WADE'S WORLD by Wade Longworth
Arizona is known for many excellent outdoor activities like hiking, camping, hunting, and many others; the list could really go on forever We are probably best known, though, for our excellent golfing opportunities, especially in the winter when conditions are pristine. In summer, the rates drop significantly for valuehunters still looking to bag a trophy course like myself. This article will discuss some of my favorite golf courses that I have had the pleasure of playing. With rates being so reasonable in the hottest part of the year, it’s effortless to book a tee time at some of the best courses the state has to offer. I recently got the opportunity to play the TPC Scottsdale, which is the host site for the Waste Management Open year after year. I wasn’t expecting this course to be exactly like how it looked on TV and was impressed with how it played surprisingly similar to the tournament, without all the grandstands and crowds. Although it was fun imagining a raucous crowd all around. Especially on the famous 16th hole where there are usually 20,000 people packed around the hole like you are in an actual stadium. It doesn’t quite look like that without the tents, but it was still fun to hit one on the green and escape with par. This course is a mustplay for anyone who thinks it’s cool to play in a venue that the professionals play every year. Another one of my favorite courses offers significant elevation changes that lead to stunning views and a great time. The resort course down in the southeast valley called Gold Canyon Dinosaur Mountain is probably at the top of the list. It seems like every hole could be in a picture hanging on the wall at home. It is always in great shape, and it sits right on a mountain as it winds its way through valleys and climbs up to peaks, where it makes hitting the driver enjoyable. The golf course isn’t the only attraction as the whole resort offers unique rooms with views of plentiful wildlife and an incredible restaurant to boot.
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These courses can get expensive, so this next course high on my list is more affordable for the average golfer. Continental Golf Club in Scottsdale is an executive (short) course that is great for golfers just beginning or for highly skilled players looking to tune their swing. I like this course because it brings me back to the courses that I grew up playing. It reminds me of a municipal public course owned by the city with advertisements on the tee boxes and patchy grass in some spots. You can show up in jean shorts and a cut-off t-shirt or dress to the nines; this course has a laid-back vibe that not every course can offer. Golf is my favorite sport, and the best part is that I can play it my entire life. If you are looking for a challenging, frustrating, and rewarding experience, I encourage you to get a set of sticks and head out to the links.
