March 2021 Ohio Golf Journal

Winter Park 9 I first played the Winter Park 9 (WP9) in 2018 and couldn’t wait to return. It opened for play in 1918 and was one of the first courses in the Orlando area. On this trip my wife and grandson accompanied me and we had a great day on the course. The WP9 is nestled in a quiet residential area with homes bordering the course. One of the unique features is the cemetery that borders the left side of the fourth hole, a dogleg par 5. Any pull, or hook may come to rest beside a grave maker. Holes No. 5, 6 and 7 play along a nearby railroad, plus walking the entire nine holes requires crossing nei-ghborhood streets at least five times. Riley Johns and Keith Rhebb were commissioned by the city to redesign and renovate the old course. They introduced new fairways, roughs, greens, plus additional playing strategies. They totally enhanced the charm and aesthetic appeal of the course, while preserving its dual- purpose as community park and golf course. WP9 reopened in 2016 and the 40-acre course has become the model for public municipal golf courses. The greens are some of the best that you can play. The course promotes walking, but golf carts are available for golfers, who are physically unable to walk. One of my top criteria for rating a golf course is the ‘Fun-Factor’ for juniors and women. The WP9 rates a solid 10 for both these requirements. Moms and kids can have a great time joining dad and the rest of the family for a round at the WP9. This is one of the best public facilities to be found. The PGA, USGA and PGA Tour through the World Golf Foundation, should study and recreate this plan in every urban area in the country. Back 9 Report TV chatted with Head Professional Greg Pascale with our masks firmly in place.