August 6th, 2008 — Tips and Tricks
Out of all of the blunders you can make on a golf course, a hook shot can be one of the most frustrating. Often, players find that they consistently hook their shots off the tees, and no matter what they try, they can’t get past it. Soon, they end up mentally defeating themselves before they even get up to the tee, certain that they are going to hook it. And, nine times out of ten, they will.
So, how do you correct a hook shot? There are actually quite a few techniques that you can use that will impact pulling the ball to the left, but first, you’ve got to get mentally prepared. Golf is 99% mental anyway, so we’ll focus on this step first. Once you’ve got your mental hook shot fixed, you can start working on the physical aspects.
Sit in a quiet place at home, where there are no distractions. Mentally go through everything you would as you go out to the first hole on your favorite course. Now, start thinking that you will have the perfect drive, right down the center. Envision teeing up, and addressing the ball. Bring your club back and watch as the ball goes right down the center line.
Repeat this in your head several times. If you have a problem with certain holes, play them in your head over and over until you are mentally hitting the shot the right way each time. This may take a few tries to get right, but visualization can have a huge impact on your game. In fact, many people that try this technique have found that the next time they go out on the course their hook is cured, without having to work on their stance or swing.
If you’re still having some hook issues however, it’s time to move onto the correct stance and how you swing your club. First, let’s look at how you hold the club. Are you gripping it as though you’d like to strangle it? This can be a major problem and will hurt your swing. The correct grip is actually pretty easy to master. When you hold the club, look at the v that is between your thumb and fingers. Do both v’s point a little towards your right shoulder? If not, this is the cause of your problems.
Work on developing the right grip until it feels like second nature to you. Then, move onto the next step. Stand with your feet facing forward, slightly apart. One should not be in front of the other and they should both be completely parallel. If you have one foot slightly back, it will pull your swing. Your entire body should be following that parallel line, from your head, to your shoulders, to your hips. Again, work on your stance until it becomes second nature.
Swing problems are a little harder to fix, but not impossible. You’ll want to make sure that you’re bringing your club back smoothly and back down with force, but not too much force. You should never break that parallel line. Keep trying and practicing and you’ll be able to put all of these together to end your hook problems for good.
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July 21st, 2008 — Ahwahnee, CA, golf courses, restaurant
Phone Number: (559) 642-1343
Website: http://www.sierrameadows.com
Course History:
Sierra Meadows has long been considered one of the most beautiful golf courses in California and with good reason. The fairways are lined with enormous oaks and the overall feel is very tranquil. The course recently underwent a multimillion dollar makeover and the fairways and greens were all rebuilt. This course has a reputation of being suitable for novice players while still being challenging enough for professionals.
What You Need to Know:
You can book your tee time online or by calling the number above. They frequently run specials on their site so we recommend checking there before you book your time to take advantage of them. However, this is a very economical course even without discounts.
The pro shop is stocked incredibly well and features gifts and merchandise for all golfers. The on-site restaurant is one of the best in the area and is open for lunch every day. It is frequently booked for private events and they are known for their delicious soups and sandwiches.
Although the course does not specifically state that there is a dress code, we recommend traditional golf attire. It is also best to change out any metal spikes for soft ones, since most of the courses in this area do have a soft spike rule. Lessons are available from the resident pro and are reasonably priced.
Playing Hints:
This is a terrific course that offers enough of a challenge without being terribly intimidating. The first hole gets you started off right with a severe dogleg. We recommend keeping to the right. Watch out for their signature oak tree in the middle of the fairway at the curve.
The fifth hole is known as their signature hole and it is a challenging par three. You’ll be playing across the water so try to hit a long tee shot to make the green in one. However, be careful of the bunkers that surround the green.
The tenth hole will take a while to master. It has a slight dogleg, but danger is present on all sides. Go too far to the right and you’ll end up out of bounds. Too far to the left and you’ll end up in the creek. We recommend playing this one conservatively until you get the hang of it.
The sixteenth hole also features a hazard that runs the entire left side of the fairway. You’ll need to drive a little bit right of center to avoid it. Keep in mind that there are some severe bunkers around the green. It’s the perfect spot to work on your chip shots.
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Green Fees:
All green fees include a cart fee, except “Walking Golfer” prices.
Weekday Green Fees Monday - Thursday
18 Holes 9 Holes
Regular $34.00 $20.00
Senior $29.00 $18.00
Junior $15.00 $15.00
Cart $15.00 $10.00
Twilight w/cart $30.00 $30.00
(Call for start times)
Weekend Green Fees Friday - Sunday
18 Holes 9 Holes
Regular $39.00 $22.00
Senior $34.00 $20.00
Junior $15.00 $7.50
Cart $15.00 $8.00
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July 9th, 2008 — CA, Fredrick Bliss, San Rafael, driving range, golf courses
Phone: (415) 492-1800
Website: http://www.mcinnisparkgolfcenter.com
Course History:
This great little executive course was designed by Fred Bliss. It’s a par 31 that stretches out nicely giving you just enough room without being too daunting. This is a great course if you just want a quick round of golf.
What You Need to Know:
You can book your tee time by calling the pro shop. We recommend a few days ahead of time since this is a popular course. You’ll want to wear standard golf attire, but the course isn’t terribly stuffy about that. What this course is really known for are its practice facilities which are simply incredible.
They offer a swing recorder and the 52 stall driving range is fantastic. There is a reason that this facility is ranked in the top 100. They are currently adding new turf to the range and the expected renovations should be completed shortly. In addition to the range there is also a short game practice center.
The pro shop is very well stocked and offers plenty of gift ideas for every golfer. They offer custom fitting for clubs as well as the ability to order any line of clubs that you may be looking for. Hands down, this is definitely one of the best nine hole courses in the entire area and the staff is incredibly friendly. We highly recommend this course.
Playing Hints:
The first hole is very straightforward, if a bit long. You’ll really want to give this a hard shot off the tee if you want to birdie it. There is a slight slope to the green on this hole so putt with care.
The second hole looks easy at first, but watch out for the rough right off the tee. One bad swing and you can really ruin your score. By the time you get to the green you’ll want to keep an eye on the bunkers to the right. The third hole is even tougher with more rough to contend with. Give this one a very hard shot off the tee to clear the rough spots.
The fourth hole offers a great water hazard in front of the green. We recommend a nine iron for your second shot to make it to the green. The fifth hole can be described as hop scotch. You’ll have to make it across to the island fairways, cross a creek and then get across even more rough to reach the green. It can be done in two shots with the right strategy.
The problem repeats itself on the eighth hole where nothing but rough separates you from the green. Aim to the right to get to the first island fairway and then really give it a good shot to get on the green from there.
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Course Fees:
9 Holes
Monday through Friday
Regular: $17
Senior: $13
Junior: $13
Replay: $11
Saturday, Sunday and Holidays
Adults: $20
Junior: $16
Replay: $13
Rental Clubs: $12
Pull Cart: $4
Electric Cart: $15 (only available to disabled players)
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July 7th, 2008 — CA, Elverta, Lessons Available, Robert Muir Graves, golf courses, restaurant
Cherry Island Golf Course is located in: Elverta, CA
Phone: 916-991-7293
Website: http://www.empiregolf.com/empire/cherryisland
Course History:
Robert Muir Graves, one of the most celebrated course archtitects today designed this course in 1990. It has become an area favorite with most golfers and offers just the right level of challenging play for golfers of all skill levels. The course is lush and scenic and is a great place to relax and get away from it all. It is tucked away, so we included directions on how to get to the course below.
What You Need to Know:
This is truly a full service golf course with a great grill, pro shop and lessons. The practice facility is terrific and offers numerous opportunities to improve on your game. This is a public course but we still recommend wearing appropriate golf attire.
You can register your tee time by calling the number above, but you may want to check out their website as they post frequent specials to save on their already reasonable green fees.
Playing Hints:
Water hazards are plentiful here and there are a few that are quite tricky. The first hole is clear of these but the sharp dog leg will definitely test your skills. The third, fourth, sixth and seventh holes all feature large lakes, so you’ll want to try to be as accurate as possible on your tee shots.
The thirteenth hole is bisected by a creek, so you’ll need to watch your tee shot here. Some players may prefer to hit it short and then iron over the creek to be on the safe side. The eighteenth hole is no gimme and meanders along with plenty of rough patches to keep you guessing. This one will take some time to master, but you should be able to birdie it with practice.This is a long course so we really recommend making use of a cart unless you are in tip top shape.
Fees:
| Standard Rates |
|
| Weekday back 9 |
$14.00 |
| Mon Thurs 18 hole |
$25.00 |
| Weekday Tourney |
$28.00 |
| Friday 18 hole |
$28.00 |
| Weekend back 9 |
$18.00 |
| Weekend 18 hole |
$33.00 |
| Weekend tourney |
$36.00 |
| Mon Thurs 9 hole |
$13.00 |
| Friday 9 hole |
$16.00 |
| Weekend 9 hole |
$16.00 |
|
|
| Senior Rates |
|
| Mon Thurs 18 hole |
$20.00 |
| Friday 18 hole |
$20.00 |
| Senior Tourney |
$20.00 |
|
|
| Junior Rates |
|
| Mon Thurs |
$10.00 |
| Friday |
$15.00 |
| Weekend |
$15.00 |
| Mon Thurs 9 hole |
$8.00 |
| Friday 9 hole |
$10.00 |
| Weekend 9 hole |
$10.00 |
|
|
| Twilight Rates |
|
| Mon Thurs |
$16.00 |
| Friday |
$19.00 |
| Weekend |
$19.00 |
|
|
| Super Twilight |
|
| Mon Thurs |
$12.00 |
| Friday |
$14.00 |
| Weekend |
$14.00 |
|
. |
| Shotgun |
|
| Mon Thurs |
$38.00 |
| Friday |
$38.00 |
How to Get There:
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Cherry Island Golf Course is conveniently located 20 minutes from downtown Sacramento, California with easy access off I- 80 and Highway 99
From Highway 99 - take the Elverta Road exit east for approximately seven miles to 2360 Elverta Road.
From Interstate 80 - take Watt Avenue North turn left on Elverta Road and proceed one mile to 2360 Elverta Road.
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June 12th, 2008 — CA, Casey O'Callaghan, Yountville, golf courses, restaurant
Vinter’s Golf Club is Located in Yountville, CA
Phone: (707) 944-1992
Website: http://www.vintersgolfclub.com
Course History:
This is one of the most popular courses in Napa Valley and with good reason. This is a pleasant nine hole course that is still challenging without sacrificing fun. It became an instant favorite among locals and continues winning accolades to this day.
The course was designed by Casey O’Callaghan and opened in 1998. Since then, it has been redesigned and the play is more exciting than ever. The new design made it appealing for players of all skill levels and the course is known for its incredible greens.
What You Need to Know:
You can book your tee time by calling ahead at the number listed above or by using their online system. Keep an eye on their website since they frequently post specials. Their overall low prices are already hard to beat, and the specials are even better.
The Lakeside Grill offers an incredible lunch with old fashioned favorites like grilled hamburgers. They also have a few more sophisticated items on the menu, but everyone should try the burgers at least once. The pro shop is well stocked and overall, you would think this is a much bigger course than it is.
Playing Hints:
There are a few water hazards on the course, but nothing that should cause too many problems for most players. Unless you have an inordinately bad hook or slice, these should not pose a problem. The bunkers however are a whole other issue. Even though the course is short, you’ll get plenty of chances to work on your short game by trying to avoid these traps.
The first hole has a sharp left to get to the green and can be tricky to play. We recommend going to the right on your drive so that you have a better line to the green. The fourth hole is a short par three that is still challenging thanks to the tricky green here. Eight can be a bit tough due to the rough, so you’ll want to try to get as close to the green as possible with your tee shot. In order to get to the ninth green, you’ll need to stay first towards the middle of the fairway and then go right.
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Course Fees:
9-Hole Green Fees Mon. - Thurs. Fri. - Sun. & Holidays
Non Residence $25.00 $35.00
Napa Valley Resident/Senior $20.00 $30.00
VGSC Members $18.00 $25.00
Early Bird before 7:00 a.m. $12.00 NA
Twilight after 4 p.m. $16.00 $20.00
18-Hole Green Fees Mon. - Thurs. Fri. - Sun. & Holidays
Non Resident $35.00 $45.00
Napa Valley Resident/Senior $30.00 $40.00
VGSC Members $26.00 $35.00
Twilight after 2:00 P $22.00 $25.00
Cart/Club Rental
9-Hole Golf Cart Single Rider - $10.00 Two Riders - $20.00
18-Hole Golf Cart Fee Single Rider - $13.00 Two Riders - $26.00
Pull Cart $5.00 9-Holes $8.00 18-Holes
Golf Club Rental $25.00
Range Balls Tokens Cost Cost per Token
51 1 $5.00 $5.00
204 4 $18.00 $4.50
510 10 $40.00 $4.00
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June 10th, 2008 — Bert Stamps, CA, Lessons Available, Sonora, golf courses
Phoenix Lake Golf Course is located in Sonora, CAPhone: 209-532-0111
Website: http://www.phoenixlakegolf.com
Course History:
This is a great little nine hole course that opened in 1968. It was designed by Bert Stamps and became an instant local favorite. The incredibly scenic course is perfect for a little getaway and the play is challenging enough for everyone to enjoy.
What You Need to Know:
This course has a great atmosphere. We really recommend attending the numerous tournaments that are held here since you cannot beat the pit barbeque or the fun. The fees are incredibly reasonable and we do recommend booking your tee time in advance since this is a popular course. Lessons are available and the membership packages make it easy to enjoy this course all year round. It is a little tucked away off the beaten path, so we’ve included directions to the course below.
Playing Hints:
This may be a little course, but don’t let it fool you. It’s actually quite tough in spots. Please note that if you are playing 18 holes that the white tees are for the front nine, and the black are for the back nine. The first hole is a gentle dogleg to the left, and you’ll want to keep to the right so you can get a clear shot to the green. This is a pretty long par five given the size of the course, but you can birdie it if you avoid going out of bounds.
The fifth hole is a bit challenging. You’ll want to avoid overhitting on your approach to the green. There is a water hazard behind it and it’s all too easy to end up taking a swim. The ninth hole is the most forgiving and just about any player can birdie this one to salvage their score. Just watch out for the sloping green, it’s a doozy.
Course Fees:
Green Fees - Monday Thru Thursday (Excluding Holidays)
9 Hole Fees 18 Hole Fees
Regular $15.00 $20.00
Seniors $11.00 $15.00
Juniors $11.00 $15.00
Green Fees - Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Holidays
9 Hole Fees 18 Hole Fees
All $17.00 $22.00
ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP FEES
(Unlimited Play)
Single: $900.00
Couple: $1,200.00
Family: $1,400.00
POWER CART
9 Holes ( $7.00 / Rider ) $14.00
18 Holes ( $11.00 / Rider ) $22.00
CLUBS & PULL CARTS
Club Rentals $8.00
Pull Carts $3.00
DRIVING RANGE BALLS
Small (40 Balls) $3.00
Large (70 Balls) $6.00
52 PLAY MEMBERSHIP FEE
$750.00
How to Get There:
View Larger Map
Take the Hess Rd. exit off Highway 108. If traveling EAST on Highway 108: Turn left at the bottom of the off-ramp. If traveling WEST on Highway 108: Turn right at the bottom of the off-ramp.
Turn right at the next stop light, follow Phoenix Lake Rd. 2 miles to Paseo De Los Portales (watch for the Phoenix Lake Golf Course signs). Turn left on Paseo De Los Portales, our clubhouse is approximately 1/2 mile on the left. Parking is available on the right directly across from the clubhouse.
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June 9th, 2008 — CA, Dress code, Robert Muir Graves, Sonora, golf courses
Phone: (209) 532-1000
Website: http://www.mountainspringsgolf.com
Course History:
The renowned course designer Robert Muir Graves put together this championship level public course. Tucked into gold country and near the Sierra Nevadas, this incredible scenic course is every relaxing to play. The course first opened in 1994 and become an instant hit. Due to its popularity, we do recommend reserving your tee time well in advance. You can get a sneak peak of the course thanks to their live webcam.
What You Need to Know:
There is a dress code here for men, who must wear collared shirts. We also recommend proper slacks. The course does not specify any restrictions for women, but proper golf attire is the safest bet. You can register your tee time up to two weeks in advance by calling the pro-shop. While you cannot bring your own ice chest on the course, you can get one from the restaurant.
Please be advised that all players must have their own set of clubs. If you don’t have yours, you can rent a set. We’ve included their rates for this option below. The pro shop is incredibly well stocked and lessons are available at very good rates. The restaurant is a great place to unwind and overall, this is a very nice course.
Playing Hints:
This is a championship level course, but it is not terribly daunting for a novice player. Pros will find it just challenging enough and it will take a few passes to get it down.
The first hole is a dogleg left and you’ll want to keep to the right if you want to get a good score on this one. Don’t go too far right though, the water hazard on this hole runs the entire length of the fairway. The third hole is incredibly challenging and will require a bit of skill to master. It’s another dogleg, and you’re going to want to keep to the right to avoid the bunkers at the curve.
There’s no letting up on this course. The fourth hole is surrounded by two water hazards and bisected by a creek. We recommend a short shot off the tee, followed by an iron to get over the creek. From there, you’ll have a straight shot. The eleventh hole is another severe dogleg. Go a little left to get to the center of the fairway so you’ll have a clear shot to the green. The fourteenth hole is a real killer with a small dogleg left, then a dogleg right, followed by a green surrounded by water hazards. Take a short shot to layup your second one, and then use a three or five wood to go a little to the right to avoid the lake. From there, you can iron into the green.
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Course Fees:
Monday - Thursday
18 Holes: $27
Twilight: $16
Senior: $17
Junior: $13
Friday - Sunday & Holidays
18 Holes: $40
Twilight; $22
Junior: $13
Carts:
Monday - Friday
18 Holes: $30
9 Holes: $20
Club Rentals:
18 Holes: $15
9 Holes: $8
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June 5th, 2008 — CA, Manteca, golf courses
Manteca Park Golf Course is located in Manteca, CA
Phone: 209.825.2312
Website: http://www.ci.manteca.ca.us/golf
Course History:
When the course first opened in 1966, it was a simple nine hole executive course. However, the second nine were added soon after and it became an incredibly popular course. The founding fathers of Manteca built this course with their citizens in mind and the attention to detail shows. It is definitely a high class facility, even though it is a public course. The championship level of play is challenging enough to keep pros interested without overcoming the novice player.
What You Need to Know:
Tee times can be reserved by calling the pro-shop. This is a public course, but we still recommend wearing appropriate golfing attire. In addition to the course, you’ll also find a full service park, making it a fun getaway for the whole family. Tennis courts are also available to the public on site. The pro-shop is stocked with all of the latest gear and the snack bar is well stocked. This is definitely a family friendly course.
Numerous tournaments are hosted here all year round and it is a very popular destination. We recommend reserving your tee time well in advance to make sure you get the slot you want. Please note that members of the military get a special rate on all green fees. Overall, given the low price, great atmosphere and challenging play, this is one of the nicest courses in the area.
Playing Hints:
The first hole is a bit daunting at first glance, but if you’ve got a strong drive you can easily do this one in just three shots. Watch out for the green though, it’s very fast. The fourth hole is a bit tricky. You’ll be pointing to the right, but you’re going to want to shoot to the left. If you have a tendency to slice, be aware of the nearby water hazard.
The dogleg on the twelfth hole is a bit challenging for some. Aim to the right for a clear shot to the tee. You don’t want to hit this one too long or you’ll end up in the field. If you do, the course asks that you take an extra shot and that you do not go into the field to get your ball since it is private property. You’ll meet another dogleg on the last hole. For this one, try to keep as close to the center of the fairway by aiming a little left. From there, you’ll have a clear shot to the green.
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Course Fees:
DAILY FEES
Current Fee
WEEKDAYS
9-Hole Weekday
$15.00
18-Hole Weekday/Resident
$18.00
18-Hole Weekday/Non-Res.
$21.00
Junior and Military Weekday
$10.00
Senior/Disabled Special-T/Th After 12:00 Noon
$10.00
Twilight-Weekday
$14.00
Promotional Fee (max with cart) After 11:00 AM
$21.00
WEEKENDS/HOLIDAYS
9-Hole Weekend
$16.00
18-Hole Weekend/ Resident
$21.00
18-Hole Weekend/Non-Res.
$28.00
Junior and Military Weekend
$12.00
Twilight-Weekend
$16.00
MONTHLY PASSES (weekdays only)
Resident Adult
$75.00
Non-Resident Adult
$95.00
Senior/Disabled Resident
$57.00
Senior/Disabled-Non-Resident
$80.00
Junior (Resident or Non-Resident)
$37.00
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May 22nd, 2008 — CA, Camino, golf courses, restaurant
Apple Mountain Golf Course is located in: Camino, CA
Phone: 530-647-7400
Website: http://www.applemountaingolfresort.com
Course History:
Although this is a resort golf course it is open to the public. This is definitely a majestic course that all players in the area should try at least once. It offers a challenging round of golf in a setting that is unmatched throughout the area. In fact, you may enjoy it so much you may even consider becoming a member of the club, where you can save extra money on greens fees and get more benefits.
What You Need to Know:
Since this is a semi private club it is best to wear a collared shirt and slacks while you’re playing here. We also recommend soft spikes. Since the course is quite challenging, you’ll also want to take advantage of their rental carts. You’ll be thankful you did about halfway through.
The practice facilities here are worth the trip alone and the pro shop is a sight to behold with all the latest gear and apparel. When you’re done with your round stop in the restaurant for a great meal and some relaxing conversation. This is truly a resort environment and a great place to get away from it all.
Playing Hints:
When the first hole is called the gold seeker, you know you’re in it for the long haul. There is a water hazard right to the left of the green so make sure your approach shot is as accurate as possible. The third hole is a tough dog leg. You’re going to want to keep to the middle of the fairway if possible. Go too far to the right and it will be impossible to get around the bend with any accuracy.
The seventh hole is lined with majestic trees that immediately lose their mystique once you get stuck behind them. Again, try to stick as close to the center of the fairway as you can. The twelfth hole features numerous slopes and can be difficult to master. You’ll want to play a little to the right to make the most out of this one.
The challenge on the fifteenth hole is avoiding the trees and rough. The fairway is very narrow and curved and it will take some time to get this one down pat. Last but not least, the eighteenth hole is a bit of monster that will take some effort to best. Watch out for the slopes that can really eat up your score. Your best bet is to really let this one fly off the tee.
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Fees:
Spring Rates - Tee Times Starting 8:00 AM
Carts are Mandatory, and All Rates Include Cart Fees
Mon-Thurs Friday Sat, Sun,& Holidays
Regular 18 Hole rates $44.00 $54.00 $64.00
Apple Mountain Gold Members $20.00 $20.00 $25.00*
Gold & Platinum Member Guests $37.00 $39.00 $54.00
Seniors (55 and older); Law Enforcement,
Firefighters, & Active Duty Military $37.00 N/A N/A
Twilight (after 1:00 PM) $37.00 $39.00 $42.00
Juniors (17 years and under) $20.00 $25.00 $25.00
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