasure of playing the North course of the semi-private duo, and came away happy with the course. This time the opposite occurred. The South course appears to be the ugly child of the two 18s in that maintenance is not up to the standard of the North course. Bunkers were without sand and marked as ground under repair in early May after a pre-season that was perfect for accomplishing all such repair of courses. I couldn’t name another course with such a mess at this point in the season! The other problem with this course lies in the lies. Not the scorecard ones, but the ones that really matter - the surface. Many center cut drives are rewarded with a stance for the approach that would rival some of the trick shots on “Big Break.” The better North course may lie in a flood plane which could account for its lush fairways. This track is a chlorophyll roller coaster good only for practicing your mountain golf skills before heading to the Homestead. The price is cheap enough for what’s offered and the crowds are small. Ayce
Holly Hills Country Club Ijamsville, MD - 4/15/2007
I was lucky enough to be invited to play at Holly Hills Country Club just east of Frederick on this beautiful afternoon. Take a look to your left as your approaching Frederick ib I-70 from Baltimore and you’ll see the course and yes, it’s as nice as it looks. I thought country club courses were supposed to be easy but not Holly Hills. Don’t get me wrong, there are plenty of “bail outs” but several holes where you are challenged to hit the shot correctly or pay the price of a watery grave. A couple that come to mind are the mid-long par 3 #7 – after the dastardly #6 “toughest hole in the world” (see prior reviews) – followed by #8 which features a downhill shot (which club to hit?) to a peninsula green which leaves very little room for error. These three holes (6,7,8) are – in my opinion – 3 of the more difficult holes around – but yet, they can be mastered and truly test your skill. Isn’t that why we play this game? Anyway, this course was in “Country Club” condition and I definitely enjoyed it! If you ever get invited to play at this private club, jump at the offer! Lefty (85)
South Riding Golfer's Club South Riding, VA - 4/3/2007
On a perfect spring day this course looked pretty nice. It is ahead of other courses in terms of “greening-up” and surprisingly the masses were not out yet. The false fronts to some of the greens take some getting used to. As well, Dan Maples designed bunkers which appear to be farther than they actually are. Often times it appears as though traps are greenside when in fact they are closer to the 100 yd. marker. This gives the par 5s a unique look. Number 12 is a good risk/reward par 5. It is followed two holes later by the signature hole, a strong par 3. The fourth hole with the notorious split fairway, has taken on a new look with the loss of the massive tree in the middle of the hole. In spite of the over development, this place still offers some fairly good golf. Ayce
Blue Mash Golf Course Laytonsville, MD - 3/23/2007
Seems like every time we get out to Blue Mash we’re dodging some rain to try and get in a full 18 and today was no different. Mother Nature cooperated today however, by merely raining while we were having a sandwich at the turn. For an early season round, Blue Mash played its usual tricks on me in what I consider the most challenging opening 5 holes that I’ve had the pleasure to play. As mentioned prior, the first 3 par 4’s are substantial in length and all can lead to a tricky putt depending on flag position – and your accurate mid-long iron approach to the green! That is, of course assuming you’ve hit a big tee ball too…add it up and you’ve got to be striking the ball well to get through these three holes around par or so. Some may argue #4 is a bit of a break but the mid range par 3 has a tricky green that you probably need to hit to make a par. Throw in my final “challenge” hole - a tricky par 5 and you’ve made it through the opening five challenge. Oh yea, there’s more, on the back you’ll be faced with 2 (in my estimation) difficult par 3’s over water – both requiring a long iron or possibly fairway wood over water with very little bail out room. Of course if you happen to be good with those clubs, than have at it and throw down a few birdies! Ah yes, the course conditions – we need to comment that this course is in pre-season form and will only get better – not that it was that bad right now but good weather and the superintendent’s care will definitely improve things to what we’re used to at upscale courses like this one. For right now, enjoy the layout and challenges that Blue Mash offers and get your game in gear! Lefty (87)
Mattaponi Springs Golf Club Ruther Glen, VA - 3/11/2007
Not even a Central Virginia winter, albeit a mild one, could hide the beauty of this outstanding new area course. On March 11, 2007 the Waggle photographer and I ventured some 10 miles off of I-95 to sample the delights of Mattaponi Springs. In it’s first year of operation in 2005, the course was recognized by Golf Digest as one of America’s best new courses for a “pure golf experience”. While the zoisa fairways were brown, and the trees were devoid of leaves, it was easy to imagine how fantastic springtime golf would be at this course. The course gets a lot of year round play, particularly from golfers from the Baltimore/Washington area, who come down for the day.
The staff makes you feel welcome from the start as soon as you enter the beautiful clubhouse over looking the 18th hole. The finishing hole has one of those classic “everybody’s watching me” verandas adjacent to the green. Each hole is set apart from the other and well framed by trees and contours, not houses and apartments. Several of the par 4s are particularly memorable, such as #4 which is 470 yards up hill, and #10 at an uphill distance of only 339 yards. Two other par 4s stand out. One is the 9th, with its dramatically blind tee shot, and another is #11 with it’s split fairway. Imagine if I drove away remembering the par 4s, what challenge the par 3s and 5s presented! Ayce
Waverly Woods Golf Club Marriottsville, MD - 1/4/2007
Can you believe the great weather? 60 degrees on January 4?! We managed to sneak out to Waverly Woods for a day of golf so I figured I’d review if for those of you obsessed with this wonderful game! I don’t know about you, but winter golf isn’t quite the same as “regular” golf. For instance, winter golf had no ball washers on most courses – Waverly didn’t. Of course they would freeze and probably break which is why they can’t be out on the course. Also, the course itself – and this is normal – isn’t in as good of shape as summer/fall golf. But then again, we’re out enjoying this great day on a beautiful track. Today, I tried out my new Calloway Big Bertha Irons. (Note: Don’t go out and expect to play your best round if you’re hitting new clubs. Also, I hadn’t been out for nearly 6 weeks, so I wasn’t swinging the club too well.) We played the back tees and at 6600 yards with not a lot of roll, some of the par 4’s were extremely difficult. Add a couple of 200 yard par threes and you’ve got quite a winter challenge. The course was in pretty good shape for winter ball, with the tees, fairways and greens being better than average. I was pleasantly surprised to see the sand traps raked and in good shape as well. (Did I mention that I tried to hit my new irons?) With winter rates about $50, and a pretty decent course, take advantage of this great weather while you can! Lefty (92)
Pohick Bay Golf Course Lorton, VA - 11/9/2006
For years the course seemed to be a well kept secret, but not anymore. It is in excellent condition. It is not overly long, but is a tight course that requires the player not to spray his shots. The people that work there are very friendly which makes playing there a joy. This time of year, the view that you get when you stand on the practice putting green and look down over the driving range is one of nature's best. J. Wiggins
Marlton Golf Club Upper Marlboro, MD - 10/10/2006
Last year was my first trip to Marlton and to be honest I wasn’t expecting much – but I was pleasantly surprised and found an enjoyable course with a fun layout, run by a “make you feel at home” staff. Today Ayce and I went there for an outing and I still feel the same way. On a perfect fall day we were paired up with two others that had run an outing at Marlton previously. They volunteered that the course is quite a bargain for the golf experience it offers (and we agree). The tree lined holes never seen to duplicate themselves. Some are tight, some are open, there are some nice over the water par 3s, and several risk/reward decisions to be made on the par 4s. Is the course perfect? No. There is damage in some fairways and the bunkers could use some work but overall the course is in decent shape and the greens rolled great (remember this is a value play). And, their very good staff ensures that golfers get what they need without getting in the way of play. [Side review: the outing was catered by Grizzly’s Catering – they pulled up a big grill and cooked ribs, chicken and sausage right on the spot. It was all very tasty and the baked beans were incredible. Call them at 301-599-0505 if you need BBQ catering.] As the leaves turn colors, add Marlton to your play list before you tuck away the clubs for the season. Bogeyman
Blue Mash Golf Course Laytonsville, MD - 10/1/2006
I’ve always liked this very playable course, though it’s a bit pricey now for what you get. Unfortunately a large part of what comes with the $85 weekend admission is the all too popular attitude “lucky to play here, don’t touch anything, and get out of here as quickly as possible. I had heard of, and even experienced, a bit of this ‘tude’ at Blue Mash before, but nothing like this occasion. At the first tee while our 3 foursomes were deciding who should go first so as to speed play (we had been warned twice before even teeing up), the starter barked gruffly “on the tee in one minute or you lose this tee time.” A dozen of us had paid to play and that was our welcome! This atmosphere continued throughout our round, possibly in part to the sensitizing we had received on tee #1, but it just shouldn’t have happened. Too bad some courses - and more often it is the high end wannabes - don’t give lessons to their staff in common courtesy. Ayce
The Woodlands Golf Course Woodlawn, MD - 9/30/2006
The ‘rents came to town for a late Lefty birthday weekend and what a better way to spend it than to golf. We chose The Woodlands for its close proximity to the homestead and since I haven’t played there for a while, things worked out just right. The weather did not cooperate however as my anticipated 65 degree no rain day turned into an intermittent drizzle overcast day – one which we nearly quit after nine. The skies cleared somewhat as we were playing up nine so we managed to play the back nine rain-free. On this day, Woodlands had several tee boxes (most of them on the front nine) being replaced and they used the forward tees for the most part. The markers were placed to make the yardage as accurate as possible and in this Lefthander’s opinion, the length was fairly accurate. Of course, the rain made the course play longer but I was pleasantly surprised to see the course in good overall shape. There were some sandtraps which were sans-sand but I noticed the sand piles in the parking lot on the way out and expect them to be “normal” sand traps soon. I only hit into one and gave myself a free drop – after all, you’re not supposed to hit into them! Anyway, the remainder of the course was in pretty good shape (albeit wet and soggy) and the greens were VERY deceptive and what I call sneaky fast. You’ll be tracking along playing and scoring pretty well until you get to #9 which is the #1 handicap hole a long uphill par 4. I managed to hit the green in regulation with a long 3-iron to the green only to 3 putt and not get that closing par on the front – rats! Then #10-11 and 12 are – in my opinion – three of the tougher holes on this golf course. Ten – for some reason – always gets me. It’s a docile looking 150+ par 3 which I never seem to par. #11 is a long par 4 with water on the left and a difficult long iron approach over a ravine to an ever-so-tricky green. Finally #12 is another fairly long par 4 with water on the right side and another deceptive approach shot to another undulating tricky green. I finished these 4 holes at 6 over and actually managed to hit several good shots in the process! Alas, that’s why we’re NOT playing w/ Tiger and the boys on the weekends. The remainder of the round went pretty well and I would have to say that Woodlands IS a challenge as well as a fun place to play in the Baltimore/Ellicott City area. Play it and let me know how you do on Lefty’s Amen Corner (#9-12). Lefty (84)
Forest Greens Golf Club Triangle, VA - 9/29/2006
Having played Forest Greens many years ago on a regular basis, I felt like I knew what was in store for me at a recent First Tee Scramble. What a pleasant surprise to see that the fairways had grass and the rough was identifiable and playable. This course which is part of the Prince William County Park system has been under the direction of Peter Kim for some time. His work has paid off as the course has matured into a fun, affordable change of pace right off I95 at exit 150. The track roams through undeveloped woodlands with the change in elevation being the most memorable feature. The fairways have a saddle effect to help tee shots avoid the harsh woods which frame the holes. Tons of variety to be found in the design here thanks to the beautiful terrain, and I suspect course designers who were not golf purists to say the least. Never envisioned suggesting anyone try this glorified muni, but here I go… “Play it!” Ayce
Bowling Green North Country Club Front Royal, VA - 9/23/2006
One of two older courses (South lies adjacent) this is simply a rare find for golf in the Mid Atlantic. Because it is less than an hour from the DC beltway, charges $25 on weekends after noon with a coupon from the Post, and offers a nifty rolling layout which is in great shape, Bowling Green North’s hard to top for a weekend golf value. On this beautiful fall day the pace of play at noon was a mere 3 and one half hours. About the only flaw we noticed were the cart paths which were bone jarring in many places throughout the course. Conditions otherwise were terrific, particularly for a budget course. Pay close attention to the small creek-like ditch connecting the ponds. It quietly rambles through a number of holes only to jump up and grab an otherwise good shot. Ayce
P.B. Dye Golf Club Ijamsville, MD - 9/23/2006
Having heard many comments about this course, I was anxious to see for myself whether the pro or con remarks were justified. I came away feeling both were valid. Sure this course has a giant name designer who worked overtime to make it a challenge - but perhaps too much a challenge. The holes are unique for the most part – but perhaps too difficult for many golfers. Excellent scenery abounds with nice terrain changes worked into the layout. But again, the golfer better be able to have good shot control or boxcar scores are going to dot their scorecard. The biggest disappointment in the course was the conditions of the fairways. Greens and tees were excellent, but not enough to offset the poor fairways. I might give the course another try in the spring, but won’t rush out til my game can handle it. Ayce
Cannon Ridge Golf Club Fredericksburg, VA - 9/22/2006
This favorite of many Waggle staffers just keeps on getting better. Head Pro Bob Baldassari has earned multiple koudos in his profession and they are certainly apparent in Cannon Ridge. Still without a clubhouse, the course has the design and conditioning of a top notch high end course. At the same time it appears to be well connected to the community with its involvement with First Tee, EWGA, and North Stafford HS. At a recent booster club tourney for NSHS, the new tent provided a fine interim structure for the post round party. This entire Celebrate Virginia complex impresses us with every visit. Ayce
Oakmont Greens Golf Course Hampstead, MD - 9/19/2006
An early Fall outing at Oakmont Greens in Hampstead provided me another chance to review this track. I hadn’t played there in a couple of years and was wondering what the condition of this “muni” would be like. I remembered it being fairly rough and the greens being pretty slow but was pleasantly surprised to find it in pretty decent shape. The fairways seemed “lusher” than last time I played and the greens were actually faster than prior plays as well. I wouldn’t call them “resort lightening quick” but they were faster than they have been in the past. The overall condition of the course was much better than I remembered it and actually played quite well. The scramble format which this track is becoming famous for provided us a fun day. If you want a less expensive place to bang it around with pretty decent conditions and some challenging holes (number 9 comes to mind), head out to Oakmont Greens! Lefty
Penderbrook Golf Club Fairfax, VA - 9/17/2006
Because this local club gets so much play, Waggle staffers bit the bullet and gave it another try following some recent “I won’t go back there” pledges. Recent rains have caused the course to green up as well as it can. Just about everything else (save the location and price) continues to leave a lot to be desired. Be sure to call ahead before going out as this place has lots of groups going out at all variety of times. Ayce
Las Vegas Paiute Golf Resort Las Vegas, NV - 9/13/2006
Continuing our quest to review the Vegas Courses for you while at the PGA West Golf, we had to ensure that Wolf was still in surperb shape. After all, when you like a track and it’s a challenge every time you play it, why not make sure it’s still good enough for you Waggle-ites? I’m very pleased to report that Wolf is still our favorite track in Vegas. The beautiful views on the course are spectacular enough but the course is one better! All I can tell you is play there and you’ll see what I mean. Pauite has two other courses (Sun and Snow) which are equally as nice, but we like the additional challenge that Wolf provides. The staff are super friendly and helpful – heck, Henry every brought us bottled water on his own dime! We also ran into some Steeler fans our there – did I mention they are World Champions? Anyway, Paiute greens are sneaky fast – rolling much faster than they appear and often downhill when you think you’re putting uphill! Nonetheless, once you get the hang of them, you’ll do fine! Paiute is on our “must play” list when traveling to Vegas! Tell’em Lefty from Waggle sent you! Lefty (82)
Bali Hai Golf Club Las Vegas, NV - 9/12/2006
The PGA West Golf show in Vegas provided us another opportunity to review some nice tracks for you. This was a bonus trip for the boys from Waggle as we normally only trek to Vegas once a year. The nearly 100 degree (I lost a bet as I bet the “over” but it sure seemed like 100) didn’t really bother us that much… you know it’s not the heat but the humidity!? Anyway, we were invited to play Bali Hai which is a fairly exclusive track on the Vegas strip adjacent to Mandalay Bay. We learned that their “overseeding” season is usually late August and September so if planning a trip to Vegas during that time frame check with the course first to ensure they are open for play. Anyway, Bali Hai was just opening from the aforementioned overseeding and was not totally recovered but – I can tell you this, it’s a great track! We played from the middle tees and many holes were in the 400 range requiring a big drive and mid to long iron. The course was fairly forgiving though and several holes could be “had”. The greens were great – not too fast but not too slow. They rolled true and held approach shots if you struck them well. A couple of great par 3’s will challenge your shot making ability as well. Hit the green or be wet! The number on this course is pretty high but it is an immaculate course to play. If you’re going to loose 300 at a table in an hour why not plunk it down here and spend 5 enjoyable hours! The large clubhouse and pro shop only add to this superb track. Bali Hai is a great track! Lefty (78)
Patuxent Greens Country Club Laurel, MD - 8/25/2006
Regarding Patuxent Greens... It's only a couple miles from my house, so I figured I would give it a try on a Friday afternoon. Started out promising. The young guy in the pro shop was very nice and paired me up with another single that was just about to go out. We get out to the first tee, and apart from the tree line, I can not tell where the fairway, rough and tee box begin or end. The fairway is missing 60% of the grass and where there is grass, its not really grass, just weeds. Sodded areas in the fairway that appears to not have been watered for a month. Other parts of the fairway looks like the monster truck series just came through town. The tee box gives you an option...crab grass about 4 inches long or, if you prefer, sand. The greens were just aerated, so I will give them a pass. But they putted fairly true considering. The sand was a little packed and lacking. I was not expecting much for 20 bucks, but this course was not even playable. It looks like someone mowed down a field and placed a flag in some random location. I have played some dog tracks, but this course will not be played by anyone I know. Not even the hackers. I would rather drop 14 bucks at the unlimited range down the street. Steve G.
Little Bennett Golf Club Clarksburg, MD - 8/23/2006
It had been a couple of years since my last visit to Little Bennett and I was looking forward to playing there because I remembered that I enjoyed the layout and I was meeting some friends there that I like golfing with (I can always count on getting some of Ron’s money :) I’ll get to the bad news quick – the course is in terrible shape – tee boxes are beat up, fairways are marginal and several greens and horrible (#5 even has a temporary green cut in the fairway). Apparently a mold got the course from the heat and rain combo. Now the good news – the layout is still fun, the entire staff is friendly and helpful, and a round of golf with friends is still good even when the course isn’t. At check in, the pro shop staff told us about the problems (it would have been better if they told us when we were making our tee times) and they are even running discount rates until the course gets back in shape (we paid $34 with cart). Buyer beware at Little Bennett until conditions improve. Bogeyman (87)
GlenRiddle Golf Club Berlin, MD - 8/21/2006
Man O War at Glenriddle is another great course in Ocean City! I could stop there and just leave it at that but it wouldn’t be fair to you, the Waggle junkies who crave this information, OR to the course, which would be simply labeled as, “just another great course as rated by Lefty”. Last time I played this track I was under the weather but not today. I absolutely loved this track! It was fun, challenging, scenic, and in immaculate shape! What else is there to a golf course other than shooting lights out? Well 4 out of 5 ain’t bad but what a superb track. As mentioned in prior reviews and by the name, this golf course is themed after the legendary horse Man O War. In fact, the designer was creative enough to use the original historic race track (that I assume used to exist on this property) as a cross hazard for 3 of the holes on the course. There are also double fairways, pot bunkers and large greens to catch your fancy. These large greens were in superb shape and rolled excellent. You need a good putting touch but can stop downhill putts relatively close to the hole. Oh heck, why not just go ahead and make it! A couple of the par 5’s are reachable in 2 and the majority of par 3’s are challenging and will make you hit a good iron to be on the green. I particularly liked the fact that you could miss some shots and still be able to recover and make a par (or better). There was no information on the slope or course rating yet but I would expect the slope to be in the 120’s as I rate it as a fairly forgiving course. This course is new but, trust me, it will not be new for long as it will get a lot of play. It’s just too nice to pass up. The price of admission is about normal for OC tracks, so definitely give this one a look. Tell’em Lefty from Waggle.com sent you! Make sure to get some after round dinner at Ruth’s Chris Steak house too! What a nice facility! Lefty (80)
Links at Lighthouse Sound Bishopville, MD - 8/20/2006
I really looked forward to playing Lighthouse sound last year only to be disappointed by the recently aerated course, so this year I proceeded East with excitement but nervousness that I might experience those darn little holes all over the course again. Lightning did NOT strike twice as I was treated to a great track! Add in a virtually no-wind day and this day was extra enjoyable (although hot hot hot). You’ve probably heard everybody talking about how great this course is and it is all of that. Fairways, greens, tee boxes, and bunkers were in superb shape. The greens were fast enough but not too fast that you couldn’t stop a downhill put with a deft touch. This track is definitely for golfers (not us hackers) to have some fun and be challenged. The hole I remember is #2, which is a fairly tight par 5 with out of bounds (and houses) on the left side and a hazard and long bunker down the right side of the fairway. Perhaps I remember this because both times I’ve played #2, it’s “gotten” me to the tune of double bogey because of an errant drive pulled right into the hazard or sand trap (remember pulling it hitting it to the right for a lefthander). You all know those holes that “get into your head”. Well I’ve got to get that one out of mine! Other great holes on this track will force you to hit big drives over water and/or hazards to navigate your way around. The long, long, long bridge you’ll cross provides a nice break on the back nine and you can check out the scenery as well. The number on this one is pretty high but this IS definitely one of the nicest courses in OC! The clubhouse is large and top notch as well. The beverages were cold and the large air conditioned bar made for a great after-round relaxation session. The starters and marshals were all very friendly and helpful and actually seemed to enjoy making your round more fun. If you get a chance and want a real treat of golf, give the Links at Lighthouse Sound a play! Lefty (83)
Hampshire Greens Golf Course Ashton, MD - 8/13/2006
A half hour north of the Washington Beltway and just off of New Hampshire Avenue lies one of the better fairly new courses in the area. The course meanders through a high-end neighborhood making it extremely difficult to walk. The ride from green to tee on some of the holes appears to be a quarter mile or more. This helps to distinguish the holes from one another and gives an upscale feel to this fairly well maintained course. There were some fairway areas under repair the day we visited. The greens were in very good shape and the service at the course was excellent. Several of the par fives are extremely challenging holes. They are reachable in two by only the longest of the daring hitters. Several par fours such as number ten offer an exceptional risk/reward opportunity to go for a great score. Ayce
Bristow Manor Golf Club Bristow, VA - 8/12/2006
On a rare perfect weather weekend day in August, Bristow Manor was predictably packed with happy golfers. We were surprised to find that the pace of play is not snail-like, nor were the fairways and greens dried out from the blight induced by the heat, which effected most courses in July and August. Bristow is one of our favorite links courses. It is a great location for beginners in that the back nine is particularly friendly to spray hitters. The zoysia grass guarantees a good lie for those who hit the wide fairways. The greens always seem to be in better than average condition. I wish the two nines were reversed (as they were when the course opened) so that the easier of the two nines would be the warm up for the tough stretch of holes in the current numbers seven through nine. Ayce
Fairfax National Golf Club Centreville, VA - 8/10/2006
The August heat took a bit of a toll on the fairways of two of the nines at Fairfax National. The Bull Run nine, which most people consider best of the three, seemed to be in the best shape. The course was in overall fairly good shape considering the heat and the amount of play that these 27 holes get. For the price and the location this is a real bargain for Northern Virginia golfers. Sure there are a lot of similarities in the holes, and perhaps too many cedar trees, but if you want a place to work on your game, this is it. Ayce
Herndon Centennial Golf Course Herndon, VA - 8/7/2006
Even in the middle of summer, Herndon always seems to have plenty of greenery in the fairways and the rough. It is not the most challenging of courses, nor the most picturesque, but the semi lush conditions help to compensate. On a hot day there are plenty of trees to seek out for shade while you are waiting for the group ahead of you to give it a whack. The par fives at Herndon are not terribly difficult birdie holes. The par threes are on the short side, but still offer a bit of a challenge. Were it not for the length of several of the par fours, most of these would be considered easy pickens. Bottom line on Herndon is that you go for the condition of the course and not necessarily a memorable layout. Ayce
New Castle Country Club New Castle, PA, - 8/7/2006
New Castle Country Club is not one which you would play every day because unless you’re a member there, you can’t play! However, in my never ending quest to report what’s happening out there and let you know about how perhaps the “other” half live (those Country Club boys!) I figured I’d report on a truly fun course! We were hooked up with a round by the Superintendent of this venue who just happened to be the real brother of my 3rd “brother” but that’s another story I can tell you later. We arrived bright and early on a beautiful late-summer morning and found no body at the course. It seems the course is closed on Mondays (as many Country Clubs are) for caddie play and general maintenance. We were further excited by the designer - A. W Tillinghast (whom I learned about on this day). You might have heard of Bethpage, Baltusral, and Winged Foot? He’s the designer of all of them as well as a lot of others! This course was designed in 1923 and was his typical course as he kept the rolling hilly Western Pennsylvania terrain intact as much as possible added some undulating and tricky greens and throw in several tricky holes to navigate and you’ve got a great golf course. Of course the fact this track was truly in ‘Country Club’ condition only added to our experience. It was a true test of golf! The #1 handicap (and I’ll assume the signature hole) is a 589 (from the tips) par 5 which requires a big drive and long iron lay up. Your approach shot drops about 50 feet over a steep ledge into a “canyon” which holds the green. Miss left and you’re in a high weed hazard on another steep slope, miss right and you’re either in another hazard or sandtrap. You can miss long, but you might be waiting for others to tee off. Three good shots are required to reach the green and you won’t know the result of your 3rd shot until it stops (hopefully) on the green due to the big difference in elevation. That hole alone, was worth the trip (did I mention that I birdied it? :-) Oh, and did I mention there are 17 other holes as well – nearly all of them fun and challenging? Well trust the ole’ Lefthander, this was a truly great and fun track. If you’re ever in New Castle PA, and looking for something to do, stop by New Castle Country Club and ask for Joe (the superintendent). Tell him Lefty from Waggle.com sent you! Lefty (84)
Hayfields Country Club Hunt Valley, MD - 8/1/2006
100+ degrees! Lucky me - I'm playing golf today :( But actually I did feel lucky because I was playing one of my favorite courses. It was media day for the Constellation Energy Classic at Hayfields Country Club. Besides being a great place to watch a tournament (be sure to get tickets to see Arnold Palmer Sept 11-17) this course is a treat to play. Hayfields opened in 1998 and was designed by Ault, Clark, & Associates, Ltd. This scenic links style course offers up some tremendous holes that challenge you with length, bunkers and/or water. The wind seems to always be blowing enough to challenge your club selection and the elevation changes help keep you guessing. If you can, find a member, enter a charity tournament or play in the Constellation Energy Pro-AM, I'm sure you'll enjoy it. Bogeyman (90)
Brambleton Regional Park Golf Course Ashburn, VA - 7/25/2006
Oh No! When the temps fail to go below 70 degrees at night, courses can fall victim to the pithium blight (think that’s what the super said.) Last year another area course lost most of its fairways and this year Brambleton fell victim. The course is still very playable but it was sad to see what the heat had done in just 2 weeks since my last visit. The grounds crew has the troubled areas well marked and they appear to be managing the issue. So far this is the first major casualty that Waggle staffers have uncovered. Play the course but be warned of its flaws. Ayce
Bridges Golf Club, The Abbottstown, PA - 7/16/2006
This older course sits right astride a ‘main’ route east of Gettysburg, but a few more miles out of town than the directions you may be given by the locals! The old clubhouse is a monster of a brick building with more than adequate facilities. The most memorable feature of the course is the sharply breaking greens. Some pin placements are impossible due to unfair slopes. Course layout is nothing special. Obviously no P.B. Dye hand in this design. Countryside around the course is nice but the eighteen itself is hardly a golf destination worth much hype. Our outing was delayed half an hour so the starter could squeeze in a few more paying foursomes, very inconsiderate management. Ayce
Links at Gettysburg Gettysburg, PA - 7/15/2006
This course is unquestionably the best of the lot in this part of PA. The front nine warms you up for a back nine with water everywhere. If the water fails to get your ball, good chance the rough sloping into the woods will. Nice layout here with some quarry type views, even a waterfall! The finishing hole is a beast of a par five where legend has it that one golfing fool bet (and lost) his shoes. The practice facility is worth showing up early for your tee time, as is the clubhouse food. Lots of outings are booked here so call ahead before making the scenic drive from Baltimore or Washington. Ayce
Waverly Woods Golf Club Marriottsville, MD - 7/14/2006
It was a beautiful summer day, not too hot and we decided it was time to get back to Waverly Woods for a “review”! This review was very enjoyable as this track is in absolutely fantastic shape! You’ll need your best putting touch and some strategic approach shots to the low side of the hole if you’re gonna master these greens but they do putt true. The hole I seem to remember is #4 which is a long dogleg right par 4 to an uphill green. The flag is usually tucked behind one of two mounds on the left side and the 10’ flagstick is there so you can see the flag on your approach. Play at least one extra club, two if you’re hitting against the wind on your approach as it plays longer than the distance. I never seem to hit this green in regulation although I did one-putt par it once. Today I managed to break my driver - no not over my knee after a poor drive - (although I’m sure we’ve all been tempted) but rather after hitting a good drive on #9, the shaft broke off inside the head which wasn’t noticed until I pulled it out on number 10! Egad! The remainder of the round was played with a 2-ironwood as the driver (which is a legitimate excuse) but nonetheless, we managed to finish unharmed! We crossed the street to Mangia’s for a cold one and some wings, which is also recommended by this writer. Waverly is running many specials and if you get a chance, stop out and play golf at a discount rate – I’m fairly certain you will enjoy this track! Lefty (88)
Timbers at Troy Elkridge, MD - 7/7/2006
An impromptu ‘bonus’ round with some neighbors took me back to Timbers for my second round in less than a month. Again, heavy rains from a couple of days ago forced us into cart-path only but this provided a chance to take a closer look at those divots needing replaced I mentioned previously. For the life of me, I don’t understand why golfers can’t take the few minutes it takes to put back a divot. Perhaps they think their caddies will do it for them? Anyway, it appears to me that Timbers at Troy is getting its act together and for an upscale muni at a decent price I would rate the conditions as very good to excellent. Now that is not to say that they are as good as a $100 course, but for a twilight rate of about $40, what’s not to like? I played well this day, hitting some career drives (actually several!) and only my two nemesis holes – why does it always seem to happen like that? – got me again. I’m referring to #9 (double bogey) and my new one, #16 which for the second round in a row after a perfect drive, a gap wedge was chunked into the gunge and resulted in a double! Again, how does that happen? I guess it’s mental! In any event, a 4-birdie round could have been a lot better if it hadn’t been for a couple of bad swings but I do have to say that minus the sandtraps (which are still flooded, muddy and hardpan sand with erosion around the edges) the course was in very playable condition. The greens are just fast enough to challenge you but you are able to stop downhill putts near the hole – if you have that good touch! I’ll be back and I will get those to rotten holes that always get me – trouble is that some other hole will probably get me first! Alas, that’s why we’re not pros! Lefty (82)
Renditions Golf Course Davidsonville, MD - 7/6/2006
I figured I’d better go and re-check the condition of Renditions since my last review indicated that I thought it was definitely improving and I’m pleased to say that in spite of the heavy rains and soggy conditions, this course IS getting better and better. Although I wouldn’t put it in the “pristine” category just yet, it is improving seemingly by the month. We managed to slog around this “fun” playing all of those holes that give the pros on TV fits…or do they only give us “normal” golfers fits? One hole from Renditions that seems to give the Lefthander fits is #15 which is a replica of Oakmont #3 with the “church pew” bunkers. This is a mid length par four (408 from the blue tees – but it seems to play longer being slightly uphill) requires an accurate drive to avoid the church as well as the regular bunkers on the right side of the fairway. From there, you’ll have a mid iron to a turtleback green which never seems to hold my shot. Makes me wonder how the pros do it. In any event, this ‘nemesis’ hole of mine was defeated by me (if you call getting a bogey defeating it!) as I sunk a 15 footer to save a 5 after a good drive, poor approach, bad chip and long putt 15 feet past the hole on the other side of the turtle! Alas, moral victories can be had! I’ve always enjoyed playing Renditions and experiencing the fear that I’m sure the pros feel. There are some scoring holes here and if you pick your spots you can shoot a decent score. Renditions continues to get better and is definitely very playable right now! Lefty (84)
Blue Mash Golf Course Laytonsville, MD - 7/3/2006
A hot muggy day was the Monday prior to the 4th for another Waggle research day. Blue Mash is a very challenging track as mentioned in prior reviews with the opening 3 holes being long par 4s but let’s not forget those difficult par 3’s especially on the back nine. Your first par three on the back is number 11 which measures up over 200 from the tips and will require a long iron from just about any tee. Add the wind in your face and all carry over the water, no real bail out unless you like the sand and you’ve got a tough par three. Number 17 is another mid-long par three at about 175 yards from “normal” tees. (The ones you and I usually play for a 6300 yard course) Depending on the pin position it can be more or less difficult. Take it from the Lefthander, hit the center of the green on these two par threes, take you par and run! On this day, Blue Mash was in excellent shape in spite of the recent heavy rain damage. Of course, the sand traps were a quagmire but what could you expect with the feet of rain they’ve had. Fairways, Greens, and tee boxes were in superb shape. They’ve got a great practice facility and it always seems to attract a lot of “practicers”. Perhaps that’s something I should work on? In any event, for a real test of golf and I’m not only talking about the previously mentioned holes, give Blue Mash a play! Lefty (87)
Timbers at Troy Elkridge, MD - 6/29/2006
In the ever increasing effort to report to you, the local golf community, I scampered out to play Timbers at Troy in nearby Elkridge MD. I had not played this course since the roadway bisecting the course was finished and was pleasantly surprised to see some subtle changes to the course. Number 3 which used to be a short (as in hit an iron off the tee short) par 4 now has a forced carry over a storm water management pond which requires a longer drive to access the green. It’s not overly long (about 360) but you’ll probably want to hit the big stick rather than that long iron. Coming off of number 9, you used to drive across the road and parking lot to access ten, Timbers has created a new access going under the road and keeping the play flowing. Timbers, to me, is a place you can shoot a low score. On this day, my nemesis hole got me (number 9) as a good drive was ruined by a skulled second shot into the trees and eventually a double bogey happened. (How did that happen?) I was sailing along on the back as well until another perfect drive was foiled by a chunked gap wedge into the gunge on #16! A triple bogey later and who said Timbers was a scoring track? Alas, I do enjoy this course and did hit a lot of quality shots. Although it was soggy from all the recent heavy rain, the fairways, greens and tee boxes were in decent enough shape. It always seems that nobody replaced divots at this track as there seem to be a lot of divot holes. If you play there, put’em back! It only takes a minute and besides, you can feel like a pro taking a divot like that! I’m sure once we stop getting so much rain, the bunkers will be fixed but on this day, they were like “ground under repair” with all the mud and hardpan. You’re not supposed to hit the bunkers anyway! When in Elkridge, give Timbers a play and tell them that Lefty from Waggle.com sent you! Lefty (81)
Penderbrook Golf Club Fairfax, VA - 6/23/2006
A last minute decision to sneak in a quick round coupled with a $30 golf & lunch coupon drew me to Penderbrook for a bonus Friday AM round. Now I've always enjoyed this course, even though it lacks a range and has a couple of less than inspiring holes. The course is usually in good shape, the people friendly and the food decent. Today I walked away disappointed - the front desk seemed to care less that I was there, the course seemed run down (nothing particulary horrible but enough problems on the tee boxes, in the fairways and the traps, and on the greens that made me notice) and my guest even commented that there was trash all over the course. And, to top it off, when we stopped in for our complimentary lunch we were directed to 2 serving trays - one held some nasty looking chicken bits in an oily liquid, the other a pan of dried out veggies. We asked for something edible instead, or even a hot dog but were told that was it and quote "the chicken isn't actually too bad today" unquote. Needless to say we passed on the FREE lunch and will probably pass on Penderbrook for a while. Bogeyman (86)
GlenRiddle Golf Club Berlin, MD - 6/17/2006
The second stop on the Ocean City Golf Excursion took us to the brand new Man O War track just outside of Ocean City in nearby Berlin MD. I had heard a lot about this track and looked forward to playing it. Unfortunately for me, the activities from the night before took most of my competitive edge and I only recovered by the back nine to realize what a great track this really is. In case you haven’t figured it out from the name, the course is themed after horse racing and while playing you’ll see old starting gates, horse plows and other memorabilia to put you in the stables! The course itself is a real challenge with many mounds and undulations throughout. The greens although new, held shots pretty well and putted true. The course is also very scenic and you will enjoy seeing great views on the course as each hole has its own picturesque setting. I recovered (somewhat) on the back nine to shoot a respectable score considering the conditions (of me, not the course) and would recommend Glen Riddle to anyone going to OC as a “must play” track, in fact I’d say it’s as good as the best course OC has to offer. Treat yourself to some Ruth Chris steakhouse food after the round to really make it a day to remember….hmmm, I wonder why those steaks taste so good and there are no more horses running around the golf course? Enjoy! Lefty (90)
Ocean City Golf Club Berlin, MD - 6/16/2006
A trip to the Ocean in mid June…what’s not to like? We ventured out to the OC Golf and Yacht Club for an annual outing that I managed to get invited to this year and was treated to a nice course at the OC Golf and Yacht Club – Newport Bay side. It had been several years since I played here and I didn’t remember it being as nice and challenging as it was on this day. Many of the holes require forced carries and/or an accurate tee shot in either length or direction and sometimes both! Water hazards abound and missed shots will cost you on this track. The course was in spectacular condition (all fairways, greens, tee boxes and sand traps) and the only thing I can complain about this day (other than my score) was the constant hawking of the Marshal to get us to play faster. It seems that there was an afternoon outing that was more important than us getting in our round and the constant “speed up” from her got old real quick. The fact that we were playing at a good pace and keeping up with the group in front of us only made it worse. In any event, make sure you can enjoy this course at your own pace prior to signing up and as long as you can, I think you will really enjoy Newport Bay! Lefty (88)
Blue Mash Golf Course Laytonsville, MD - 6/16/2006
Blue Mash is a very well maintained links style course that has some tough holes (like #1) but on the whole is a scorer’s delight. Several short par 4s offer drivable chances for most hitters. Par fives greens can be at least ‘neared’ by many players. The two prominent negatives here are the small, ill-shaped clubhouse and the enormous power line towers running through an otherwise picturesque setting. This course has a similar look to Cannon Ridge in Fredericksburg, VA. Ayce
Raspberry Falls Golf Club Leesburg, VA - 6/12/2006
Today was a blast! We played in the Playboy Scramble so the "scenery" was extra nice. Finally, the conditions of this course match its beautiful layout. The bunkers have been reworked to include sand, and the ill-fated stacked sod bunkers are less prominent. There are lots of nice holes here to challenge any golfer. The 18th hole tee shot (and #3 for that matter) offer neat views of the valley. Since this is a qualifier for a larger event in Vegas the format had 2 teams (8 golfers) playing together on each hole. Our patience was tested with that many golfers and some questionable claims about whose balls were whose. Raspberry's service and practice facility are best around. If only the clubhouse were larger this place would be even better for the many outings which pass through. Ayce & Jimbo
Laurel Hill Golf Club Lorton, VA - 6/12/2006
Last Fall just prior to the opening of Laurel Hill I had the opportunity to ride the course with the GM Todd Johnson and get a sneak preview of Fairfax County's attempt at an upscale offering. By the end of the ride I knew that the FCPA had created a special course at the old Lorton prison complex. Unfortunately my schedule didn't permit a round there after it opened. In January I found out that I would be playing in the Golf Styles Solstice tournament (54 holes in one day) there in June so I decided to wait for my preview and play it 3 times in one day.
At first the weather didn't cooperate. When you leave the house at 4:30Am to tee off at 5:45 and it's raining hard - the smart man goes back to bed - but on we forged. Even though it rained for the first 27 holes we were impressed with the course. Laurel Hill throws every type of hole at you - some straightforward, others tough, some require shotmaking and others you can blast away and not be penalized too bad for errant shots. I was particulary impressed with the bunkering - before you tee off take a moment, look at the holes and think about what designer Bill Love was trying to accomplish.
As the day progressed the sun returned, the course dried and so did we. The final 27 holes were very enjoyable - except for a final soaking when the PM sprinklers came on. Each round we played a different set of tees. Laurel Hill offers multiple tee boxes that make the course challenging yet playable for all level of golfers. Playing a new course 3 times in 1 day is a unique experience and a great way to get to know it. You should get to know this one for yourself! Bogeyman
Lansdowne Resort Leesburg, VA - 6/5/2006
Now that these two resorts courses (RTJ and Norman) no longer offer public play, you must be in an outing, guest of a member, or guest of the hotel. The original course (RTJ) remains the solid resort course for all occasional golfers. The new 18 offers wonderful challenges to all golfers. The signature “toughest mile in golf” which comprises the last 4 holes is outstanding but there are some holes its equal sprinkled amongst the other 14 holes. It is worth it to stay at the property, which has undergone major enhancements, just to play these two courses. A favorite tournament of Waggle.com is the annual Ben E. King outing which will be on the new Norman course on Aug 21. We’ll look for you there. Ayce
Prince William Golf Club Nokesville, VA - 6/3/2006
Another older than dirt course I played as a kid, Prince William earns my tag for the course with the most potential upside in the area. Originally built as Greenwich CC, this place was in nowheresville, with LOTS of trees and wild animals. Now it has become the easy course known for its low prices and coupons/discounts. Many holes are too short, but could be fixed with $ and imagination. Part of the enjoyment of playing here is fantasizing about what changes one could make to ‘fix’ this into a real par 72 track. This is a very good course for beginners, or serious golfers who need an annual ego boost. Below par scores are to be had here if anywhere in our area. You get what you pay for at Prince William - and so do a lot of other duffers - so plan to take 6 hours on a when busy. Ayce
Pohick Bay Golf Course Lorton, VA - 6/1/2006
Pohick is one of those courses that I will play only if a good friend asks me to go as their guest! I want to be nice to them but don’t look forward to the golf. This ‘off the beaten-path’ muni has little to remember in terms of design. Elevation changes are often too severe and course conditions are usually rather scraggily. Tee shots are either playable or gone-as in the deep stuff since the traditional cuts of rough design is pretty non-existent here. Good place to hunt for balls… Ayce
Shenandoah Valley Golf Club Front Royal, VA - 6/1/2006
Not expecting 90 degrees on June 1, we remembered the cool climes of Shenandoah Valley and headed west. Sure enough the temps were more tolerable and the playing conditions excellent. The same nice staff seems to be there every year, resulting in some work pride not seen at all courses. Route 66 is still under construction so plan for possible traffic, or just go west on Rte. 50 for a more scenic ride. One of the other benefits of this course is the merchandise sales which are going on every visit I make. Sure, their logo does not have the cache of Doral, but the shirts don’t cost $95 either. Call ahead as many outings come to this valley mecca for tourneys. Ayce
Musket Ridge Golf Club Myersville, MD - 5/28/2006
Another beautiful day in late spring took me back to Musket Ridge Golf Club just west of Frederick. As I suspected, a month or so ago, this course has came back into shape with fairways, greens and tee boxes being in excellent shape. Unfortunately for me, I also personally witnessed the sand traps which were also in nice shape. On this day, for whatever reason the early ball striking success that I found has disappeared. How does that happen? I slugged my way around – probably as many of you do – with a miserable front but managed to save the round with an excellent back nine to end up with a slightly above average score but one (as a result of that good back nine) that makes you come back for more! The two par 5’s on the back nine are definitely reachable in 2 with a well struck tee shot and aggressive 2nd shot but as mentioned in prior reports, hitting the big drive isn’t the only thing you’ll need at Musket to score well. One thing that I may not have mentioned prior is the nice clubhouse and cold beverages you can enjoy after the round! Musket Ridge is in great shape and is a great track to play in the Frederick area! Lefty (89)
Old Hickory Golf Club Woodbridge, VA - 5/26/2006
A big outing on a beautiful Friday at Old Hickory can be a golfers paradise. Some guy ahead of us even got a hole-in-one for ten grand. The course flows elegantly amidst attractive houses with no two holes alike. This is clearly one of the best public access golf experiences around. Conditions are always top notch and the service is good. Wide fairways keep you moving along quickly with a chance to play a good round until the number 18 par 5 stares you in the face. One of the best finishing holes around, this hole can send you hole wishing you could replay it. But the overall feeling I have after Old Hickory is that I want to play it again and again. It is really a nice place to play! Ayce
Blue Mash Golf Course Laytonsville, MD - 5/25/2006
I hadn’t been to Blue Mash in quite some time and when offered to sneak out on a thunderstorm-threatening weekday I just had to accept. I was leery in the parking lot as my umbrella and drizzle stick were safely at home in my garage – makes you wonder why I took them out of my car? I was more concerned as the sky darkened and we got some light rain on #2-4 but the day turned out great as whatever nonsense rain found us quickly left and it turned into a beautiful sunny afternoon. Blue Mash was in absolutely superb shape on this day. Fairways, greens, traps and tee boxes were in pristine shape. The layout is challenging and you’ll be wondering how long is this course after holes 1, 2 and 3 which are all long (420+) par 4’s, but Blue Mash makes up for it with several short 300-ish ones later on in your round. I remember the closing hole on the front nine, a fairly long par five with water guarding the entire left side of the hole. You’ll also probably like #18 which is another par 5 which may be reachable in 2 if you hit’em long and straight. This course can be had as I’ve scored on it prior, but today just wasn’t my day and several bad swings cost me many shots. Alas, back to the drawing board! I can say that if you get a chance give Blue Mash a play – it’s in great shape and offers a real challenge. Lefty (86)
Carolina Club Grandy, NC - 5/21/2006
Waggle research trip 2006 North Carolina Outer Banks Final Round was played at The Carolina Club which is about 10 miles west of the bridge on our way back home. It seemed that we always played this track on a windy day so the calm spring day was a welcome relief. This Rees Jones course was in great shape and offers many challenging holes. A couple that I remembered are the island green #12 which is only about 150 yards and the difficult #17 over-the-water-into-the-wind-all-carry 200 yard par 3. The closing holes on each nine are challenging risk-reward (and fun) par 5’s too. This course always seems to be in excellent shape and today was no exception. The staff always seems extra friendly here as well… perhaps they are showing that great Carolina hospitality? After all it IS The Carolina Club and Lefty recommends this as a fun course to play. Lefty (83)
Duck Woods Country Club Southern Shores, NC - 5/20/2006
Waggle research trip 2006 North Carolina Outer Banks Round 4 took us to Duck Woods Country Club which is a Semi-private club just across the bridge into OBX. Prior rounds at this course lead me to NOT look forward to playing here as the course had the condition of a groundskeeper who either didn’t care of didn’t have enough money to take care of the course. I was slightly optimistic though as the large new clubhouse was a premonition of what was to come. We got a brand new cart, teed off on number 10, and I immediately noticed that this track is now nice! It was apparent that someone is now taking care of business on the course as the fairways are no longer sparse (and the green was not from paint!) and the greens were in excellent shape. The tee boxes and sand traps were also in much better condition than I’ve noticed before. Throw in the challenging fun layout and you’ve got a great place to play some golf while at OBX. Watch out for some hidden water on several holes and some tee shots must be hit with long irons or fairway woods – this only adds to the fun! Check out my prior reviews on this course - I can’t believe I’m saying it – play Duck Woods! Lefty (83)
The Currituck Club Corolla, NC - 5/19/2006
Waggle research trip 2006 North Carolina Outer Banks Round 3 was played at the Currituck Club. I’ve always thought this was THE place to play while in the Outer Banks and was excited to play it on a relatively calm (for OBX standards) day. I was disappointed as this high dollar course wasn’t in the pristine condition it had been every other time we played there. Many of the fairways were burnt out and/or lacking that good growth they normally have. The greens were in pretty good shape but when paying a buck to play, you gotta expect more. The layout and challenge of this track is another part of what makes it great. A 180 yard par three to an uphill green with a 170 carry over the water is just one of the “knee-knocker” shots you’ll have to execute. The course winds through a housing development but you’ll find that none of the houses comes into play. I look for this track to be back in primo condition soon! Lefty (88)
Kilmarlic Golf Club Powell's Point, NC - 5/18/2006
Waggle research trip 2006 North Carolina Outer Banks version took us to a familiar site called Kilmarlic Golf Club just off the main road into OBX. For years I’ve been looking forward to the new clubhouse (which is promised every year) and it looks like I’ll wait at least one more to see it as they continue to operate out of a double wide. Alas, we don’t go there for the clubhouse, do we? This course always seems to be wet! I guess the fact that they had over an inch of rain the prior night might have something to do with it but every time we’ve played here it has several holes that are “squishy”. But let’s forget that for a minute and talk about the course itself. This course has water on nearly every hole so if you’re looking for an easy (non ball eating) track at OBX don’t play Kilmarlic. Let’s forget about the water on nearly every hole and talk about the course itself. I’ve always enjoyed playing here and today was no exception. There is enough of a mix of challenging holes and scoring holes that if you pick your spots you can score well. Unfortunately for me, I found the water a couple of times and I didn’t but I’d recommend this track while in OBX. I remember two of the par three’s over water where several of our foursome got wet…and they were short irons! #11 is an island green and more difficult than it appears. Hit the green, take your par and run! Perhaps next year for the clubhouse? Lefty (87)
The Pointe Golf Club Powells Point, NC - 5/18/2006
Waggle research trip 2006 North Carolina Outer Banks Round 2 took us to another track on the main road into OBX called simply The Point. You’ll see it on your left when heading toward the bridge. The strong point of “The Point” is the fast fast greens! Unfortunately for us, they aerated them 8 days prior so we were putting on slow and bumpy greens – which really detracted from the enjoyment. This track is mostly flat and fairly wide open. It’s mostly a “grip it and rip it” track where you normally need to bring your smooth silky putting touch. I’ve played here before and the greens are normally smooth fast and difficult! Perhaps next year for us? Although there are a few tricky holes where you can drop some shots, if you are looking for a relatively easy track to play (minus the fast greens) The Point is a good place to play! Lefty (91)
Lake Ridge Park Golf Course Woodbridge, VA - 5/11/2006
A few miles off I-95 near Occoquan lies this mini-muni par three track. If you are looking for a place to walk around and to hone your short game, this is the ticket. Reasonably priced, Lake Ridge offers an alternative to Burke Lake for a fun and easy irons only place to golf. Beginners can get the feel of golf without the struggle to “keep up” as the holes are short and most other golfers not the single digit types. Lots of kids and families frequent this place so come in the afternoon and plan to relax with something that is far from serious golf. Rates are cheap and pull carts abound, so rent one to make this somewhat hilly walk more enjoyable. Ayce
Hilltop Golf Club Alexandria, VA - 5/9/2006
This accessible unique beauty is rapidly becoming my youngest son’s favorite course. It is good for a beginner, but different enough to offer a challenge to seasoned golfers. Multiple tee boxes make this 9 hole track play to what you are looking for. Continue to be amazed at the lack of mid week play at Hilltop given it’s proximity to the beltway and generous e-mail newsletter deals. Sign up and take advantage of their specials. Ayce
Goose Creek Golf Club Leesburg, VA - 5/8/2006
First visit to this favorite course on my most improved list was appropriately enough an outing. Goose handles them well at a value price so that biz is picking up. Conditions have again improved over last year’s great strides. Some management shifts from last year are showing good results in all areas. Food and service are outstanding. Love doing scrambles there as the smallish greens are brought to their knees by four wedge shots! Ayce
Holly Hills Country Club Ijamsville, MD - 5/5/2006
An invite to yet another Country Club took me to Holly Hills just east of Frederick. That’s the one you see as you’re schlepping up I-70 on your left at about mile marker 56. I was looking forward to playing this track as my game seemed to take on a higher level recently with good ball striking and decent enough putting and scoring. I was really psyched to take on #6, which is labeled as the ‘most difficult hole in the United States’. Play it and when you head to #7 (which is no picnic either!) you’ll see the plaque indicating you’ve just completed the most difficult hole in the United States. That dastardly #6 got me on this day as 2 drives OB cost me 4 shots…it’s a par 4 so we don’t need to talk about what the score was on that hole but suffice it to say, it was over par considerably! The difficulty on this hole is the drive. You’ve got a long par 4 (430ish) with a large tree right in the middle of the fairway about 180 yards from the tee box. You’ve got a choice to hit around it on the right and face a possible OB (note above language from yours truly) or take it to the left of the tree and face a swamp/tree hazard as well. If you can work the ball from either left to right or vice versa or are good enough to
