By: David Theoret
If you are looking for a golf escape from the harsh northern winters, you may want to consider University Park Country Club in Sarasota, Florida.
University Park offers 27 holes of championship golf that will test even the best of players. Each layout was designed by Ron Garl and can be played in 3 different combinations, offering members a wide variety of golf holes.
Designer Ron Garl used the existing topography to create a beautiful course from the woodlands and natural habitat. Many holes feature tree-lined fairways, but offer wide, ample landing areas off the tee. Although water is visible on several holes, it only comes into play on 12 of the 27 holes.
Rather than having catchy or symbolic names, the holes are simply numbered 1–9, 10-18 and 19-27, but each nine presents its own unique set of challenges.
From the back tees, Holes 1-9 can be stretched to 3,548 yards. Most golfers, however, will find the Platinum tees at 3,023 yards a suitable challenge, while the forward tees measure 2,394 yards. Hole No. 2 is a par-5 that is reachable for many and will get your round off to a good start.
Hole No. 3 is the No. 1 handicap hole on this nine. It is a dogleg right, but cutting the corner is not advisable. Most players cannot hit this green on their second shot and requires a sound short game to get up and down to save par.
The par-3, fifth hole is University Park’s signature hole. Measuring only 140 yards from the Platinum tees, it requires one extra club off the tee to avoid the front bunker. Long is better than short!
For Holes 10-18, the Diamond tees measure 3,456 yards, Platinum, 3,072 yards and 2,481 from the forward tees. Water is a factor in all but two holes on this nine.
The two finishing holes set this nine apart. No. 17 is the most difficult, playing to 359 yards from the Platinum tees and requires an accurate tee shot to a narrow landing area with water bordering along the right side.
Holes 19-27 play slightly longer than the other two nines, at 3,151 yards from the Platinum Tees and 2,468 from the forward tees. Water and strategically placed bunkers make driving accuracy a must on these holes.
The final hole on this side plays a mere 330 yards from the Platinum Tees. A well struck tee shot over the first fairway bunker on the left will leave a short iron into one of the course’s smallest greens. It’s a great opportunity to end your round on a positive note.
University Park Country Club also offers a large driving range, short-game practice area, plus a large putting green to groove your stroke. Inside the clubhouse, the pro shop is stocked with popular golf apparel, as well as, equipment from the biggest brand names.
Another thing that sets University Park apart is their culinary staff. Executive Chef Roger Turtch has years of experience and his highly trained team uses only the freshest ingredients to create a dining experience unlike anything you’ve had before.
Annual membership provides unlimited access to all club amenities, plus they offer 30, 60 and 90-Day Trial memberships.
For more information contact Ann Backus at: 941-355-3888 ext.234, or visit them online at www.universitypark-fl.com.
