Road Trip to Saratoga - Part 2 of 3
Making the turn to # 10 which is a par 5, 415 yards from the forward tee and every bit of it a challenge. If you are a long hitter, you might consider something other than a driver here. Water runs across the fairway and can be in play if you aren’t careful. Your next shot is also critical; there is yet another creek lurking in front of the green. I’ve yet to concur this hole after many tries. But I am determined to every time we play here.
The next par 4 - #11, this dogleg right has a creek running across the fairway. Left to left center would give you a good angle into the 2 tiered green. The opening between the greenside bunkers is small, so make good decisions here.
Over the bridge to the Par 3 #12. Distance control is critical here. There are 3 deep bunkers guarding the green. Unless you love hitting out of bunkers, I suggest you hit a little more club!
And now… hold onto your britches! Number 13 is the course #1 hole and rightfully so. It has water just about everywhere you look. It will demand your full attention. Don’t get distracted by the beautiful scenery here! Okay… take it in… it’s a great golf hole and it will bring you back time and time again. Staying right on all shots will be very helpful in avoiding the water. Once you are on the green, take a deep breath and thank your lucky stars!
#14 from the forward tees is a straight shot to a pretty wide fairway but bunkered. The green is also protected, but after #13, you will enjoy an easier hole. Another rest area is here between the 14th green and the #15 tee box. You will also get a view of Lake Lonley and the beautiful homes sitting across the lake. Maybe you’ll even see some folks fishing!
Number 15 is the course’s island green. Pick your club carefully and give it your best shot. The 2 greenside bunkers are a challenge, but at least your ball is dry. It’s a short shot from the forward tees, only 78 yards as the card reads.
Number 16 is a short par 4 wrapping around the water on your right. Stay to left and you’ll have a good angle into the green
Number 17 is another short par 4, dogleg left. Fairway bunker and green side bunkers are scattered around this hole. Stay to the right to avoid the very large fairway bunker on the left.
Coming home… the beautiful clubhouse in all her glory is right in front of you. The forward tee on #18 gives you a distinct advantage with a total yardage of 232 and an elevated tee box. If you hit a good drive here, it’s just a short shot to the green which winds to the left. There is a large bunker and the Owl Pond on the left… so be aware of that with your second shot.
A one or 2 putt will get you applause from the patrons sitting on the patio above the hole.
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