Southern Oaks

[MidWestIA]

Southern Oaks (no oaks but lots of turnpike)
It is a bland course they make harder by having ultra small fairways not close to the tees or greens with ultra tall shaggy rough the kind that if your ball falls under the grass you cannot see it 3 feet away.

[John Mayes]

Southern Oaks (no oaks but lots of turnpike)
It is a bland course they make harder by having ultra small fairways not close to the tees or greens with ultra tall shaggy rough the kind that if your ball falls under the grass you cannot see it 3 feet away.

So I take it that you didn’t like it.

[Bogie Shooter]

And yet, others complain that at some of the older courses the rough is cut so short it really isn't a rough.
Tough to please everybody......................................

[tophcfa]

Have been waiting for first hand reviews of the new course, keep them coming.

[asianthree]

Playing Tuesday. That being said, some have problems playing tight fairways, water, sand. Playing the correct tees, make the game enjoyable.

The complaint of the turnpike would be a new one for me. Did OP have problems with the noise, slicing onto the freeway, or playing thru the traffic, to get a Frozen Mocha at the Service Center.:clap2:

[Chi-Town]

An 18 hole course has been a long time coming south of 44. Happy that it's open for the people living there. Makes that area more if a golf car community. Hit 'em straight.

[Papa_lecki]

Just watched Don’s video on Southern Oaks - it seems like a great course.
His video showed lots of Southern Oaks trees - and Don commented they tried to preserve as many healthy Oaks as possible.

[MSchad]

Southern Oaks (no oaks but lots of turnpike)
It is a bland course they make harder by having ultra small fairways not close to the tees or greens with ultra tall shaggy rough the kind that if your ball falls under the grass you cannot see it 3 feet away.
Sounds like a course you need to plan your shots and not just swing away. Not a course everyone would appreciate but many players will.

[emailforentries@gmail.com]

We like playing championship courses. Don’t mind paying to play a longer course. Gold Tees. The ambassador continues to tell us to go up to the 150 mark, drop a ball, to pick up pace of play. The group’s following us tee off from the shortest tees. It doesn’t seem fair that we can’t play gold just because the people behind us play a shorter game or have only 2 players. We still play a 3.75 hour game without being rushed. It totally ruins the play!

[kcrazorbackfan]

Southern Oaks (no oaks but lots of turnpike)
It is a bland course they make harder by having ultra small fairways not close to the tees or greens with ultra tall shaggy rough the kind that if your ball falls under the grass you cannot see it 3 feet away.

Play better and you won’t be able to complain….

[villagetinker]

My neighbor just played this course and was very pleased. Me, if i shoot my age on an exec course I am doing good.

[Funkman]

Played it yesterday morning (had to start on 4 because of the fog delay) rough was longer than most places down here which I liked, obviously some of the fairways weren't in the best of shape with some shaggy areas and some sparse spots, as it's still a work in progress. Greens were in good shape and there will be some interesting pin placements. No satellite yet for the Garmin watch but I guess they're working on that and the individual holes haven't been rated/handicapped yet.

Staff kept everyone informed as to what was going on concerning the delay and how they were going to handle it (I think it ended up being a little over an hour)

Liked the set up although the highway is pretty close to a few of the holes

I'm looking forward to playing there again

[golfing eagles]

Southern Oaks (no oaks but lots of turnpike)
It is a bland course they make harder by having ultra small fairways not close to the tees or greens with ultra tall shaggy rough the kind that if your ball falls under the grass you cannot see it 3 feet away.

Played it today. Obviously the course is immature, but hardly "bland". IMHO, the rough is overly punitive, there are many lies from which I couldn't get any kind of decent contact, and a ball that hits that rough will roll about 2 yards. It is relatively short--I played the blue tees which were barely over 6,000 yds., the golds are about 6,500, there are no blacks, and the whites are only 5,550. Similar to playing Pensacola to Destin at Bonifay, there are 6 par 3's, 6 4's and 6 5's. For a course that just opened, the greens were in pretty good shape and there is plenty of contour. The turnpike is a non-issue. I'll be back. Best advice---don't hit it into the rough:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[John Mayes]

Played it today. Obviously the course is immature, but hardly "bland". IMHO, the rough is overly punitive, there are many lies from which I couldn't get any kind of decent contact, and a ball that hits that rough will roll about 2 yards. It is relatively short--I played the blue tees which were barely over 6,000 yds., the golds are about 6,500, there are no blacks, and the whites are only 5,550. Similar to playing Pensacola to Destin at Bonifay, there are 6 par 3's, 6 4's and 6 5's. For a course that just opened, the greens were in pretty good shape and there is plenty of contour. The turnpike is a non-issue. I'll be back. Best advice---don't hit it into the rough:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

Great advice on the rough…..if only if I could get my swing to cooperate.

[alwann]

Sounds like a course you need to plan your shots and not just swing away. Not a course everyone would appreciate but many players will.

I don't suppose this course will be in the databases of GPS range finders anytime soon.
Hope I'll get paired with a laser range finder player.

[tophcfa]

Played it today. Obviously the course is immature, but hardly "bland". IMHO, the rough is overly punitive, there are many lies from which I couldn't get any kind of decent contact, and a ball that hits that rough will roll about 2 yards. It is relatively short--I played the blue tees which were barely over 6,000 yds., the golds are about 6,500, there are no blacks, and the whites are only 5,550. Similar to playing Pensacola to Destin at Bonifay, there are 6 par 3's, 6 4's and 6 5's. For a course that just opened, the greens were in pretty good shape and there is plenty of contour. The turnpike is a non-issue. I'll be back. Best advice---don't hit it into the rough:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

Thanks for the review, I like the same amount of par 3, 4, and 5’s. Deep Bermuda rough is always very nasty, I wish we could play summer fairways with winter rough year round.

[DaleDivine]

Played it today. Obviously the course is immature, but hardly "bland". IMHO, the rough is overly punitive, there are many lies from which I couldn't get any kind of decent contact, and a ball that hits that rough will roll about 2 yards. It is relatively short--I played the blue tees which were barely over 6,000 yds., the golds are about 6,500, there are no blacks, and the whites are only 5,550. Similar to playing Pensacola to Destin at Bonifay, there are 6 par 3's, 6 4's and 6 5's. For a course that just opened, the greens were in pretty good shape and there is plenty of contour. The turnpike is a non-issue. I'll be back. Best advice---don't hit it into the rough:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

I keep yelling at my ball to stay out of the rough and water but for some reason it never listens.

:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[golfing eagles]

I don't suppose this course will be in the databases of GPS range finders anytime soon.
Hope I'll get paired with a laser range finder player.

According to the supervisor, it's already mapped and will be available on golf buddy(and I assume all other systems) Friday. I put my score in GHIN and they have the course rated and sloped from all tees.

[coconutmama]

Southern Oaks (no oaks but lots of turnpike)
It is a bland course they make harder by having ultra small fairways not close to the tees or greens with ultra tall shaggy rough the kind that if your ball falls under the grass you cannot see it 3 feet away.

Looking forward to playing it. Thanks for the warning on the roughs.

At least it is not another dang Pitch & Putt. Need more executive & championship courses south of 44.

[JMintzer]

Looking forward to playing it. Thanks for the warning on the roughs.

At least it is not another dang Pitch & Putt. Need more executive & championship courses south of 44.

I find hybrid irons are great for getting out of that cabbage. I carry a 4 & 5 hybrid... Much easier to hit than the regular irons...

[Burgy]

Southern Oaks (no oaks but lots of turnpike)
It is a bland course they make harder by having ultra small fairways not close to the tees or greens with ultra tall shaggy rough the kind that if your ball falls under the grass you cannot see it 3 feet away.
Pretty harsh. It is a new course. Agree long rough was very tough but will probably be shortened with time. Some holes very wet in front of the green making it hard to roll on. Pay attention to where the middle of the fairway is on your drive as the holes have minor doglegs. It will get easier when it firms up with traffic and less watering. For now expect to be penalized for being in bunker or rough more than other courses. You don't have to wind thru streets or houses but turnpike not far away on some holes.

[Lottoguy]

Those homes are going to get pelted with golf balls. Bad way to meet new people.

[Lottoguy]

People who love golf should have thought twice living south of 44.

[jarodrig]

I was invited to play a free “preview “ round last Friday along with my guest. I was disappointed that the “preview” was only nine holes !

That said , I totally disagree with the OP ! The layout is very nice and the course has a lot of character.

Greens were in great shape as was the rest of the course (generally). Difficulty level , as with any course, will vary according to the tee box you choose to play from .

The OP is entitled to his opinion but don’t let his comments dissuade you from wanting to play the course whereby you will form your own opinions !!!

[Bogie Shooter]

Those homes are going to get pelted with golf balls. Bad way to meet new people.

All of the championship courses have holes where you can meet new people with an errant shot……not that unusual.

[alwann]

Gold Wing's fly-over shows what looks like a starter's shack instead of a pro shop. Is this correct?

Also, if one would come there by car, where is the parking and cart rental?

Looks like the course is open but not complete as far as convenience and necessities go.

[alwann]

I keep yelling at my ball to stay out of the rough and water but for some reason it never listens.

:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

Unless you're playing a Titleist, your ball only understands Korean.

[MSchad]

People who love golf should have thought twice living south of 44.

I live south off 44 and love golf. I golf all the time, in and out of the villages.

[kcrazorbackfan]

Gold Wing's fly-over shows what looks like a starter's shack instead of a pro shop. Is this correct?

Also, if one would come there by car, where is the parking and cart rental?

Looks like the course is open but not complete as far as convenience and necessities go.

Pro shop to be ready in a couple of months in the Market building across the street; pay your fees at the starter shack. Cart rental is in the parking lot adjacent to the new putting course.

[DaleDivine]

Looking forward to playing it. Thanks for the warning on the roughs.

At least it is not another dang Pitch & Putt. Need more executive & championship courses south of 44.

There are already 5 executive courses(more to come), (now)1 championship course, and a pitch & putt course with another being built now. If that's not enough you can get in your golf cart and go above 44. I do that to play the courses south of 44...

:popcorn::popcorn::popcorn:

[Dilligas]

I keep yelling at my ball to stay out of the rough and water but for some reason it never listens.

:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:
Draw bigger ears on your balls.

[Hape2Bhr]

According to the supervisor, it's already mapped and will be available on golf buddy(and I assume all other systems) Friday. I put my score in GHIN and they have the course rated and sloped from all tees.

I hope it wasn't the same raters (or equivalent) who rated our other championship courses. Those ratings (both slope and rating) are out of line.

[vagent711]

Great use of land close to the turnpike!

[Catfishjeff]

Our foursome, two couples, played the course yesterday. We decided to play it as a best ball foursome to both speed up our play and learn the course using our best shots. The good news is that as a foursome, we shot a two over 74. We felt guilty taking divots on the new and immature fairways, especially since the course did not have sand available for our sand bottles. As stated before, the rough is very fluffy and if you can find your ball, which usually is buried in the fluff, it’s a challenge to get a clean hit out of it. They have mowed the fairways thin and a long distance from the tees. I would suspect that eventually the fairways will be widened and brought closer to the tees. The greens are very mature, fast and challenging. There are more undulations than what you see from above in Don Wiley’s drone footage. As a group our overall impression is that we welcome the opportunity to play this course as part of our regular rotation. And when the new bridge is open across the turnpike, this course will go from being 35 minutes away to 10 minutes away.

[justjim]

Pretty harsh. It is a new course. Agree long rough was very tough but will probably be shortened with time. Some holes very wet in front of the green making it hard to roll on. Pay attention to where the middle of the fairway is on your drive as the holes have minor doglegs. It will get easier when it firms up with traffic and less watering. For now expect to be penalized for being in bunker or rough more than other courses. You don't have to wind thru streets or houses but turnpike not far away on some holes.

Will play it soon. My guess is they kept the rough long until the course matures a bit more. Maybe because of basketball I have always thought noise as such, while I was playing golf, was overrated as a distraction.

[golfing eagles]

Our foursome, two couples, played the course yesterday. We decided to play it as a best ball foursome to both speed up our play and learn the course using our best shots. The good news is that as a foursome, we shot a two over 74. We felt guilty taking divots on the new and immature fairways, especially since the course did not have sand available for our sand bottles. As stated before, the rough is very fluffy and if you can find your ball, which usually is buried in the fluff, it’s a challenge to get a clean hit out of it. They have mowed the fairways thin and a long distance from the tees. I would suspect that eventually the fairways will be widened and brought closer to the tees. The greens are very mature, fast and challenging. There are more undulations than what you see from above in Don Wiley’s drone footage. As a group our overall impression is that we welcome the opportunity to play this course as part of our regular rotation. And when the new bridge is open across the turnpike, this course will go from being 35 minutes away to 10 minutes away.

Just one correction----there was a sandbox on both 1 and 10, plus the ambassador has sand

[Flyers999]

There are already 5 executive courses(more to come), (now)1 championship course, and a pitch & putt course with another being built now. If ......



Don't forget the Putt-Putt!

[golfing eagles]

I hope it wasn't the same raters (or equivalent) who rated our other championship courses. Those ratings (both slope and rating) are out of line.

I've played golf for 52 years, in years gone by at a fairly high amateur level, but I have absolutely no expertise in determining a course rating or slope. Do you? Or are you just babbling?

[MSchad]

Played Southern Oaks today. Nice course IMO. Narrower fairways and longer rough put a premium on hitting the fairway. I like the force carry to carry the taller grass to make the fairway. The greens were excellent rolling smooth and true. I also liked the undulating greens, not drastic but challenging. Back nine needs a bit more time to fully mature but in good condition. Front 9 was excellent. I think most all would enjoy this course.

[Rwirish]

I haven’t played it but a friend did. He liked the course but said noise from the turnpike was annoying and took away from an otherwise enjoyable round.

[kcrazorbackfan]

People who love golf should have thought twice living south of 44.

Why?!?! When the Southern Oaks bridge is finished there will be 3 more championships, 5 more executives and another driving range.

So again, why the statement?

[JMintzer]

Why?!?! When the Southern Oaks bridge is finished there will be 3 more championships, 5 more executives and another driving range.

So again, why the statement?

Well, it will be more than a few years before any of that is completed...

That matters to some, and not a whit to others...

Why so many people are insecure about where they live is astounding...

[coconutmama]

[QUOTE=kcrazorbackfan;2030512]Why?!?! When the Southern Oaks bridge is finished there will be 3 more championships, 5 more executives and another driving range.

Thanks. I knew about one executive coming but not about the others. Helpful response

[asianthree]

I hope it wasn't the same raters (or equivalent) who rated our other championship courses. Those ratings (both slope and rating) are out of line.

There is a group that rates all the courses. Yes it is the same, guys who have been together for many years, and taken qualified rating classes. Maybe you attended ratings classes with them.

You can read an article about the group online in the Sun. It was recent prior to course opening

[Hape2Bhr]

I've played golf for 52 years, in years gone by at a fairly high amateur level, but I have absolutely no expertise in determining a course rating or slope. Do you? Or are you just babbling?

Not babbling any more than you often do, but as a high level amateur I'd expect you could care less about the ratings and slope. And I am not particularly concerned about the rating. However the slope, which supposedly concerns the bogie golfer is a concern. The slopes here are too low. It seems as if the slope ratings have been determined by scratch golfers. I've held off participating in Men's Day, because comparable and/or better golfers had handicaps 4/5 higher than mine; but that will change. One more round will remove my last score being used from up north. My scores have been similar to the scores I brought down with me, however my handicap has already gone up by 4. Thank you course raters.

:popcorn:

[tophcfa]

Not babbling any more than you often do, but as a high level amateur I'd expect you could care less about the ratings and slope. And I am not particularly concerned about the rating. However the slope, which supposedly concerns the bogie golfer is a concern. The slopes here are too low. It seems as if the slope ratings have been determined by scratch golfers. I've held off participating in Men's Day, because comparable and/or better golfers had handicaps 4/5 higher than mine; but that will change. One more round will remove my last score being used from up north. My scores have been similar to the scores I brought down with me, however my handicap has already gone up by 4. Thank you course raters.

:popcorn:

I don’t play in leagues, so I don’t bother to look at slope or rating since I don’t keep an official handicap. That being said, what you stated makes absolutely no sense, I would expect the slope and ratings at the Villages courses to be substantially lower than courses up north. The courses in the Villages are way easier than the courses I play up north. The typical course up north is longer from the white t’s than the Villages courses are from the blues. The fairways up north are much narrower and less forgiving, out of bounds markers are frequently in play, forced carries are very common, the rough is typically much longer, the sand in the traps is poorer quality and very inconsistent, and the weather typically adds an additional challenge. The only things easier about northern courses are that there is more grass under your ball in the fairways and the bent grass green accept a ball better and roll more consistently than Bermuda. However, the new hybrid greens at Tierra Del Sol and Lopez are very nice and play much more like bent grass. I assume the greens at Southern Oaks are the hybrid greens?

[Catfishjeff]

Just one correction----there was a sandbox on both 1 and 10, plus the ambassador has sand
Interesting about the sand. The starter told us they didn’t have any sand so we never looked, or it came in after we played.

[kcrazorbackfan]

Well, it will be more than a few years before any of that is completed...

That matters to some, and not a whit to others...

Why so many people are insecure about where they live is astounding...

And it also sounds like some people are insecure about where others live, i.e., north Villages vs south Villages.

[JMintzer]

And it also sounds like some people are insecure about where others live, i.e., north Villages vs south Villages.

How someone could be insecure about where someone else lives makes no sense...

[Hape2Bhr]

[QUOTE=tophcfa;2030810]I don’t play in leagues, so I don’t bother to look at slope or rating since I don’t keep an official handicap. That being said, what you stated makes absolutely no sense, I would expect the slope and ratings at the Villages courses to be substantially lower than courses up north...]

Think about it; yes it does make sense.

I indicated my scores have been equal/similar here as up north. Shooting a 78 on a course with a 123 slope (up north or anywhere) will give you a single digit handicap or close to it. Shoot that same score on TV courses from the white tees, around 110 slope, and you get a considerably higher handicap. The ratings are out of kilter here.

[alwann]

Southern Oaks (no oaks but lots of turnpike)
It is a bland course they make harder by having ultra small fairways not close to the tees or greens with ultra tall shaggy rough the kind that if your ball falls under the grass you cannot see it 3 feet away.

I'll say this much: It ain't ready for prime time and not deserving of the higher green fees ($3 dollars more) charged to play there.

[tophcfa]

I'll say this much: It ain't ready for prime time and not deserving of the higher green fees ($3 dollars more) charged to play there.

Wasn’t aware the green fees charged are a premium versus other courses. Probably just taking advantage of the “new course” demand and will be the same as other courses when the much higher winter rates are announced in about a month.

[JSR22]

Wasn’t aware the green fees charged are a premium versus other courses. Probably just taking advantage of the “new course” demand and will be the same as other courses when the much higher winter rates are announced in about a month.

The winter rates typically go up $3 from the previous winter rate. Not much higher.

[DrBrutyle109]

Anyone know if you there is anywhere you can park a car at the course?

[kcrazorbackfan]

I'll say this much: It ain't ready for prime time and not deserving of the higher green fees ($3 dollars more) charged to play there.

Then don’t play there. Simple decision, isn’t it?

There are a lot of people that are going to still play there even with the wannabe pro’s rendering their negative decisions.

[alwann]

One and done.

[Priebehouse]

If I ever play the course, I will notify the proper authorities about my wide slicing. Also I will be careful when driving northbound on the turnpike...:1rotfl:

[noslices1]

I hope it wasn't the same raters (or equivalent) who rated our other championship courses. Those ratings (both slope and rating) are out of line.

In California we rated our course after major renovations. 500 rounds from each tee box and rated each hole based on those scores and USGA rated the Slope and total handicap for the course based on all those score cards.

[asianthree]

First time on the course, shot 3 over. Is a very nice course. It’s going to be immature, it’s new. The turnpike doesn’t bother me, but a sudden conversation in my backswing can be annoying.

The rough is impressive, finding a ball is like a hole in one, just luck. Sadly it does slow down play, for those looking for their ball. You almost have to step on it to find it. Lost one ball, partner lost 4.

Course Is a work in progress, that will be appreciated by many, hated by a few.

[Oneiric]

Southern Oaks (no oaks but lots of turnpike)
It is a bland course they make harder by having ultra small fairways not close to the tees or greens with ultra tall shaggy rough the kind that if your ball falls under the grass you cannot see it 3 feet away.

I've always thought what makes a course "interesting" or "memorable" is if you can remember each of the holes after you play. Although Southern Oaks is new, convenient, and beautiful, the holes are a lot alike, becoming a blur after 18 of them.

[DARFAP]

Thanks for the positive review.

[markfrat]

Southern Oaks (no oaks but lots of turnpike)
It is a bland course they make harder by having ultra small fairways not close to the tees or greens with ultra tall shaggy rough the kind that if your ball falls under the grass you cannot see it 3 feet away.

You must have missed all the Oaks on the front nine.

[kkingston57]

Have not played it yet. Live in the Spanish Springs area and will need a full tank of gas(ha ha) to get there. Do not want to pay TV(preferred) rates yet and will want to wait till course is a little more mature and I doubt that this is going to happen anytime soom, especially since we are now in the cool/cold months

Rough sounds like all of the other champ courses. A little cool weather will make that change.

Harbor Hills is closer to me and much faster to get to and rates are less, especially since we will be having guests.

[M2inOR]

People who love golf should have thought twice living south of 44.

Au contraire...

As my sign shows, we are in Marsh Bend. In addition to the course down here, we've played north of 44, too, many times.

We've traveled by golf cart as far as Lopez, Glenview, and Tierra del Sol. All reachable by cart or car.

And as others have noted, many more courses are coming south of 44.

Only surprise for Southern Oaks, a $5 increase with no traditional championship amenities!

[Ken D.]

[QUOTE=tophcfa;2030810]I don’t play in leagues, so I don’t bother to look at slope or rating since I don’t keep an official handicap. That being said, what you stated makes absolutely no sense, I would expect the slope and ratings at the Villages courses to be substantially lower than courses up north...]

Think about it; yes it does make sense.

I indicated my scores have been equal/similar here as up north. Shooting a 78 on a course with a 123 slope (up north or anywhere) will give you a single digit handicap or close to it. Shoot that same score on TV courses from the white tees, around 110 slope, and you get a considerably higher handicap. The ratings are out of kilter here.
Simple solution, play from the blues. Same slope rating as whites up north.

[Rainger99]

An 18 hole course has been a long time coming south of 44. Happy that it's open for the people living there. Makes that area more if a golf car community. Hit 'em straight.
It looks like it will be even longer for an Executive course south of 44 and NORTH of the turnpike. If you live in Chitty Chatty, Hawkins, St. Catherine, Citrus Grove, or Cason Hammock, there are no executive courses nearby.

[pdp07]

I like the course, nice layout. Really good condition considering it's age. Greens were in really good condition, putted well and will probably hold better when they mature. Rough is the way a rough should be, a little bit of a penalty for missing the fairway. Only negative is the traffic noise from the Turnpike, it doesn't affect my game, just don't like it.
:coolsmiley::coolsmiley::coolsmiley:

[dewilson58]

Yesterday.

Rough was not as bad as prior posters........posters are just use to NO rough.
No GPS for Golf Buddy.
No mirrors on flags for lasers.
Greens roll nice.
Most of the fairways are in good shape, good amount of grass.
Greens are the most undulating in TV.........fun.
Limited trash cans.............why???
Five holes for the first bathroom.............plan ahead.
Greatly disappointed in the traffic noise.
The layout is just an "out & back" course.

Same old designer, more or less the same old design.

Glad the Southerners have a course.

[golfing eagles]

Yesterday.

Rough was not as bad as prior posters........posters are just use to NO rough.
No GPS for Golf Buddy.
No mirrors on flags for lasers.
Greens roll nice.
Most of the fairways are in good shape, good amount of grass.
Greens are the most undulating in TV.........fun.
Limited trash cans.............why???
Five holes for the first bathroom.............plan ahead.
Greatly disappointed in the traffic noise.
The layout is just an "out & back" course.

Same old designer, more or less the same old design.

Glad the Southerners have a course.

Sorry, but have to disagree about the rough. I've played from the 5" rough at Bethpage Black 200 times, I played PGA National 3 weeks after the Honda and they had not cut the rough since the tournament, and the rough at Southern Oaks was almost as punitive.

[RBGolfer]

Southern Oaks (no oaks but lots of turnpike)
It is a bland course they make harder by having ultra small fairways not close to the tees or greens with ultra tall shaggy rough the kind that if your ball falls under the grass you cannot see it 3 feet away.

Just got back in town after three weeks “on the road” visiting family in Seattle, WA and Tucson, AZ (we had a wonderful time, but boy it’s great to be home again!).

Now, regarding these critical comments regarding the new Southern Oaks golf course…here’s my take - I believe this entry was submitted on November 14th… 2 days after the course was opened to the public…really? Patience should be the order of the day. It’s still naturally immature, but will, I’m confident, grow into a new exceptional option for those wanting to play a regulation course. Yes, there are no oaks, but this land was ranch land and Southern Oaks is such a laudable use of this natural landscape…a great new addition to the St. Catherine area. :coolsmiley:

[Guychancey]

I played it last week and found it to be a very fun course and in great shape for as new as it is. Loved it

[donassaid]

I have heard nothing but negative comments from everyone who played it. No character, no trees, no water, deep rough, turnpike noise, etc. We watched the Pro shootout a couple of weeks ago and only got to see the front nine. To my complete surprise, there were beautiful trees, water on several holes, multi tiered greens and I didn't even notice the traffic noise. I thought it was beautiful and can't wait to play it. I read where they are averaging 275 rounds/day so it must not be too bad of a course.

[swooner]

Wow! And after Jan. 1 it's only gonna cost $52 for a priority member.

[MSchad]

I have heard nothing but negative comments from everyone who played it. No character, no trees, no water, deep rough, turnpike noise, etc. We watched the Pro shootout a couple of weeks ago and only got to see the front nine. To my complete surprise, there were beautiful trees, water on several holes, multi tiered greens and I didn't even notice the traffic noise. I thought it was beautiful and can't wait to play it. I read where they are averaging 275 rounds/day so it must not be too bad of a course.

Those who don’t like it were probably in the rough often. You need to be in the fairway. In most cases you can’t (shouldn’t) go for the green from the rough like the other courses. Play smart and play back into the fairway. You also need to play from the correct tees or you won’t reach the fairway.

[tophcfa]

Yesterday.

Rough was not as bad as prior posters........posters are just use to NO rough.
No GPS for Golf Buddy.
No mirrors on flags for lasers.
Greens roll nice.
Most of the fairways are in good shape, good amount of grass.
Greens are the most undulating in TV.........fun.
Limited trash cans.............why???
Five holes for the first bathroom.............plan ahead.
Greatly disappointed in the traffic noise.
The layout is just an "out & back" course.

Same old designer, more or less the same old design.

Glad the Southerners have a course.

With pace of play in mind, why in the world would they not put reflectors for lasers on the flagsticks like the other 12 Championship courses? That one has me scratching my head?

[dewilson58]

With pace of play in mind, why in the world would they not put reflectors for lasers on the flagsticks like the other 12 Championship courses? That one has me scratching my head?

Hoping they will........a lot of shaking old hands trying to hit the stick.

Reflectors might be in a ship off the California coast.

[Calisport]

I agree. Pretty accurate about the course. I hit a seven iron straight out toward the hole. Should be in the fairway? No. There was rough and I couldn't find my ball where it should have been fairway in front of the hole. The rough is only maybe 3-4 inches thick but its porous and curly, hiding your ball underneath it.

[jarodrig]

I have heard nothing but negative comments from everyone who played it. No character, no trees, no water, deep rough, turnpike noise, etc. We watched the Pro shootout a couple of weeks ago and only got to see the front nine. To my complete surprise, there were beautiful trees, water on several holes, multi tiered greens and I didn't even notice the traffic noise. I thought it was beautiful and can't wait to play it. I read where they are averaging 275 rounds/day so it must not be too bad of a course.

What you have to realize that some people are chronic whiners and complainers…….This forum is full of them !! They would complain even if Jack Nicklaus picked them up personally in a limo and took them to the course and spent the day with them !

That said, I have played the course twice now and could not agree with you more ! It’s a beautiful layout with lots of challenges for every level depending on the tee box played from….

Sure, it needs a little time to mature a little for obvious reasons but the great thing about it is that no one is forced to play it !

If you choose NOT to play based on the report of these Debbie Downer whiners then you are missing an opportunity to judge it for yourself.

And those that DO want to play it will thank you for creating additional tee times to choose from ! :popcorn:

[Bogie Shooter]

Been here 15+ years and heard this same bitchin on every new course.

[Boston-Sean]

I agree. Pretty accurate about the course. I hit a seven iron straight out toward the hole. Should be in the fairway? No. There was rough and I couldn't find my ball where it should have been fairway in front of the hole. The rough is only maybe 3-4 inches thick but its porous and curly, hiding your ball underneath it.

Which hole and which Tee were you hitting from?

Without that info not much can be gleaned from your comment.

[CODYCAT]

Southern Oaks (no oaks but lots of turnpike)
It is a bland course they make harder by having ultra small fairways not close to the tees or greens with ultra tall shaggy rough the kind that if your ball falls under the grass you cannot see it 3 feet away.

I just fixed the OAKS problem. Played it 4 times already and again this Friday. I didn’t notice any holes that crossed the freeway and created an issue. I’m new to the Villages and have already played about half the Championship and about 10-12 of the executives. They are all nice. A few I like better than others but I have found nothing wrong with any of them. “If you move here don’t bring your attitudes or ideas from where you are from”. There are mostly really great people here. I love the Villages. Can’t wait for more courses on the other side of the freeway.

[rustyp]

What you have to realize that some people are chronic whiners and complainers…….This forum is full of them !! They would complain even if Jack Nicklaus picked them up personally in a limo and took them to the course and spent the day with them !

That said, I have played the course twice now and could not agree with you more ! It’s a beautiful layout with lots of challenges for every level depending on the tee box played from….

Sure, it needs a little time to mature a little for obvious reasons but the great thing about it is that no one is forced to play it !

If you choose NOT to play based on the report of these Debbie Downer whiners then you are missing an opportunity to judge it for yourself.

And those that DO want to play it will thank you for creating additional tee times to choose from ! :popcorn:


Jack called and wasn't happy. He noted Nancy and Arnold have their own courses in TV. Also he was concerned his limo is too long to negotiate the roundabouts.

[Marathon Man]

I agree. Pretty accurate about the course. I hit a seven iron straight out toward the hole. Should be in the fairway? No. There was rough and I couldn't find my ball where it should have been fairway in front of the hole. The rough is only maybe 3-4 inches thick but its porous and curly, hiding your ball underneath it.

Wait. You hit a seven iron and did not look at what was between you and the green?

[dewilson58]

Wait. You hit a seven iron and did not look at what was between you and the green?

:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

was thinking the same thing.


:clap2::clap2::clap2:

[Sabrina&Bill]

Southern Oaks (no oaks but lots of turnpike)
It is a bland course they make harder by having ultra small fairways not close to the tees or greens with ultra tall shaggy rough the kind that if your ball falls under the grass you cannot see it 3 feet away.

Not a golfer (yet) but recently talked with some friends who live north of 44, who were wondering where is the Country Club for Southern Oaks? I live south of 44, and thought that was a great question. I heard in the latest Villages video the the golf pro shop for Southern Oaks would be located in Sawgrass Cove. Wondering if that means no more new CC’s south of 44?

[tophcfa]

Not a golfer (yet) but recently talked with some friends who live north of 44, who were wondering where is the Country Club for Southern Oaks? I live south of 44, and thought that was a great question. I heard in the latest Villages video the the golf pro shop for Southern Oaks would be located in Sawgrass Cove. Wondering if that means no more new CC’s south of 44?

Precedent was set when the pro shop, restaurant, pool, and tennis courts were torn to the ground at Hacienda Hills. There is a new business model going forward. Let’s just hope that no more existing Championship facilities meet the same fate as HH?

[Bogie Shooter]

Not a golfer (yet) but recently talked with some friends who live north of 44, who were wondering where is the Country Club for Southern Oaks? I live south of 44, and thought that was a great question. I heard in the latest Villages video the the golf pro shop for Southern Oaks would be located in Sawgrass Cove. Wondering if that means no more new CC’s south of 44?

How many country clubs have you eaten at this year?

[Sabrina&Bill]

How many country clubs have you eaten at this year?

Went to Bonifay CC & Glenview this year. The wife and I enjoy sitting outside and eating with the golf course as our view.

[MSchad]

Precedent was set when the pro shop, restaurant, pool, and tennis courts were torn to the ground at Hacienda Hills. There is a new business model going forward. Let’s just hope that no more existing Championship facilities meet the same fate as HH?
As long as they are supported and turn an acceptable profit they will remain.

[rustyp]

How many country clubs have you eaten at this year?

Orange Blossom
Tierra Del Sol
Glenview
Mallory
Palmer
Evans Prairie
Nancy Lopez
Cane Garden
Havana

[DrBrutyle109]

We like playing championship courses. Don’t mind paying to play a longer course. Gold Tees. The ambassador continues to tell us to go up to the 150 mark, drop a ball, to pick up pace of play. The group’s following us tee off from the shortest tees. It





doesn’t seem fair that we can’t play gold just because the people behind us play a shorter game or have only 2 players. We still play a 3.75 hour game without being rushed. It totally ruins the play!

You are 100% correct. The ambassador was out of line. He should have been aware of the tees they were playing AND 2 some has no right of way

[Marathon Man]

We like playing championship courses. Don’t mind paying to play a longer course. Gold Tees. The ambassador continues to tell us to go up to the 150 mark, drop a ball, to pick up pace of play. The group’s following us tee off from the shortest tees. It doesn’t seem fair that we can’t play gold just because the people behind us play a shorter game or have only 2 players. We still play a 3.75 hour game without being rushed. It totally ruins the play!

If the ambassador got involved, it is because you were slow.

3.75 hour round? Were you the first tee time of the day? If not, then everyone in front of you were also playing 3.75 hours. A record in The Villages. If you were the first tee time, then the ambassador would be monitoring you by the clock. So ...

[golfing eagles]

Wait. You hit a seven iron and did not look at what was between you and the green?

Sounds like he needed to hit at least a 6 iron:1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[golfing eagles]

We like playing championship courses. Don’t mind paying to play a longer course. Gold Tees. The ambassador continues to tell us to go up to the 150 mark, drop a ball, to pick up pace of play. The group’s following us tee off from the shortest tees. It doesn’t seem fair that we can’t play gold just because the people behind us play a shorter game or have only 2 players. We still play a 3.75 hour game without being rushed. It totally ruins the play!

You are 100% correct. The ambassador was out of line. He should have been aware of the tees they were playing AND 2 some has no right of way

If the ambassador got involved, it is because you were slow.

3.75 hour round? Were you the first tee time of the day? If not, then everyone in front of you were also playing 3.75 hours. A record in The Villages. If you were the first tee time, then the ambassador would be monitoring you by the clock. So ...

OK, this makes no sense. At most, 99.9% of the time, the ambassadors will tell a group to pick up the pace. It is a rarity if they take any action whatsoever, even when a group is 2+ holes behind. If this is a new policy (or actually enforcing the existing policy) empowering the ambassadors, I support it 100%. Also, the pace of play has nothing to do with the group behind you being a twosome, or playing "shorter" tees, or just fast, the ambassador goes by the time on the card (actually, he goes by the time on his sheet, which is 5 minutes longer than the card, so there is even more leeway). For an ambassador to move you up, you must have been REALLY slow and out of position. Lastly, if you were playing gold tees, which are barely over 6500 at Southern Oaks, you should not have to "get moved up" to the 150. Except on the few par 4's that are over 410 yds, you should be there on your tee shot. Do everyone a favor and play the tees that are appropriate for your skill level.(even if they are yellow)

[golfing eagles]

You are 100% correct. The ambassador was out of line. He should have been aware of the tees they were playing AND 2 some has no right of way

Probably more like 100% WRONG. There simply is no way that they could be playing a 3-3/4 hour round (1/2 hour ahead of the card pace) and get moved up by the ambassador. All I can say is that your place on a golf course is directly behind the group ahead of you, NOT directly ahead of the group behind you.

[CoachKandSportsguy]

Beautiful, challenging course. Loved it. Anyone who complains about it, is just another :blahblahblah: :blahblahblah: :blahblahblah: typical entitled poster. . .

[jdulej]

If the ambassador got involved, it is because you were slow.

3.75 hour round? Were you the first tee time of the day? If not, then everyone in front of you were also playing 3.75 hours. A record in The Villages. If you were the first tee time, then the ambassador would be monitoring you by the clock. So ...

I don't know about 3.75 hr rounds, but I do agree that the ambassadors are a bit pushy. Last week, even with a 3-some behind our 4-some, we were asked to step it up since the 3-some was waiting on some holes. We were on time per the published scorecard times and there was no one behind the 3-some. We did not want to get into an argument with him, but I fail to see what his problem was. And, if the 3-some was complaining, well - scre* them.
BTW, we did not "step it up" and had a fun round.

[JMintzer]

Beautiful, challenging course. Loved it. Anyone who complains about it, is just another :blahblahblah: :blahblahblah: :blahblahblah: typical entitled poster. . .

Nice to hear. I'm playing there tomorrow morning. Looking forward to it!