Are the Championship golf courses too expensive?

[Rainger99]

I play the executive courses about 99% of the time. That is because
1. I am not a very good golfer.
2. I don’t want to spend 5 or more hours playing golf including travel time.
3. They are free.

I was just checking the prices at the Championship courses and they range from $50 at Orange Blossom Hills to $58 at Hacienda and the rest are $64 except for Southern Oaks which is $69.

These seem fairly high for public courses.

[thevillages2013]

The championship courses are public but not everyone understands that. Any yayhoo can wander in and play if they can get a tee time. Non-resident fee is $84 now that is pricey plus they have to rent a cart for $12 . After tax $102.72. Don’t rely on my math but it should be close

[collie1228]

I play championship courses twice a week, and all I can say is that this generation of "The Developer" is really pushing the envelope on golf pricing. I'm willing to pay for the convenience of using my own cart, but I'm on the edge of moving off campus for golf. I will not renew my priority golf when it expires in July, mainly due to the removal of the executive trail pass perk, but also due to the fact that the prices have increased so much that playing 80 times a year is no longer priority pass cost-effective. Frankly, I don't think they care.

[Mortal1]

Exec courses are not "free"...the fee is included with the amenity fee.

Is the cost of 18/27 hole courses too much because you can't justify paying the money, or do you just think they should be less expensive than they are? There are many things I can't afford or do. some because I no longer have the need/desire(played 18 hole courses for more than 30 years-the ego doesn't have that need to 'prove' anything by doing it).

If I did want to play them there are various levels of cost depending on how many of the 18/27 hole courses you want access to as a priority member. if you can't fit it in your budget then don't play them. if you don't understand the cost of running those courses perhaps it would be best if you tried to find out rather than think they're over charging.

Having played from Japan to Great Britain in the last 58 years I don't see the average cost of these courses as too much or extravagant . they do not fit my budget unless I were to give up other things I like to do and since right now that isn't an option it matters not.

grousing about the cost has no effect on their setting their price. there are many who can easily afford it, but don't like it...sigh...

[tvbound]

Most of the 'championship' courses are definitely overpriced, for what you get. The reason they can get away with it, is because of the convenience of driving your cart (saving the courses even more money) to the course and basically having a mostly captive audience who don't want to mess with the hassle of going somewhere else in their vehicles. Never underestimate the pricing power of 'convenience' and obviously, TV has found that point. A lot of people are willing to pay a high price for conditions that are like the average muni course in most towns across the country - only at a significantly inflated cost.

[Rainger99]

There are two types of public courses – ultra expensive courses such as Pebble Beach, Pacific Dunes, St. Andrews, etc. The top public courses are ultra-expensive courses and are almost all over $300 a round.
Currently, Pebble Beach is $575 plus cart fee; Pacific Dunes is $295 for resort guest and $345 for day guest; and St. Andrews varies depending on the season from 98 pounds to 270 pounds (this is up 40% in the last year). However, if you are a resident of St. Andrews, the yearly fee is only 340 pounds which allows you to play all of the courses.
However, these are world class courses where majors have been played. None of the Championship courses have had, or are likely to have a PGA tournament.
Then there are the true public courses. These are usually municipal courses where the prices are almost always reasonable.
The link is from 2009. It lists the top municipal course in each state for peak, non-resident walking rates. 36 of them were under $50. And these are the top courses in the state. I don’t think anyone would rank the Championship courses as the top courses in Florida. The top course in Florida was The Links at Boynton Beach. In 2009, the price was $59 for 18 holes. The current price is $65 for 18 holes. Please note that these are for non-residents.

Public Golf: Best Muny in All 50 States | Courses | Golf Digest (https://www.golfdigest.com/story/bestmunys_in50states)

[ohiosbestus]

I think the courses are way too expensive for my tastes and income to play 3 times a week, but I was spoiled living in a private community in Ohio where I paid about 140.00 a month for assessments but played golf for FREE. Based on those reasons I am choosing not to renew my priority fee any longer, so I will settle playing the executive courses. If i ever want to play with fellow villagers we will play courses outside of the villagers instead of playing here in the villages. To the people that have plenty of money in their budget to play multible days per week then they probably should stay here in the Villages and play.

[Flyers999]

I don't think that the Championship courses are too expensive,yet. I play them around once a week and even though it doesn't save me money I pay for the priority membership every year. Up north I played with some people who actually wanted the cost to be higher to keep out the "riff-raff" and make the play less crowded. I've never been in that camp, but here's my reasoning. I would like to see the golf courses be successful and would hate to see them turn into apartments or strip malls. I don't work for the villages or the local government, I just want to maintain the village lifestyle. Having golf courses surrounding me is part of that.

[kcrazorbackfan]

I play the executive courses about 99% of the time. That is because
1. I am not a very good golfer.
2. I don’t want to spend 5 or more hours playing golf including travel time.
3. They are free.

I was just checking the prices at the Championship courses and they range from $50 at Orange Blossom Hills to $58 at Hacienda and the rest are $64 except for Southern Oaks which is $69.

These seem fairly high for public courses.

It’s all relative to how you play - if your game sucks, it probably is expensive; if you have game, probably not as bad. For me, I do have game; I’m never going anywhere so I’ll pay whatever they charge. The time and expense to drive somewhere off campus have to be figured in to the rate so a lot of times, the cost will be close to here.

[Laker14]

I don't think that the Championship courses are too expensive,yet. I play them around once a week and even though it doesn't save me money I pay for the priority membership every year. Up north I played with some people who actually wanted the cost to be higher to keep out the "riff-raff" and make the play less crowded. I've never been in that camp, but here's my reasoning. I would like to see the golf courses be successful and would hate to see them turn into apartments or strip malls. I don't work for the villages or the local government, I just want to maintain the village lifestyle. Having golf courses surrounding me is part of that.

I totally agree. I play the Champs 2x/week, and executive typically once/week. I have the Priority Membership to facilitate tee times. I consider the ability to drive a golf cart from my house to a course and use my own cart on the course as part of the lifestyle that I found attractive to me.
I'm still happy with that.

[Blueblaze]

I never play the Championship courses, but when my scratch-golfer brother-in-law came to town, I reserved a tee-time -- and my jaw hit the floor when I got the bill. I don't know how anybody plays them twice a week. He was shocked as well. He has three municipal courses back home he plays all the time for $30-40, and thought they were much nicer. We played the exec courses for the rest of his visit.

At $75, golf was too expensive for me to play regularly back home in Texas, too. But that was non-member rates, unlike here. Somehow they got by with member rates in the $50's

I guess, if the market will bear it, there's not much we can do but gripe. Like a lot of things here, the reality falls short of the promise. But the reality is still pretty good.

[I'm Popeye!]

What you see mostly these days that are playing Championship golf course here at the Villages are people who work (discounts) as "Ambassadors", "Starters" and let's not forget the "Snowbirds"....

[pauld315]

Once you play the championship courses you know that the executive courses are garbage. I gladly pay for a real course

[I'm Popeye!]

Once you play the championship courses you know that the executive courses are garbage. I gladly pay for a real course
So what makes it a championship course "A Real Course" the extra 50 - 80 yards? :1rotfl:

[ElDiabloJoe]

I play the executive courses about 99% of the time. That is because
1. I am not a very good golfer.
2. I don’t want to spend 5 or more hours playing golf including travel time.
3. They are free.

I was just checking the prices at the Championship courses and they range from $50 at Orange Blossom Hills to $58 at Hacienda and the rest are $64 except for Southern Oaks which is $69.

These seem fairly high for public courses.
Lol, my last "neighborhood course," which is public, had green fees of $250 PER PERSON in a foursome. $60 doesn't sound so bad.

[Rainger99]

That must have been a fancy neighborhood. Was it a public course?

[ElDiabloJoe]

That must have been a fancy neighborhood. Was it a public course?
Yes, it was a public course. The Links at Monarch Beach. Formerly owned by the St. Regis, now owned by the Waldorf-Astoria firm.

[Rainger99]

Yes, it was a public course. The Links at Monarch Beach. Formerly owned by the St. Regis, now owned by the Waldorf-Astoria firm.
Prices seem to have gone down. According to their website, it costs $148 per player (cart included) for this Wednesday at 7:30 am.

[ElDiabloJoe]

Prices seem to have gone down. According to their website, it costs $148 per player (cart included) for this Wednesday at 7:30 am.

Ya, those are weekday fees. Weekends are $200-$250 depending on season. Nice place, beautiful views, ocean front on a couple holes, but still - just grass with 18 holes in it.

[Dhall22826]

I play the championship courses 3 times a week and yes, it's a little pricey but until someone tells me of a better deal somewhere else, I'm staying here in golf cart land.

[Calisport]

I can't really afford Champ courses. Last one was a month and a half ago at southern oaks. $73 in the mid morning.

[Calisport]

I lived just a few miles from Monarch and Laguna. Glad they are more affordable. Maui and Kauai are in the $350 range I remember with cart and clubs.

[UpNorth]

I could easily afford to play the Championship courses here in The Villages, but I don't. Way overpriced and boring for the money in my opinion. They should give you a $20 discount for using your own cart instead of one they would have to supply. Even then I would likely play outside The Villages. More interesting choices for the money.

[JMintzer]

I could easily afford to play the Championship courses here in The Villages, but I don't. Way overpriced and boring for the money in my opinion. They should give you a $20 discount for using your own cart instead of one they would have to supply. Even then I would likely play outside The Villages. More interesting choices for the money.

Carts are money makers for courses...

[rjn5656]

Yes, for the quality you get and the fact that we provide our own golf carts. Overpriced.

[Rainger99]

Even then I would likely play outside The Villages. More interesting choices for the money.

What are the interesting choices that are nearby?

[JSR22]

My husband is a priority member and plays the Championship courses 2 to 3 times per week year round. He likes the convenience of using his cart and being able to play in 4 to 4.5 hours. He rarely plays outside of TV but does go to Mission Hills and the Disney courses. He feels the price to play is fine.

[ctmurray]

They are too high for the quality of the courses, and you bring your own cart. But, they are priced about where demand equals supply, so for the Developer they are priced correctly. I am non-priority as I only play 1x per week. The last round at Hacienda was $68. And I figure the value of my cart at $20 (what most courses I know charge for 1/2 of a cart). So I was playing a $88 round. For $88 I expect a course to be in much better shape. When I am up north a $88 round would be a rarity, most courses are in the $35 - $55 including a cart. An $88 round would be on prestigious course with fast greens and championship level design. I have not been in the Villages very long (6 yrs) but the price has gone up substantially. When I started the prices were more like $50 to $55 (and I brought my own cart). But as mentioned, the courses seem to be getting this from enough people.

[Papa_lecki]

A top tier, private club, will spend $90,000 to 100,000 PER HOLE for maintenance every year.
Golf course maintenance metrics: It’s time to retire cost-per-hole - GCMOnline.com (https://www.gcmonline.com/course/environment/news/golf-course-cost-per-hole)

So let’s say The Villages spends HALF that, $50,000, on each of the 333 championship holes - that’s $16.6 million.
Who’s paying for that? Who will be the first to complain when a championship course is converted to condos, because they can’t afford the maintenance?

I guarantee, those private clubs, spending $100,000 do not have near the number of rounds on each hole, that are played here.

[CoachKandSportsguy]

I was just checking the prices at the Championship courses and they range from $50 at Orange Blossom Hills to $58 at Hacienda and the rest are $64 except for Southern Oaks which is $69.

These seem fairly high for public courses.

Your perception is based upon your income level, your spending to value sensitivity, and your historical references. The public courses up north are 75-100 per person in the summer time. . they are free in the winter time, though there are mostly covered with snow

don't expect everyone to have the same set of bias components. If you aren't very good as stated, then just stick with executives and be happy. . .

Oh, and the problem with gold is that the pros on TV makes it look way too easy. . I can't read a f****** green to save my life, but i still try as I used to be a competitive (used to be!) athlete in several sports. . .

[JMintzer]

Yes, for the quality you get and the fact that we provide our own golf carts. Overpriced.

Most other courses don't provide a free cart. It's an added expense and a moneymaker for the course...

[JMintzer]

They are too high for the quality of the courses, and you bring your own cart. But, they are priced about where demand equals supply, so for the Developer they are priced correctly. I am non-priority as I only play 1x per week. The last round at Hacienda was $68. And I figure the value of my cart at $20 (what most courses I know charge for 1/2 of a cart). So I was playing a $88 round. For $88 I expect a course to be in much better shape. When I am up north a $88 round would be a rarity, most courses are in the $35 - $55 including a cart. An $88 round would be on prestigious course with fast greens and championship level design. I have not been in the Villages very long (6 yrs) but the price has gone up substantially. When I started the prices were more like $50 to $55 (and I brought my own cart). But as mentioned, the courses seem to be getting this from enough people.

Where is this land of $35 green fees (including a cart)?

In MD, I pay over $50, PLUS $20 for the cart at my local public course...

[UpNorth]

Where is this land of $35 green fees (including a cart)?

In MD, I pay over $50, PLUS $20 for the cart at my local public course...

Go online (GolfNow, TeeOff, TeeItUp, etc). Lower prices, discount specials.

[tophcfa]

Where is this land of $35 green fees (including a cart)?

In MD, I pay over $50, PLUS $20 for the cart at my local public course...

Easy to find $35 green fees, including cart, up north in more rural areas during weekdays, but not on weekends or in urban areas. We rarely pay more than $35 to play beautiful golf courses mid-week with the senior citizen discount, while the younger folks are working (you just have to get out in time to make the turn before the late afternoon leagues take over the courses). Also, being retired and having a flexible schedule, same day open t times during weekdays are often there for the taking through “Golf Now” for $20 or less. I easily have spent more on green fees in the Villages since early January than I will spend during the entire 6 month prime golf season up north. That being said, I will spend a small fortune on gas and spend lots of time up north having to drive my truck to the different golf courses.

[JMintzer]

Easy to find $35 green fees, including cart, up north in more rural areas during weekdays, but not on weekends or in urban areas. We rarely pay more than $35 to play beautiful golf courses mid-week with the senior citizen discount, while the younger folks are working (you just have to get out in time to make the turn before the late afternoon leagues take over the courses). Also, being retired and having a flexible schedule, same day open t times during weekdays are often there for the taking through “Golf Now” for $20 or less. I easily have spent more on green fees in the Villages since early January than I will spend during the entire 6 month prime golf season up north. That being said, I will spend a small fortune on gas and spend lots of time up north having to drive my truck to the different golf courses.

Once again, WHERE "Up North"? It's a pretty big area...

I know what prices are in MY area "Up North"... Pretty much double your $35 fee when you add in the cart...

[tophcfa]

Once again, WHERE "Up North"? It's a pretty big area...

I know what prices are in MY area "Up North"... Pretty much double your $35 fee when you add in the cart...

Western Massachusetts (mostly west of I91 and the Connecticut River), southern Vermont, and south western New Hampshire.

[JMintzer]

Western Massachusetts (mostly west of I91 and the Connecticut River), southern Vermont, and south western New Hampshire.

Ok, so basically, the middle of nowhere...

Also, what are the playing seasons that far North? I can't imagine they're very long.

How can they possibly stay in business charging so little for a short season?

[GpaVader]

Just got back from a long weekend playing golf in Phoenix, we played 3 rounds and all were under $100 including cart. We could have spent a lot more money, but we played on a budget. Out of the 3 courses, there was only 1 I'd never play again, 6 hour round, so it got a lot of traffic but it was in terrible shape. The rest were in nice shape and I'd happily play them again.

In comparison, I have not had any issues playing the Championship courses here, although I've only played at two, Southern Oaks and Belle Glade. Both were nice courses and seemed fairly priced. On the other hand I've played at Continental Country Club and paid $40/w cart and that was a nice course as well.

It seems to be seasonal, so I mainly stick to the Executive courses on the weekends since I work during the week....

[Laker14]

I never play the Championship courses, but when my scratch-golfer brother-in-law came to town, I reserved a tee-time -- and my jaw hit the floor when I got the bill. I don't know how anybody plays them twice a week. He was shocked as well. He has three municipal courses back home he plays all the time for $30-40, and thought they were much nicer. We played the exec courses for the rest of his visit.

At $75, golf was too expensive for me to play regularly back home in Texas, too. But that was non-member rates, unlike here. Somehow they got by with member rates in the $50's

I guess, if the market will bear it, there's not much we can do but gripe. Like a lot of things here, the reality falls short of the promise. But the reality is still pretty good.

What, exactly, was promised, and by whom?

[laboutj]

Compare oranges to tangerines:

Juliette Falls is a really nice course, $67 before 9am and that includes a cart. Conditions are superior to Villages championship courses.
Harbor Hills is around $45 and that includes cart, similar conditions to Villages championship courses.
Mission Inn El Campeon is superior to the villages and the Villagers special is around $75 and that includes cart.

Travel a little farther to Orlando and you've got quite a few courses with superior conditioning to what you get in the Villages for about the same price.

In the Villages you're paying for the convenience of using your own cart. Personally I would take the better conditions over the convenience.

[Laker14]

Compare oranges to tangerines:

Juliette Falls is a really nice course, $67 before 9am and that includes a cart. Conditions are superior to Villages championship courses.
Harbor Hills is around $45 and that includes cart, similar conditions to Villages championship courses.
Mission Inn El Campeon is superior to the villages and the Villagers special is around $75 and that includes cart.

Travel a little farther to Orlando and you've got quite a few courses with superior conditioning to what you get in the Villages for about the same price.

In the Villages you're paying for the convenience of using your own cart. Personally I would take the better conditions over the convenience.

That's a very reasonable preference on your part. My group played Juliet a couple of years ago. It was in better shape than the Championship Courses here, generally. Not spectacularly so, but it was a nice experience. It was also a hassle getting back and forth, thanks to the Florida winter traffic. The general feeling of the group was positive. However, we have not been back, due to the inconvenience of travel.

This year we did make a trip to El Campeon. Also generally favorable response. Conditions were OK, not great. If better than TV Championship, not wildly so. Much tougher course though. Not as convenient as most of the courses in TV to get to, but not bad. Much easier than Juliet.
My preference, and evidently the preference of our group of 12-20 guys, seems to be convenience. We haven't been back to either place yet, but I'm sure we will at some point. But never on a regular basis to replace the TV courses.

[laboutj]

That's a very reasonable preference on your part. My group played Juliet a couple of years ago. It was in better shape than the Championship Courses here, generally. Not spectacularly so, but it was a nice experience. It was also a hassle getting back and forth, thanks to the Florida winter traffic. The general feeling of the group was positive. However, we have not been back, due to the inconvenience of travel.

This year we did make a trip to El Campeon. Also generally favorable response. Conditions were OK, not great. If better than TV Championship, not wildly so. Much tougher course though. Not as convenient as most of the courses in TV to get to, but not bad. Much easier than Juliet.
My preference, and evidently the preference of our group of 12-20 guys, seems to be convenience. We haven't been back to either place yet, but I'm sure we will at some point. But never on a regular basis to replace the TV courses.

Before renting and eventually buying here in the Villages, our group did a golf trip to Orlando for 6 or 7 years straight in March or April, peak times. We didn't go crazy getting tee times at ridiculously expensive courses but we would look for value, like the buy one tee time and get a replay round for $39 at Disney for our 36 hole day. There are some really nice courses in the Orlando area that we would get deals on through GolfNow, like Celebration Golf Club or Orange County National. Those types of deals are still available and the courses are well worth the drive.

I know if you have a large group it's not practical, but something to consider.

[Rainger99]

Also, what are the playing seasons that far North? I can't imagine they're very long. How can they possibly stay in business charging so little for a short season?

Those courses up north are still in business so I assume that they are making money even with a short season and a lower price. If they can make money up north, the real question is why do the Championship courses charge so much for courses that are open the entire year. They should be raking in the money.

[CoachKandSportsguy]

Those courses up north are still in business so I assume that they are making money even with a short season and a lower price. If they can make money up north, the real question is why do the Championship courses charge so much for courses that are open the entire year. They should be raking in the money.

Comparing TV championship courses to Orlando specials weekday deals isn't quite fair, as the Orlando courses are also bringing in 200$+ on weekends. So they are making plenty of money. So unless you do the calculations for the average price per round all month, you aren't getting a comparable price. TV courses prices are flat no matter what day of the week you play. . (I may be incorrect, but the difference is not like weekday / weekend in Orlando) So everyone is kind of like comparing where and when they golf occasionally to where they want to play daily. .

stupid human brain biases. . . .

[tophcfa]

Ok, so basically, the middle of nowhere...

Also, what are the playing seasons that far North? I can't imagine they're very long.

How can they possibly stay in business charging so little for a short season?

I wouldn’t label the area we call home up north the middle of nowhere, but yes, it’s rural and relatively uncrowned, just the way we like it. The playing season is generally early to mid April through late November, unless there is an early and heavy snow. And in my opinion, the bent grass greens found on most courses are far superior to the Bermuda commonly found in Florida. The courses stay in business because many are older, debt free courses, that are built on inexpensive land not found in urban areas. Also, there are many very good older municipal courses with little to no cost basis that are not operated to maximize profit. It’s a great area to play golf (except for the dam ticks which can transmit some very nasty diseases), just not in the winter, but that’s what Florida is for.

[Rainger99]

I just checked the price for the best public courses in Georgia and in Alabama - two nearby states.

In Georgia, the course is The Lakes at Laura S. Walker. During the week, the standard rate is $15 for 18 holes ($12 for 62 and older) plus $20 for a cart. On weekends, it is $20 for 18 holes. There are specials right now that you can play for $22.99 for 18 holes including a cart!

The best course in Alabama is Ol' Colony Golf Complex. The green fees for Monday to Thursday are $65 with a cart – $40 walking. Weekends the price is $75 with a cart - $50 walking. And for golfers over 62, the price (Monday to Friday is $55 with a cart and $35 walking).

They aren’t accessible for golf cart from The Villages but they were the highest rated public courses in Georgia and Alabama. I saw an article from Golf Digest which ranked the top 75 public courses in Florida. None of the Championship courses were listed.

[kkingston57]

Played Glenview today and course was in fabulous condition. On that course price is fair($50 with a priority membership) Other courses not worth the money. Only wish owners could get other courses up to these conditions. Hacienda and Orange Blossom need a good bulldozer and completely re sod both.

[laboutj]

Comparing TV championship courses to Orlando specials weekday deals isn't quite fair, as the Orlando courses are also bringing in 200$+ on weekends. So they are making plenty of money. So unless you do the calculations for the average price per round all month, you aren't getting a comparable price. TV courses prices are flat no matter what day of the week you play. . (I may be incorrect, but the difference is not like weekday / weekend in Orlando) So everyone is kind of like comparing where and when they golf occasionally to where they want to play daily. .

stupid human brain biases. . . .

I'm not sure which courses in Orlando are $200+ on a weekend (Waldorf Astoria, Bay Hill?), I've certainly never played them.

Throw out Orlando and compare something close by: Harbor Hills. Conditioning is comparable if not a little better than Bonifay, Evans Prairie, Havana or Belle Glade. For Villagers prices including a cart are around $45 during the week, slightly higher on the weekends. To me that is apples to apples except for the convenience of using your own cart. Some call that a convenience, to me it's less wear and tear and gas used to use someone else's cart.

[Papa_lecki]

I just checked the price for the best public courses in Georgia and in Alabama - two nearby states.

In Georgia, the course is The Lakes at Laura S. Walker. During the week, the standard rate is $15 for 18 holes ($12 for 62 and older) plus $20 for a cart. On weekends, it is $20 for 18 holes. There are specials right now that you can play for $22.99 for 18 holes including a cart!

The best course in Alabama is Ol' Colony Golf Complex. The green fees for Monday to Thursday are $65 with a cart – $40 walking. Weekends the price is $75 with a cart - $50 walking. And for golfers over 62, the price (Monday to Friday is $55 with a cart and $35 walking).

They aren’t accessible for golf cart from The Villages but they were the highest rated public courses in Georgia and Alabama. I saw an article from Golf Digest which ranked the top 75 public courses in Florida. None of the Championship courses were listed.

To be on the Golf Digest list, you need to put forth and effort (i.e. let Golf Digest know you want to be on their list) and have “raters” (basically people who play all these courses and rate them) come and play the courses - and you need a lot of raters.

What is the advantage to TV by being on the list? Will houses sell faster or for more money?

[Papa_lecki]

I just checked the price for the best public courses in Georgia and in Alabama - two nearby states.

In Georgia, the course is The Lakes at Laura S. Walker. During the week, the standard rate is $15 for 18 holes ($12 for 62 and older) plus $20 for a cart. On weekends, it is $20 for 18 holes. There are specials right now that you can play for $22.99 for 18 holes including a cart!

The best course in Alabama is Ol' Colony Golf Complex. The green fees for Monday to Thursday are $65 with a cart – $40 walking. Weekends the price is $75 with a cart - $50 walking. And for golfers over 62, the price (Monday to Friday is $55 with a cart and $35 walking).

They aren’t accessible for golf cart from The Villages but they were the highest rated public courses in Georgia and Alabama. I saw an article from Golf Digest which ranked the top 75 public courses in Florida. None of the Championship courses were listed.

I just checked the price of a public course in California - not even their best public course. Pebble Beach is $575 plus $45 cart fee.

[Bilyclub]

I just checked the price of a public course in California - not even their best public course. Pebble Beach is $575 plus $45 cart fee.

PB is a bucket list course so they can afford to charge whatever they can get.

[Topspinmo]

I play the executive courses about 99% of the time. That is because
1. I am not a very good golfer.
2. I don’t want to spend 5 or more hours playing golf including travel time.
3. They are free.

I was just checking the prices at the Championship courses and they range from $50 at Orange Blossom Hills to $58 at Hacienda and the rest are $64 except for Southern Oaks which is $69.

These seem fairly high for public courses.

Executive courses are not free, we pay amenities and yearly maintenance upkeep. Agree if you walk you don’t have to pay up front, but there not free, somebody (every villager) paying.

As for championship courses advanced golfer like more of challenge and they elect to pay for it.

[MSchad]

Executive courses are not free, we pay amenities and yearly maintenance upkeep. Agree if you walk you don’t have to pay up front, but there not free, somebody (every villager) paying.

You are correct that they aren’t “free.” Our amenities fee pays for the majority of the cost to maintain and operate. Just like it pays for our pools, pickle ball courts, rec centers, etc. All the amenities we enjoy.

[Laker14]

Executive courses are not free, we pay amenities and yearly maintenance upkeep. Agree if you walk you don’t have to pay up front, but there not free, somebody (every villager) paying.

As for championship courses advanced golfer like more of challenge and they elect to pay for it.

You are correct that they aren’t “free.” Our amenities fee pays for the majority of the cost to maintain and operate. Just like it pays for our pools, pickle ball courts, rec centers, etc. All the amenities we enjoy.

OK, OK, we get it.
Subsistute "already paid for" for "free" and you get the idea.

Executive course = no money out of pocket beyond trail fee
Championship course= greens fee out of pocket, around $50...

I think we all know that the executive courses aren't technically free.

[Rainger99]

You are correct that they aren’t “free.” Our amenities fee pays for the majority of the cost to maintain and operate. Just like it pays for our pools, pickle ball courts, rec centers, etc. All the amenities we enjoy.
If you check into a hotel and there is no extra charge for the beach or pool, I consider that the beach and pool are free. If you check into a hotel and there is a $50 resort fee to use the beach or pool, I consider that the beach and pool are extra. Just as in flying on a plane - if the Coca Cola is free, I consider it free. If I have to pay $3, I do not consider it free. I understand that the free coke is built into the ticket price but there is a difference between the two models. I was at a hotel once where there was a separate charge for the phone - which I didn’t even use. If the phone surcharge had been included in the price of the room, it would not have bothered me.

[JMintzer]

Those courses up north are still in business so I assume that they are making money even with a short season and a lower price. If they can make money up north, the real question is why do the Championship courses charge so much for courses that are open the entire year. They should be raking in the money.

My suspicion is that they don't charge $35 (including cart) on a regular basis to everyone...

[JMintzer]

Executive courses are not free, we pay amenities and yearly maintenance upkeep. Agree if you walk you don’t have to pay up front, but there not free, somebody (every villager) paying.

As for championship courses advanced golfer like more of challenge and they elect to pay for it.

Really? They're not free? Gee, why hasn't anyone ever mentioned that before? :ohdear:

So, by your logic, the swimming pools aren't free, the rec centers aren't free, tennis/pickel ball aren't free, the walking paths aren't free... NOTHING is free!

[Topspinmo]

Really? They're not free? Gee, why hasn't anyone ever mentioned that before? :ohdear:

So, by your logic, the swimming pools aren't free, the rec centers aren't free, tennis/pickel ball aren't free, the walking paths aren't free... NOTHING is free!

Some can’t get pass the koolaid.

[Laker14]

Really? They're not free? Gee, why hasn't anyone ever mentioned that before? :ohdear:

So, by your logic, the swimming pools aren't free, the rec centers aren't free, tennis/pickel ball aren't free, the walking paths aren't free... NOTHING is free!

Well, at least the flowers are free. Oh wait, they're not free either.
Dang.

[Rainger99]

Well, at least the flowers are free. Oh wait, they're not free either.
Dang.

The entertainment in the Town Squares is free!

[Laker14]

I just checked the price for the best public courses in Georgia and in Alabama - two nearby states.

In Georgia, the course is The Lakes at Laura S. Walker. During the week, the standard rate is $15 for 18 holes ($12 for 62 and older) plus $20 for a cart. On weekends, it is $20 for 18 holes. There are specials right now that you can play for $22.99 for 18 holes including a cart!

The best course in Alabama is Ol' Colony Golf Complex. The green fees for Monday to Thursday are $65 with a cart – $40 walking. Weekends the price is $75 with a cart - $50 walking. And for golfers over 62, the price (Monday to Friday is $55 with a cart and $35 walking).

They aren’t accessible for golf cart from The Villages but they were the highest rated public courses in Georgia and Alabama. I saw an article from Golf Digest which ranked the top 75 public courses in Florida. None of the Championship courses were listed.

Many of the public courses listed on the Golf Digest list of greatest public courses are funded in part by local municipalities. For example, Bethpage in NY is part of the NY State Park system.
The "Ol Colony Complex" you referred to is part of the Tuscaloosa County Park and Recreation Authority.
It's not really a fair comparison to compare a privately funded and operated course to a course that getting money from a municipality, when comparing greens fees.

[thevillages2013]

OK, OK, we get it.
Subsistute "already paid for" for "free" and you get the idea.

Executive course = no money out of pocket beyond trail fee
Championship course= greens fee out of pocket, around $50...

I think we all know that the executive courses aren't technically free.

Get off the $50 figure you are using for comparison; that is priority rate and doesn’t apply to most golfers

[thevillages2013]

Once again, WHERE "Up North"? It's a pretty big area...

I know what prices are in MY area "Up North"... Pretty much double your $35 fee when you add in the cart...

UpNorth should be able to answer where up north is because that is his user name. Expert:bigbow:

[thevillages2013]

Just got back from a long weekend playing golf in Phoenix, we played 3 rounds and all were under $100 including cart. We could have spent a lot more money, but we played on a budget. Out of the 3 courses, there was only 1 I'd never play again, 6 hour round, so it got a lot of traffic but it was in terrible shape. The rest were in nice shape and I'd happily play them again.

In comparison, I have not had any issues playing the Championship courses here, although I've only played at two, Southern Oaks and Belle Glade. Both were nice courses and seemed fairly priced. On the other hand I've played at Continental Country Club and paid $40/w cart and that was a nice course as well.

It seems to be seasonal, so I mainly stick to the Executive courses on the weekends since I work during the week....
I was reading along and agreeing with you until you stated Continental was a nice course. It may have been in the 1960’s

[thevillages2013]

Most other courses don't provide a free cart. It's an added expense and a moneymaker for the course...

When booking almost any course online the green fee includes cart to simplify things. There is a little cart icon by the 9 or 18 hole choice. Many courses will not allow walkers until after a certain hour anyway

[rustyp]

Get off the $50 figure you are using for comparison; that is priority rate and doesn’t apply to most golfers

It's $50 plus $750/# rounds played per year.

[Laker14]

Get off the $50 figure you are using for comparison; that is priority rate and doesn’t apply to most golfers

Fair enough. You are correct. My point is that every time someone says executive courses are "free", someone feels obligated to make the lame point that they aren't free.
They are paid for via amenity fees. However, to play or not to play an executive course involves no money out of pocket (other than a trail fee if you ride), so in effect, it is free.

[JMintzer]

Some can’t get pass the koolaid.

No, I'm someone who understands what is and isn't included in the amenity fees and who doesn't get caught up in semantics about free golf...

[JMintzer]

Get off the $50 figure you are using for comparison; that is priority rate and doesn’t apply to most golfers

Okay $60... Happy now?

[ElDiabloJoe]

Here's the course fees for a community "up north" that has three 18-hole courses, FWIW:

https://i.imgur.com/WysBf4u.jpg

PS- Yes, they are courses open to the public, but "members" means residents/owners in the community.

[MrFlorida]

Executive courses are included in you amenity fees, so they are not really free, plus you have to pay a trail fee for each person.

[Laker14]

Executive courses are included in you amenity fees, so they are not really free, plus you have to pay a trail fee for each person.

thank you for the new information. It really helps.:a040:

[Laker14]

Here's the course fees for a community "up north" that has three 18-hole courses, FWIW:

https://i.imgur.com/WysBf4u.jpg

PS- Yes, they are courses open to the public, but "members" means residents/owners in the community.

Have you played the courses? Can you report on conditions? What "community up north"? Are we not allowed to mention other communities on this forum?

[Papa_lecki]

If it’s on top of the world -

The course is 6100 yards from the tips
Vs, say Bonifay, thats 6800 or 7000 yards

And a 70.3 vs 72.9 rating
And 118 vs 131 slope.

[CoachKandSportsguy]

Shaker Hills, Ayer, MA public course, not municipal.
Cart included

In-Season Golf Rates: May 6th - October 16th

Monday – Thursday (18 holes / 9 holes posted if available)

Open - 12:00 ($89 / $59)
12:00 - 2:00 ($79 / $55)
2:00 - 4:00 ($69 / $49)
4:00 - 5:00 ($59 / $49)
After 5:00 ($49)


Friday (18 holes / 9 holes available after 2:00PM)

Open - 1:00 ($105)
1:00 - 3:00 ($85 / $59 after 2:00pm)
3:00 - 4:00 ($75 / $55)
4:00 - 5:00 ($66 / $49)
After 5:00 ($49)


Saturday, Sunday & Holidays (18 holes / 9 holes available after 2:00PM)

Open - 11:00 ($119)
11:00 - 1:00 ($105)
1:00 - 3:00 ($90 / $59 after 2:00pm)
3:00 - 4:00 ($78 / $55)
4:00 - 5:00 ($66 / $49)
After 5:00 ($49)

Shaker Hills, Ayer, MA public course, not municipal.
Cart included.

Compare non municipal to non municipal for apples to apples.
and note that in season has different pricing by time, so everyone can argue about their ability to pay via income level.

Working stiffs have to play on weekends with everyone else who works. .

[ElDiabloJoe]

Have you played the courses? Can you report on conditions? What "community up north"? Are we not allowed to mention other communities on this forum?

Yes, I have played them. They vary in challenge. One of the three has about 4 dozen of my golf balls trapped in the various rough edges, unrecoverable to those without superhuman sight or skill.

These courses are in my friend's neighborhood outside Knoxville, TN called Tellico Village. You can google up "Tellico Village" or "Tellico Village Golf." Their courses are named Tanasi, Toqua, and Kahite (Tanasi was a Cherokee town that served as capital 1721-1730 and from which the state derives its name. Toqua is reportedly Cherokee for "Fish", and Kahite is reportedly Cherokee for "Run them off." Rhymes with Tahiti).

[Laker14]

Yes, I have played them. They vary in challenge. One of the three has about 4 dozen of my golf balls trapped in the various rough edges, unrecoverable to those without superhuman sight or skill.

These courses are in my friend's neighborhood outside Knoxville, TN called Tellico Village. You can google up "Tellico Village" or "Tellico Village Golf." Their courses are named Tanasi, Toqua, and Kahite (Tanasi was a Cherokee town that served as capital 1721-1730 and from which the state derives its name. Toqua is reportedly Cherokee for "Fish", and Kahite is reportedly Cherokee for "Run them off." Rhymes with Tahiti).

I thought you were reporting on another Florida retirement community with golf amenities.

[Papa_lecki]

Shaker Hills, Ayer, MA public course, not municipal.
Cart included

In-Season Golf Rates: May 6th - October 16th

Monday – Thursday (18 holes / 9 holes posted if available)

Open - 12:00 ($89 / $59)
12:00 - 2:00 ($79 / $55)
2:00 - 4:00 ($69 / $49)
4:00 - 5:00 ($59 / $49)
After 5:00 ($49)


Friday (18 holes / 9 holes available after 2:00PM)

Open - 1:00 ($105)
1:00 - 3:00 ($85 / $59 after 2:00pm)
3:00 - 4:00 ($75 / $55)
4:00 - 5:00 ($66 / $49)
After 5:00 ($49)


Saturday, Sunday & Holidays (18 holes / 9 holes available after 2:00PM)

Open - 11:00 ($119)
11:00 - 1:00 ($105)
1:00 - 3:00 ($90 / $59 after 2:00pm)
3:00 - 4:00 ($78 / $55)
4:00 - 5:00 ($66 / $49)
After 5:00 ($49)

Shaker Hills, Ayer, MA public course, not municipal.
Cart included.

Compare non municipal to non municipal for apples to apples.
and note that in season has different pricing by time, so everyone can argue about their ability to pay via income level.

Working stiffs have to play on weekends with everyone else who works. .

how are the conditions there this weekend?

[RaymondD]

Lol, my last "neighborhood course," which is public, had green fees of $250 PER PERSON in a foursome. $60 doesn't sound so bad.
The cost seems to be about the same as the "county" courses I use to play on in NJ ($35 to $65 depending on the course), with a county membership, and that was three years ago. I guess it's all relative to what your used to paying to play a round of golf. I look at it as a per hour charge, $8.50 an hour .. for sport you enjoy. Anyone bowl .. it's about the same cost per hour. Of course there are free sports as well that maybe you should try, pool, table shuffleboard, bocci, etc. or try "golf now" .. for $35 to $45 outside the villages. The warning is that all the course I've played outside the villages .. leave something to be desired. Try paying for tickets to see a football game sometime .. the last time I went it was over $200 a ticket, if you could get one .. for 3 hrs .. now that's a lot when TV is free.

[Bogie Shooter]

I thought you were reporting on another Florida retirement community with golf amenities.

Seems that might have made more sense.:duck:

[thevillages2013]

Okay $60... Happy now?

64+ tax on average

[JMintzer]

Yes, we know you’re know it all. :coolsmiley:

Talking to yourself again?

See how that works?

[JMintzer]

64+ tax on average

Apologies for using "round numbers"... I thought the math would be easier for some...

[tophcfa]

64+ tax on average

Many crumbled up receipts in the console of my golf cart read $68.48.

[Laker14]

My breakdown: I'm here for 7 months, so I get a 6 month priority membership. My wife doesn't play so it's a single. Costs around $600. I play approximately 2x/ week. Figure $50 per round at the cash register, x approximately 52 rounds. $2600 at the cash register plus the 600 for the priority membership. 6 months of championship golf in TV costs me $3100. or approx. $517/ month.
That's not a steal by any means, especially for the conditions of the courses from October-May.
However, unlike the clubs I once belonged to up north, I don't have to continue to pay the monthly dues during the non-golf seasons. Also, I don't get charged "assessments" when the club decides to fix a worn out sprinkler system, or some clubhouse item. Also, since the bulk of that expense is "pay as you play", if the weather is bad, or I'm not playing for some reason, I'm not paying. At a typical private club you are going to pay your dues, and if you don't play, you still pay. There is no "clubhouse minimum" requiring me to spend a monthly amount of dollars on food and booze.
I could walk away from golf except for the camaraderie with my golf friends. I am fortunate to have been accepted into a group of 12-20 guys, someone else makes the tee times (which is why we are all Priority members), I show up, put in the $5 for the daily game, and we have a few laughs.
If saving money were the only priority, I could definitely do better by going off campus, or better yet, play at the "NOT FREE BUT ALREADY PAID FOR" executive courses.
I don't feel like it's a great bargain, but I feel it's a fair price for the convenience, quality, and variety.

[CoachKandSportsguy]

how are the conditions there this weekend?

LOL! most courses have an opening day this week or next for the professional wannabees!

Not denying that I would rather be in TV than up here. The earliest we can move permanently is Summer 2023, with Social Security benefits starting in Jan 2025, but i digress

Its about comparing high season to high season prices. . and the difficulty here is comparing a flat year round price to all sorts of variable prices, where people want to argue about a special rate versus a flat rate. This type of pricing comparisons reminds me of how after a certain size threshold TV becomes too big to manage in the same way as the original design. where over time growth becomes harder to please everyone, ie happiness doesn't scale linearly with growth

[CoachKandSportsguy]

I don't feel like it's a great bargain, but I feel it's a fair price for the convenience, quality, and variety.

Very well stated and analyzed.

If you golf by coupon or special rates, your reference point is discounted rates, and that is an unfortunate reference point for comparison. Golfing by coupon is severely limiting, and just a way for a high priced course to pull in the non regular customer to contribute to the annual sales on a course which is off demand hours. Not a regular business pricing.

I get it that price to value is dependent upon each individuals' skill and income as well. CoachK and I went to Scotland. There was no way i was paying $400 per person per round to play on the St Andrews old course. We did play on one of the younger, cheaper, regularly priced courses, which was great at like $100+ per person. (i got one par!) We also played on a British open qualifier course, which Colin Montgomery qualified for open the week prior. We picked it because it had a castle. . not because of the cost or quality we had no idea. . coldest wettest prettiest worst day of golfing as I couldn't finish due to the cold and wet and few balls remaining. (typical great scottish golfing day sucked for the fair weather golfers here)

So its kind of a waste of time arguing about people's opinions and feelings on here when the variables are so many and so intangible, and there will be no answer, just people spouting opinions with no common basis

[snbrafford]

I tried the priority fee one year and felt I still had to pay too much when I played a big course so we did not do it much and therefore it was definitely not cost effective. My wife and I play executive courses 3-5 times a week and find them as challenging as we want as you can pick courses with different difficulty rating. And if I want to feel like I'm on a championship course - I can move back to the black tees. I'm not a great golfer so exec's are fine for me. If we want to play big courses, there are "deals" in nearby off-campus golf courses.

[Joeint]

I was reading along and agreeing with you until you stated Continental was a nice course. It may have been in the 1960’s

I played Continental last Saturday, it was in much better condition than the championship courses. The greens were fast and rolled true, the fairways were green, the rough was sparse probably because of the difficulty growing grass under the trees. If you haven't been there recently give it a go $42 plus tax including cart.

[tophcfa]

Shaker Hills, Ayer, MA public course, not municipal.
Cart included

In-Season Golf Rates: May 6th - October 16th

Monday – Thursday (18 holes / 9 holes posted if available)

Open - 12:00 ($89 / $59)
12:00 - 2:00 ($79 / $55)
2:00 - 4:00 ($69 / $49)
4:00 - 5:00 ($59 / $49)
After 5:00 ($49)


Friday (18 holes / 9 holes available after 2:00PM)

Open - 1:00 ($105)
1:00 - 3:00 ($85 / $59 after 2:00pm)
3:00 - 4:00 ($75 / $55)
4:00 - 5:00 ($66 / $49)
After 5:00 ($49)


Saturday, Sunday & Holidays (18 holes / 9 holes available after 2:00PM)

Open - 11:00 ($119)
11:00 - 1:00 ($105)
1:00 - 3:00 ($90 / $59 after 2:00pm)
3:00 - 4:00 ($78 / $55)
4:00 - 5:00 ($66 / $49)
After 5:00 ($49)

Shaker Hills, Ayer, MA public course, not municipal.
Cart included.

Compare non municipal to non municipal for apples to apples.
and note that in season has different pricing by time, so everyone can argue about their ability to pay via income level.

Working stiffs have to play on weekends with everyone else who works. .

Dam sports guy, I have played that course in a fund raising tournament a couple times and wasn’t aware of the rates as the tournament entry fee included everything. The course is OK, but not worth the price for me given other much closer, similar or better courses, that are less expensive. And the course is up north where folks our age aren’t the majority, so where are the senior citizen discount during weekdays? Travel a little west on the mass pike and play Westover, Chicopee, or Cold Springs, cheaper rates and nicer courses. If you want to travel further west and venture further off the pike, there are several other nice courses that offer great weekday “Hot Deals” on golf now. If I was going to pay the rates asked by Shaker Hills, I would rather spend the money playing Crumpin Fox or the Ranch. Golf on my friend : )

[laboutj]

My breakdown: I'm here for 7 months, so I get a 6 month priority membership. My wife doesn't play so it's a single. Costs around $600. I play approximately 2x/ week. Figure $50 per round at the cash register, x approximately 52 rounds. $2600 at the cash register plus the 600 for the priority membership. 6 months of championship golf in TV costs me $3100. or approx. $517/ month.
That's not a steal by any means, especially for the conditions of the courses from October-May.
However, unlike the clubs I once belonged to up north, I don't have to continue to pay the monthly dues during the non-golf seasons. Also, I don't get charged "assessments" when the club decides to fix a worn out sprinkler system, or some clubhouse item. Also, since the bulk of that expense is "pay as you play", if the weather is bad, or I'm not playing for some reason, I'm not paying. At a typical private club you are going to pay your dues, and if you don't play, you still pay. There is no "clubhouse minimum" requiring me to spend a monthly amount of dollars on food and booze.
I could walk away from golf except for the camaraderie with my golf friends. I am fortunate to have been accepted into a group of 12-20 guys, someone else makes the tee times (which is why we are all Priority members), I show up, put in the $5 for the daily game, and we have a few laughs.
If saving money were the only priority, I could definitely do better by going off campus, or better yet, play at the "NOT FREE BUT ALREADY PAID FOR" executive courses.
I don't feel like it's a great bargain, but I feel it's a fair price for the convenience, quality, and variety.

Having the variety of courses is a plus to having the priority membership and playing the championship courses here in the Villages. I had a membership for one year at a private club in Mass. and by the time it got to August I was so sick of playing the same course over and over I vowed not to make that mistake again.

[JMintzer]

My breakdown: I'm here for 7 months, so I get a 6 month priority membership. My wife doesn't play so it's a single. Costs around $600. I play approximately 2x/ week. Figure $50 per round at the cash register, x approximately 52 rounds. $2600 at the cash register plus the 600 for the priority membership. 6 months of championship golf in TV costs me $3100. or approx. $517/ month.
That's not a steal by any means, especially for the conditions of the courses from October-May.
However, unlike the clubs I once belonged to up north, I don't have to continue to pay the monthly dues during the non-golf seasons. Also, I don't get charged "assessments" when the club decides to fix a worn out sprinkler system, or some clubhouse item. Also, since the bulk of that expense is "pay as you play", if the weather is bad, or I'm not playing for some reason, I'm not paying. At a typical private club you are going to pay your dues, and if you don't play, you still pay. There is no "clubhouse minimum" requiring me to spend a monthly amount of dollars on food and booze.
I could walk away from golf except for the camaraderie with my golf friends. I am fortunate to have been accepted into a group of 12-20 guys, someone else makes the tee times (which is why we are all Priority members), I show up, put in the $5 for the daily game, and we have a few laughs.
If saving money were the only priority, I could definitely do better by going off campus, or better yet, play at the "NOT FREE BUT ALREADY PAID FOR" executive courses.
I don't feel like it's a great bargain, but I feel it's a fair price for the convenience, quality, and variety.

Oh, please... Just stop it with your reason and logic... :icon_wink:

[ElDiabloJoe]

I thought you were reporting on another Florida retirement community with golf amenities.

Sorry for the lack of clarity. Was pretty sure I mentioned in Post #70 that I was referring to a neighborhood "up north." I should have been more clear, because there is still plenty of Florida left north of TV. Nope, meant Tennessee in this case. Only in Florida is Tennessee considered "up north" as it is the Deep South to most of the rest of the world, lol.

[Laker14]

Oh, please... Just stop it with your reason and logic... :icon_wink:

you know me well enough to know that it is unlikely to happen again anytime soon.

[Laker14]

Sorry for the lack of clarity. Was pretty sure I mentioned in Post #70 that I was referring to a neighborhood "up north." I should have been more clear, because there is still plenty of Florida left north of TV. Nope, meant Tennessee in this case. Only in Florida is Tennessee considered "up north" as it is the Deep South to most of the rest of the world, lol.

no worries. I was thinking you were talking about some other Florida "golf-retirement" community that you weren't supposed to mention on these forums.

[ElDiabloJoe]

no worries. I was thinking you were talking about some other Florida "golf-retirement" community that you weren't supposed to mention on these forums.

Oh, you must mean "On The Other True Wind - OTOTW" Nope, not that one.

[normandy]

YEAR 2002 WHEN WE LOOKED INTO BUYING A HOUSE HERE WE WERE TOLD --QUIT" golf is FREE AT ALL GOLF COURSES

[Laker14]

YEAR 2002 WHEN WE LOOKED INTO BUYING A HOUSE HERE WE WERE TOLD --QUIT" golf is FREE AT ALL GOLF COURSES

you were told golf is free at all golf courses? Are you sure you understood exactly what was being said?
Was it explained that there are championship courses as well as executive courses, and that golf would be free at both types of venues?

And..did you get it in any written documents pertaining to your purchase of a home?

[ElDiabloJoe]

...

And..did you get it in any written documents pertaining to your purchase of a home?

As they say, an oral agreement (or promise) is only worth the paper it's written on.

[golferrm]

Why do they use the words “country club” in the championship course? These are the poorest excuses for what they call them. They haven’t touched the fairways in over 10 years except to paint them green. Let them grow out so you can use all wedges. It’s better to play out of the so called rough. Get 20 feet off fairway and you ride over tree roots in bare dirt. And it’s called a country club

[tophcfa]

Why do they use the words “country club” in the championship course? These are the poorest excuses for what they call them. They haven’t touched the fairways in over 10 years except to paint them green. Let them grow out so you can use all wedges.

Perhaps if you learned how to properly hit a golf ball, by pinching it off a tight lie, then you could hit all your wedges. The course conditions aren’t always perfect, but they are always very playable for those not looking for excuses. Golf on : )

[Topspinmo]

Talking to yourself again?

See how that works?

Is that All you got :)

[golfing eagles]

So what makes it a championship course "A Real Course" the extra 50 - 80 yards? :1rotfl:

Let's see-----execs 900-1700 yds, champs, 5200-7100 yds. It's like "50-80 yards", only different :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[golferrm]

Maybe you should learn to hit a wedge the way it was meant to be hit. You can basically go to other courses around us and they have something called grass.

[golfing eagles]

Just got back from a long weekend playing golf in Phoenix, we played 3 rounds and all were under $100 including cart. We could have spent a lot more money, but we played on a budget. Out of the 3 courses, there was only 1 I'd never play again, 6 hour round, so it got a lot of traffic but it was in terrible shape. The rest were in nice shape and I'd happily play them again.

In comparison, I have not had any issues playing the Championship courses here, although I've only played at two, Southern Oaks and Belle Glade. Both were nice courses and seemed fairly priced. On the other hand I've played at Continental Country Club and paid $40/w cart and that was a nice course as well.

It seems to be seasonal, so I mainly stick to the Executive courses on the weekends since I work during the week....

Try playing TPC Scottsdale or Troon North for under $100 :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[I'm Popeye!]

Let's see-----execs 900-1700 yds, champs, 5200-7100 yds. It's like "50-80 yards", only different :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

9 holes divided by 1700 Yards = 188 Yards
27 holes divided by 7100 Yards = 262 Yards
Let's see: 262 Yards - 188 Yard - 74 Yards!
I'm in the ballpark with my numbers, why aren't are you?
Enjoy your lob wedge.... :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

[golfing eagles]

Those courses up north are still in business so I assume that they are making money even with a short season and a lower price. If they can make money up north, the real question is why do the Championship courses charge so much for courses that are open the entire year. They should be raking in the money.

Open the entire year also means maintenance the entire year

[JMintzer]

Is that All you got :)

With you, it's all I need...

[JMintzer]

9 holes divided by 1700 Yards = 188 Yards
27 holes divided by 7100 Yards = 262 Yards
Let's see: 262 Yards - 188 Yard - 74 Yards!
I'm in the ballpark with my numbers, why aren't are you?
Enjoy your lob wedge.... :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

No, that would be 7100 yards divided by 18 holes... 394 yds/hole...

You're nowhere near the ballpark...

Maths is hard!

[guitarguy]

My golf spy published an article regarding average cost to play golf on a state basis. 2021 Florida average was $55.00. Refer to the article if you want more details.

[Rainger99]

My golf spy published an article regarding average cost to play golf on a state basis. 2021 Florida average was $55.00. Refer to the article if you want more details.

I think this is the article.

STUDY: How Much Does a Round of Golf Cost? | MyGolfSpy (https://mygolfspy.com/study-how-much-does-a-round-of-golf-cost/)

[Papa_lecki]

I think this is the article.

STUDY: How Much Does a Round of Golf Cost? | MyGolfSpy (https://mygolfspy.com/study-how-much-does-a-round-of-golf-cost/)

It used data from a handicap app - so anyone who tracks their handicap index at ANY country club in the country has their rounds excluded (I pay a GHIN handicap fee at my club in the northeast, i can enter my scores in FLA).

“The rates used include the lowest posted rates throughout 2021 and include cart fees when applicable.”

[golfing eagles]

9 holes divided by 1700 Yards = 188 Yards
27 holes divided by 7100 Yards = 262 Yards
Let's see: 262 Yards - 188 Yard - 74 Yards!
I'm in the ballpark with my numbers, why aren't are you?
Enjoy your lob wedge.... :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

///

[Marathon Man]

No, that would be 7100 yards divided by 18 holes... 394 yds/hole...

You're nowhere near the ballpark...

Maths is hard!

Uh oh. I'm guessing he now wishes that he did not start typing.

[golfing eagles]

Uh oh. I'm guessing he now wishes that he did not start typing.

Which is the reason I deleted my response----I don't believe in piling on, no matter how much the posts deserves it.

[golfing eagles]

I tried the priority fee one year and felt I still had to pay too much when I played a big course so we did not do it much and therefore it was definitely not cost effective. My wife and I play executive courses 3-5 times a week and find them as challenging as we want as you can pick courses with different difficulty rating. And if I want to feel like I'm on a championship course - I can move back to the black tees. I'm not a great golfer so exec's are fine for me. If we want to play big courses, there are "deals" in nearby off-campus golf courses.

Playing the "black" tees on an exec makes you feel like you're on a champ course???? OK, whatever.

[nick demis]

[QUOTE=Mortal1;2069013]Exec courses are not "free"...the fee is included with the amenity fee.

The amenity fee is for all the services that you pay for the right to live in the villages. Unless they give you back the amenity fee if you play on a championship course, than I don't understand your point.

[Hape2Bhr]

Try playing TPC Scottsdale or Troon North for under $100 :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl:

About 20 years ago I played both TPC's for $82. It was in August (very hot, but dry). I walked the 1st nine of The Desert Course and then picked up the included cart for the back nine since I had already developed blisters.

Obviously rode The Stadium Course, but it certainly was not fun with those blisters!

Played Troon North a couple of days later for well under $100, but, it was a long time ago, and August.

:gc:

[I'm Popeye!]

Which is the reason I deleted my response----I don't believe in piling on, no matter how much the posts deserves it.

///// :1rotfl::1rotfl::1rotfl: