Championship & exec greens in TV?

[CatskillBill]

Of the courses you've played in the last 2-3 weeks, which greens were the best/worst ? Normal polls on this site only allow you one vote. That's why I didn't set up a poll. If you know how please start one for us.

Please rate them 0-5 (0=poor, 5=great). By each nine hole name on the championship courses if you recall. I'm trying to avoid anything like the Hacienda Hills, and Glen View conditions. G.V.'s practice greens are perfect that's very strange considering the real greens.

IMHO
Palmer = 4.0 Laurel & Cherry
Evans = 3.0 Killdeer & Osprey (Egret is closed)
Bonifay= 3.0
Cane = 3.5
Lopez = 2-2.5 (2 1/2 weeks ago)
Glen V = 0-1
H.Hills = 0-1 Palms & Oaks (Lakes closed until Oct.)

Heron = 1
Tarpon = 2.5
Truman = 3

[CatskillBill]

Of the courses you've played in the last 2-3 weeks, which greens were the best/worst ? Normal polls on this site only allow you one vote. That's why I didn't set up a poll. If you know how please start one for us.

Please rate them 0-5 (0=poor, 5=great). By each nine hole name on the championship courses if you recall. I'm trying to avoid anything like the Hacienda Hills, and Glen View conditions. G.V.'s practice greens are perfect that's very strange considering the real greens.

IMHO
Palmer = 4.0 Laurel & Cherry
Evans = 3.0 Killdeer & Osprey (Egret is closed)
Bonifay= 3.0
Cane = 3.5
Lopez = 2-2.5 (2 1/2 weeks ago)
Glen V = 0-1
H.Hills = 0-1 Palms & Oaks (Lakes closed until Oct.)

Heron = 1
Tarpon = 2.5
Truman = 3

I guess everyone on TOTV quit golfing, or is playing off campus these days?
Your ratings appreciated for those too.

[karostay]

For the life of me I just don't understand as to why.
a community created and marketed solely on golf have such poor conditions.
Go anywhere off site and greens and fairways are in much better shape.

[karostay]

Everyone says it's the amount of play.
Birds are long gone
Why is every inch of the fairways in poor condition and greens brown ?
Cost yes the less you spend the more you pocket

[Gat0r]

I heard that the irrigation water has a ph of 9.(salt water is 8.3)

[Regor]

been here for 17 years, The greens are always in poor shape after aeration. Takes a month or so to heal.
A friend played Bay Hill 2 weeks ago and said the greens were worse there than here.
Maybe it's just florida in the summer?

[karostay]

Whats the use of aerating the fairways if you don't top dress with a sand soil mix to soften the surface so grass can grow.
Would be like trying aerate Morris BVD

[Mikeod]

Whats the use of aerating the fairways if you don't top dress with a sand soil mix to soften the surface so grass can grow.
Would be like trying aerate Morris BVD

Aerating the fairways relieves compaction even if you don't top dress. Some courses leave the plugs on top where they are broken up by the mower and fill the holes a bit. But it still allows water and fertilizer better access into the root zone of the turf.

[Bogie Shooter]

I heard that the irrigation water has a ph of 9.(salt water is 8.3)

Heard?

[Bogie Shooter]

Of the courses you've played in the last 2-3 weeks, which greens were the best/worst ? Normal polls on this site only allow you one vote. That's why I didn't set up a poll. If you know how please start one for us.

Please rate them 0-5 (0=poor, 5=great). By each nine hole name on the championship courses if you recall. I'm trying to avoid anything like the Hacienda Hills, and Glen View conditions. G.V.'s practice greens are perfect that's very strange considering the real greens.

IMHO
Palmer = 4.0 Laurel & Cherry
Evans = 3.0 Killdeer & Osprey (Egret is closed)
Bonifay= 3.0
Cane = 3.5
Lopez = 2-2.5 (2 1/2 weeks ago)
Glen V = 0-1
H.Hills = 0-1 Palms & Oaks (Lakes closed until Oct.)

Heron = 1
Tarpon = 2.5
Truman = 3

Rating golf courses is like rating restaurants. Everybody's expectations are different.........so the rating's are ____________.

[Polar Bear]

Rating golf courses is like rating restaurants. Everybody's expectations are different.........so the rating's are meaningless.

Maybe not scientific, but I would not say meaningless.

Recently played courses:

Heron - 1
Pelican: 2-3.5 (pretty wide variability for just one course)
Bacall: 2.5

I too am confident conditions will get better.

[villages07]

I am no expert on golf course maintenance, but, here are my recent experiences:



Bogart today 2.5 still pretty thin with a number of bad patches



Palmetto yesterday 3.5-4.0 they were decent, not bumpy, no real bare patches, rolled true



Evans/Osprey Monday -- hard to remember but seemed marginal, thin and bumpy.



I do agree that the courses, champ and exec, seem to be in worse shape this summer than I ever recall. Very thin fairways and many greens with numerous bare spots and very slow recovery from aeration.



Hopefully, maintenance, time, and weather will help them heal.

[DonH57]

I heard that the irrigation water has a ph of 9.(salt water is 8.3)

Really? Tasted ok to me!

[waynet]

The conditions on the champ courses are never exceptional. At times they are good. But much of the time they are horrible for any number of reasons or excuses offered. Ownership takes advantage of priority members and those that play these champ courses. We pay a premium to play. It is not cheap to play them. Ownership even though they are making lots of money has decided to go cheap in every way possible hence the conditions.

[ajbrown]

I thought it was a great OP and a nice way to think about it if I was making tee times currently. There are so many courses, it is hard to know which are good/bad and there are some good opinions on here (you get to know the posters over time).

I only post this to support this type of thread, because sadly I have nothing to offer as I have not played any courses in TV for that period...

It is the kind of thread I would enjoy contributing to when playing again in a couple of months.

[john2]

They pay minimum wage and expect to get experienced and hard workers to work in the heat all day. Not going to happen!!!

[rubicon]

Played Bonifay yesterday and it was decent with the exception of a few greens stil somewhat scarred.

[mulligan]

They pay minimum wage and expect to get experienced and hard workers to work in the heat all day. Not going to happen!!!

Not true.

[karostay]

The conditions on the champ courses are never exceptional. At times they are good. But much of the time they are horrible for any number of reasons or excuses offered. Ownership takes advantage of priority members and those that play these champ courses. We pay a premium to play. It is not cheap to play them. Ownership even though they are making lots of money has decided to go cheap in every way possible hence the conditions.:BigApplause::BigApplause::BigApplause:

[collie1228]

Palmer (Laurel to Riley Grove on Tuesday this week) - 4
Lopez (Ashley to Erin last Friday) - 1
Mallory (Amelia to Caroline the previous Tuesday) - 2

The Palmer greens were very nice - plenty of grass and the ball rolled really well. Best greens I've seen in The Villages since the Fall. Lopez was a disgrace. The aeration schedule showed there had been a couple of weeks to heal the greens, but they looked and played just terrible. You couldn't keep a putt on line. Mallory not great, but playable.

[gage405]

I really think we would enjoy the championship courses much more if they would just
let the fairways grow in a bit. I don't understand why they cut them so short.
They could save some money if they missed a mowing or two.

[dewilson58]

I really think we would enjoy the championship courses much more if they would just
let the fairways grow in a bit. I don't understand why they cut them so short.
They could save some money if they missed a mowing or two.

:BigApplause::BigApplause:

[CatskillBill]

Palmer (Laurel to Riley Grove on Tuesday this week) - 4
Lopez (Ashley to Erin last Friday) - 1
Mallory (Amelia to Caroline the previous Tuesday) - 2

The Palmer greens were very nice - plenty of grass and the ball rolled really well. Best greens I've seen in The Villages since the Fall. Lopez was a disgrace. The aeration schedule showed there had been a couple of weeks to heal the greens, but they looked and played just terrible. You couldn't keep a putt on line. Mallory not great, but playable.


June 16-21:
Palmer (Laurel Valley) 4*s, T-storms put a damper on playing Riley Grove

FYI Off Campus:
Juliette Falls, Stone Creek, & Grand Pines (Orlando) rate 5*s on everything from tee to greens IMHO.
Better play Grand Pines this year because Marriott has sold this property and the new owners are bulldozing it for more condos in Jan/Feb. What a shame!!!
From your report, Nancy wouldn't be thrilled if she saw it's condition. Surprised at a 2 for Mallory since they held the men's cup there this week.

[mickey100]

:BigApplause::BigApplause:

I agree. We played Palmer recently and the greens were in decent shape. That course is usually pretty good, although it's obviously the most expensive. Lopez has not been great lately, in my experience.

[mtdjed]

I was complaining about Tarpon Boil last week and got my best score ever. Nice greens now. Let's face it if you are playing Executive golf , you should be there for the fun.

[clekr]

Played HH this afternoon - Oaks only. Greens are in such poor shape the course should be closed. This is not from areartion (sp.) but some such of fungus.

[dewilson58]

I've enjoyed seeing the "ratings" for this year/month/week.............to all the "seasoned" golfers..........how do the conditions of the courses today compare to the last five or ten years????

Just wondering the direction of conditions.

Thanks

[collie1228]

Our neighborhood group played Cane Garden yesterday (Jacaranda to Hibiscus - Allamanda was closed). We were really pleased with the condition of the course. The greens were very nice, reasonably fast with no trace of topdressing and I don't recall seeing any fungus or damage. Fairways are thick and feel like walking on carpet. There was actually some rough - It's nice to play a course where they are trying to replace some of the hard pan with real grass. We are playing Mallory again on Friday, and I'm hoping to see some improvement from the mediocre conditions last week.

[CatskillBill]

Our neighborhood group played Cane Garden yesterday (Jacaranda to Hibiscus - Allamanda was closed). We were really pleased with the condition of the course. The greens were very nice, reasonably fast with no trace of topdressing and I don't recall seeing any fungus or damage. Fairways are thick and feel like walking on carpet. There was actually some rough - It's nice to play a course where they are trying to replace some of the hard pan with real grass. We are playing Mallory again on Friday, and I'm hoping to see some improvement from the mediocre conditions last week.

Thanks for the update. I live near Cane and I looks a lot better than most. Haven't played it for two weeks. Do you know how long Allamanda will be closed and why?

[collie1228]

I didn't ask why Allamanda was closed. I noticed the flag was lying along the side of the first green, so I'm guessing the closure was short term.

[srixongolf1197]

The greens here on the Championship courses are so bad its not even funny for the amount of money these courses rake in during the year. GMS is a joke the top tier people making big money for what sitting in an office all day and low balling bids for course maintenance so their salaries are higher , The Facility managers aka head pros bigger jokes if they were top level pros which they aren't they are just "Yes Men" they would speak up and not put up with horrid conditions on their courses, don't get me started on the ranges here very poor grass at Sarasota they should have perfect grass with the amount of money they make daily might be the worst range I have ever stepped foot on. If The Villages keep letting these landscape companies with inexperienced workers take care of the courses here things are only going to get worse.

Glenview - 1
Mallory - 1
Cane Jacaranda 2
Cane Alamanda 1

[collie1228]

Played Mallory yesterday (Amelia to Caroline). Happy to report the course was in very good condition, with greens nicely maintained with decent speed. I noticed right away that the fairways were better, and there is grass in the rough where there was only hard pan last year.

[waynet]

srixongolf 1197 is right on in his assessment of Village golf.

[mulligan]

srixongolf doesn't have even the slightest clue.

[ronat1]

Thanks for the update. I live near Cane and I looks a lot better than most. Haven't played it for two weeks. Do you know how long Allamanda will be closed and why?

Closed just for the one day due to routine maintenance activities.

[waynet]

mulligan,you might bewrong.

[mickey100]

I think there are some times of year when particular courses are in decent condition, but looking at them year round, I'd rate them about a 2.5 out of 5. There are way too many days when the greens are not in good shape, and the fairways are are just so-so. I don't pretend to know why this is, but its pretty obvious it has something to do with money. Why is Palmer in good condition the majority of the time and coincidentally it costs a lot more $$ to play there. I guess you can't blame it on conditions if that course is almost always in good shape. Overall you can get better conditions outside The Villages for less money. They pretty much have a captive audience here, so they can charge whatever they want to. But to say the courses here are in good shape - I have to disagree.

[waynet]

well said Mickey

[Bogie Shooter]

The greens here on the Championship courses are so bad its not even funny for the amount of money these courses rake in during the year. GMS is a joke the top tier people making big money for what sitting in an office all day and low balling bids for course maintenance so their salaries are higher , The Facility managers aka head pros bigger jokes if they were top level pros which they aren't they are just "Yes Men" they would speak up and not put up with horrid conditions on their courses, don't get me started on the ranges here very poor grass at Sarasota they should have perfect grass with the amount of money they make daily might be the worst range I have ever stepped foot on. If The Villages keep letting these landscape companies with inexperienced workers take care of the courses here things are only going to get worse.

Glenview - 1
Mallory - 1
Cane Jacaranda 2
Cane Alamanda 1

Played Mallory yesterday (Amelia to Caroline). Happy to report the course was in very good condition, with greens nicely maintained with decent speed. I noticed right away that the fairways were better, and there is grass in the rough where there was only hard pan last year.

Different folks, different expectations??

[Mikeod]

Played Mallory yesterday (Amelia to Caroline). Happy to report the course was in very good condition, with greens nicely maintained with decent speed. I noticed right away that the fairways were better, and there is grass in the rough where there was only hard pan last year.

We played Amelia Thursday and I agree the course was in good shape. It's been better, but it really showed improvement.

I'm not sure about the linking of revenue to course conditions. Certainly if revenue is down, conditions can suffer. But revenue by itself can't guarantee good conditions. Look at the condition of the greens at TPC Sawgrass for The Players. No lack of revenue there.

I looked back at some course reports for the executive courses given in July, 2013, and overall it seems the conditions were similar to what we are seeing now. Conditions varied from very good to disappointing, with a general trend toward that latter as we go south. Looking at the reports in October 2013, prior to overseeding, the courses were considered very good to outstanding. Hopefully, we will see that kind of improvement as the summer progresses.

I have felt that the courses are in poorer condition at this time of year than any time in the past, but the course reports I reviewed tell a different story.

[mickey100]

We played Amelia Thursday and I agree the course was in good shape. It's been better, but it really showed improvement.

I'm not sure about the linking of revenue to course conditions. Certainly if revenue is down, conditions can suffer. But revenue by itself can't guarantee good conditions. Look at the condition of the greens at TPC Sawgrass for The Players. No lack of revenue there.

I looked back at some course reports for the executive courses given in July, 2013, and overall it seems the conditions were similar to what we are seeing now. Conditions varied from very good to disappointing, with a general trend toward that latter as we go south. Looking at the reports in October 2013, prior to overseeding, the courses were considered very good to outstanding. Hopefully, we will see that kind of improvement as the summer progresses.

I have felt that the courses are in poorer condition at this time of year than any time in the past, but the course reports I reviewed tell a different story.

Your comment about Sawgrass is well taken, but here in a The Villages, Palmer seems to be in good condition all year round, except during the aerification
times, while other courses have many periods of poor to mediocre conditions. It has been like this for many years. Are the powers that be directing more of the water allotment to Palmer for watering? And it just always seems better maintained with fairways that are lusher, nicer greens, nice sand in the traps compared to some courses. Why can't all the courses be kept to such a standard? And yes, many of the courses are improving, but our enjoyment will be short lived, as aerification starts in August.

[N44125]

Executive Course Update...played Pelican yesterday, greens were disappointing. The 7th green that had been partially resodded did look good. Played Turtle Mound today, for the most part greens were in very good condition.

[Mikeod]

Your comment about Sawgrass is well taken, but here in a The Villages, Palmer seems to be in good condition all year round, except during the aerification
times, while other courses have many periods of poor to mediocre conditions. It has been like this for many years. Are the powers that be directing more of the water allotment to Palmer for watering? And it just always seems better maintained with fairways that are lusher, nicer greens, nice sand in the traps compared to some courses. Why can't all the courses be kept to such a standard? And yes, many of the courses are improving, but our enjoyment will be short lived, as aerification starts in August.
I agree that Palmer always seems to be in better shape at any time of year than the other courses. I've been told by people at GMS I have no reason to doubt, it receives no more water than the other courses. The only difference that leaps out is the lesser amount of play compared to the others. Even during the high season, tee times are more available on Palmer. Reduced cart traffic on the fairways will help conditions noticeably.

One concern I have is the tendency, IMO, of TV to open courses too soon. Havana was opened early understandably due to the damage to Mallory by the tornado. But, except for Pensacola nine, Bonifay was opened before it had a chance to really grow in. Fairways were really sparse, and the cart traffic really made it worse. Some courses may never recover from that double-whammy unless you close them entirely for the season. Same with Evans Prairie and I fear the same with Belle Glade. On the executive side, Palmetto was opened early, and they admit that, by grossly overseeding the greens, which hindered the development of the base bermuda so that conditions were poor throughout the first year plus. I understand the problem of frustrated residents who live or drive by courses that appear ready but remain closed. But the view has to be more long term.

[mickey100]

I agree that Palmer always seems to be in better shape at any time of year than the other courses. I've been told by people at GMS I have no reason to doubt, it receives no more water than the other courses. The only difference that leaps out is the lesser amount of play compared to the others. Even during the high season, tee times are more available on Palmer. Reduced cart traffic on the fairways will help conditions noticeably.

One concern I have is the tendency, IMO, of TV to open courses too soon. Havana was opened early understandably due to the damage to Mallory by the tornado. But, except for Pensacola nine, Bonifay was opened before it had a chance to really grow in. Fairways were really sparse, and the cart traffic really made it worse. Some courses may never recover from that double-whammy unless you close them entirely for the season. Same with Evans Prairie and I fear the same with Belle Glade. On the executive side, Palmetto was opened early, and they admit that, by grossly overseeding the greens, which hindered the development of the base bermuda so that conditions were poor throughout the first year plus. I understand the problem of frustrated residents who live or drive by courses that appear ready but remain closed. But the view has to be more long term.

Good points.

[nitehawk]

I agree that Palmer always seems to be in better shape at any time of year than the other courses. I've been told by people at GMS I have no reason to doubt, it receives no more water than the other courses. The only difference that leaps out is the lesser amount of play compared to the others. Even during the high season, tee times are more available on Palmer. Reduced cart traffic on the fairways will help conditions noticeably.

One concern I have is the tendency, IMO, of TV to open courses too soon. Havana was opened early understandably due to the damage to Mallory by the tornado. But, except for Pensacola nine, Bonifay was opened before it had a chance to really grow in. Fairways were really sparse, and the cart traffic really made it worse. Some courses may never recover from that double-whammy unless you close them entirely for the season. Same with Evans Prairie and I fear the same with Belle Glade. On the executive side, Palmetto was opened early, and they admit that, by grossly overseeding the greens, which hindered the development of the base bermuda so that conditions were poor throughout the first year plus. I understand the problem of frustrated residents who live or drive by courses that appear ready but remain closed. But the view has to be more long term.

Just wondering why not apply for a position of consultant to the golf course management companies, here in TV ??

[nitehawk]

If Arnold Palmer course was allowed to deteriorate to the condition or other course in TV----- I am positive Arnold Palmer would pull his name from the course - He almost did that once before when first opened

[mickey100]

If Arnold Palmer course was allowed to deteriorate to the condition or other course in TV----- I am positive Arnold Palmer would pull his name from the course - He almost did that once before when first opened

:bowdown:

[waynet]

again it's all about the money. Why open these courses early? Money. Why use the same old grasses and technology? Money. Priority members are getting screwed and there really is no one to talk to about the issues. As someone said they have a captive audience.

[mickey100]

You certainly can't blame all the poor conditioned courses on high usage, although it certainly plays a part. I remember back in 2006, Orange blossom was in great condition. OB never seems to get the level of play that courses south of 466 get. Then after a few years, it too deteriorated, and i remember speaking with an Ambassador who told me that they were having problems with the company doing the maintenance on that particular course. There were many complaints to the head of golf operations, and I heard they ultimately fired the company and got someone new in there, and conditions improved again.

And that also begs the question, if the courses are overplayed to the point they can't keep them in good condition, and we know that during the high season not everyone can get a tee time, doesn't that suggest that perhaps they need more golf courses per capita?

[Mikeod]

And that also begs the question, if the courses are overplayed to the point they can't keep them in good condition, and we know that during the high season not everyone can get a tee time, doesn't that suggest that perhaps they need more golf courses per capita?
LOL. I do understand that. It's just that this is a community of around 100-120K with the equivalent of sixteen 18 hole golf courses. (I considered two 27 hole courses as the equivalent of three 18 hole courses.) I can't believe there is another place of similar population with that many courses within its boundaries. And that's not even considering the executive courses. If you ask someone if sixteen courses are enough for a general population of 100-120K, they would think about half that would be fine. The difference is that we are able to play every day, if desired, whereas areas with a smaller retiree population don't have the everyday volume.

Please understand I am not trying to minimize your concerns. It just seems hard to consider this place has too few golf courses.

[graciegirl]

LOL. I do understand that. It's just that this is a community of around 100-120K with the equivalent of sixteen 18 hole golf courses. (I considered two 27 hole courses as the equivalent of three 18 hole courses.) I can't believe there is another place of similar population with that many courses within its boundaries. And that's not even considering the executive courses. If you ask someone if sixteen courses are enough for a general population of 100-120K, they would think about half that would be fine. The difference is that we are able to play every day, if desired, whereas areas with a smaller retiree population don't have the everyday volume.

Please understand I am not trying to minimize your concerns. It just seems hard to consider this place has too few golf courses.


Well said.

[mickey100]

LOL. I do understand that. It's just that this is a community of around 100-120K with the equivalent of sixteen 18 hole golf courses. (I considered two 27 hole courses as the equivalent of three 18 hole courses.) I can't believe there is another place of similar population with that many courses within its boundaries. And that's not even considering the executive courses. If you ask someone if sixteen courses are enough for a general population of 100-120K, they would think about half that would be fine. The difference is that we are able to play every day, if desired, whereas areas with a smaller retiree population don't have the everyday volume.

Please understand I am not trying to minimize your concerns. It just seems hard to consider this place has too few golf courses.

I'm not comparing us to other places,where as you are aware , people are working so they are not available to play all day long most days. We are a unique community and one that is being marketed to golfers, so naturally we will have a high percentage of the population that plays golf. Truthfully,I don't think we need more courses, but there is no question in my mind that they need to take better care of what they have. But if one's argument is that they cannot make golf course conditions that are good most of the time because the courses get too much play, then reason dictates they don't have enough courses to accommodate the golfers . Just sayin.

[Polar Bear]

...if one's argument is that they cannot make golf course conditions that are good most of the time because the courses get too much play, then reason dictates they don't have enough courses to accommodate the golfers . Just sayin.

I'm not trying to be facetious or anything, but with the exception of some occasional maintenance downtime, shouldn't golf courses in Florida be expected to handle full player loads every day?

[Bogie Shooter]

I'm not trying to be facetious or anything, but with the exception of some occasional maintenance downtime, shouldn't golf courses in Florida be expected to handle full player loads every day?

What is so special about Florida................the 90+ temperature?

[Polar Bear]

What is so special about Florida................the 90+ temperature?

Heheh. As a Buckeye, I can tell you that Winter golf habits are slightly different in northern states vs Florida.

[mickey100]

I'm not trying to be facetious or anything, but with the exception of some occasional maintenance downtime, shouldn't golf courses in Florida be expected to handle full player loads every day?

Yeah, you'd think.

[waynet]

It's all about the money. Golf courses take up lots of land. Land that can make more money by building houses on it. The Morse family is all about money plain and simple,nothing wrong with that unless greed sets in.

[Dr Winston O Boogie jr]

It's all about the money. Golf courses take up lots of land. Land that can make more money by building houses on it. The Morse family is all about money plain and simple,nothing wrong with that unless greed sets in.

If that were the case, why wouldn't they just start closing golf courses and building houses on them?

The fact is that the golf courses are a big factor in why people buy homes here. So from that perspective, they are just as important and profitable as the homes themselves.

[Bosoxfan]

There is absolutely no valid excuse for the atrocious greens throughout The Villages.The maintenance companies hired to do this job simply isn't doing it and should be fired.With the amount of play now(very little) these courses are getting and the amount of rain we've had over the past 6 weeks or so these courses should be pristine. First off I believe they mow the fairways way too low and the greens just are neglected. I wish there were someone us residents could go to to voice our opinions and be heard. This just doesn't seem to be the case. The powers to be just don't seem to care. Maybe we should all boycott playing Villages courses for a month so someone will start listening. SO Frustrating!!!

[mickey100]

That is one of the nice things about Palmer, in addition to their great greens, is that the grass does seem longer on the fairways than other courses around. I don't get it. If the grass were allowed to grow a little longer it might use less water, as the roots would be shaded a little. Every time I play at Cane Garden I feel like I'm hitting off hardpan.

[waynet]

well said Bosoxfan

[Russ_Boston]

With the amount of play now(very little) these courses are getting and the amount of rain we've had over the past 6 weeks or so these courses should be pristine.


Absolutely agree. It's bad course management IMHO. We don't need the fairways and 'rough' cut so low. Or go natural on the rough like they did at Pinehurst and many other courses. Less water needed that way. As it regards Palmer: not that much better, many of the greens are marginally better but still some rough spots and spotty fungus growth around the edges.


Well - off to play Heron on men's day - the greens last week were pathetic - here's hoping!

[Bogie Shooter]

There is absolutely no valid excuse for the atrocious greens throughout The Villages.The maintenance companies hired to do this job simply isn't doing it and should be fired.With the amount of play now(very little) these courses are getting and the amount of rain we've had over the past 6 weeks or so these courses should be pristine. First off I believe they mow the fairways way too low and the greens just are neglected. I wish there were someone us residents could go to to voice our opinions and be heard. This just doesn't seem to be the case. The powers to be just don't seem to care. Maybe we should all boycott playing Villages courses for a month so someone will start listening. SO Frustrating!!!

You make some good points.
Just wondering, have you contacted anyone at Country Club Administration?
How do you know "the powers to be just don't seem to care"?

[Bosoxfan]

I just got off the phone with golf administration 352-753-3396 and was told they are well aware of the situation and are diligently working on fixing the situation. Of course all I did was talk to the woman that answered the phone as everyone else is in a meeting. I did however send this message using the contact us portion of golfthevillages.com.

Hi ,
As a resident of the villages I'm trying to get my voice & many others voices heard on our concern for the conditions of all the courses throuhgout our community. In the past 6 weeks I have been playing various courses both executives & championships and have yet to find a course I would rate over a 2 on a 1 to five scale. What's the problem? The courses I have played just outside The Villages are exceptional & I don't understand why ours can't be. In fact we should be the standard for all other courses within a 100 mile radius of The Villages.Please consider firing those responsible for these conditions & hiring companies & leaders on your staff that can rectify this situation. This is not acceptible! Thank You for listening . Correspondence in return is appreciated. Thank You.

I'll keep you all posted if I get a response.

[Bogie Shooter]

I would have asked the "woman on the phone" to have a manager call me back.

[Bosoxfan]

I would have asked the "woman on the phone" to have a manager call me back.
You can call & do that the number is352-753-3396 .Please let us know the response.She tried to hook me into his mailbox but I was disconnected!

[Bosoxfan]

I just got this response from the golf administration::

Thanks for taking the time to share your concerns and thoughts. What we are experiencing (and we are frustrated as well) is a more intense and prolonged transition period than normal. May and June will always be challenging months with transition, followed by aerfication, but this year in particular, it’s been more challenging than any we can remember. Our contractors are working diligently to return all the courses to acceptable condition ASAP, several have already made it back, and the others are well on their way. I can assure you that accountability is in full measure with our contractors. Good news, this should all be behind us soon. We appreciate your patience and support, and certainly understand your frustration and concern.

[graciegirl]

I just got this response from the golf administration::

Thanks for taking the time to share your concerns and thoughts. What we are experiencing (and we are frustrated as well) is a more intense and prolonged transition period than normal. May and June will always be challenging months with transition, followed by aerfication, but this year in particular, it’s been more challenging than any we can remember. Our contractors are working diligently to return all the courses to acceptable condition ASAP, several have already made it back, and the others are well on their way. I can assure you that accountability is in full measure with our contractors. Good news, this should all be behind us soon. We appreciate your patience and support, and certainly understand your frustration and concern.


It sounded nice.

[dewilson58]

I just got this response from the golf administration::

Thanks for taking the time to share your concerns and thoughts. What we are experiencing (and we are frustrated as well) is a more intense and prolonged transition period than normal. May and June will always be challenging months with transition, followed by aerfication, but this year in particular, it’s been more challenging than any we can remember. Our contractors are working diligently to return all the courses to acceptable condition ASAP, several have already made it back, and the others are well on their way. I can assure you that accountability is in full measure with our contractors. Good news, this should all be behind us soon. We appreciate your patience and support, and certainly understand your frustration and concern.

Thanks

[Russ_Boston]

I just got this response from the golf administration::

Thanks for taking the time to share your concerns and thoughts. What we are experiencing (and we are frustrated as well) is a more intense and prolonged transition period than normal. May and June will always be challenging months with transition, followed by aerfication, but this year in particular, it’s been more challenging than any we can remember. Our contractors are working diligently to return all the courses to acceptable condition ASAP, several have already made it back, and the others are well on their way. I can assure you that accountability is in full measure with our contractors. Good news, this should all be behind us soon. We appreciate your patience and support, and certainly understand your frustration and concern.


They say soon. I'll take some pics in 3-4 weeks and we'll see. As my mom used to say: "Prepare for the worst - hope for the best"

[waynet]

that response is total garbage. I know I called earlier in the year and got the same response.

[Mikeod]

that response is total garbage. I know I called earlier in the year and got the same response.
What could they have said that would have satisfied you? "We fired everybody"?

While you may disagree it's a transition problem, they have admitted the courses are not in the condition residents or they expect. They didn't say "What problem?"

While you may disagree that some courses have recovered, there is evidence from some posts in this thread that they have seen improvement.

[Bosoxfan]

What could they have said that would have satisfied you? "We fired everybody"?

While you may disagree it's a transition problem, they have admitted the courses are not in the condition residents or they expect. They didn't say "What problem?"

While you may disagree that some courses have recovered, there is evidence from some posts in this thread that they have seen improvement.

Maybe not all but some heads should roll for allowing this situation to get so bad!! I just hope that once they consider things rectified that we will be the envy of the courses around here. Not the laughing stock we are now!

[Russ_Boston]

Just got back from 9 at Bonita. I should have taken a pic of 3 of those greens - no way they come back in a few weeks.

[mickey100]

I just got this response from the golf administration::

Thanks for taking the time to share your concerns and thoughts. What we are experiencing (and we are frustrated as well) is a more intense and prolonged transition period than normal. May and June will always be challenging months with transition, followed by aerfication, but this year in particular, it’s been more challenging than any we can remember. Our contractors are working diligently to return all the courses to acceptable condition ASAP, several have already made it back, and the others are well on their way. I can assure you that accountability is in full measure with our contractors. Good news, this should all be behind us soon. We appreciate your patience and support, and certainly understand your frustration and concern.

So they basically said "Don't worry, be happy". I would have hoped they could have acknowledged the problem a little more strongly and accepted responsibility. Instead its just "challenging" conditions they have no control over, but things will get better eventually. Hmmm.

[waynet]

Mikeod, I don't believe them. I do not think they care even a little. This is not a new issue. It's been going on for a few years now. As stated earlier they have a captive audience. It is the same set of excuses all the time and conditions may improve for awhile but they will deteriorate again,they ALWAYS do. They seem to think we are the only courses facing challenging conditions.

[fred53]

Lets see...don't quote someone and disagree with sarcasm...got it...it's okay to attack "the man" and say they are lying, don't care, etc....hmmm...has anyone(who cares about this)actually spoken(face-to-face/not by phone or email)to "the man" about the situation or is it all hearsay? I've played quite a few of the courses(champion and exec.'s)...some pretty sad greens and fairways and some really good ones too...I've worked on a few courses(not just played)and understand some of the issues they are having...but not all...until one of you actually does a face-to-face with a person who's really in charge then you accomplish nada, nothing, nil, zip, zilch etc.

So instead of just beating the brush and fanning the flames it might be that one of you will make the big leap and find some real answers. Let us know...as for me...I'll just keep playing and shooting good scores on the poorly manicured courses....

If this offends I am sorry...really....but as you know all you need do is just complain to the site folks and they'll delete this post....and there still will be no "real" answers....just saying...

[graciegirl]

Lets see...don't quote someone and disagree with sarcasm...got it...it's okay to attack "the man" and say they are lying, don't care, etc....hmmm...has anyone(who cares about this)actually spoken(face-to-face/not by phone or email)to "the man" about the situation or is it all hearsay? I've played quite a few of the courses(champion and exec.'s)...some pretty sad greens and fairways and some really good ones too...I've worked on a few courses(not just played)and understand some of the issues they are having...but not all...until one of you actually does a face-to-face with a person who's really in charge then you accomplish nada, nothing, nil, zip, zilch etc.

So instead of just beating the brush and fanning the flames it might be that one of you will make the big leap and find some real answers. Let us know...as for me...I'll just keep playing and shooting good scores on the poorly manicured courses....

If this offends I am sorry...really....but as you know all you need do is just complain to the site folks and they'll delete this post....and there still will be no "real" answers....just saying...


My husband said pretty much the same thing when I asked him last night. He plays the Championship courses and plays executives with me. I said there is a thread where people are saying the greens are in awful shape. And he said, "Some are and some aren't".

There have been some pretty helpful and interesting and eye opening posts on this thread and some expected negativity from the usual folks. And some unexpected negativity. So there must be a problem. I will keep reading and learning from all of you.

[mickey100]

Lets see...don't quote someone and disagree with sarcasm...got it...it's okay to attack "the man" and say they are lying, don't care, etc....hmmm...has anyone(who cares about this)actually spoken(face-to-face/not by phone or email)to "the man" about the situation or is it all hearsay? I've played quite a few of the courses(champion and exec.'s)...some pretty sad greens and fairways and some really good ones too...I've worked on a few courses(not just played)and understand some of the issues they are having...but not all...until one of you actually does a face-to-face with a person who's really in charge then you accomplish nada, nothing, nil, zip, zilch etc.

So instead of just beating the brush and fanning the flames it might be that one of you will make the big leap and find some real answers. Let us know...as for me...I'll just keep playing and shooting good scores on the poorly manicured courses....

If this offends I am sorry...really....but as you know all you need do is just complain to the site folks and they'll delete this post....and there still will be no "real" answers....just saying...

No disrespect intended, but how does speaking with someone on the phone versus meeting them in person really differ when you're dealing with customer service people? They seem to have a response that they are giving out to the residents, and they'll offer the same response in person or on the phone.

I don't think the golf administration people are lying, I'm sure they would like to see the courses in good shape, but many of the residents are getting sick of the same excuses year after year. Many residents are not members of TOTV but I play golf in some large groups, and I hear the comments. The response from Administration is always challenging conditions, lack of water, heavy play, blah, blah, and yet there are other courses in the area which seem to be able to surmount these challenges quite readily. It does seem to point towards money and/or maintenance practices. When a community is marketed heavily as a golf community, but the golf courses don't measure up, of course there will be discontent among the avid golfers.

[Bogie Shooter]

Lets see...don't quote someone and disagree with sarcasm...got it...it's okay to attack "the man" and say they are lying, don't care, etc....hmmm...has anyone(who cares about this)actually spoken(face-to-face/not by phone or email)to "the man" about the situation or is it all hearsay? I've played quite a few of the courses(champion and exec.'s)...some pretty sad greens and fairways and some really good ones too...I've worked on a few courses(not just played)and understand some of the issues they are having...but not all...until one of you actually does a face-to-face with a person who's really in charge then you accomplish nada, nothing, nil, zip, zilch etc.

So instead of just beating the brush and fanning the flames it might be that one of you will make the big leap and find some real answers. Let us know...as for me...I'll just keep playing and shooting good scores on the poorly manicured courses....

If this offends I am sorry...really....but as you know all you need do is just complain to the site folks and they'll delete this post....and there still will be no "real" answers....just saying...

Well said. But you will soon hear that you are wrong..................

[Bogie Shooter]

No disrespect intended, but how does speaking with someone on the phone versus meeting them in person really differ when you're dealing with customer service people? They seem to have a response that they are giving out to the residents, and they'll offer the same response in person or on the phone.

I don't think the golf administration people are lying, I'm sure they would like to see the courses in good shape, but many of the residents are getting sick of the same excuses year after year. Many residents are not members of TOTV but I play golf in some large groups, and I hear the comments. The response from Administration is always challenging conditions, lack of water, heavy play, blah, blah, and yet there are other courses in the area which seem to be able to surmount these challenges quite readily. It does seem to point towards money and/or maintenance practices. When a community is marketed heavily as a golf community, but the golf courses don't measure up, of course there will be discontent among the avid golfers.

I think he said "talk to the man".

[Bosoxfan]

..until one of you actually does a face-to-face with a person who's really in charge then you accomplish nada, nothing, nil, zip, zilch etc.

So instead of just beating the brush and fanning the flames it might be that one of you will make the big leap and find some real answers. ...

Do you know who the person in charge is? Are you volunteering for the job? Seems like you've got it all figured out!

[waynet]

the names of the 2 guys in charge are on the scorecards. I have talked to one personally and the same response is given. We know there is a problem and we are trying to fix it blah,blah,blah.

[PaPaLarry]

I just got this response from the golf administration::

Thanks for taking the time to share your concerns and thoughts. What we are experiencing (and we are frustrated as well) is a more intense and prolonged transition period than normal. May and June will always be challenging months with transition, followed by aerfication, but this year in particular, it’s been more challenging than any we can remember. Our contractors are working diligently to return all the courses to acceptable condition ASAP, several have already made it back, and the others are well on their way. I can assure you that accountability is in full measure with our contractors. Good news, this should all be behind us soon. We appreciate your patience and support, and certainly understand your frustration and concern.
If that's the case, why not lower the price until "ALL THE COURSES RETURN TO ACCEPTABLE CONDITIONS"???????? By you explaining this, your admitting we are not getting our moneys worth!! I agree your at least trying.

[mickey100]

I think he said "talk to the man".

Anyone who is "the man" in charge is usually going to be a customer service person in part. That is generally inherent in most management type job descriptions i.e. the ability to work with the public or the customers, in this case, the residents. I wonder how often "the Man" even gets out on the courses. He may spend the bulk of his time in the office, and has his plebes reporting to him.

[Bogie Shooter]

Anyone who is "the man" in charge is usually going to be a customer service person in part. That is generally inherent in most management type job descriptions i.e. the ability to work with the public or the customers, in this case, the residents. I wonder how often "the Man" even gets out on the courses. He may spend the bulk of his time in the office, and has his plebes reporting to him.

"I wonder..............."
"He may...................."
It is easy to post on here and accuse people of most anything.

[graciegirl]

It's all relative.

http://www.goldenocala.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/2014-Schedule-of-Dues-and-Fees1.pdf



What else besides the way greens are cut, the wrong kind of grass, overplay and some microorganism could be the cause, excluding the man sending his plebes out.

[nitehawk]

"I wonder..............."
"He may...................."
It is easy to post on here and accuse people of most anything.

It is also very easy to question any part of any post

[nitehawk]

It's all relative.

http://www.goldenocala.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/2014-Schedule-of-Dues-and-Fees1.pdf



What else besides the way greens are cut, the wrong kind of grass, overplay and some microorganism could be the cause, excluding the man sending his plebes out.

So what are you trying to say ?????????

[graciegirl]

So what are you trying to say ?????????


I am trying to say

Please fix it so I don't have to hear unhappiness in this lovely place.

[YouNeverKnow]

We played Bonifay, Destin, last evening. A picture is worth a thousand words so I am attaching a couple of pictures of the "green" on hole #5 and the tee box on hole #6. Nuff said.

[mickey100]

Thank you, that's what we're talking about. The words "cow pasture" come to mind.

[graciegirl]

Thank you, that's what we're talking about. The words "cow pasture" come to mind.


What does your husband think is the reason for this? Did I read he is a golf pro?

[Polar Bear]

Mehhh...who cares about a few bumps. My putts usually need a little "correction" anyway. :^)

[collie1228]

Posters keep saying we are a "captive audience". Not really true, unless you don't own a car. A captive audience has no other choice. If you are unhappy with golf within The Villages, there are many courses available to you off campus, which are cheaper in many cases (see the many golf discounts advertised in The Daily Sun). I am not pleased with some course conditions at the moment, but I value the convenience of driving my golf cart directly to the course, so I put up with the less than great conditions. Since Mallory was in much better shape last week, my group is returning there tomorrow. But we'll avoid HH and Lopez until we hear there have been improvements.

[nitehawk]

The conditions will never change --- its been 9 years for me and they get progressively worse each year--you can not fight city hall - so i just keep telling all of friend that ask about tv that the golf course conditions are bad to worse. I have and will continue to post my feeling on social media - and were reviews of courses are available - i give a review of a 2 of 5 - i will continue to do this until things change -- maybe the pocketbook will help create a difference.. sorry to all of you and your husbands who dont mind the conditions,

[Polar Bear]

...sorry to all of you and your husbands who dont mind the conditions,

Heh...I know what you mean.

But a case could be made that those who don't mind are the lucky ones, and that sympathy should be directed to those who so severely suffer due to the conditions.

[Bogie Shooter]

Heh...I know what you mean.

But a case could be made that those who don't mind are the lucky ones, and that sympathy should be directed to those who so severely suffer due to the conditions.

:beer3:

[Bruiser1]

Of the courses you've played in the last 2-3 weeks, which greens were the best/worst ? Normal polls on this site only allow you one vote. That's why I didn't set up a poll. If you know how please start one for us.

Please rate them 0-5 (0=poor, 5=great). By each nine hole name on the championship courses if you recall. I'm trying to avoid anything like the Hacienda Hills, and Glen View conditions. G.V.'s practice greens are perfect that's very strange considering the real greens.

IMHO
Palmer = 4.0 Laurel & Cherry
Evans = 3.0 Killdeer & Osprey (Egret is closed)
Bonifay= 3.0
Cane = 3.5
Lopez = 2-2.5 (2 1/2 weeks ago)
Glen V = 0-1
H.Hills = 0-1 Palms & Oaks (Lakes closed until Oct.)

Heron = 1
Tarpon = 2.5
Truman = 3

Palmer
Riley,Laurel & cherry 4.2

Havana Kenya 2.8

Glenview
Fox Stirrup Talley 4
soggy spots on fairways.

Lopez
Torri Pines 3.8

[mickey100]

Havana - 3 out of 5. Greens are pretty rough around the edges. Portions of fairways are bare or have little grass.

[Cedwards38]

I just returned from a trip to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. Greens there are smooth, green, and beautiful. So are the fairways. I'm not sure what makes the difference, but the difference is huge.:shrug:

[Bogie Shooter]

And the point is? One could go to a lot of places and compare, so what?

[gage405]

I think the point could be argued that the people who might be called "greenskeepers"
at The Villages have absolutely no idea what they are doing.

[Bosoxfan]

And the point is? One could go to a lot of places and compare, so what?
"
Yes I agree!! Wouldn't it be nice though if courses"outside" were not better then this place?

[nitehawk]

I just returned from a trip to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina. Greens there are smooth, green, and beautiful. So are the fairways. I'm not sure what makes the difference, but the difference is huge.:shrug:

Thank you- point well taken

And the point is? One could go to a lot of places and compare, so what?

What is your point ???????? I for one am interested in other areas and their conditions. have you been to other courses or do you keep playing the cow pastures. Maybe some of us should leave the bubble and see what a real golf course is suppose to look like.. I dont think there is any defense for the conditions at tv

[Bogie Shooter]

///

[Cedwards38]

Thank you. That's my point. To be more direct, if other areas with similar weather and ecological conditions can have great greens and fairways then why can't The Villages? It's not only true of Hilton Head, but at courses located close by. What is TV doing or not doing differently, and can we change for the better?

[CatskillBill]

Thank you. That's my point. To be more direct, if other areas with similar weather and ecological conditions can have great greens and fairways then why can't The Villages? It's not only true of Hilton Head, but at courses located close by. What is TV doing or not doing differently, and can we change for the better?

The word on the street is that they used untested sand for the top dressing on Redfish and Southern Star. The sand had fungus, and now they have BIG problems.

[karostay]

And the point is? One could go to a lot of places and compare, so what?
If you like to play on bad conditions
You must be in heaven

[mickey100]

I think the point could be argued that the people who might be called "greenskeepers"
at The Villages have absolutely no idea what they are doing.

:agree: it does seem that way at times.

[alanmcdonald]

Played Sandhill last night.

Greens seemed fine to me, everything rolled true and they were pretty fast.

[Bosoxfan]

Just finished playing Cane Garden . I was asking the starter before we teed off on Hibiscus how the course was & he said great!! I don't like calling people liars but his words were untrue. The fairways were very good but the greens wer a 2 on Hibiscus & 2.5 just a tad better on Jacarnda!

[nitehawk]

I have just posted a few reviews on some sites where you can post you view of golf course conditions and will continue to do so until thing change - which could be never.

[Polar Bear]

Bogart - 2.5 (Some greens were much better, but not enough consistency for an overall high rating.)

[RErmer]

Lopez today (Erinn/Ashley) we're 4.5 IMHO. Much improved over few weeks ago.

[N44125]

Played Tarpon Boil this morning. The Starter said Redfish to open the 13th or the 20th, probably the latter. Southern Star, no updates, still a work in progress.

[fred53]

Played Tarpon Boil 2wks ago...just been aerated and top dressed...played today and while much better still need at least a few weeks to fill in better and be a bit more consistent. The greens held pretty well, but were a bit bumpy...you had to hit five footers firmer than usual for them to no veer off line.

All-in-all an improvement....

[waynet]

Improvement is not enough. Wake up. Every year its the same garbage.

[Mikeod]

Played Tarpon Boil this morning. The Starter said Redfish to open the 13th or the 20th, probably the latter. Southern Star, no updates, still a work in progress.

Spoke with Todd Basso today. Redfish will reopen on the 20th. He couldn't give even an estimate on Southern Star.

[collie1228]

Played Lopez on Tuesday (Ashley to Torrey) and found the greens to be much improved from two weeks ago. They are not perfect, but most of the bare spots have filled-in and the ball rolled nicely. They were somewhat slow. We also played Hacienda Hills on the $6 evening special on Wednesday, and while the greens are not the best I've seen there, they are OK. There is evidence of fungus on the edges that is being treated, and they are quite slow. But no major complaints about the condition of the course.

[Bosoxfan]

I heard through the grapevine so I know not if it's true that the head of golf management has been fired. Anyone have any definite info on any firings ?

[Polar Bear]

Mallory Caroline yesterday: 3.5-4. Some bare/rough areas, but generally good (both greens and fairways) and very enjoyable overall.

[Russ_Boston]

Lopez was in excellent condition today - greens, fairways and rough.

[collie1228]

Hacienda Hills greens and fairways were very playable yesterday. We did note a speed difference between Oaks and Palms. Palms greens were slower, but still good.

[dewilson58]

Evans Prairie was good.

[mickey100]

We found Lopez to be good the other day.

[jdguscinski]

LOL. I do understand that. It's just that this is a community of around 100-120K with the equivalent of sixteen 18 hole golf courses. (I considered two 27 hole courses as the equivalent of three 18 hole courses.) I can't believe there is another place of similar population with that many courses within its boundaries. And that's not even considering the executive courses. If you ask someone if sixteen courses are enough for a general population of 100-120K, they would think about half that would be fine. The difference is that we are able to play every day, if desired, whereas areas with a smaller retiree population don't have the everyday volume.

Please understand I am not trying to minimize your concerns. It just seems hard to consider this place has too few golf courses.
If you can't get a tee time, how does that not say there are not enough courses!? Even if that is only during peak season. The advertisement was play free golf for life - really, not if you can't get a tee time!

[jdguscinski]

What is so special about Florida................the 90+ temperature?
that is why they plant Bermuda....it is "supposed" to thrive in high temperatures, except here?

[Mikeod]

If you can't get a tee time, how does that not say there are not enough courses!? Even if that is only during peak season. The advertisement was play free golf for life - really, not if you can't get a tee time!

The ad is free golf for life, not free golf EVERY DAY for life. With a wide time window, and a large number of desired courses, a resident would rarely be shut out. The point system does a decent job of allocating tee times so that no one can hog the courses.

[mickey100]

My group plays executive course once a week during the high season. One of the members plays twice a week, so has a few points. We were shut out at least 3 or 4 times last winter, given about an 8 hour window with a large number of courses. If I had extend the window to include tee times at 6 or 7 pm at night, yes, we might have gotten tee times. But we wouldn't have been able to finish the round for lack of light. Now if you're talking about a single resident, or perhaps a couple, I supposed it would be easier to get tee times.

[nitehawk]

My group plays executive course once a week during the high season. One of the members plays twice a week, so has a few points. We were shut out at least 3 or 4 times last winter, given about an 8 hour window with a large number of courses. If I had extend the window to include tee times at 6 or 7 pm at night, yes, we might have gotten tee times. But we wouldn't have been able to finish the round for lack of light. Now if you're talking about a single resident, or perhaps a couple, I supposed it would be easier to get tee times.


Too many large groups

[graciegirl]

We found Lopez to be good the other day.


So glad to hear things seem to be improving.

[Mikeod]

My group plays executive course once a week during the high season. One of the members plays twice a week, so has a few points. We were shut out at least 3 or 4 times last winter, given about an 8 hour window with a large number of courses. If I had extend the window to include tee times at 6 or 7 pm at night, yes, we might have gotten tee times. But we wouldn't have been able to finish the round for lack of light. Now if you're talking about a single resident, or perhaps a couple, I supposed it would be easier to get tee times.
Actually, I'm talking about the two groups I play in on executive courses that range from 12-16 players in the summer and up to 32 in the high season. This past winter we were shut out once. We don't put anyone in the request with more than three points, and no guests. We play any course and any time up to 3:00 PM.

[mickey100]

Actually, I'm talking about the two groups I play in on executive courses that range from 12-16 players in the summer and up to 32 in the high season. This past winter we were shut out once. We don't put anyone in the request with more than three points, and no guests. We play any course and any time up to 3:00 PM.

Lucky you. We never put in a guest, although one or two people may have had 3 points. And we didn't put in for the really early tee times. We have only 4 people in the group, so the point average may be adversely affected by one person's points.

[graciegirl]

How are the championship courses these days? I am interested to hear from the frequent naysayers if things have improved.

[dbussone]

How are the championship courses these days? I am interested to hear from the frequent naysayers if things have improved.


I think things have improved Gracie. I only play the champ courses but the are definitely getting better. And they are also better than several of the local outside clubs that I have played in the last month.

[collie1228]

I think the recent rains have helped all of the championship courses. We played Bonifay on Friday and Lopez the previous Tuesday and both were in fine shape. Our plans for Glenview were washed out yesterday.

[CraigC]

Played Egret and the first 5 holes of Kildeer yesterday before the rain forced us to quit. The greens were in great shape on both.

[mickey100]

Good to hear. We played Evans Prairie a couple of weeks ago, and the greens and fairways were like concrete. The rains must have softened things up. According to the aerification schedule, they're supposed to start aerification tomorrow on Evans Prairie.