Texas Golf Insider

Golf Insider TEXAS

The Official Guide to Golf in Texas

Patrick Reed Life After Winning The Masters Inside:

Celebrating our 100th Issue Thanks Texas

Cross Timbers GC, Azle, TX

Hill Country Feel/Parkland Challenge

Going Cajun

In Louisiana’s Audubon Country

Discover Galveston “The Island of Fun”

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ROAD TRIP No. 44

M�e golf �an you can shake a 9-iron at.

When it comes to championship golf, there’s no better destination than Alabama. Come play where the PGA TOUR professionals compete and see why Golf Digest editors picked two of Alabama’s golf resorts among their favorites. For starters there are the 468 holes along the world-renowned Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. Stretching from the mountains in the north to the Gulf Coast in the south, America’s original golf trail opened 25 years ago and recently completed a massive renovation of its 26 courses. Then there are the many other impressive courses scattered across the state, designed by the likes of Arnold Palmer and Jerry Pate. Each with its own set of challenges, each with its own rewards. Plan an epic road trip to great golf courses across the state of Alabama.

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Contents 8

Cover Stories 6 WELCOME

HOW TO CONTACT US WITH GOLF NEWS AND STORIES

8 PATRICK REED LIFE CHANGES AFTER YOU WIN THE MASTERS. Q&A

16 CROSS TIMBERS GC

A MIX OF HILL COUNTRY FEEL AND PARKLAND CHALLENGES

Masters Champion Patrick Reed

T G I

DALLAS & FT. WORTH 20 GENERAL DIRECTORY

24 GOING CAJUN IN LOUISIANA’S AUDUBON COUNTRY FEED YOUR SOUL

34 2018 CANCUN OPEN WIN MONEY & PRIZES

40 GOLF & GAMING IN NEW MEXICO

TAKE A TRIP TO THE LAND OF ENCHANTMENT

CENTRAL TEXAS MAP & DIRECTORIES 44 GENERAL DIRECTORY 46 MAP 47 ADVERTISER’S DIRECTORY

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Follow Us

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Cross Timbers Golf Course

REGIONS GREATER HOUSTON & TEXAS COAST 58 GENERAL DIRECTORY 60 MAPS 61 ADVERTISER’S DIRECTORY

62 DISCOVER GALVESTON “THE ISLAND OF FUN”

TEXAS

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FROM THE FROM THEPUBLISHER EDITOR

Letter From The Publisher Patrick Reed & Mike Ratchman “One for the Wall”

Texas

GOLF INSIDER P.O. Box 310652 New Braunfels, TX 78130 830-964-2152 FAX 830-964-2153 thetexasgolfinsider.com Mike Ratchman Texas Publisher Office: 830-964-2152 mike@thetexasgolfinsider.com Mark Harris DFW /Houston Regional Publisher Office: 512-296-4076 mark@thetexasgolfinsider.com Editor: Ava Ratchman Contributing Writers: Art Stricklin, Steve Habel Tom Bedell Contributing Photographers: Gary Perkins, Mark Lindsay, Carlton Wade, Steve Giles, The Texas Golf Hall of Fame Office Manager/Social Media: Marcede Pullen Production: Pat Gondert 3 ANNUAL EDITIONS Copyright ©2015 Texas Golf Insider. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Golf course rates are subject to change at any time. Texas Golf Insider and its affiliates are not responsible or liable for any errors, omissions or changes in rates or information.

HAPPY 100th Special Edition Welcome to a special edition of the Texas Golf insider.

Let’s get right to it.The norm every issue is to highlight a golf course, resorts, or country club because that is what we are, a guide to golf in Texas. But not this issue, for two reasons. One, the Texas Golf insider is celebrating its 100th edition of publishing the oldest golf magazine in Texas. For over 2-decades we have been delivering golf information to our readers on places to play, stay, travel to, products to buy, new gadgets to try and steering you to places that have the best burger and coldest beers after your round.We’ve seen the boom in our industry like something we have never seen before, when everyone prospered, only to be followed by 911 and then one of the worst recessions our industry has ever seen. Some survived, some not so lucky. But if you’re still standing after all of that, be thankful, because I know I am.The relationships I have made over the years are priceless.They say if you have five friends in your life you can call on in a pinch you’ve been blessed.Well, I’ve been blessed tenfold.

Now you don’t stick around this long without having great staff and family to support what you do, and I have just that.They are much younger and keep me hip on all the new marketing stuff you need to have now days other than print, like Instagram, Facebook Linked-In TV, Radio etc. All the social media services I need to know about these days to get a message out. I’m still in a learning curve.That’s a good thing and it’s still a lot of fun. So, thank you readers, listener, and viewers for allowing us to keep doing what we do.

OhYeah, the second reason this issue is special is that we decided to share our 100th edition Front Cover with 2018 Master’s Champion and local San Antonio golfer Patrick Reed.We had a chance to meet up with him at Horseshoe Bay Resort at the re-opening of Ram Rock Golf Course. He was gracious enough to sit down with us for a little Q & A and talked about Hill Country golf and how the Master’s has changed his life.

Don’t forget to put Ram Rock on your list to play this year. Robert Trent Jones Jr. did a great job on making Ram Rock a fun course to play. Play it and let me know what you think.

Enjoy the Summer

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

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Mark Harris

Regional Publisher for the Texas Golf Insider – Dallas-Ft Worth, with over 25 years experience in marketing and customer relations and over 40 years experience as a mediocre golfer with a passion for the game.

Steve Habel

A national correspondent for Cybergolf, managing editor for Texas CEO Magazine, contributing editor for Horns Illustrated Magazine, a publication focusing on University of Texas sports and staff writer for the San Antonio Spurs.

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

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COVER STORY

Texas Golfer Patrick Reed

Life Changes When You Win The Masters Q & A sit down with Texas Golf Insider

Texas born,Texas bred, taught as an aspiring Lone Star junior and a world famous PGA Tour golf champion, Patrick Reed became the ninth different Texas player to win the Masters Golf Tournament in April, staring down a number of world class players including fellow Texan Jordan Spieth with a clutch par putt on the 18th hole at Augusta National Golf Club.

It was the culmination of a lifelong dream for the San Antonio native, who played as a junior at The Dominion Country Club in the Alamo City. He had his entire career guided by two Texas teachers, Peter Murphy at the Hank Haney Golf Academy in Lewisville when he was a junior, and Kevin Kirk at The Woodlands Country Club who has guided almost his entire professional career.

Reed has won six PGA Tour events, including the WGC tournament at Doral in Miami, where he labeled himself one of the top five players in the world. But none were bigger than the clutch Masters win, which seemed to validate Reed’s tenure of the latest in a long line of great Texas golfers.

Reed currently lives in Spring, just outside TheWoodlands, where he plays out of The Woodlands Country Club on a regular basis and works with Kirk at the modern teaching facility there.

Reed’s wife Justine is from Spring and was a former high school volleyball player there. Her brother, Kessler Karnin, is Reed’s caddy, a role she once filled herself. Former SMU and Augusta State head golf coach, Josh Gregory, serves as his performance coach. Austin’s Dave Pelz works with his short game.

Masters Champions Sergio Garcia and Patrick Reed enjoy a laugh after Patrick’s win

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

COVER STORY

Reed was more than happy to be back in Texas recently for a short stopover at the Horseshoe Bay Resort, a place he calls his second home for its vacation time properties for his wife and his young son, along with a trio of great public golf courses as well as the private Summit Rock, a Jack Nicklaus design.

During the grand re-opening of the Ram Rock Golf Course, Reed hit the opening tee shot and fielded questions from members and guests, along with signing several Masters flags. He was happy to talk to Texas Golf Insider Senior Writer Art Stricklin on his love for Horseshoe Bay and the Texas Hill Country, along with the do’s and don’ts he learned about being a Masters champion and how his Texas upbringing molded him into a major golf champion.

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Ram Rock at Horseshoe Bay

Q & A with Patrick and Art TEXAS GOLF INSIDER: What’s it like being back at Horseshoe Bay as the 2018 Masters Champion?

PATRICK REED: I appreciate them having me today. I’ve been here a bunch with my family and friends and to me this just feels like a second home. I’m excited to help re-open a course (Ram Rock) where I can work on my game and also play.

Cutting the Ribbon to open Ram Rock - L to R: Kent Graham, Cynthia Clinesmith, Ron Mitchell, Patrick Reed, Steve Jordan, Reagan Lambert, Ken Gorzycki, Craig Haydon, Bruce Fairchild

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

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COVER STORY

TGI: How do you balance the two at a place this scenic?

PR: One thing that has always helped me here and other places is that I’m an early riser; I always have been going back to my days as a kid. I’m able to get up early when I’m here, maybe about 7 a.m. and go get some work in at the range, maybe 4-5 hours, then come back and it’s around noon and I’m able to spend the rest of the day with my family on the lake here and the beach and the golf courses just relaxing.

TGI:What’s your go to course at Horseshoe Bay? PR: I’m not sure I really have one because they are all so good and scenic. I enjoy the variety and enjoy the place to work on my game.

TGI:While you were growing up in San Antonio, you spent a great deal of TheTexasGolfInsider.com

time with Peter Murphy at the Hank Haney Golf Academy in North Texas.

Can you talk about how your junior golf time in Texas helped train you to be a Masters champ?

PR: I can’t say enough to what Peter meant to me as a person and a coach.

He trained me as a golfer, but also as a person and helped me mature. I owe a lot to him and that’s why I thought about maybe one day doing an academy for boys, so I could help people the way Peter helped me. I owe him a lot at an early age.

TGI:You’re living in the Woodlands area and working with Texas teacher Kevin Kirk. How has that worked out for you?

PR: It’s a very comfortable situation with my wife being from the area, and I have a good relationship with Kevin Kirk.There are a lot of good courses there and being with Kevin has helped me and my game.

TGI:This is your first visit to Horseshoe Bay as the current Masters Champion. so what has that been like since winning at Augusta National.

PR: I’ve now heard from three, four presidents — I can’t remember which — the [Houston] Rockets players I know [reached out], and I got a World Series ring from the Astros. It’s been crazy, but fun.

TGI: With your first major under your belt at The Masters this year, you have a chance for the Grand Slam and more glory this year. How much does that motivate you?

PR: It motivates me a lot. I have to put the work in to get better, but I’ve

COVER STORY

shown that if I do that I can only get better and I can continue to win at a high level.

TGI: Before the Masters victory, you were known as Captain America for your Ryder Cup success. With this being a Ryder Cup year and this year’s matches this fall outside of Paris, are you planning some scouting trips to Europe this summer?

PR: I fully intend to fulfill the requirements for my European tour membership, so that means some trips over there this summer, and I’m still trying to sort it out. I don’t have a firm schedule past the U.S. Open and [the Travelers in] Hartford, but it will certainly include some European stops.

TGI:You’re the 9th different Texas player to have won the Masters, so do Texas players have a special fraternity at Augusta?

PR: Really? I didn’t know that, that’s a lot, but being a Masters champion is

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special enough regardless of the state.

TGI: I don’t want to point out the obvious, but you came to Horseshoe Bay without the Green Jacket which goes to all Masters Winners. Is there any reason for that?

PR:You’re not supposed to wear the jacket in public with a hat and you’re not supposed to wear it without a buttoned-up shirt, and since I didn’t have that [today] I left the jacket in the closet at home.

TGI: OK, good to know. Congrats on your Texas-sized Masters win.

Ram Rock at Horseshoe Bay

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

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FEATURE STORY

Azle’s Cross Timbers Golf Course might be the Metroplex’s best-kept secret - With a mix of Hill Country feel and parkland challenges, this place is a must-play

By Steve Habel, Senior Contributing Editor

There’s an old axiom that, paraphrased, reminds us that knowing a secret and not telling it is the worst kind of dilemma. People who find something that is good are tempted to keep that knowledge to themselves while battling the notion to shout and crow about it to their friends.

For the past 23 years, that’s been the yin and yang of Cross Timbers Golf Course, a 6,734-yard gem of golf excellence set in the town of Azle, about 15 minutes northwest of Fort Worth.

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

This is a place where golfers of all skill levels will experience a variety of challenges; lofty downhill tee shots, undulating fairways, demanding and lengthy par 3s, strategic bunkering, and a variety of greenside collection areas.

Mix in lightning-fast putting surfaces, and it’s easy to see how a round at Cross Timbers will engage and enthrall golfers and want them to keep it a secret, a situation made even tougher by the course’s remarkably affordable green fees.

FEATURE STORY

The par-72, 18-hole track is a shotmaker’s course, one that winds its way through the hilly, wooded land next to Ash Creek in the “Cross Timbers” area of north Texas.

The design takes full advantage of this unique topography, with multiple elevation changes that produce a true Texas Hill Country feel.

Cross Timbers opened in 1995 and has grown into a favorite of locals and visitors from all over the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The course is owned and operated by the City of Azle and books about 34,000 rounds annually.

The course and the property on which it is routed has a storied past, and a lot of the city officials were not keen about building it at first. It has since become profitable, and the issues have all but died out – and that’s a boon to area golfers.

17

There have been some changes at Cross Timbers over the past two decades, said Keith Harris, the facility’s general manager and director of golf, specifically a re-routing of holes to start the round and a change to Champion Bermuda greens from the original Bentgrass putting surfaces.

“The original design had you starting on what is now the par-5 third hole and finishing on what is now No. 2,” Harris explained. “The

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

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FEATURE STORY

tee shot on three, which is through a chute and over a small canyon, is much too demanding for an opening hole, and there would be a large stack up to start the round. They changed that about 10 years ago.

The course’s greens were changed about eight years ago.”

From the tee at the opening hole, golfers can enjoy the scenic view of Eagle Mountain Lake and downtown Fort Worth in the distance, but your attention will quickly need to be refocused on the natural beauty and challenges of the course.

The first, as mentioned above, and 10th holes begin from extremely elevated tees, and TheTexasGolfInsider.com

hole Nos. 3 and 12 require forced carries, to start, as does the beautiful par 3 ninth, which is the course’s signature hole and one of the prettiest you’ll find in north Texas.

“The par 4 378-yard second hole is my favorite on the front, Harris said. “I have always liked how the hole is framed from the tee box. It just looks like a good hole and would fit well on any course. You have ample room off the tee.”

“No. 17 is my favorite hole on the back,” Harris added.

“Although it is not long at 340 yards, it has a lot of character. You have several ways you can play the hole, and the greens complex has two tiers with pot bunkers on the left.”

The first indi-

FEATURE STORY

cation that there’s a course on the grounds is Cross Timbers’ expansive practice facility, which includes target greens well-placed throughout the range, and stations for bunker and short-game work.

The course also offers one of the most affordable range programs in the DFW Metroplex as well as a staff of PGA-certified golf professionals to assist players with any instruction needs.

And Cross Timbers Golf Course offers a discounted green fee for seniors 60 and over and for veterans and military personnel.

Open to The Public

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Before or after the round, golfers grab a cozy table at the Roadrunner Grill, which serves a really good breakfast (burritos, fried egg sandwiches, etc.), a great burger, and hotdogs.

This place used to be a real jaunt from real civilization, but – like everywhere else in the Metroplex – the people are beginning to really head in this direction. The course rests just off the Jacksboro Highway (Hwy. 199), and there’s a bit of construction being done on the road to make sure the area can grow in an unimpeded manner.

The new highway will just make it easier to get to Cross Timbers, which is a course that area golfers should readily include on their list of regular rounds.

A zle MAP #96

Cross Timbers Golf Course

TEE INFORMATION

Yardage/Rating/Slope: Gold: 6734 / 72.6 / 128 Blue: 6417 / 70.0 / 121 White: 5968 / 68.1 / 116

COURSE FACTS Number of Holes: 18 Par: 72 Architect: Jeffery Brauer Gen. Manager: Keith Harris

COURSE AMENITIES • Online Store • Road Runner Grill • Practice Area • Lessons Available

1181 S Stewart St, Azle, TX 78155 (817) 444-4940 www.crosstimbersgc.com

Designed by Jeffery Brauer, Cross Timbers opened in 1995. Its Azle location is convenient to Fort Worth,Weatherford, Springtown, and Lake Worth. It has grown into a favorite of locals and visitors from all over the Dallas-Fort Worth area.The par-72, 18 hole tract winds its way through the hilly, wooded land next to Ash Creek in the “Cross Timbers” area of north Texas.The design takes full advantage of this unique topography, with multiple elevation changes that create a true “Hill Country” feel.

Rates: 18 holes M-F: $32 - $35 M-F (60+) $28 - $35 Wknd: $39 - $44 * Twilight after 2 pm

Twilight* $25 $26 $26

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

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DIRECTORY DALLAS | FORT WORTH

ARLINGTON: Chester W. Ditto Golf Course Semi-Private Lake Arlington Golf Course Semi-Private Tierra Verde Golf Club Semi-Private AZLE: Cross Timbers Golf Course BROWNWOOD: The Hideout Golf Club

Public Semi-Private

BURLESON: Hidden Creek Golf Course Southern Oaks Golf Club

Public Public

CARROLTON: Maridoe Golf Club Indian Creek Golf Course

Public Public

DALLAS: Bear Creak Golf Club Buffalo Creek GC Cedar Crest Golf Course Keeton Park Golf Course Luna Vista Golf Course Preston Trail Golf Club Steven Parks Golf Course Tension Glen Golf Club The Golf Club of Dallas Trinity Forest Golf Club

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FEATURE STORY

Wanna Bet? Golf Side Games

By Adam Grosch

We all know making a birdie is exciting, but it’s so much sweeter when it’s worth something. Whether you’re making birdies or happy to make a par, here are a few side games that you can play with your friends to make every round of golf more interesting. All of these games can be played taking handicap difference into account so that all skill levels have a chance to win.

In this issue, I’ll cover a couple of side games that work well for groups of three players.

Bingo Bango Bongo: This can be played with 2, 3, or 4 players. In this game there are 3 points on every hole.

One point goes to the longest shot to be on the surface of the green, one point goes to the person nearest to the hole and one point going to the longest putt made within the group. This is a great game for beginners or for large handicap differences within the group because overall score doesn’t matter.

Captain: This game is made for a 3-some. Spin a tee before you start to get the order within your group. The

23

first player will be the Captain and play a low net match for the first 3 holes against the other two players and the second player will be the Captain on holes 4-6, so on and so forth. You can make each match worth whatever you like.

Baseball (or 9-point):This is another game for a 3-some. Each hole has 9 points available.The lowest net score gets 5 points, the next lowest gets 3 points and the highest score gets 1 point. If there is a tie for the low score the point distribution would be 4-4-1; a tie for the high score would be 5-2-2 and a three way tie would be 3-3-3.

This game usually doesn’t get out of hand so I tend to play each point worth more than what I do in a Wolf game.

The Dude: This a great game for a 3-some on a full course where you will be playing at a 4-some pace. Spin a tee before you start to determine your order. Player 1 will be The Dude on hole 1, player 2 will be The Dude on hole 2, so on and so forth. On each hole all three players tee off and then The Dude plays a second ball that is distinguishable from the original ball. The Dude plays both balls through the hole and his lower net score will go against the low net score from the other two players.

When you’re The Dude you have twice as much exposed to win or lose. Only keep track of the original ball on the scorecard for your handicap (and Nassau’s that you might also have going).

Whether you’re playing for nickels, twenties or pride, no matter what it takes for you, just find ways to make every round of golf fun and exciting.

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

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FEATURE STORY

Going Cajun in Louisiana’s Audubon Country

By Tom Bedell

Louisiana’s new tourism slogan, “Feed Your Soul,” seems right on the money to me, having just returned from a southern tour of the state and packing on five pounds in as many days. And that’s with a daily round of 18 holes.

I’m certainly not complaining; the pounds will vanish now that I’m home, and I took utmost pleasure in the varied acts of packing on the weight before, after and sometimes during rounds of golf. I was there to play five of the fifteen courses on the Audubon Golf Trail scattered around the state (five of them with accommodations and stay and play packages).

The Trail is named for John James Audubon, who did much of his pioneering ornithological work in the state, and also TheTexasGolfInsider.com

TPC Louisiana Golf Club

because all of the courses must have or be aiming at the ecological standards that confer upon them the status of an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. Part of the certification process involves wildlife and habitat management, so golfers can count on seeing as many birds as Audubon himself could have wished for, not to mention more than a few gators.

I landed in New Orleans and managed to launch my new dietary plan with a superb Redfish Bienville dish at Dickie Brennan’sTableau in the French Quarter. New Orleans is a jazz, blues and Dixieland town, which was certainly pleasant enough at the Bourbon O’ Bar located at the Bourbon Orleans Hotel, where Bourbon and Orleans Streets meet.

But I had a hankering for Audubon Park something more

FEATURE STORY

down home, a bit of squeezebox and Cajun wail. So I wasn’t sorry when, after a round the next morning at the sparkling TPC Louisiana (fresh from the PGA Tour Zurich Classic), our group of golf writers hopped on a bus heading due west. Before we began the grand turnaround back to New Orleans days later we had cruised across the state on I-10 to barely 34 miles from the Texas border, and never too far from Gulf of Mexico breezes.

Making the Rounds The historic district of St. Francisville in the West Feliciana Parish is two miles long and one mile wide.There’s a lot of history here, not to mention classic antebellum houses and an Episcopal church and cemetery almost enveloped by ancient live oaks and Spanish moss.

Tourists flock here for the sheer southern atmosphere and to check out the Oakley Plantation House, where Audubon lived for a time. (It’s now within the Audubon Memorial State Park.)

Audubon particularly liked to hunt for birds around nearby Thompson Creek. Golfers can hunt for birdies at

25

The Bluffs on Thompson Creek and put up for lodging there as well.When new owners took over the course two years ago they immediately had to confront catastrophic damage from two major floods within a single year.The course is still recovering in a conditioning sense, but the bones of an Arnold Palmer signature design are still strong, particularly from the split fairway ninth hole on.There’s a splendid view of an onsite chapel in the woods here, where many a marriage has taken wing.

Golf balls you hit, boudin balls you eat.We first ran into this local specialty at The Francis Southern Table & Bar. It’s basically made from pork and rice sausage, although freed from its casing, formed into balls, then seasoned and breaded and, naturally, deep-fried.

Goes well with deep-fried catfish and deep-fried shrimp all on the same plate.

As a craft beer nut, I’m happy to report I was washing down all these fine meals with a seemingly unending series of beers from independent small Louisiana brewers, from the longestablished Abita to NOLA to relative newcomers like Urban South,Tin

The Bluffs

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

26

FEATURE STORY

Roof, Bayou Teche, Port Orleans, Gnarley Barley or Crying Eagle, among others.

We played at the delightful Gray Plantation Golf Course in Lake Charles, a Rocky Roquemore design where lakes Gray Plantation GC fittingly come into play on 11 holes, and two of the of beef that would have daunted any par-3s are island greens.

It should be noted that there are plenty dedicated trencherman, but also challenged us with fried oysters, of other courses besides the Audubon bacon-wrapped Gulf shrimp and Trail tracks to choose from in Lake Charles, including a resort-friendly Tom grilled redfish. Thanks to 26 beer Fazio track at L’Auberge Casino Resort, taps on hand, I felt up to the task and later still managed where we stayed. to waddle over to the There’s blackjack tables. little evidence Les Bon Temps of lingering We were lucky to have harm today from a double-dip of Cajun storms in the music the next day in past thanks to the Lafayette. The first helpeconomic bounty ing was a hearty dose of from L’Auberge fiddle and French accorand three other casinos (the Golden Nugget also has dion at the Mouton Plantation Bed & Breakfast, built in 1820 by Charles a golf course). We had another whiz Mouton, son of the founder of Lafaybang meal at the L’Auberge’s Jack Daniels Bar & Grill presided over by ette, Jean Mouton. Music is served up every evening along with Cajun its rock star chef Lyle Broussard. hors d’oeuvres (crab pâté, anyone?), He brought out heaping platters

Gray Plantation GC Signature Hole

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FEATURE STORY

the house cocktail and a killer bread pudding.

We went blue that night, first at the Blue Dog Café, equally a restaurant and art gallery filled with the works of the late George Rodrique (many, indeed, of blue dogs). Then we wandered over to the Blue Moon Saloon, happily enough for Cajun Jam Night. Even if one is reluctant to try a two step out on the floor it’s impossible to stay still once the syncopations of Cajun music get rolling and it was rolling with a good dozen musicians, including two-time Grammy nominated Cedric Watson playing a fiddle with an infectious grin. Well, I suppose we were all grinning. Ça c’est bon!

It takes a certain amount of courage to name a golf course The Wetlands, but it helps if the architect is a graduate of Nicklaus Design and LSU and Frank Burandt scores on both counts. The course opened in 2006 and was deemed tournament ready from the start, hosting the then Futures Tour for four years in the Louisiana Pelican Classic. Liz

27

Atchafalaya Golf Course

Janangelo carded a 29 for nine in the 2009 tilt here.

I had no such luck, but certainly enjoyed the round on what is basically a wide-open affair, inviting players to grip it and rip it, as long as they keep an eye open for the marshy areas that

The Wetlands Golf Course

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

28

FEATURE STORY

run through the course, always agreeably festooned with cypress trees.

We played a scramble for our getaway round the next day at the Atchafalaya at Idlewild course in Patterson, which also opened in 2006, designed by Robert von Hagge. The course takes the native tree to heart, using 130,000 board feet of cypress for its Acadian-style clubhouse, and planting cypress stumps in the fairways for its distinctive 150-yard markers.

The course winds around five lakes and ten wetland areas, and the corridors are ripe with live oaks and endless ribbons of Spanish moss.

There’s a decent amount of elevation to deal with, but it helps appreciate the views of the Atchafalaya Basin, the nation’s largest river swamp. The tees are named after indigenous animals. Only those who have OD’d on crawfish would play from the 7,533yard Gator tees, when more forward options (Eagle, Owl, Otter or Turtle) are available.

Our visit took place in mid-May, and the bonus, besides tremendous value to be had with more than reasonable greens fees, is that the day stretched ahead with more eating and drinking to be done, or other places to visit—such as the craft distillery Bayou Rum in Lacassine or the McIlhenny Tabasco factory tour on Avery Island.

Then there was the houseboat tour we took from Lake End Park in Morgan City on our last night, along with a jambalaya feast for dinner. This cruise up the bayou, gliding along besides the ancient stands of cypress in the sweet evening air and shifting shades of crepuscular light, seemed like the ultimate grace note. I don’t think it would be going too far to say that it fed the soul.

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Call 337-433-2255 for tee times and information.

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budget––all with free Wi-Fi and no additional taxes or fees.

Satisfy your appetite at any of 10 different restaurants, from fine dining to local Cajun favorites to quick café bites. Bring your clubs and tee off at the stunning Koasati Pines at Coushatta golf course, a dynamic 18-hole, par 72 championship layout with six sets of tees, multiple approaches on three holes, plus a unique “Gambling Hole.”

Book your getaway today!

Coushatta Casino Resort 800-584-7263 www.coushattacasinoresort.com

32

COURSES Open to The Public

SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN Sequin MAP #96

Starcke Park Golf Course

TEE INFORMATION

Yardage/Rating/Slope: Blue: 6676 / 72.0 / 124 Gold: 6416 / 70.8 / 122 White: 5645 / 67.3 / 113 Red: 5115 / 69.7 / 117

COURSE FACTS Number of Holes: 18 Par: 71 Architect: Bredemus, Mayfield Gen. Manager: Bruce Allen Head Pro: Aaron Krause Assistant Pro: Gabby Rangel

COURSE AMENITIES

• Pro S o • Snack Bar • Puttin i in area • Lessons Available

Step back in time and play one of the last “Parks” style courses in Central Texas. Our open layout rarely penalizes wayward swings and our generous fairways offer easy approach shots. Elevated greens and strategically placed bunkers offer just enough challenge to keep things interesting. And whether you’re walking or riding there is always a towering pecan tree around to offer some refreshing shade.

Rates: 18 9 Twilight* M-F: $34 $21 $26 M-F (60+) $30 $21 $26 Wknd: $37 $21 $26 * Twilight after 2 pm

650 River Dr W. Sequin, TX 78155 830-401-2490 www.golfseguintexas.gov

New and Improved Download Our App Today

FREE

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SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN

Public Course

RATES

18

MAP #20

9

Twilight

Weekday $35 $24 $25 Weekend $40 $24 $30

Twilight rates apply after 2pm

COURSE FACTS

Number of Holes: 18 Par: 72 Architect: Leon Howard General Manager: Chris Godwin Superintendent: Diego Navarro Course Record: Chris Shive, 62

TEE INFORMATION

Yardage/Rating/Slope: Gold: 6544 / 72.6 / 134 Blue: 6170 / 70.8 / 129 White: 5807 / 69.0 / 124 Red: 5187 / 69.8 / 117 Silver: 5187 / 65.7 / 119

COURSE AMENITIES

• • • •

Practice Facilities Golf Instructions Fully Stocked Pro Shop Online Specials

COURSES

33

Lago Vista

Lago Vista Golf Course Located in the Beautiful Texas Hill Country Lago Vista Golf Course is a par 72 18-hole championship golf course that offers over 6,500 yards of fun and challenging play. The course originally opened as a 9-hole facility in 1971 to help promote lot sales in the unincorporated neighborhoods that make up the city of Lago Vista today. Shortly thereafter, under the guidance of course designer Leon Howard, the course was renovated and expanded to 18 holes, and operated as a private country club until the mid-1990s.

Today, all the golfers are welcome to enjoy the undulating fairways, epic lake views, and abundant wildlife at Lago Vista golf course.

The course features four sets of tees to provide a fun challenge for all ability levels and a practice facility with a spectacular view of Lake Travis.

4616 Rimrock Drive Lago Vista, TX 78645

512-267-1170

www.lagovistagc.com

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36

FEATURE STORY

Landa Park Golf Course - A Hill Country Favorite Floating along the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers, having a great time with friends at a very famous German festival, splashing along with family at one of the biggest waterparks in the United States – there are many reasons to visit beautiful, historic New Braunfels,Texas. But if getting 18-holes in at Landa Park Golf Course at Comal Springs hasn’t made it onto your list of things to do, you could be missing out on one of the greatest golfing experiences in Texas’ Hill Country.

Landa Park Golf Course, celebrating its 80th anniversary this year, has been home to golfers in the Hill Country since 1938 when it started out as a 9-hole course. Its undergone several transformations since then, the most recent being in 2014 with a $6.9 million complete renovation including additional water features, bunkers, contouring, routing changes, tee and green complexes, TheTexasGolfInsider.com

and more.While the course has become a desirable golfing destination for golfers all over Texas and beyond, it still is home to many local leagues and associations.

Golfers at Landa Park Golf are welcome to take advantage of the short game practice facility and perfect their chipping, putting, and bunker shots.Then they’re ready to take on the beautiful 18-hole course nestled along the Comal River, which features unmatched Hill Country views in addition to the chance to golf among Texas wildlife.

The most challenging hole at Landa Park Golf Course? “I believe it’s the 16th hole.This signature hole offers the ultimate risk/reward,” said Brody Dillard, Landa Park Golf Course Superintendent. “Measuring 345 yards from the black tees, it offers many challenging tee options and pin positions - the back left, over the well-bunkered

FEATURE STORY

green being the most challenging. Long hitters can tackle it with a driver and cut the corner, avoiding the large oak in the middle of the fairway. Conservative players may opt for a layup with a hybrid for a wedge shot to a narrow depth, but wide green for the best opportunity for a birdie putt.”

If you find yourself in need of golf gear, the Landa Park Golf Course fullystocked Pro Shop has everything you need from apparel to golf necessities from top of the line brands including Titleist, Footjoy, and more.

Landa Park Golf Course is also a great destination for social gatherings.

If you’re interested in getting a little more competitive with your game, the course hosts monthly golf tournaments ranging from 2-person to 4-person teams and is also a great place to host your own golf tournament with access to a private event room.

Golfers looking for help with their game are welcome to take golf lessons completely tailored to individual needs from one of the PGA rated pros. “We can help your golf needs in all forms.

Whether it’s instruction, equipment, or hosting a tournament, we are here to help you,” said Chad Donegan, PGA Head Golf Professional. “We want you to feel right at home here at Landa

37

Park Golf Course, so come see us.”

Nothing works up an appetite quite like a day on the course. Golfers can satisfy their hunger at Hofbrau on the Green, Landa Park Golf Course’s onsite bar & grill with delicious breakfast and lunch options in addition to beverages sure to quench your thirst.

Landa Park Golf Course prides itself on being enjoyable to golfers of all skill levels – whether pro or novice.

Grab your clubs and enjoy an unforgettable Hill Country golfing experience.

Stay and Play packages are available for golfers looking for overnight accommodations in New Braunfels.Tee times are taken up to 7 days in advance online at www.landaparkgolfcourse.com

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

Exceptional course conditions, unique Hill Country views, and an unforgettable golямБng experience... all in the heart of beautiful New Braunfels, Texas.

WITH NEW LOW GREEN FEES! WWW.LANDAPARKGOLFCOURSE.ORG 830-420-0417

180 GOLF COURSE RD. | NEW BRAUNFELS, TX 78130

40

FEATURE STORY

Golf and Gaming Options run the gamut in New Mexico

Sandia Resort & Casino, Santa Ana Star Casino and Isleta Resort Casino are all great choices for fun on the links and at the tables in Albuquerque

By Steve Habel/Senior Editor

The area of New Mexico in and around Albuquerque is famous for its picturesque combination of mountain and desert, a wonderful climate in which you can play golf year-round, and its friendly residents, who quickly become welcoming hosts.

The region should also be considered one of America’s top golf destinations, with a dozen world-class courses within a 90-minute drive from its easyin-easy-out international airport.

A subset of those wonderful golf facilities is three courses that are a part of casino resorts, all with challenging routings amidst high-desert surroundings.

Three of the area’s courses – Sandia Golf Club, Santa Ana Golf Club, and Isleta Golf Club illustrate that the oftenvisioned delicate balance of golf and nature can be a boon to all interests. All three are among the top tracks in the state and fit in great with a trip to the Land of Enchantment.

Sandia is the closest to a sure thing as you’ll find in golf, gaming and fun Any discussion about golf and gambling in Albuquerque begins with the Sandia Resort & Casino just north of the city.

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Sandia Resort & Casino

The open and inviting golf course, routed by architect Scott Miller, is a blast to tackle, featuring many elevated tee shots and rolling fairways that push the wayward shot back into play.

In the years since Sandia Golf Club was developed by the Pueblo of Sandia, the track has become a constant in the industry rankings of Best Casino courses and has been a fixture on the list of top courses you can play in the Land of Enchantment.

Even though it’s carded at 7,772 yards from its back set of four tees and is the longest course in New Mexico, it’s no gamble to have fun if one tees it up from the correct set of tee boxes.

Miller and the Pueblo felt it was important to create a track where players were given adequate area to play golf, placing a premium or reward for a well-executed shot instead an indifferently executed one.The result is a golf course that will be relatively easy to play but difficult to score on, offering a challenging test for even the best players while not inflicting a beating on high-handicappers.

FEATURE STORY

41

But man or woman cannot live by and sports a rating of 73.0 and a slope golf alone. Sandia’s world-class resort of 135 from its back set of four tees. features 228 luxurious, oversized guest Designed by Ken Killian and rooms including more than 30 suites. opened for play in 1990, Santa Ana is Every guest room and suite offer views much more of a links-style layout than of the Albuquerque skyline or the rug- what you’ll play at Sandia, using subtle ged wildness of the Sandia Mountains. mounding bordered by native grasses The resort also includes over and eight crystal-blue lakes to inspire 35,000-square feet of “state of the art” and challenge players. entertainment, meeting and convention The course borders the Rio Grande space that can accommodate groups River and also features some of the up to 3,000, and a 12,000-square foot most consistently quick and difficult spa.There is also a plethora of dining greens in the region.With the wind options, including a 410-seat signature whipping off the nearby mountains getbuffet, a steakhouse and Bien Shur, a ting free rein here due to of the lay of rooftop gourmet restaurant with an the land, accuracy and course manageindoor/outdoor entertainment lounge ment are essential for success.

Because of the tests on the putsporting wonderful views. ting surfaces, the strategy for Santa Part of the appeal of Sandia is the Ana is specific; you have to be really fact that one can visit there and never have to leave because there is a little bit watchful of where you end up on the green, because that can determine of everything on the property. Believe whether you have a chance to make me, having fun here is the closest to a a birdie, or whether you’re having to sure thing that you’ll find anywhere. hope for a two-putt.The Tamaya nine’s Links-style golf is the appeal at toughest holes are its long par-4s, as Santa Ana Up the road about 20 minutes north of Sandia is Santa Ana Golf Club, which is on the same property as the Santa Ana Star Casino and just down the road from the Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa. Its three nine-hole golf courses, called Tamaya, Cheena, and Star, can also be combined to play as a trio of 18-hole, par-72 combinations, the hardest of which is likely the Cheena/ Star combo, which is Sandia Resort & Casino carded at 7,145 yards TheTexasGolfInsider.com

42

FEATURE STORY

Santa Ana Golf Club

No. 3 weighs in at 473 yards and the chines, “The Star” features more than seventh plays at 460 yards and left to 1,400 machines independently certified right around four huge bunkers in the as the “Loosest Slots in New Mexico” landing area.Then there’s its threeby Strictly Slots magazine. Video poker shot holes, the 600-yard third and the games, 25 table games, and live-action 599-yard fifth, both of which move left, poker are also available daily. then right, then left again before reachThe Star is also home to three fulling the green. scale restaurants.The Feast Buffet offers The final two holes can make or fresh food and live-action food stabreak your round on the Cheena nine. tions; Sadie’s at The Star features staple At 633 yards and uphill on the apNew Mexican dishes from the world proach, the par-5 eighth usually plays renowned Sadie’s of New Mexico resinto the wind as well. But pick up a lost taurant; and Mesa Grille serves up its stroke (or two) at the 534-yard par-5 famous $2 Star Burger along with other ninth – just make sure you avoid the grill favorites. water at front and left of the green.

Let your game soar at Isleta The tougher Star nine demands sevIn the south confines of Albueral blind tee shots to fairways hidden querque, Isleta Golf Club, one of the by desert scrub. Star’s real challenges Southwest’s premiere destinations for are on the 401-yard par-4 third (played our great game, is nestled at the edge of uphill and into the wind) and its pair the spectacular Bosque along the river of par-5s – the 594-yard sixth and the banks of the Rio Grande.

538-yard ninth.

Variety is the Santa Ana draw at Isleta, deStar Casino was signed by Bill Philthe first Native lips and opened American casino for play in 1996. to operate in The facility offers New Mexico, golfers three opening its nine-hole courses doors in 1993. that can be played Growing from in three 18-hole only 64 slot maSanta Ana Star Casino combinations, all TheTexasGolfInsider.com

FEATURE STORY

perched on the Pueblo of Isleta’s vast reservation just 15 minutes south of the airport.

The courses, which are located along the Rio Grande River, feature typical desert conditions with panoramic views from their tee boxes.

The greens are medium-sized and have contour, and the fairways are also undulating, which leads to some challenging uneven lies, with natural roughs on the borders.

The tracks are named after their primary topographic feature – Lakes, Arroyo and Mesa, and each has a different character.

Of the three combinations, the toughest is Mesa-Lakes, which carries a rating of 74.7 and a slope of 128. LakesArroyo is rated at 72.7 and sloped at 125 and Arroyo-Lakes has been rated at 72.4 and sloped at 124. In any grouping, a round at Isleta is both challenging and satisfying, all just minutes away from all the action at Isleta Resort & Casino.

Rising like a glass tower over the desert, Isleta Resort & Casino reaffirms the romantic perception of the American Southwest, as a sublime landscape with spectacular vistas and geological wonders. It’s a place where the perfect

43

Isleta Resort & Casino

blend of old world hospitality and modern conveniences are woven together seamlessly and into the fabric of daily life.

Cool running waters have lured weary travelers to Isleta for thousands of years so it should come as no surprise they offer both indoor and outdoor deluxe pool accommodations to their guests.

With more than 1,800 slots primed with more thrills and bills than any other casino in the Southwest and a choice of more than 25 table games, if pushing dice to the pass line in craps or betting a dime on Blackjack is your game, odds are you’ll have a good time at Isleta. From high limit to bingo to 18 (or even 27) holes on the golf course, the sky is the limit when it comes to fun here – and that’s the whole point, isn’t it?

Isleta Resort & Casino TheTexasGolfInsider.com

44

DIRECTORY SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN

COURSE AUSTIN: Avery Ranch Falconhead Gray Rock Golf Club Hancock Park Golf Course Jimmy Clay/Roy Kizer GC Lions Municipal Golf Course Morris Williams Golf Course Riverside Golf Club BANDERA: Flying L Ranch Golf Course BASTROP: Colovista Golf Club Hyatt, Wolfdancer Pine Forest Golf Club BLANCO: Vaaler Creek Golf Club BOERNE: Tapatio Springs BURNET: Delaware Springs Golf Course CANYON LAKE: Lakeside Golf Club CASTROVILLE: Alsatian Golf Course CIBOLO: Northcliffe Golf Club COMFORT: Buckhorn Golf Course CONCAN: Club at ConCan DEVINE: Devine Golf Course FLORESVILLE: River Bend Golf Club FREDERICKSBURG: Lady Bird Johnson Golf Course GEORGETOWN: Cowan Creek Golf Club Legacy Hill Golf Club White Wing Golf Club HORSESHOE BAY: Horseshoe Bay Resort Apple Rock Ram Rock Slick Rock HUTTO: Golf Club at Star Ranch KERRVILLE: Scott Schreiner Municipal GC KINGSLAND: Legends Golf Course KYLE: Plum Creek Golf Course LAGO VISTA: Lago Vista LAMPASAS: Hancock Park Golf Course LEANDER: The Golf Club at Crystal Falls

TYPE

PHONE COURSE

Semi-Private Semi-Private Semi-Private Public Public Public Public Public

(512) 248-2442 (512) 402-1558 (512) 288-4297 (512) 453-0276 (512) 444-0999 (512) 477-6963 (512) 974-8333 (512) 386-7077

Resort

(800) 646-5407

Semi-Private Resort Public

(512) 629-4585 (512) 308-9653 (512) 321-1181

Semi-Private

(830) 833-0706

Resort

(830) 537-4197

Public

(512) 756-8471

Public

(830) 899-3301

Public

(830) 931-3100

Semi-Private

(830) 606-7351

Public

(830) 995-5351

Resort

(830) 232-4471

Public

(830) 665-9943

Public

(830) 216-2800

Public

(830) 997-4010

Semi-Private Semi-Private Semi-Private

(512) 864-1244 (512) 864-1222 (512) 864-1244

Resort Resort Resort Resort

(830) 598-8600 (830) 598-8600 (830) 598-8600 (830) 598-8600

Semi-Private

(512) 252-4653

Public

(830) 257-4982

Public

(325) 388-8888

Public

(512) 262-5555

Semi-Private

(512) 267-1170

Public

(512) 556-3202

Public

(512) 259-5855

TYPE

LLANO: Llano Golf Club Public MANOR: Shadow Glen Semi-Private MARBLE FALLS: Hidden Falls Golf Club Semi-Private NEW BRAUNFELS: The Bandit Golf Course Public Landa Park Golf Course Public PLEASANTON: Pleasanton Country Club Semi-Private PFLUGERVILLE: Blackhawk Golf Club Public ROUND ROCK: Forest Creek Golf Club Public The Golf Club of Star Ranch Semi-Private TeraVista Golf Club Semi-Private SALADO: Mill Creek Inn & Country Club Semi-Private SAN MARCOS: Quail Creek Country Club Semi-Private SAN SABA: San Saba River GC Public SEGUIN: Starcke Park Golf Course Public SPICEWOOD: Pedernales Golf Course Public SPRING BRANCH: River Crossing Club Private The Club at Rebecca Creek Semi-Private SAN ANTONIO: Alamo Golf Club Public Brackenridge Park Golf Course Public Canyon Springs Golf Course Public Cedar Creek Golf Course Public Gateway Hills Golf Course Public Golf Club of Texas Public Hyatt Hill Country Resort Resort La Cantera Golf Club Public La Loma Grande Public Mission Del Lago Golf Course Public Northern Hills Public Olmos Basin Golf Course Public Randolf Oaks Golf Course Public Riverside Golf Course Public Salado Del Rio Public San Pedro Range & Par 3 Public Silverhorn Public The Palmer Course Public The Quarry Golf Club Semi-private The Republic Golf Course Public TPC San Antonio Resort Windcrest Golf Course Semi-private Willow Springs Golf Course Public UNIVERSAL CITY: Olympia Hills Golf & Conference Ctr Public UTOPIA: Utopia Golf Course Public WIMBERLEY: Quicksand at Woodcreek Public

PHONE (325) 247-5100 (512) 278-1304 (830) 693-3300 (830) 609-4665 (830) 221-4340 (830) 281-3486 (512) 251-9000 (512) 388-2874 (512) 252-GOLF (512) 651-9850 (254) 947-5698 (512) 353-1665 (325) 372-3212 (830) 401-2490 (512) 264-1489 (830) 904-4653 (830) 885-5168 (210) 696-4000 (210) 226-5612 (210) 497-1770 (210) 695-5050 (210) 671-3466 (210) 504-2550 (210) 647-1234 (210) 558-4653 (210) 222-9386 (210) 627-2522 (210) 655-4148 (210) 826-4041 (210) 652-4570 (210) 533-8371 (210) 222-9386 (210) 349-5113 (210) 545-5300 (210) 558-2365 (210) 824-4500 (210) 359-0000 (210) 491-5800 (210) 655-1421 (210) 226-6721 (210) 945-4653 (830) 966-5577 (512) 847-9700

SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN DIRECTORY

THE COAST COURSE

TYPE

Alice Municipal Golf Course Brownsville Golf Center Buccaneer Bay Public GC Colony Creek Country Club Corpus Christi Country Club Cottonwood Creek Golf Course Edinburg Municipal Golf Course El Campo County Club Fort Brown Municipal Golf Course Ganado Golf and Country Club Goliad Country Recreation Assoc.

Grande Caribbean at Dune Crest Harlingen Country Club L.E. Ramey Golf Course Lorenzo Golf Center Oso Beach Municipal GC Northshore Golf Course Padre Isles Country Club Palm View Golf Course Palmilla Beach Golf Club Rio Colorado Golf Course South Padre Island Golf Club The Victoria Country Club Tierra Del Sol Golf Club Tierra Santa Golf Club Treasure Hills Country Club Village Executive Golf Course Valley International Country Club

Public Public Public Semi-Private Private Public Public Private Public Public Public Public Private Public Public Public Public Private Public Semi-Private Public Public Semi-Private Public Public Semi-Private Public Semi-Private

PHONE (361) 664-7033 (956) 541-2582 (361) 790-7513 (361) 576-0018 (361) 991-2811 (956) 428-7758 (956) 381-1244 (409) 543-6592 (956) 542-9861 (361) 771-2424 (361) 645-2144 (361) 749-1974 (956) 412-4110 (361) 592-1101 (361) 826-8017 (361) 826-8010 (361) 643-2798 (361) 949-8056 (956) 687-9591 (361) 749-4653 (979) 244-2955 (956) 943-5678 (361) 573-3712 (956) 702-2320 (956) 973-1811 (956) 365-3100 (956) 968-5331 (956) 546-5331

RIO GRANDE VALLEY COURSE Adobe Wells Country Club Alamo Country Club Brownsville Municipal GC Cimarron Cottonwood 21 Ebony Hills Golf Course Fair Winds G.C & Practice Range Fort Brown Memorial GC Harlingen Country Club Jim Paul Golf Course Llano Grande Golf Course Los Lagos Golf Club Martin Valley Ranches Golf Course McAllen Country Club Meadow Creek Golf Club Palacio Real Golf Course Palm View Golf Course Rancho Viejo Country Club Raymondville Municipal Course River Bend Resort Shary Municipal Golf Course South Padre Island Golf Club The MAX Golf Course Tony Butler Municiapal GC

TYPE Private Private Public Private Semi-Private Public Public Public Private Public Public Public Public Private Public Semi-Private Public Semi-Private Public Semi-Private Public Public Public Public

PHONE (956) 686-8801 (956) 787-0910 (956) 541-2582 (956) 581-7408 (956) 428-0766 (956) 381-1244 (956) 423-2010 (956) 541-0394 (956) 412-4110 (956) 943-7520 (956) 565-3351 (956) 316-0444 (956) 585-6330 (956) 928-0440 (956) 581-6267 (956) 381-0964 (956) 687-9591 (956) 350-4000 (956) 689-9904 (956) 548-0191 (956) 580-8770 (956) 943-5678 (956) 726-2000 (956) 216-5970

GOLFATX...

EXPERIENCE A ROUND FOR YOURSELF

• LIONS • HANCOCK • MORRIS WILLIAMS • JIMMY CLAY • ROY KIZER • GREY ROCK

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1 1

99

16

Utopia

Castroville

1604

3 4

Comfort

16

26

473

2

8

3 46

46

20

1431

85

1604

75

29 725

73 6

51

Kyle

3

130

55 53 50

84

52 54

620

Marble Falls Leander

Spring Brand

87 87

2342

Kingsland 1825

37

Robstown

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Laredo

127

ConCan

Harper

5

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Portland

Refugio

83 358

Corpus Christi

77

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Par

Yardage /Rating /Slope

Practice Fac. Restaurant Banquet Fac. Pro Shop Instructions Ad on Page

47

Type Hole

Map Number

SAN ANTONIO |HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN COURSES

(210) 671-3466

P 18

72

6917/73.1/125

•

• • 12

(512) 288-4297

M 18

72

6909/74.6/141

• • •

• • 45

Hancock Golf Course 54 811 E 41st St. , Austin, TX 78751

(512) 978-2330

M 9

2633/32.6/112

•

• • 45

Jimmy Clay Golf Course 53 5400 Jimmy Clay Dr., Austin, TX 78744

(512) 974-4653

M 18

72

6914/73.8/124

• •

• • 45

Lady Bird Johnson Golf Course (830) 997-4010 16 341 Golfers Loop, Fredericksburg, TX 78624

M 18

72

6686/72.1/127

• • •

• • 39

LaLoma Grande Golf Club (210) 222-9386 85 1050 Harry Wurzbach, San Antonio, TX 78209

P 18

72

6774/72.5/124

• • •

• • 12

(512) 267-1170

M 18

72

6579/70.0/118

• • •

• • 33

(830) 420-0417

M 18

71

5665/71

• • •

• • 36

(512) 477-6963

M 18

71

6001/69.2/124

• • •

• • 45

(512) 974-8333

M 18

72

7023/73.0/124

• •

• • 45

(830) 606-7351

SP 36

72

6550/72/125

• • •

• • 49

(210) 652-4653

P 18

72

7172/74.5/125

•

• • 12

(512) 974-4653

M 18

71

6819/72.2/125

• • •

• • 45

Salado Del Rio Golf Course (210) 222-9386 85 1050 Harry Wurzbach, San Antonio, TX 78209

P 18

72

6819/70.8/124

• • •

• • 12

Star Ranch Golf Club 3 2500 FM 685, Hutto, TX 78634

(512) 252-4653

P 18

71

7030/71.0/117

• • •

•

Starcke Park Golf Course 6 650 River Dr. W, Sequin, TX 78155

(830) 401-2490

P 18

72

Type: M=Municipal, PR=Private, P=Public, SP= Semi-Private.

Gateway Hills Golf Course 26 1800 Dimsted Pl., Lackland AFB, TX 78236 www.myjbsa-fss-mwr.com

Grey Rock Golf Course

51 7401 TX-45, Austin, TX 78739 www.austintexas.gov

www.austintexas.gov

www.austintexas.gov

www.golffredericksburg.com

www.ftsammwr.com /recreation/golf.html

Lago Vista Golf Course

2 0 4616 Rimrock Dr., Lago Vista, TX 78645 www.lagovistagc.com

Landa Park Golf Course

73 180 Golf Course Rd., New Braunfels, TX 78130 www.landaparkgolfcourse.com

Lions Municipal Golf Course 52 2901 Enfield Road, Austin, TX 78703 www.austintexas.gov

Morris Williams Golf Course

55 3851 Manor Road, Austin, TX 78723 www.austintexas.gov

Northcliffe Golf Club

29 5301 Country Club Blvd., Cibolo, TX 77546 www.northcliffegolfcourse.com

Randolph Oaks Golf Course

75 Bldg. 1300 Golf Course Rd, Randolph AFB, TX 78150 www.myjbsa-fss-mwr.com

Roy Kizer Golf Course

50 5400 Jimmy Clay Dr., Austin, TX 78744 www.austintexas.gov

www.ftsammwr.com/recreation/golf.html

5

www.starranchgolf.com

6670/72.0/124 •

• • 32

www.starranchgolf.com

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

Par

Yardage /Rating /Slope

Practice Fac. Restaurant Banquet Fac. Pro Shop Instructions Ad on Page

COURSES SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN

Type Hole

Map Number

48

(956) 726-2000

P 18

72

6211/72/125

• • • • • 21

(830) 833-0706

SP 18

72

6864/73.0/140 • • • • 14

Type: M=Municipal, PR=Private, P=Public, SP= Semi-Private.

The Max 99 27700 FM 1472, Laredo, TX 78045 www.themaxlaredo.com

Vaaler Creek Golf Club

87 228 Jeff Vaughn, Blanco, TX 78155 www.vcgc.golf

North Texas Courses

Cross Timbers Golf Course

2 1181 S Stewart St.,, Azle, TX 78155

(817) 444-4940

P 18

72

6734/72.6/128 • • • • • 16

(325) 784-4653

SP 18

72

6981/74.1/139 • • • • • 68

www.crosstimbersgc.golf

1

The Hideout Golf Club & Resort

185 Hideout Lane, Brownwood, TX 76801 www.thehideoutgolfclub.com

SHOPPING/SERVICES | ACCOMMODATIONS/DINING | TOURNAMENTS/INSTRUCTION ACCOMODATIONS/ DINING Alabama Road Trip | Ad Page 2 www.alabama.travel/golf | Coushatta Casino | Ad Page 30 777 Coushatta Drive, Kinder, LA | www.CoushattaCasinoResort.com | 800-584-7263 Cypress Bend Resort, Spa & Conference Ctr.| Ad Page 28 2000 Cypress Bend Prky, Many, LA | www.CypressBend.com | 318-590-1500 Fredricksburg | Ad Page 39 www.golffredricksburg.com | 800-950-8147 Laredo CVB | Map #99 | Ad Page 21 501 San Agustin | Laredo, TX 78040 www.visitlaredo.com | 800-361-3360 Sandia Golf Club | Ad Page 40 30 Rainbow Rd. NE, Albuquerque, New Mexico www.sandiagolf.com | 505-798-3990 Texas Golf Vacations | Map #4 |Ad Page 67 10004 Johns Rd., Boerne, Texas 78006 www.texasgolfvacations.com | 888-983-9274 The National Golf Club of Louisiana | Ad Page 29 1400 National Dr, Westlake, LA 70669 www.nationalgcla.com | 337-433-2255 Vaaler Creek Golf Club | Map# 87 | Ad Page 14 228 Jeff Vaughn, Blanco, TX 78606 | www.vcgc.golf | 830-833-0706

NORTH TEXAS GOLF Cross Timber Golf Course| Map # 2 | Ad Pg 16 1181 S Stewart St., Azle, TX 78155 www.crosstimbersgc.com | 817-444-4940 The Hideout Golf Club & Resort | Map # 1 | Ad Pg 68 185 Hideout Lane, Brownwood, TX 76801 www.golfclubdallas.com | 325-784-4653

INSTRUCTION/TOURNAMENTS 2018 Cancun Open - Oct 30- Nov 03 | Ad Page 34-35 www.CancunGolfEvents.com | Northclffe Golf Club - Dave Roberts | Map # 29 | Ad Pg 49 5301 Country Club Dr, Cibolo, TX 78108 | www.northcliffegolfcourse.com | 830-606-7351 Vaaler Creek Golf Club | Map #87 | Ad Page 14 Golf Lessons with Adam Grosch & Edwin Dickens | 228 Jeff Vaughn, Blanco, TX 78606 www.vcgc.golf | 830-833-0706

REAL ESTATE Lee DeForke Jr., Real Estate Services | Ad Pg 66 4310 Caduceus Pl., Galveston, TX 77550| www.leedeforkejr.com | 409-739-1299 Rockin J Ranch | Map# 2 | Ad Page 13 288 John Price, Blanco, TX 78606 | www.rincooftexas.com | 830-833-2266 Trophy Properties | Map #3 |Ad Page 67 10004 Johns Rd., Boerne, Texas 78006 www.realestateofboerne.com | 210-274-0156

Find Great Golf Experiences in the Texas Golf Insider TheTexasGolfInsider.com

SAN ANTONIO | HILL COUNTRY | AUSTIN DIRECTORY

SHOPPING/SERVICES Edwin Watts | Map # 3 | Ad Page 3 1050 N,.E. Loop 410, San Antonio, TX www.worldwidegolfshops.com | 210-822-4060 Edwin Watts | Map # 83 | Ad Page 3 4526 South Padre Island Dr., Corpus Christi, TX www.worldwidegolfshops.com | 361-852-0358 Edwin Watts | Ad Page 3 410 West SW Loop 323, Tyler, TX www.worldwidegolfshops.com | 903-561-8851 Edwin Watts | Map # 5 | Ad Page 3 5805 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth, TX www.worldwidegolfshops.com | 817-731-4441

Northcliffe Golf Club

ESPN ‘Texas Golf Insider’ | Ad Page 50 1250 AM | Saturdays 8-9 am | www.espnsa.com G A media | Map # 8 | Ad Pages 59 115 East Travis St. Ste 625, San Antonio,TX | www.GAmediaPro.com | 210-393-8092

Com e see the Im prov em ents!

The Golf Ranch | Map #84 | Ad Page 7 610 N Austin Ave., Georgetown, TX | 35 & Williams Drive at exit 262 www.golfranchshop.com | 512-863-4573

$25 .00

The Art of Golf Travel Services

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5301 Country Club Dr. Cibolo, TX 78108 (830)606-7351

49

1250 AM / 94.5 FM

TEXAS

Golf Insider Radio on TV Golf with an Attitude

Make sure to follow us @texasgolfinsider on

Watch us LIVE Every Thursday 7-8 PM on Facebook.com/texasgolfinsider or LISTEN in Every Saturday 8-9 am on ESPNSA.com 1250 AM / 94.5 FM AWARD WINNING MAGAZINE RADIO www.clubatconcan.com Gateway Hills Golf 210-671-3466

&

TV SHOW Fort Sam Houston 210-222-9386

Randolph Oaks 210-652-4653

GREATER HOUSTON | TEXAS COAST

Public Course

MAP #17

RATES Monday-Thursday Seniors (65+) M-Th Friday-Sunday and Holidays Seniors (62+) Wknd

$33 $28 $39 $36

(Green Fee, Cart & Tax Included)

9-Hole Par 3 Course -Walking- $10

COURSE FACTS

Number of Holes: 18 Architect: Joe Finger; Mike Nuzzo

COURSE AMENITIES • Snack ar • ri in an e • Fa ily Pitch Putt ourse • e s ft Puttin Green • Fully Stocked Pro Shop • Online Specials

2800 Ted Dudley Drive Texas City, TX 77590

409-739-9622 bayougc.com

COURSES

51

Texas City

Bayou Golf Club A Little Piece of Heaven Near Houston Golfers can now experience the newly renovated Bayou Golf Course in Texas City. It features a new 13,000 sq. foot putting green and just recently opened the new 9-Hole Par 3 Course for walking, a great way to spend quality time with friends and family. The golf course redesign architect, Mike Nuzzo, increased the average size per green to 5,000 sq. ft., rebuilt sand traps and added new tee complexes. The 200-acre site on the bank of Moses Bayou boasts a championship layout with elevated greens and tee boxes. Amidst the blue skies and palm trees, with a tropic-like climate, Bayou Golf Course offers golfers year round play. Only 15 miles from Galveston, the convenient location, and spacious clubhouse makes Bayou Golf Course an ideal choice to host your next golf tournament.

To Book a Tournament call 409-739-9622 Golf Gift Certificates are now available TheTexasGolfInsider.com

52

FEATURE STORY

Eagle Pointe continues to make a difference in SouthernTexas golf with scholarship Pro-Am

By Steve Habel, Senior Contributing Editor

Eagle Point Golf Club, one of the Houston area’s top public courses, continues to make a difference in the lives of young Southern Texas golfers and their families.

The golf course hosted the Southern Texas PGA Foundation Pro-Am on April 20 as 200 players in teams of one area professional and four amateur players enjoyed a beautiful day on the links and helped contribute to a noble cause.

The 2018 edition of this event, held

Silent Auction

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

at Eagle Pointe for the 13th consecutive year, raised $40,000 to benefit the Southern Texas PGA Foundation and the Shawn Stefani Scholarship Fund.

Since 2005, this tournament has raised in excess of $500,000 to help fund Southern Texas PGA Foundation programs. Stefani, a native of nearby Baytown with 10 career top-10 finishes including two second-place showings in his 139 PGA Tour starts, began sponsoring the Foundation Pro-Am in 2013.

Stefani became a PGA Tour Member in 2013, earning his card by way of his play on the 2012 Web.com Tour. He has strong ties to the Southern Texas PGA, having played STPGA Junior Golf prior to his collegiate career at Lamar University, in Beaumont.

The scholarship is one example of Stefani’s desire to give back to the community that has supported him so loyally. PGA professionals from around the Southern Texas section travel to Eagle Pointe to support the cause.

Barbers Hill Bank was, as in years past, the presenting sponsor for the Southern Texas PGA Foundation ProWhiskey Ranch Still House Am while Vortech Contracting, Texas

FEATURE STORY

Farm Bureau Insurance,Targa,TPC Industrial, and Specialty Metals were among the event’s myriad other sponsors this year.

“I just want to thank all of the participants, members and sponsors that make the Southern Texas PGA Foundation Pro-Am a success,” said Jeff Strong, Eagle Pointe’s general manager and the honorary president of the Southern Texas PGA. “I also want to thank Shawn Stefani for his monumental impact, not only for this event, but for our community.

The scholarships in his name help these kids chase each of their dreams.

We couldn’t do it without everyone’s support.”

Thomas Hutton, executive director of the Southern Texas PGA, said Strong deserves a lion’s share of the credit for the ongoing success of the tournament, which has remained a highlight of the section’s annual calendar.

“This has really been Jeff Strong’s baby, and he has done a brilliant job over the years,” Hutton said. “I don’t think he gets the credit he

53

Jeff Strong and Shawn Stefani

Three junior golfers with local ties were awarded funds from the Shawn Stefani Scholarship this year, with each receiving $7,000 to use toward their continuing education.Those winners are: •Jason Bryant, who placed 11th at the 2017 State Junior Championship, played on Texas Cup and Ben Hogan Cup teams, and was the 2017 Eagle Pointe club champion. Bryant carries a 3.46 GPA while majoring in entrepreneurship at the Greehey Business School at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio with a minor in political science.

•Riley Griffin, who is an officer for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, a member of National Honor Society, and completed high school with a 4.27 GPA. Griffin will attend East Texas Baptist University in Marshall where he will major in Jason Bryant, Riley Griffin with business administration Shawn Stefani accept their scholar- and marketing. ships. Bethany Reid’s father accepted •Bethany Reid, who her scholarship check. was the 2017 STPGA deserves for Summer Junior titleist, and is a twohis efforts. time Eagle Pointe club champion.

This event Reid is a member of National Honor continues to Society and finished her prep studfoster funds ies with a 3.92 GPA. She will attend necessary for college at McNeese State University, the success of in Lake Charles, Louisiana, where she junior golf in will major in social studies secondary South Texas.” education and minor in Spanish.

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

Mont Belvieu, TX

(281) 385-6666 www.EaglePointeOnline.com RATES

18

Twilight Twilight

Mon-Thur $48 $35* Friday $48 $40 Weekend $62 $40 Holiday $62 $40 *Twilight begins at 2 pm - Mar13-Nov 6 All rates include cart fee Range balls included on weekends & holidays untill 10:59 am

STATISTICS Par: 71 Black Blue White Red

Yards Rating 7077 73.2 6502 70.9 5927 68.0 5213 67.4

Slope 128 121 116 113

PERSONNEL

Architect ........................ Rick Forester General Manager ............. Jeff Strong Course Record ........Justin McKay, 62

AMENITIES

• Online Tee Times • Meeting/Banquet Rooms • New Enclosed Pavilion • Two Restaurants • Recreation Complex & Wave Pool • Fully Stocked Pro Shop • Memberships Available

A

vid golfers in the Houston area yearning for a pure golf experience set apart from the city and brimming with secluded, natural surroundings can find that true, undisturbed feeling at Eagle Pointe Golf Club.

The par-71 Rick Forester design located less than 35 minutes from downtown Houston off I-10 in Mont Belvieu, is equal parts peaceful, eye-catching and playable. The course’s distinguishable characteristics are its

Exceptional location to host your event

rolling fairways, stunningly tall pines, dramatic elevation changes and an abundance of water.

With no homes on 17 of the 18 holes, golf is what you get at Eagle Pointe.

The trademark of Eagle Pointe is its steeply tilted, undulating greens that will challenge even the most expert players. Strategically speaking, it’s important to place your approach shots below the hole at Eagle Pointe because of the quickness of the putting surfaces.

The facility also offers a state-of-the art fitness center and an 8,000-square-foot tournament pavilion that would be the perfect place for corporate outings, weddings or charity events.

58

DIRECTORY

COURSE

TYPE

GREATER HOUSTON | TEXAS COAST LOCATON

PHONE

COURSE

TYPE LOCATON

PHONE

Alvin Golf & CC

PUB

Alvin

281-331-4541

Melrose GC

PUB

Houston

Augusta Pines

SP

Spring

832-381-1000

Memorial Park GC

M

Houston

713-867-0386

Babe Zaharias GC

PUB

Port Arthur

409-796-1327

Moody Gardens GC

PUB

Galveston

409-683-4653

Bay Forest GC

PUB

La Porte

281-471-4653

Newport GC & Conf.Center PUB

Crosby

281-328-3576

Bayou Din GC

PUB

Beaumont

409-796-1327

North Shore CC

Semi

Portland

361-643-6057

M

Texas City

409-739-9622

Oakhurst GC

PUB

Porter

281-354-4653

Beacon Lakes GC

PUB

League City

281-337-1459

Pasadena Municipal GC M

Houston

281-481-0834

Bear Creek Golf World

PUB

Houston

281-859-8188

Pearland Golf Club

PUB

Pearland

713-773-9603

Bellville GC

PUB

Bellville

979-865-9058

Pecan Lakes GC

PUB

Navasota

936-870-3889

PUB

Houston

713-462-4914

Bayou GC

Brenham CC

SP

Brenham

979-836-1733

Pine Crest CC

Briarcrest Golf Course

SP

Bryan

979-776-1490

Quail Valley GC

M

Brock Park GC

M

Houston

281-458-1350

Raven Nest GC

Cape Royale GC

Missouri City

281-403-5910

PUB

Huntsville

936-438-8588

R

Coldspring

936-653-2388

Rayburn Country

Brookeland

409-698-2444

M

Anahuac

409-267-8235

Red Wolf GC

PUB

Huffman

281-324-1841

Clear Creek GC

PUB

Houston

713-738-8000

River Point GC

PUB

Richmond

281-343-9995

Columbia Lakes

PUB

West Columbia

979-345-PUTT

River Ridge GC

PUB

Sealy

800-553-7517

Channelview

281-452-2183

Houston

713-988-2099 281-778-GOLF

Chambers County GC

PUB

281-847-1214

Columbus GC

M

Columbus

979-732-5575

River Terrace GC

PUB

Country Club of Texas

SP

Beaumont

409-840-9440

Sharpstown GC

M

Cypress Lakes

PUB

Cypress

281-304-8515

Sienna Plantation

PUB

Missouri City

Cypresswood GC

PUB

Spring

281-821-6300

Southwyck GC

PUB

Pearland

713-436-9999

Eagle Pointe GC

PUB

Mont Belvieu

281-385-6666

Stephen F. Austin GC

SP

San Felipe

979-885-2811

Faith Bridge Ranch GC

PUB

Hempstead

979-826-2131

Swanson Golf Center

Pub

Houston

281-440-1308

Freeport

979-233-8311

Texaco GC

PUB

Houston

713-453-7501

Spring

281-225-1200

The Course at Texas A&M PUB

College Station

979-845-1723

Houston

713-649-8089

The Battleground at Deer Park PUB

Deer Park

281-478-4653

Freeport GC Gleannloch Pines

M PUB

Glenbrook GC

M

Greatwood GC

PUB

Sugar Land

281-343-9999

The Golf Club of Houston PUB/PV Humble

Green Caye GC

PUB

Dickinson

281-337-2021

The Village GC

PUB

Panorama Village

936-856-5531

M

Houston

713-928-4260

The Wilderness

PUB

Lake Jackson

979-297-4653

Henry Homberg GC

M

Beaumont

409-842-3220

Timber Creek GC

PUB

Friendswood

281-993-1140

Hermann Park GC

PUB

Houston

713-526-0077

Tour 18 Houston

PUB

Humble

281-540-1818

Heron Lakes GC

PUB

Gus Wortham GC

281-459-7800

Houston

281-807-0207

Travis B. Bryan GC

M

Bryan

979-823-0126

High Meadow Ranch GC PUB

Magnolia

281-356-7700

Waller CC

PUB

Waller

936-931-3335

Houston National GC

PUB

Houston

281-304-1400

Wedgewood GC

PUB

Conroe

936-441-4653

Idylwild GC

PUB

Sour Lake

409-753-2521

West Brazos Golf Center PUB

Brazoria

979-798-4653

Country Club of Texas East SP

Beaumont

409-866-9191

West Fork Golf and CC

PUB

Conroe

936-760-1776 936-594-3805

Jersey Meadow GC

M

Kingwood Cove GC

PUB

Jersey Village

713-896-0900

Westwood Shores GC

PUB

Trinity

Kingwood

281-358-1155

Wildcat GC

PUB

Houston

713-413-3400

R

Montgomery

936-448-3022

WindRose GC

PUB

Spring

281-370-8900

Legendary Oaks GC

PUB

Hempstead

979-826-4001

PUB-Public, M-Municipal, SP-Semi-Private, R-Resort, PV-Private

Longwood GC

PUB

Cypress

281-373-4100

La Torretta

TheTexasGolfInsider.com

109

New Ulm

Industry

109

75

25 25 25

1458

28 29

Magnolia

53

78

Montgomery

29

78 78

66 53

3

13

Pasadena

13

41

Deer Park

38

17

2

17

88

5

5

Mont Belvieu

2

5

5

60

Yardage /Rating /Slope

72

6496/71.7/117

Eagle Pointe Golf Club & Recreation Complex 281 385 6666 P 18

71

7077/73.1

71

6931

Bayou Golf Course 17 2800 Dudley Dr., Texas City, TX 77590

COURSES

61

Practice Fac. Restaurant Banquet Fac. Pro Shop Instructions Ad on Page

Par

(409) 739-9622 M 18

Type: M=Municipal, PR=Private, P=Public, SP= Semi-Private.

Type Hole

Map Number

GREATER HOUSTON | TEXAS COAST

•

•

•

•

• 51

www.bayougc.com

5 12440 Eagle Pointe Dr., Mont Belvieu, TX 77580

• • •

• • 54

•

•

www.eaglepointeonline.com

Quail Valley Golf Course

78 2880 La Quinta Dr., Missouri City, TX 77459

281 403 5910 P 36

•

•

• 56

www.golfquailvalley.com

ACCOMMODATIONS/DINING | SHOPPING/SERVICES | ACADEMY/INSTRUCTION

ACCOMODATIONS / DINING Bayou Golf Course | Map #17 | Ad Pg 51

Fire of Ring Brew & Que 2800 Dudley Dr., Texas City, TX 77590 www.bayougc.com | 409-739-9622 | 409-643-5852

RETAIL LOCATION GOLF RETAILERS

PHONE

Big O’s Golf

League City

281-557-3300

D & J Golf

Bryan

979-776-4653

Edwin Watts Golf

Houston

713-627-2411

2880 LaQuinta Dr., Missouri City, TX 77459 www.golfquailvalley.com | 281-403-5920

Games People Play

Beaumont

409-866 -3883

Golf Etc.

Pearland

713-436-5001

Magnolia | Map #13 | Ad Pg 57

Golf Galaxy

Houston

832-203-1518

Bluebonnet Grille | Map #78 | Ad Pg 56

1100 Texas Ave. | Houston, TX 77447 www.magnoliahotels.com | 713-221-0011

Golf Galaxy

Houston

832-478-1365

Golf Galaxy

Sugar Land

281-491-1888

The Pointe Grille M

Golf Galaxy

The Woodlands

832-585-0505

Golf USA

Houston

281-392-4653

Golf Warehouse

5 | Ad Pg 54 12450 Eagle Pointe Dr., Mont Belvieu, TX 77523 www.eaglepointeonline.com | 281-385-6668

SHOPPING / SERVICES Edwin Watts | Map # 3 | Ad Page 3 5395 Westheimer, Houston, TX 77056 www.worldwidegolfshops.com | 713-627-2411

Houston

281-443-2828

Golfsmith

Katy

281-398-4669

Golfsmith

Spring

281-292-2288

GolfSmith

Galleria Houston

713-993-9993

Golfsmith

Westheimer Houston

713-334-3334

Golfsmith

Woodlands

281-292-2288

Katy

281-741-6778

Houston-Upper Kirby

832-426-5650

Lee DeForke Jr., Real Estate Services | Map # 88 | Ad Pg 66 GolfTec 4310 Caduceus Pl., Galveston, TX 77550| GolfTec www.leedeforkejr.com | 409-739-1299

GOLF ACADEMY/INSTRUCTION Eagle Pointe Player Development | M

5 | Ad Pg 54

Jeff Strong, PGA www.eaglepointeonline.com | 281-385-6666

GolfTec

Westheimer Houston

713-339-2470

GolfTec

Webster

281-557-0015

GolfTec

Galleria Houston

713-850-7555

Mulligan’s Golf

Houston

281-890-6026

Sport Shoppe

Houston

281-879-0929

62

FEATURE STORY

By Steve Habel, Senior Editor

Discover Galveston

Golf is among the plethora of options for fun in ‘Houston’s Playground’

When people think of Galveston, the first thing that likely jumps into their minds is the island playground’s beaches and its quaint downtown area full of museums, art galleries, dining establishments, and historic mansions.

Or they may even recognize the city as a port of call used to sail off on a cruise to the Caribbean.

The island becomes “the place to be” as “Houston’s playground” on weekends, especially between Memorial Day and Labor Day. About 350,000 visitors pour over the Galveston Bay Bridge and into the city each Friday, Saturday and Sunday, drawn by its sun and sand and plenty of things to do away from the water.

While Galveston’s appeal is rooted in its grassy dunes and off-white sand, calm warm water, the Seawall, the Strand Historic District, and the growing roster of top lodging options and restaurants, the island’s golf courses are attractions to consider as well.They have played a big part in the area’s resurgence as Galveston rebounded from the effects of Hurricanes Ike, and, TheTexasGolfInsider.com

to a lesser extent and more recently, Harvey.

The island’s two courses, the semiprivate Galveston Country Club on the west end and Moody Gardens Golf Course near the airport and mere blocks from the beach, throw up a stern gauntlet to visitors and residents, especially when the wind blows. And just off the island in Texas City, the newly renovated Bayou Golf Course is worth its weight in gold.

We asked Gean Leonard, a lifelong resident of Galveston County who served as sheriff here for two terms until retiring in 2008, for a list of places to head for fun in Galveston.

He still lives in nearby League City, gets in four or five rounds of golf a week at the fun and challenging South Shore Harbour Golf Club and writes a weekly golf column for the Galveston Daily News Here are Leonard’s tips for both the golfer and the non-golfer.

My recommendation to visitors to Galveston County—whether first-time or a repeat—is to take the road less traveled,

FEATURE STORY

or perhaps the road which once was the road less traveled: State Highway 146.

From the east, getting there is easy either directly from I-10 or via the highway 99 toll road which bypasses Baytown. Be forewarned that the toll road is not quite complete, and delays can be encountered.

Highway 146 hugs the bay coastline into Seabrook, crossing the bridge into Kemah and Clear Lake. Marinas housing thousands of boats lie to the west.

To the east, Galveston Bay calls out to mariners of all ilk. Check your party into one of many small hotels and spend a few hours at the Kemah Boardwalk; work up an appetite and choose from a dozen restaurants within a mile radius for a casual dinner with a gorgeous sunset included at no charge.

If you have an early tee time the next day, Skipper’s is just a long par 5 from the Boardwalk. It’s where the locals go for breakfast. If you want to sleep in and have an early lunch before golf, stop in at Stomp’s and choose from a variety of burgers – try the skinny onion rings and some sweet potato fries, but plan to share one order of each.

Visit the famous Strand area, where you can shop ’til it hurts, take a tour of the 1894 Grand Opera House or just cool down at the beach, the pool, or at nearby Schlitterbahn.

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While many fine restaurants line Sewall Boulevard, my recommendation for a final evening meal would be a reservation at Rudy and Paco’s. PacoVargas himself still selects the fresh fruit daily, and the atmosphere is pure, old Galveston. Plus, its where celebrities and dignitaries alike are known to have dinner. Tell Paco I sent you.

And then there’s the golf.

The oldest course in Galveston, and perhaps the state, is Galveston Country Club, located west of the seawall.

Established in 1898, the club moved to its modern-day location in 1946 when Ralph Plummer designed the 18-hole track.

The current course, renovated

by Jacobsen/Hardy (Peter Jacobsen and Jim Hardy) and converted to wall-to-wall Paspalum turf in 2003,

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outside visitors, making a night or two at one of these sumptuous Mitchell Historic Properties especially enticing.

Option 1A for golf is the Moody Gardens Golf Course, which continues to enjoy recognition as one of the best coastal Moody Gardens GC tracks in the Texas and the United States. Also renovated by is a thrilling layout and plenty testy, Jacobsen and Hardy, the 2005 redo even though the flattish par-72 layout kept the best historical features of extends just 6,512 yards from its back the former layout while significantly set of four tees. improving certain holes and variety.

The members’ love of golf and their strong bonds of friendship imbued them with the desire and tenacity to rebuild and regroup time and again. It can be windy at Galveston CC, but that’s part of its appeal and Galveston Country Club personality.

Those golfers staying at the fabuNow, the fairways curl around inlets lous Hotel Galvez,Tremont House or and lakes edged with wispy grasses, Harbor House hotels are allowed to and there are even some modest elevaplay the course and pay a guest fee intion changes, rare for a site so close to stead of the more-expensive charge for sea level.

Kemah Boardwalk

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FEATURE STORY

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Moody Gardens GC

Stretching 6,816 yards from the back set of five tees – where it’s rated 72.6 with a 127 Slope – the par-72 Moody Gardens is designed to be player-friendly and a solid test, placing a premium on approach shots to some interesting pin locations.

Moody Gardens GC borders Sydnor Bayou and, as such, you’ll find native areas, shorebird habitat and water impeding play on 17 holes.The course takes advantage of its natural palate of water, brush and sand. Its colorful landscaping, bay views and more than 500 palm trees swaying in the gentle Gulf Coast breezes make for a scenic and peaceful round.

For those staying in Galveston and playing Moody Gardens GC, it would be silly to room anywhere else but the Moody Gardens Hotel and Conference Center on the other side of the Galveston airport.The facility is famed for its three landmark pyramids – one an aquarium, another indoor rainforest, and the third a museum and theater.

Another option on a trip to or from the island is Bayou Golf Course, situated just a short 14 miles outside of Galveston but still in the county on the outskirts of Texas City.

Nestled right at the inlet to the Gulf of Mexico, this course offers a tropical

climate feel year-round Some of its best features just may be the blue skies and radiant palm trees that seem to light up and highlight each hole along the links.

Renovated in 2016 by Houstonbased architect Mike Nuzzo, the layout of this challenging championship course offers plenty of opportunity to shoot a good score. For more than 35 years, this course has welcomed golfers of all skill types and has never been better; it’s still the best option for budgetconscious golfers or those looking to escape the intensity of other competitive courses.

As you can see, Galveston is a great place to visit, the only thing better would be owning a piece of the Island yourself. Make Galveston your home in one of the gorgeous Cottages, Mid-century,Victorian, beach or bay side houses now available.There are also properties that are perfect for use as a home-awayfrom home, vacation rental or investment property. Come enjoy what the island life has to offer.

Bayou Golf Course

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933 Bonita St., Bayou Vista, Texas. Great waterfront / canal home ready for move in.

Custom built with large gameroom down and boat lift with party deck.

1411 13th Street, Galveston,Texas. Just two blocks from the beach and close to shopping and Historic Strand District. Great vacation home or vacation rental investment.

13546 Pirates Beach Blvd., Galveston, Texas.

Beach side home on the west end of island.

Close to both golf courses and only a 1 minute walk to the Gulf of Mexico and the beach.

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ROAD TRIP No. 44

M�e golf �an you can shake a 9-iron at.

When it comes to championship golf, there’s no better destination than Alabama. Come play where the PGA TOUR professionals compete and see why Golf Digest editors picked two of Alabama’s golf resorts among their favorites. For starters there are the 468 holes along the world-renowned Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail. Stretching from the mountains in the north to the Gulf Coast in the south, America’s original golf trail opened 25 years ago and recently completed a massive renovation of its 26 courses. Then there are the many other impressive courses scattered across the state, designed by the likes of Arnold Palmer and Jerry Pate. Each with its own set of challenges, each with its own rewards. Plan an epic road trip to great golf courses across the state of Alabama.

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Patrick Reed Life After Winning The Masters

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Inside:

Celebrating our 100th Issue Thanks Texas

Cross Timbers GC, Azel, TX

Hill Country Feel/Parkland Challenge

Going Cajun

In Louisiana’s Audubon Country

Discover Galveston “The Island of Fun”