Spring is in the air and I, for one, couldn't be more excited. The weather is getting warmer, the sun is setting later and that means The Masters Tournament is upon us once again. Hailed as one of the greatest golf courses ever constructed, patrons of golf gather at Augusta National every April to witness the first of four annual major championships of the year. The course was founded in 1933 in Augusta, Ga. and is one of the toughest courses in the world to access. Unless you’re a ranked top 50 player in the world or you pay an enormous sum to become a member, your chances of playing a round at this course are slim to none.
So, as we all fantasize about taking the drive down Magnolia Lane to test our skills on Amen Corner, let’s take a look at a few of my favorite courses that are attainable here in the 209. While they may not be as prestigious as Augusta National, all courses listed are open to the public and tee times are readily available.
La Contenta Golf Club
Location: Valley SpringsPrice: $$
Par: 72
St. Stanislaus Golf Course
Location: ModestoPrice: $
Par: 28
The Golf Club at Copper Valley
Location: CopperopolisPrice: $$$
Par: 72
Teleli Golf Club
Location: SonoraPrice: $$
Par: 72
River Oaks Golf Course and Event Center
Location: CeresPrice: $
Par: 58
These five courses only make up a small amount of all the great golf the 209 has to offer. This is in no way a discredit to any of the other courses in our area — these are just some of the courses I play often and enjoy. I will of course be discussing other courses in the 209 in future issues, so if I left out your favorite course don’t get discouraged. If there are any courses you would like me to talk about be sure to email me at foreyourinfo209@gmail.com and I will be happy to play the course and give my opinion on it. Also, for anyone thinking of getting into golf for the first time, feel free to reach out and ask me for any pointers on where to begin. Springtime is upon us so take advantage of this great weather while we have it and go out and play!