the history of the quaint communities, but you definitely need to allow sufficient travel time to navigate the curvy roads and enjoy the scenery. Jack Frost National was the most interesting of the three courses, Woodloch the most challenging and Shawnee the most historical. JACK FROST NATIONAL This layout, measuring 7,256 yards from the tips and spread over 200 acres, is a championship caliber course, but few big events have been hosted there. “It’s hard to schedule large tournaments because we’re a busy place,’’ said director of instruction Ryan Kearn. “We do 218 rounds a day.’’ Most striking about the course are the changes in elevation, most evident between the par-5 ninth hole, which plays uphill, and the sevely downhill par-3 eleventh. The area also has a ski hill that is in operation during winter months, but Kearn says there’s no overlap between the sports, as the golf and ski facilities have different owners. “In each of the last three years closing day (for skiers) came the day before our opening day,’’ said Kearn. “Our course is interesting, fun, wide open with big greens and fairways and only one water hole.’’ The bar/dining area is covered but open air on the sides, a nice friendly place for socializing before and after play. Architect for Jack Frost National was Terry LaGree, who holds a degree in landscape architecture from the University of Wisconsin, but is best known as the CEO of Florida’s Black Diamond Ranch. WOODLOCH SPRINGS Rocky Roquemore designed this toughie in 1992. It’s only 6,579 yards from the back tees but there’s some demanding shots that can’t be avoided. Its imperative to keep your ball in the landing areas on holes number 3 and 7, the two Ohio Golf Journal
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