August 7th, 2008 — Lessons Available, NV, Reno, golf courses, public course, restaurant
Washoe Golf Course is located in: Reno, NV
Phone: 775-828-6640
Website: http://www.washoegolf.org
Course History:
Washoe Golf Course is a public course that is extremely friendly and fun to play. No matter what your skill level is, you’ll feel right at home on this great course. It has much to offer, and the prices are truly remarkable. It has a rich history that dates back to the first World War, and it is one of the oldest courses in this area. It’s nickname is the “Shoe” and it has remained incredibly popular with residents and guests since the day it first opened. If you just want to play a simple round of golf in a great environment, this the perfect course.
What You Need to Know:
You can book your tee time by calling the number listed above. This course offers lessons as well as special Ladies and Mens groups that are very popular. The pro shop is surprisingly well stocked given the overall size of the course, and you’ll find pretty much everything you could ever need right there.
If you don’t have your own clubs, they do offer rentals at very good rates. Overall, this is one of the most economical courses in the area that still provides that great traditional golf experience. Odette’s restaurant, located on site is a legend and with good reason. You won’t find better food anywhere else in this area. We really can’t say enough nice things about this great course.
Playing Hints:
The front nine all play very straightforward. This isn’t the most challenging of courses, but it is a great place to really work on your game. Like most courses, accuracy really helps, but this one is a little more forgiving than others. The third hole is a deceptively easy Par Three, but it will take a few times of getting to know the course to par it.
One of our favorites holes on the course is the 18th, which is a very long par five. You’ll have plenty of chances to make up any slack on your score with this hole and you’ve got a great chance of making a birdie, even if you’re a novice.
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Fees:
Summer Rates
Adult
$20.00 - 9 Holes
$30.00 - 18 Holes
Senior (62 and Older)
$15.00 - 9 Holes
$25.00 - 18 Holes
Junior (under 18)
$10.00 - 9 Holes
$20.00 - 18 Holes
Winter Rates
Adult
$20.00 - 9 Holes
$25.00 - 18 Holes
Senior (62 and Older)
$15.00 - 9 Holes
$18.00 - 18 Holes
Junior (under 18)
$10.00 - 9 Holes
$15.00 - 18 Holes
Twilight Rates
Weekdays Noon, Weekends/Holidays 2 PM - Summer
Adult
$20.00 - 18 Holes
Twilight Senior (62 and older)
$15.00 - 18 Holes
Twilight Junior (under 18)
$10.00 - 18 Holes
Twilight Rates
Weekdays Noon, Weekends/Holidays 2 PM - Winter
Adult
$20.00 - 18 Holes
Twilight Senior (62 and older)
$15.00 - 18 Holes
Twilight Junior (under 18)
$10.00 - 18 Holes
Pull Cart
$3.00 - 9 Holes
$4.00 - 18 Holes
Golf Cart Rental (per player)
$8.00 - 9 Holes
$14.00 - 18 Holes
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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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August 4th, 2008 — Tips and Tricks
Having the right pair of golf shoes impacts much more than your comfort level. If you’re wearing the wrong shoes or if they do not fit properly, this can effect your swing and as such, your entire game. Most of us don’t pay attention to our feet in golf, but they are incredibly important. If your method of shoe shopping to this point has been to find the coolest designs, this may be keeping you from perfecting your game. Let’s look at some tips to help you find the perfect pair of golf shoes.
First, let’s look at materials and overall weight of the shoe. There are thousands of choices on the market, but you’ll need to find the right match for you. If you have problems with your hips, knees or sciatica, a heavy shoe is a big mistake. Look for lightweight shoes, ideally with soft spikes. This will cut down on the stress that your legs are feeling and help open up your swing.
The material should be breathable, especially if you live in a hot climate. Look for a mesh shoe if you have problems with hot feet, but in most cases, real leather will be your best option. No matter which type of material you select, you must have the shoes properly waterproofed. While some are already done for you, you will need to double check this. There is nothing worse than walking around a course with wet feet.
One important point that is often overlooked is the impact that golf course chemical practices can have on your feet. If you are allergic to dies, or pesticides and herbicides you will need to find a shoe that is completely sealed. Your feet can absorb these materials, especially if they get wet and you may get sick. While some courses use safe practices when it comes to treating their fairways and greens, you cannot rely on this 100%. Take these precautions and you’ll be a lot happier and healthier.
Now, let’s move onto the actual mechanics of a shoe. You’ll want to make sure that it is well balanced, and addresses any existing condition you may have. For example, if you under pronate, which means that your feet tend to slope in towards one another, you may have issues with your swing. Likewise, over pronating can affect your stance and swing as well. Find out if you have undiagnosed foot problems and get the shoes that will correct that for you.
Your golf shoes need to be functional first and foremost, and although they can be expensive, getting the right pair will impact your game. If you have consistently found that you cannot improve your score, the problem may be right under you. Visit a shoe store that specializes in fitting golf shoes and try out a couple of different pairs until you find the right match. It’s well worth the time and the effort, as well as the money, considering how it will effect your game.
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July 29th, 2008 — CA, Lake Tahoe, golf courses, restaurant
Coyote Moon Golf Course is located near Lake Tahoe, CA (This is one of my favorite courses… Played it when they first opened before they had their license to sell beer… Beer was free! Water you had to pay for.)
Phone: 530-587-0886
Website: http://www.golftahoe.com/coyote-moon
Course History:
Coyote Moon is a fairly new golf course but it has been incredibly well received and quickly shot to fame. Although it is one of the most difficult courses to master in this area, it is also one of the most enjoyable to play. Professionals will find it challenging, but even novices will be able to enjoy a round without feeling too intimidated. The scenery alone makes this well worth the trip and overall, this is one of the nicest courses in the area.
What You Need to Know:
This course is very eco-friendly and has numerous features that make it a very “green” course. There may be some areas that are parked off from the public and the management asks that visitors observe these rules. That’s a small price to pay considering the overall beauty of the course.
Although no dress code is specified, we highly recommend traditional golf attire since this is a more conservative course. The facilities are definitely top notch and the grill is a definite must-stop-by. They are open every day for breakfast and lunch, and the bar is open until 7pm.
Playing Hints:
The terrain makes for a very challenging round of golf and the management states that you’ll need to use just about every club and every technique at your disposal to beat this course. It’s definitely one of the toughest courses to play and you’ll find that distance combined with accuracy will make your game a lot easier and will keep your scores higher.
The sixth hole is particularly challenging and you’ll be facing a water hazard right from the tee. Keep to the left a little bit and keep in mind that your shot will be pulled towards the water. On the fourteenth hole you may feel as though you’re playing hopscotch, not golf, as you try to avoid the rough. Try to make your tee shot as long as possible and head straight. This should put you in a great position to make it to the green in about another shot with the right club and the right amount of power.
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Fees:
Regular Rate May 23 - October 19 (18 Holes): $160
Twilight Rate $100
Twilight Times
Opening through June 12th: 3:00pm
June 13th through September 7th: 4:00pm
September 8th through October 19th: 3:00pm
All rates include use of warm up station and shared golf car.
Booking Policy
For 8 Players or Less:
Regular Reservations may be made up to 30 days in advance.
Twilight Reservations may be made up to 30 days in advance.
Cancellations must be made 48 hours in advance.
How to Get There:
Reno
Take I-80 West to exit number 184, Donner Pass Road. Turn right onto Donner Pass Road. Turn left at Northwoods Blvd. Course is 1/2 mile up the hill.
San Francisco/Sacramento
Take I-80 East to exit number 184, Donner Pass Road. Turn left and cross over the interstate. Turn left at Northwoods Blvd. Course is 1/2 mile up the hill.
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June 19th, 2008 — CA, Clubhouse menu, Lessons Available, Santa Barbara, golf courses
Glen Annie Golf Course is located in Santa Barbara, CA
Phone: 805-968-6400
Website: http://www.glenanniegolf.com/main/index.php?name=Rates
Course History:
This is a truly stunning course that overlooks the channel islands and the bay. For those who enjoy a scenic course, it is hard to beat this one. The amenities here are absolutely some of the best in the area and this is considered to be one of the best and most challenging championship courses in this region. That said, although the course appeals to pros, novices should still be able to enjoy playing here. It may take a few times to master the course, but considering the view, it is well worth the time spent.
What You Need to Know:
By far, the club house at Glen Annie is one of the best ever built. Visitors come from miles around to enjoy it, even if they don’t play golf. The structure has won numerous architectural awards and the inside is sumptuously furnished. You’ll enjoy dining here after a tough round of golf or maybe stopping by just for fun.
The pro shop is completely stocked and offers gifts for all golfers. Many players like to take advantage of the patio after a round so they can relax and get a better view of their surroundings. This is one course that everyone should try to visit at least once in their lives.
This is a championship course and it is quite hilly, so we recommend taking advantage of the proffered cart. The course is currently running a special where you can get unlimited rounds of golf for a month, with a cart, for less than $300 a month and we highly recommend taking them up on this deal. For the money, this is a great deal.
Playing Hints:
While the course has only two water hazards and a few bunkers sprinkled around, it’s the hills that make this a challenging round of play. There will be times when you won’t even be able to see where you’re aiming, but that is part of the fun of playing here.
Most of the holes are straightforward, but you will be dealing with a dogleg on holes four, ten, sixteen and fourteen. They are reasonably easy as long as you stick to the left on four and to the right on the others. You’ll need to bring your top game for this one, as longer drivers will definitely have an advantage. A long drive off of most tees is essential as the rough is quite tough here and separates each fairway into well trimmed islands surrounded by a sea of grass.
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Course Fees:
Monday-Friday
18 Hole Regular
$59.00
Resident*
$39.00
Regular Twilight
$34.00
Resident Twilight
$24.00
Saturday-Sunday and Holidays
18 Hole Regular
$74.00
Resident*
$49.00
Regular Twilight
$39.00
Resident Twilight
$29.00
Cart Fee Rates
18 Hole Cart Fee
$11.00
9 Hole Cart Fee
$6.00
PGA Golf Instruction
$65.00 hr.
$40.00 ½ hr.
Driving Range
$5.00 - 40 Balls
$8.00 - 80 Balls
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June 11th, 2008 — Antioch, CA, Lessons Available, golf courses
Roddy Ranch Golf Course is Located in: Antioch, CA
Phone: 925.978.4653
Website: http://www.roddyranch.com
Course History:
This course is part of the historic 2000 acre Roddy Ranch in Antioch, CA. This is a relatively new course that opened to tremendous accolades. It’s already been named one of the best value courses in the bay area and with good reason. If you’re looking for a challenging game of golf that won’t break the bank, look no further. This course is a little off the beaten path, so we included some directions for you below.
What You Need to Know:
Don’t let the prices fool you, this is a very nice course. Everything is top notch and its on the same level as many private clubs when it comes to amenities. You can register your tee time online or by phone. Their website also has a feature to let you pick your time and a special discount, so we recommend visiting before you book.
Lessons are offered every day of the week from the PGA pros on staff. These are also priced very reasonably and there is a special tee that is devoted entirely to practice. Numerous tournaments are held at the course every year and this is a great way to get a feel for the course before you actually head out.
Although the course does not specify a special dress code, we recommend traditional golf attire and soft spikes.
Playing Hints:
The holes are pretty straightforward at first glance, but look a little closer and you’ll see the combination of heavily sloped greens, nasty rough, and sandtraps make for some challenging play. By far, the two hardest holes are the sixteenth hole with its blind green (approach from the right to avoid the bunkers) and the thirteenth hole that also features a blind green surrounded by bunkers. You’ll be playing into the wind on this hole for an even bigger challenge.
The last two holes will give you a chance to salvage your score, especially the par 5 on 18. Just watch out for the remaining bunkers and you should do just fine.
Course Fees:
Standard Weekday $45.00
Weekday Twilight $35.00
Weekday Super Twilight $25.00
Standard Weekend $70.00
Weekend Mid-day $55.00
Weekend Twilight $45.00
Weekend Super Twilight $30.00
*Junior Rates Weekday (15 and under) $15.00
*Junior Rates Weekend (15 and under) $45.00
*Senior Rates Weekday (50 and older) $35.00
*Senior Rates Weekend (50 and older) $50.00
How to Get There:
View Larger Map
From the west:
Take Highway 4 towards the city of Antioch, exit at Lone Tree Way, turn right. Proceed to Deer Valley Road, turn right. Travel approximately 3 miles and you will see the golf course appearing above and to your right as you pass Empire Mine Road. The next right is Tour Way, well marked as the entrance to The Golf Club at Roddy Ranch.
From the east:
Take Balfour road west from Brentwood to it’s intersection with Deer Valley Road. (Roddy Ranch is straight ahead of you.) Turn right onto Deer Valley, and immediately left into Tour Way to enter the Golf Club.
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June 4th, 2008 — CA, Dress code, Sam Whiting, Sonoma, golf courses
Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn Golf Course is located in Sonoma, CA
Phone: 877-289-7354
Website: http://www.fairmont.com/sonoma/Recreation/Golf/
Course History:
This is an incredibly idyllic course located in the middle of a resort. Even if you’re not planning on staying, you should give this course a try. It was first designed by Sam Whiting in 1928 as part of the then Mission Inn. Throughout the course of history, ownership has changed hands, but the course has remained. In 2001 the course was privatized after being rejoined to the resort on the same location. The 7100 yard course was recently chosen as the season ending course for the PGA Champions Tour Season.
What You Need to Know:
There are some specific rules of play that you will need to know before visiting the course. Management states, “The Sonoma Golf Club adheres to a strict dress code. Collared golf shirts and slacks or golf shorts are required for men. Golf dresses, skirts, slacks or golf shorts and blouses or golf shirts are required for women. Tank tops, other athletic wear and denim are not permitted. Cellular phones are not allowed on the practice facility, in the golf shop, clubhouse or anywhere on the golf course.”
In order to play you must make a reservation by calling the number listed above. Without this, you will not be able to go out on the course. The pro shop here is absolutely astounding and the lessons are incredibly popular. Kris Moe teaches throughout the year here and we’ve included their most recent rates for his special golf schools.
Playing Hints:
This is a championship course and it can be difficult at times. However, even novices can enjoy their round with a little patience. It’s going to take a few times to get this one figured out, so go with the flow and remember to have fun.
The long par 5 off the second hole will get you started off right. With the right tee shot, you should be able to birdie this one. It’s a good thing too since the holes just get tougher. Watch out for the 11th hole it can be a bit tricky, and it’s hard to make this par 3. You’ll get another challenging par 5 on the sixteenth hole but you can use the last two to salvage your score after a tough round.
View Larger Map
Course Fees:
$215.00 USD Range balls and cart are included with all greens fees.
Golf Clubs (Titleist Irons and Taylor Made Woods): $75 USD
Tee times are available every ten minutes beginning at 7:30 a.m. until dusk. Reserve now to guarantee your tee off!
Kris Moe Golf School Rates
$325 USD full day (January 01 to April 30, 2007 and November 17 to December 31, 2007), 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
$495 USD full day (May 1 to November 16, 2007), 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
$175 USD, one hour private lesson with Kris Moe, $150 USD with the rest of staff
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July 24th, 2007 — golf round
I working on this blog July 17. I then played golf on the 18th (Crystal Springs), 19th (Presideo), and 20th (Gleneagles).
I wouldn’t have thought it possible, but after 3 straight days I was tired of golf… Sort of. Well perhaps simply tired is a better characterization.
I watched the British Open at Carnoustie on Saturday and Sunday. What a course. How hard is that 18th? I think I would have to play it as a par 5. Which would be fairly straight forward, but that hole as a par 4 is impossible.
Never fear fearless reader I will be back on the golf course soon.
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