Mountain Golf 2016

M O U N T A I N

GOLF A GUIDE TO LOCAL GOLF COURSES

GOLF GUIDE:

TIPS

Improve Your Game

FANTASY

GOLF

Eagle County’s Best 18

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MOUNTAIN GOLF | 2016

AVA I L A B L E I N P R E S C R I P T I O N

STYLE SHOWN: GUARDRAILS

Color. Clarity. Detail.

PolarizedPlus2® Sunglasses

©2016 Maui Jim, Inc.

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WELCOME Summer 2016

VAIL DAILY MAGAZINE GROUP GM Susan Ludlow

I

f there’s one thing golfers in Colorado confirm every time they hit the links, it’s that a golf ball flies, on average, 10 percent farther here than in most other states because of the altitude. That ball often flies even farther up here in the High Country, where many of our courses are at 7,000 feet above sea level, or even higher.

Of course, there are other adjustments needed for playing well here, too, so Sebastian Foltz offers some handy tips for improving your game. Vail Daily Sports Editor and local golf guru Chris Freud, meanwhile, has more advice for enjoying your rounds with “The High Country Fantasy 18,” an ecclectic look at the most memorable holes in the Vail Valley.

The stunning golf clubs here each present a world-class experience, both on the course and off. So get out there, enjoy the views and see just how far your tee shots can go.

CONTENTS

EDITOR Wren Bova ASSOCIATE EDITOR Stephen Lloyd Wood ART DIRECTION & DESIGN Malisa Samsel & Darin Bliss MARKETING DIRECTOR Mark Bricklin AD DIRECTOR Patrick Connolly ACCOUNT DIRECTOR Karen Suing NATIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Allison Zweig CONTRIBUTORS Chris Freud, Sebastian Foltz DESIGN TEAM MANAGER Afton Pospíšilová DESIGN TEAM Carly Arnold, Ashley Detmering, Amy Hawf, Madelyn Lybarger ADVERTISING SALES COORDINATOR Chelsea Rosenthal ACCOUNT MANAGERS Paul Abling, Heidi Bricklin, Carole Bukovich, Amanda Picola

4 MAP OF THE VALLEY 6 COURSE LISTINGS 20 GOLF GUIDE Tips to improve your game

22 THE HIGH COUNTRY

FANTASY 18 Are these memorable holes a dream — or nightmare?

CIRCULATION MANAGER David Hakes Vail Daily file photos unless otherwise noted.

SWIFT COMMUNICATIONS PRESIDENT Bob Brown COLORADO MOUNTAIN NEWS MEDIA GM Jim Morgan COLORADO MOUNTAIN NEWS MEDIA PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Bill Walker

ON THE COVER Red Sky Ranch’s two courses have been ranked No. 1 and 2 in Colorado by Zagat Golf. See our course listing, p. 10.

PHOTO BY JEFF ANDREW

The Vail Daily is a wholly owned subsidiary of Colorado Mountain News Media 200 Lindbergh Drive | P.O. Box 1500 Gypsum, Colorado 81637 p. 970.328.6333 f. 970.328.6409 Copyright ©2016 Colorado Mountain News Media.

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

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MOUNTAIN GOLF | 2016

Photo: John Kelly

Please contact John McMurtry, 970 479-5781; mcmurtry@sprivail.org

Sponsored By

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MAP OF HIGH COUNTRY GOLF COURSES 1 Gypsum Creek Golf Club 2 Eagle Ranch Golf Club 3 Frost Creek 4

Red Sky Golf Club

5 Sonnenalp Golf Club 6

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EagleVail Golf Club

MOUNTAIN GOLF | 2016

Gypsum 1

Bond

Eagle

4

5

Edwards

2

Avon

Vail

6 3

Beaver Creek

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EAGLE

PAR-72

EAGLE RANCH GOLF CLUB E

AGLE RANCH GOLF CLUB is elevating the game

of golf in Eagle County. Located in the beautiful small town of Eagle, just 30 minutes west of Vail, the majestic Rocky Mountains provide a spectacular setting for the Arnold Palmer Signature Design Course. The course opened in 2001 as part of a new, master-planned residential community. With the addition of the golf course and other fantastic amenities such as an outdoor pool, ice rink, recreation trails and fitness center, Eagle is an idyllic place to live and play.

The open, rolling fairways lead to large, undulating greens that play fast. There’s water on most holes and strategically-placed bunkers throughout. Eagle Ranch demands accuracy, but with five sets of tees, there’s fairness for golfers of all abilities.

The course is popular among locals who enjoy its challenging layout, excellent course conditions and the longer season from early April to mid-November.

What really separates Eagle Ranch Golf Club is the friendly atmosphere. The staff will greet you with a smile and, very likely, by name. The clubhouse features a well-appointed golf shop and the Grille offers a great menu for the golfer. If that’s not enough, the practice facility is wide and long with excellent turf conditions, too.

FACILITY INFORMATION

18 hole public golf course Designed by Arnold Palmer Design Company Par 72, 5 different tees ranging from 5,423 yds to 7,461 yds 6

MOUNTAIN GOLF | 2016

970.328.2882 WWW.EAGLERANCHGOLF.COM

GREENS FEES Range from $50-99, depending on season Seasonal Memberships and Punch Cards available

AMENITIES

• Extensive Practice Facility with short game area • Delicious breakfast and lunch • New, top-of-the-line rental clubs • PGA Golf Instruction • GPS on golf carts • Golf Bikes for rental

GRILLE The newly updated menu at the Eagle Ranch Grille has everything for golfers on the go and the casual diner who can take a little time to enjoy the view. Enjoy the charming indoor area or dine out on our patio and take in the beautiful view of the Sawatch Mountains. Open for breakfast and lunch daily during the golf season. Our menu offers tasty deli sandwiches, burgers and hot dogs, and you will also find delicious favorites like our flatbreads and salads. Look for daily lunch and drink specials, as well as local craft beers.

SIGNATURE HOLE

5 • PAR-3 This downhill par-3 has a large green with plenty of trouble surrounding it. From the higher tees, you should hit less club since you are hitting downhill. Obviously, you will want to avoid the pond on the front left, but the bunker on the right is very difficult to get up-and-down from. There is a lot of slope in this green toward the pond, so choose your placement wisely.

HOLE

5

SIGNATURE HOLE

12 • PAR-5

HOLE

12

This could be the most beautiful and demanding hole on the course. Favor the left side of this narrow fairway as most shots will tend to bounce to the right. You may have a decision to make on your second shot as you might want to lay up short of the creek. Keep in mind that this hole is uphill, so you may need more club than usual for the yardage. Once you are on the green, there is a little slope from back right to front left.

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EAGLEVAIL

PAR-71

EAGLEVAIL GOLF CLUB

F

ROM THE VERY START OF YOUR DAY

at EagleVail, you know you’re playing mountain golf.

The course is bookended by par-5s with elevated tee boxes and in between meanders along the Eagle River and Stone Creek before winding up in an isolated aspen grove.

HOLE

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The back nine features three par-5s, which can be scoring opportunities, but locals will tell you that the 15th and 16th, both par-4s to elevated greens guarded by water will likely make or break your round.

Don’t try to overpower EagleVail. It’s a stern test of all facets of your game.

EAGLEVAIL GOLF CLUB 970.949.5267

WILLOW CREEK PAR-3 970.845.PAR3 (7273)

FACILITY INFORMATION Championship 18-hole course as well as Willow Creek Par-3 Public daily fee course Designed by Devlin/Von Hagge design team

WWW.EAGLEVAILGOLFCLUB.COM BLUE TEES: 70.7 rating/133 slope, 6,538 yards WHITE TEES: 69.1/128, 6,189 YELLOW TEES: Men, 66.7/115, 5,492; Women: 71.4/147, 5,492 RED TEES: 68.2/130, 4,739 8

MOUNTAIN GOLF | 2016

NEW CERTIFICATION The EagleVail Golf Course has been designated as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary from Audubon International. The two-year certification process requires demonstration of a high degree of environmental quality in seven specific areas including Environmental Planning, Wildlife and Habitat Management, Outreach and Education, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation, and Water Quality Management.

RATES EagleVail’s 18-hole golf course opens with value season rates of $50-$79 per person, per round available through June 18, 2015. Peak Season (June 19 – September 7) rates are $25-$104 per person per round and includes golf cart, depending on time of day and resident status. The Club will offer 10-round punchcards for $450 for Value Season, and $750-$850 for regular season play.

Season passes for the course are also available for $1,399. Golfers can book their tee times online at www.eagle vailgolfclub.com.

HOLE

4

SIGNATURE HOLES

18

PAR 5, 532/521/410 This is an incredible finishing hole with the elevated tee start approximately 140 feet above the fairway. With a good tee shot, the green is easily reachable allowing you to finish your round with a birdie. Beware of the temptation to swing too hard as the fairway is fairly narrow in the landing area. Accuracy is most important off the tee.

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PAR-3, 197/133, 125 YARDS First off, get your camera out — this is not your average par-3. Then club down on this cliff shot. The blue tees are 197 yards, but drops 185 feet in elevation and will play more like 150-155 yards. The whites, yellows and reds play like a 100-yard shot. Enjoy the flight of your shot and do avoid the back and right bunkers.

STAFF Ben Welsh, head professional Dave Thompson, assistant golf professional

• Foot Golf, a combination of soccer and golf, is available at the Willow Creek Par 3 course daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Prices are the same as Par 3 golf. The rules largely correspond to the rules of golf, Playing in groups of four, players compete to kick the soccer ball from the tee box into the cup with the least number of kicks. Each kick is considered a “stroke,” much like golf.

WHISKEY HILL GOLF GRILL The EagleVail Golf Club’s clubhouse restaurant, Whiskey Hill Golf Grill, is open daily 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Nightly specials include Monday Night Burger night, Wednesday night Pork Tacos and more.

COURSE NOTES Don’t think that this is an easy loop because of the comparatively-shorter distances on the card to other courses in the valley. Accuracy and course management scores and EagleVail’s greens will test the best green reader.

AMENITIES • The Willow Creek Par-3, a nine-hole course, a perfect place for families and children to learn the game or for players to work on their short game.

• A full practice facility, including a driving range, two spacious putting greens and a chipping area with a bunker in case your sand game needs work.

• Private lessons with the course’s PGA-certified staff.

• A newly-built swimming pool.

• The EagleVail Pavilion, perfect for weddings and social gatherings.

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WOLCOTT

PRIVATE COURSE

RED SKY

GOLF CLUB

A

T RED SKY GOLF CLUB, the tradition

and sophistication of golf meets the rugged and untamed Rocky Mountains. With two of Colorado’s finest golf courses, one designed by Tom Fazio and the other by Greg Norman, Red Sky delivers a pristine golf experience.

On any given hole, you’ll gaze at Vail’s back bowls, witness dense aspen groves radiating bright green or gold, and even spot deer or elk.

While Red Sky is a private club, it extends special resort access to any guest who stays at one of nearly 40 properties in the Vail Valley; just ask your concierge.

The courses cater to all abilities, but private instruction at the Golf Academy will improve even the advanced player’s swing.

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MOUNTAIN GOLF | 2016

The resort guests may access luxurious facilities, including the resort clubhouse, a picturesque practice facility, delicious cuisine at Summer Thyme and dinner at the spectacular Silver Sage restaurant.

To Book Stay and Play Packages in Beaver Creek: 888-222-1878 To Book Stay and Play Packages in Vail: 888-500-5155

AMERICA’S TOP 100 PRIVATE GOLF CLUBS Links Golf Magazine & Travel + Leisure Golf •

RANKED IN THE TOP 25 OF THE BEST RESORTS IN NORTH AMERICA Golf Digest •

RANKED THE #1 AND # 2 GOLF COURSES IN COLORADO Zagat Golf •

12 BEST PRIVATE GOLF COMMUNITIES Forbes

SIGNATURE HOLES NORMAN COURSE: PAR-5

18

A great risk reward par-5 with a meandering creek fronting the green, strategically placed bunkers, and Norman’s signature bent grass surrounds challenging those that miss the green. Long hitters will test their skill while attempting the green in two while the long-range mountain vistas and the Member Clubhouse distract their chances.

FAZIO COURSE: PAR-3

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With dramatic views of Vail’s legendary Game Creek Bowl this downhill par 3 will test all skill levels as the green is severely sloped making proper club selection a must. Fronting the green is a pond and two bunkers to take errant shots as you try and position your ball below the hole for the best chance at a birdie.

PRIVATE MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION:

www.TheSignatureClubs.com/rs 970-754-4250

For those invested in Vail Valley summers, private memberships are available. In addition to most prestigious golfing experience in the Vail Valley, the Club offers members the ultimate summer lifestyle with access to the private member clubhouse, pool and sun deck, clay tennis courts, Golf Academy and fitness center, and a yearround social calendar of events and activities.

Matthew Blake matthew.blake@sothebysrealty.com | 970.390.2692 Alex Griffin alex.griffin@sothebysrealty.com | 970.376.6120 12

MOUNTAIN GOLF | 2016

Red Sky Ranch Six Luxury Homesites for Sale

Within the prestigious gates of Red Sky Ranch, these lots represent a unique opportunity to own a parcel of vacant land near the renowned Tom Fazio course. These six Juniper Trail homesites range in size from 0.4 acres to 1.5 acres. Prices start at $239,000. Custom home designs are available.

RedSkyLots.com

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EDWARDS

PAR-71

SONNENALP CLUB

Y

OU BELONG HERE

The Sonnenalp Club is a memberfocused facility, pleased to also give resort guests and local players limited access to the majestic links of our club. Golfers of all levels will enjoy the everyday playability of the course and the challenging approaches, which make it a true championship test. At the Sonnenalp, we are known for some of the fastest and most true-rolling greens in the Vail area. Here, an award-winning layout takes you to elevated tees with inviting fairways framed by spectacular mountain views.

Impeccably maintained grounds add a velvet touch of green to the natural beauty of the surroundings.

The private club ambiance, which prevails here, affords you the opportunity to enjoy an uncrowded, unhurried, true Colorado golf experience spent in the company of friends.

With our location on the sunny side of the valley, 14

MOUNTAIN GOLF | 2016

the Sonnenalp Club is one of the first to open, and last to close, seasonally.

Since we offer one of the longest golfing seasons in the Vail area, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to find great value from the course remaining open from early April through the end of October. Come experience what the Members have known for years: The Sonnenalp Club is the best there is.

EXPANSION AND RENOVATION The Sonnenalp Club has enhanced its clubhouse facilities and membership privileges by adding a 10,000-square-foot health and fitness club and has recently completed a full renovation. It also reconceptualized its restaurant with celebrity chef Kelly Liken to become Harvest by Kelly Liken.

These renovations add fitness, wellbeing and lifestyle programming designed for members of all ages to luxuriate in the Sonnenalp Club’s convenient and beautiful

location, which provides a top-of-the-line venue and gathering place for our members and their guests. Both the new health & fitness club and the restaurant opened in June.

SONNENALP CLUB WWW.SONNENALPCLUB.COM GOLF SHOP: 970.477.5372 MEMBERSHIP: 970.477.5375 DINING: 970.477.5353 EVENTS: 970.477.5341 FACILITY INFORMATION 18 hole semi-private golf club. Designed by Bob Cupp and Jay Morrish. Par 71, 7 different tees ranging from 5,900-7,100 yards. Former home of the Colorado Open.

GREENS FEES During peak season, $130 includes cart and range balls. * Limited non-member play available after 1:30 p.m.

MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION FULL MEMBERSHIP • Full Membership benefits include: unlimited golf, 60-day advanced tee time reservations, access to pool, tennis, fitness, and food & beverage facilities, social and family programs and preferred member pricing.

• Vertical Family privileges for primary members’ parents, grandparents, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

• $45,000 non-refundable initiation fee.

• Annual dues of $5,975 with payment plans available. Junior Full Memberships are also available for ages 45 and under.

• Access to hundreds of clubs in the ClubCorp network for golf and dining benefits and concierge services.

SPORTS MEMBERSHIP • Sports Membership benefits include: access to pool, tennis, fitness, and food & beverage facilities, social and family programs and Preferred Member pricing

AMENITIES • Driving Range • Short game practice facility • Full-service restaurant and snack bar • Rental clubs • PGA-certified lessons • Lockers • Tennis courts* • Fitness facility* • Swimming facilities* *members only HARVEST RESTAURANT

BY KELLY LIKEN Colorado chef and restaurateur Kelly Liken opened her newest restaurant concept, Harvest by Kelly Liken, in June.

Harvest is an approachable and inclusive gathering spot for the Vail community that focuses on seasonal, Colorado cuisine, which is affordable and creative without pretense. The concept also boasts a unique, all-day coffee bar and grab-and-go

market, The Pantry, which churns out fresh smoothies and juices, sandwiches, granolas and salads, as well as a rotating selection of coffee from local Colorado roasters.

Harvest by Kelly Liken features a newly designed, open-air space with impeccable views. The interior of the restaurant showcases blue painted millwork, dark wood floors, marble countertops and custom barn wood community tables.

Located under a 30-foot, vaulted, woodpaneled ceiling is a large, three-sided bar.

Harvest’s outdoor dining experience provides the most distinctive setting in Edwards. Whether you are looking for a casual summer lunch on the patio, a relaxing dinner, or a night out for cocktails with friends, Harvest has something for everyone. The inspiring views that extend across the golf course and up the valley provide an unparalleled venue for your special event. We offer full services for groups of all sizes, from corporate luncheons and birthday parties, to cocktail receptions and weddings. We even have an event planner on-site.

Call for details or reservations: 970-477-5353

SIGNATURE HOLES No. 15 Bombs away with your driver — the rough to the right of the fairway should kick your ball back towards the center. Don’t try to cut the corner of this slight dogleg — all you’ll find is scrub, trees and the first pond on the left. Go strong at the pin with your approach shot as the green slopes from back to front. Missing right is better than left, as all three ponds can come into play.

No. 12 This tricky par-4 seems short, but a grassy ditch across the fairway and a steep uphill climb to the green present very challenging obstacles to par. Local knowledge — only the very biggest hitters can think about clearing the ditch on the drive. Lay up and be sure to land on the left side of the fairway to take the huge trees that shade the bridge out of the equation. Bring an extra club or two on your approach as it is farther uphill to the green than you think. Play this hole intelligently, with shorter and more accurate shots throughout. A putt from behind the hole will leave you with a spectacular view, but a challenging two putt.

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EAGLE

PRIVATE COURSE

FROST CREEK PAR-72

F

ORMERLY KNOWN AS ADAM’S RIB, Frost Creek is a members-

only mountain club located in Eagle, Colorado. Frost Creek offers a wide variety of amenities including hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing, yoga, stand up paddleboarding and, of course, golf.

While the stunning 18-hole course designed by PGA Champion Tom Weiskopf is not the only draw for members, it’s a gem in the crown of this club. Instead of intimidating golfers with experts-only holes, Frost Creek is a fair and extremely playable mountain course. A combination of risk and reward, set in a pristine environment along Brush Creek, the course at Frost Creek is one that can be enjoyed time and time again.

1094 FROST CREEK DRIVE EAGLE, COLORADO 81631 PHONE: 970.328.2326 WWW.FROSTCREEK.COM FACILITY INFORMATION Championship 18-hole course designed by Tom Weiskopf. Private for Frost Creek Club members.

MEN’S TEES CHAMPIONSHIP (GOLD) TEES: 73.4 rating/140 slope, 7155 yards BLUE: 71.3/137/6740

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MOUNTAIN GOLF | 2016

BLUE/WHITE: 70.5/135/6568 WHITE: 70.0/127/6352 WOMEN’S TEES WHITE: 74.4/147/6352 GOLD: 71.6/139/5713 GOLD/RED: 69.1/135/5318 RED: 67.9/129/5062 GET IN THE GAME Golf is an equal opportunity game at Frost Creek. For the ladies, Frost Creek recently installed new women’s tees on #1 and #8, which makes the course more

enjoyable. For the younger set, junior programming will be offered on Mondays and Wednesdays from June 13 through August 10 for Frost Creek youth, ages 6 14. Illustrating all that the club has to offer, the program will include fundamental golf principles and instruction as well as games, group activities and class offerings like tennis, fishing, slack lining, art, swimming time and more.

MEMBERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES Since the purchase and rebranding of Frost Creek, the club has been on a meteoric trajectory. More than 150 memberships have been sold, along with 20 residential lots; The numbers are expected to continue growing. The club has a limited

SIGNATURE HOLES

4

•PAR 4, 360/341/320 A risk-reward tee shot that is reachable in one with a big drive and a tailwind. If your drive is perfect, you’re putting for birdie: The safe bet is 3-wood or rescue up the middle. A less-than-optimal shot will put you in bunkers that guard the green and on the other side of par. The smart shot is a lay up to 100 yards and an easy wedge to the green, but you didn’t come to Frost Creek for the easy shot.

14

• PAR 5, 534/511/483 A picturesque par-5 along the banks of Brush Creek with Castle Peak as a backdrop, #14 can offer beauty or a beast, depending on your drive. It’s tempting to go for the heavily protected green in two; long and straight means a chance for an eagle putt. However, a lateral hazard protects the entire left side, while out of bounds lurks far right. If you can’t go for the green in two, lay up carefully. Take some time to enjoy the views on this hole: you can frequently spot wild turkeys, bald eagles and plenty of blue herons. The wildlife spotting and scenic beauty can help alleviate the pain of a poorly played hole.

HOLE

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HOLE

4

number of Local, National and Sport memberships available. For additional membership or real estate information please contact Director of Sales, Kevin Denton at 970-455-3072.

STAFF John McIntyre, Head Golf Pro Mike Gibbs, General Manager Kevin Denton, Director of Sales Marc Copenhaver, Executive Chef COURSE NOTES Though it’s widely considered the most playable mountain course in the valley, don’t let the easy-going nature of Frost Creek lull you into complacency. Tom Weiskopf designed this course to be the ultimate test of risk versus reward: if you are willing to take the risky shots and execute them, your final score could be incredible, but sometimes laying up and playing it safe is your better option.

The spectacular scenery that you’ll encounter as you cross along Brush Creek is yet another reward for a full day of unforgettable play.

AMENITIES Frost Creek is truly a mountain club. In addition to the golf course, amenities include: • Six stocked ponds for fishing • Fly-fishing on Brush Creek • Jeep touring • Mountain biking and hiking trails • A swimming pond with stand up paddleboards • Tennis and Sports courts

• Archery course • Member cabins that are available for weekend getaways • Yurts for glamping • A disc golf course • A full schedule of fitness classes like yoga, barre sculpt and cardio burn.

FROST CREEK RESTAURANT Helmed by Executive Chef Marc Copenhaver, Frost Creek’s restaurant features a menu filled with seasonal fare with a local flare. The restaurant is open to the public on Wednesday through Saturday for lunch from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.; dinner on Thursday through Saturday from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. and for brunch on Sundays from 10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

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GYPSUM

PAR-72

GYPSUM CREEK GOLF COURSE

W

ELCOME TO THE ‘HOLE IN THE SKY.’ The Gypsum Creek Golf Course prides itself as having the longest season and best value in Eagle County.

530 COTTON RANCH DRIVE GYPSUM, CO 81637 WWW.GYPSUMCREEKGOLF.COM 970.524.6200 RANGE OF GREENS FEES: WEEK DAYS M-TH: $30 - $59 (INCLUDES CART) WEEKENDS F-SUN: $39 - $68 (INCLUDES CART) COURSE INFO TYPE: Public, 18 holes, par-72 18

MOUNTAIN GOLF | 2016

TEE TIMES: Available online at www.gypsumcreekgolf.com or by calling 970-524-6200.

DRESS CODE: Collared shirt, no denim, standard golf attire.

ASSISTANT GOLF PROFESSIONAL: Blake Scott SUPERINTENDENT: Ben Montoya MARKETING DIRECTOR: Christy Martin DIRECTIONS: Take I-70 to exit 140 (Gypsum). Pass through one roundabout, cross the river and turn right at the traffic light at Valley Rd. Proceed 1.1 miles to Cotton Ranch Drive and turn right.

AMENITIES • Golf Shop • Driving Range and Full Practice Facility • Heated Outdoor Public Swimming Pool • Creekside Grill – Perfect for Weddings, Reunions, and other celebrations.

YEAR BUILT: 1997 CLASSIFICATION: Public PGA PROFESSIONAL/GENERAL MANAGER: Tom Buzbee

TEES RATING SLOPE YARDS BLACK TEES 72.8 133 6,980 BROWN TEES 71.4 121 6,468 GOLD TEES 69.0 115 6,048 GREEN TEES: 70.3 122 5,197

SIGNATURE HOLE

17

Pete Dye takes you cliffside for an exhilarating and picturesque tee shot toward the spacious, undulating green below. If this is your magical day, you may join our 17th hole history book with a hole-in-one! This dizzying shot plays two clubs less than you think and demands the willpower to trust your club selection. Enjoy watching the slow motion flight of your ball as it plummets toward the green.

THE EXPERIENCE Gypsum Creek Golf Course is nestled in the beautiful Gypsum Creek Valley, just minutes from Vail and Beaver Creek. The front nine meanders along a mountain stream and the back rolls across a high alpine wooded mesa.

Truly a stunning and unique golf experience that welcomes golfers as well as wildlife!

This 6,900 yard Pete Dye design is fun and challenging for all skill levels. After your round, you’ll enjoy lunch or dinner at the Creekside Grill, and the rest of our beautiful clubhouse with outside wraparound decks and views of Castle Peak. Bring the whole family. There is also an outdoor 25 meter swimming pool open to the public.

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GOLF GUIDE: TIPS

GOLFING TIPS TO I M P R OV E YO U R G A M E

BY SEBASTIAN FOLTZ

W

hile not based on any verifiable, quantitative scientific research, there’s a good chance golf is the most humbling, expletive-inducing sport in the history of the world.

With that in mind we’ve gathered these tips to fine-tune your golf game, from shaking off that early season rust to working on the short game and salvaging a shot in the rough.

START OFF SLOW AND EASY When starting any golf season, first and foremost: start the season slow. Don’t take the driver out of the bag right away. Consider sticking to irons for the first time back at the range, specifically, a mid-range club like a 6 or 7-iron.

Also, resist the urge to be John Daily or Tiger Woods and go for big drives. Instead, work on short game first and build gradually. Aim at a closer pin on the range. This helps golfers loosen up swing motion and find the rhythm of their swing, so the swing will be better when reaching for the big boys in the golf bag.

Finally, don’t overthink it — focus on one aspect of the swing at a time.

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MOUNTAIN GOLF | 2016

REFINING THE SHORT GAME The pros all say golfers don’t focus enough on accuracy and the short game. Beyond repetition, it’s about good form and balancing practice between chipping and pitching shots.

For form, remember that a chip shot has more in common with a putting swing than a full golf swing. It is a shorter-range shot that causes the ball to roll more after landing than a pitch. The swing is a much shorter motion that emphasizes keeping the wrists stiff. The lower the club angle, the more the ball will roll when it hits the green.

So a chip shot with a 7 iron will create more roll than a chip shot with a 9 iron.

Pitch shots create more loft and cause the ball to roll less when it lands. The pitch swing has the same motion as a drive, but incorporates varied swing length. Pitch shots are essential from beyond 20 yards out. A good pitch shot will create much less roll when the ball lands.

SCORE BETTER WITH PUTTING Everyone wants to hit a drive 300 yards like Tiger Woods. That’s probably why the driving range at any golf course is guaranteed to be more crowded than the practice green. But neglecting the short game can create a fatal flaw for any golfer.

First and foremost — practice. Repetition will lead to comfort and confidence.

Form is also a big consideration in a player’s putting game. Remember to keep your wrists straight through the entire swing. Putting is not a wrist motion.

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12117681 ROUGHING IT For those of us not blessed with pinpoint accuracy, playing from the fairway rough is another inevitability. While cursing might be the initial impulse, take a minute to analyze your situation.

The biggest problem in the rough tends to be with a golfer’s swing. Don’t try to lift the ball; let the club do the work. Have the ball a little further back in your stance, so that the club hits on a descending angle.

For the average golfer, a shot hit from the rough will tend to roll more than a shot from the fairway, because of a lack of backspin.

Hitting through the rough has a tendency to close a golfer’s clubface, especially with irons, leading to less accurate shots. Hybrid clubs offer a larger club head that will swing through rough more effectively, keeping the clubface straight. Their large sweet spot also creates more of a margin for error.

New Vail Valley Community On A Pete Dye Golf Course • Rustic Contemporary Interiors • 3 BR Features Main Floor Master and Office A community of 72 new mountain townhomes ZeroDye Entrygolf Showers on the spectacular• Pete course in

Cotton Ranch. A pastoral Colorado • 2 Car Garages paradise, just 38 miles west of Vail• inLarge the Valley.

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2016 | MOUNTAIN GOLF

21

igh Count H ry e h T

Are these memorable holes a dream — or nightmare?

BY CHRIS FREUD 22

MOUNTAIN GOLF | 2016

With three courses in the High Country Fantasy 18, Red Sky Ranch is, perhaps, the Vail Valley’s most recognized golf destination. photo courtesy vail resorts

M

aking this course was hard.

No dirt was moved and no architectural plans consulted, although the designers of these holes are a veritable Who’s Who of the golf world.

But how do you put together 18 great holes from all the great golf there is to be had here in the High Country?

This par-67 fantasy course measures 6,519 yards from the tips, though Rory McIlroy might be the only one able to play this loop from the back.

Get your ball-retriever because you’re going to need it on this fantasy course.

HOLE NO. 1

RED SKY RANCH, NORMAN COURSE, NO. 1, PAR-5, 565 YARDS One of many wonderful things about both courses at Red Sky Ranch is, while located a few miles from Interstate 70 for easy access, they are so far above the freeway all you have are incredible views.

This is my favorite, and no finer introduction to mountain golf. “The Shark” gives you plenty of room off the tee for the driver from elevated boxes, though you should watch O.B. right.

Even with an elevated tee shot, this is tough to reach in two shots. The fairway narrows as you approach the green, guarded by a nasty right bunker. If the greens keeper is in a bad mood, he or she will stick the pin back right.

2016 | MOUNTAIN GOLF

23

HOLE NO. 2

EAGLE-VAIL GOLF CLUB, NO. 9, PAR-4, 446 YARDS “So, where exactly are we going?” is generally the question here.

From the blue tees, a golfer has no view of the fairway of this slight dogleg-right fairway.

From the regular whites, there is tease.

The go-for-broke play here is driver just slightly right. We do not encourage that approach as the homeowners who live on the right side of that fairway can probably make their mortgage payments with all the Titlelists, Nikes and other golf balls they find.

Unless you want to add to their collection, using a driver is not a great idea here. Off the tee, you need about 220 yards. That will hit the fairway and get some roll.

The hole is downhill all the way, including the green. Running your approach short and left of the green is the insider’s path.

HOLE NO. 3

CORDILLERA VALLEY COURSE, NO. 10, PAR-3, 147 YARDS First off, we’re really happy that Troon Privé took over the Cordillera complex. The company knows how to run golf courses worldwide.

After two tough ones, we need a little break with a par-3. Or is it a break?

Do enjoy the lovely view the New York Range at the tee box.

While there, check the wind, too, and adjust your club selection accordingly. Anything in the ravine is a goner and with this small green, par is always good and birdies rare.

24

MOUNTAIN GOLF | 2016

Sonnenalp’s 15th hole is downhill, but the approach is tricky with water and sand guarding the green.

HOLE NO. 4

SONNENALP, NO. 15, PAR-4, 385 YARDS Just in case you aren’t convinced you’re in the mountains, this one is all downhill.

To hit driver or not? It is the eternal question of High Country golf. It’s so tempting on the hole, which doglegs slightly left to a green, surrounded by ponds and bunkers. Do you go with an iron off the tee to find your happy distance for a tough approach?

Or do you let it fly? Oh, let the big dog eat.

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HOLE NO. 5

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GYPSUM CREEK GOLF COURSE, PAR-3, NO. 17, 164 YARDS The signature shot of Eagle County golf is the dropshot par-3, and this one’s a whopper. This is also your reward for getting off the mesa — Gypsum Creek’s stretch of signature holes — in one piece. Our advice?

Club down.OK, you didn’t need to be a major winner to know that. With the drop, this hole plays at least 30 yards shorter than the actual distance. Do make a point of watching the wind, which usually comes from your right — and enjoy the air time.

Gypsum Creek’s 17th hole is dropping par-3, one of the signature style of holes in the High Country. Our advice for this hole is to club down.

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2016 | MOUNTAIN GOLF

25

HOLE NO. 6

VAIL GOLF CLUB, NO. 12, PAR-5, 585 YARDS Even at 8,150 feet above sea level, and even though you’re probably not playing it from the tips, this is still one long par-5.

This hole is part of the Vail Golf Club’s majestic stretch eastward toward the Gore Range, often snowcapped for most of the season.

The temptation on this hole is to swing out of your shoes on the drive, which inevitably leads to a miss, thus making this a par-7. And do watch out for that tree about 115 yards out.

For some reason, that tree always comes into play.

This is where we express support for USGA’s and PGA’s Tee It Forward Program. Seriously, if you’re playing the tips here you need a 280-yard drive just to reach the fairway. Bomb it 300 and you still have 250 or so to reach the green in

regulation. Play the right set of tees for you. What makes this hole fun from the normal tees is the decisionmaking. Go for it in two to a green guarded by water and a bunker, or lay up? Take your medicine and lay up, unless you really crush that drive.

HOLE NO. 7

FROST CREEK, NO. 4, PAR-4, 360 YARDS

The smart shot is a lay-up to 100 yards and an easy wedge to the green, but you didn’t come to Frost Creek for the easy shot. If your drive is perfect, you’re putting for birdie; a less-thanoptimal shot, however, will put you in bunkers that guard the green.

HOLE NO. 8

EAGLE RANCH, NO. 11, PAR-3, 192 YARDS In theory, this is a par-3, but Eagle Ranch’s 11th hole is unofficially known as “the shortest par-5 in the county.”

This uphill par-3 has a little bit of bailout space, short and left, but otherwise you’re pretty much dead. Long and/or left leaves you with a downhill bunker shot. Short and right is usually in the creek or the very tall grass. This green breaks severely as well. Par is always tremendous, and a birdie should be cause for a day of national celebration.

HOLE NO. 9

RED SKY NORMAN, NO. 9, 559, PAR-4, See, we weren’t kidding about crazylong par-4s.

26

MOUNTAIN GOLF | 2016

Yes, it’s a long way down on Eagle-Vail’s 10th. The blue tees, shown here, play about 150 yards, while the whites require a 100-yard shot.

HOLE NO. 10

EAGLE-VAIL GOLF CLUB, NO. 10, PAR-3, 193 YARDS OK, this is the exception to the rule where you can go play the back tees. Certainly, when you’re playing there, at least ride up to the blues.

Yes, this would be quite the drop shot. The tips play more like 150 to 160 yards; the regular white tees play like 100. Just get the ball up in the air and let gravity do the rest. And, if you’re from out of town, go home and brag to friends about how you hit your 7-iron 190 yards— it’s OK to leave out the fact you were hitting off a cliff.

HOLE NO. 12

EAGLE RANCH, NO. 12, PAR-5, 569 YARDS

The approach to Sonnenalp’s 12 hole, a par-4, is all uphill and requires precision. photo by dominique taylor

Part of Eagle Ranch’s fantastic back nine, this is a great hole in so many ways. No question about it — let the big dog eat on the tee shot. Then the possibilities multiply.

Going for the green in two is unlikely, but more power to you if you can do it. Your second-shot question is, “Do I lay up or go for the second fairway?” Water and tall grasses line the right side of the first fairway and guard the second landing area. Once you’ve reached the other side, more challenges await with bunkers guarding the elevated green, which is tough to stick. Just getting to this green is and accomplishment. Good luck not three-putting it.

HOLE NO. 11

SONNENALP, NO. 12, PAR-4, 422 YARDS OK, here’s the good news: You’ve got an elevated tee shot. The bad news? There’s a ditch about 300 yards out and the rest of the hole goes upward. Unless you’re a single-digit handicapper, it’s best to break up this hole. After your drive, first get over the ditch and then go for the green. Oh, by the way, if you go long on your approach, you’re beached. Have fun.

The 12th hole at Eagle Ranch is a difficult par-5 with an elevated green guarded by bunkers.

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2016 | MOUNTAIN GOLF

27

HOLE NO. 13

HOLE NO. 15

Not that a 400-yard, par-4 is short, but we’re testing your brain on our fantasy back nine. We want to see you distance on the front. How do you handle thinking your way around a golf course on the back?

With that, we give you Vail’s 14th, a risk-reward hole. Your drive determines what you will do next because the green is elevated and guarded by Gore Creek. A long iron to this green is generally a bad idea.

There’s also the fact it’s a two-tiered putting surface. Note the pin position.

Even if you get there in two, if you’re on the wrong level, you’ll be singing “The Three-Putt Bogey Blues.”

Part of the vaunted mesa, a series of desert-style holes at Gypsum Creek, this is a beast. Start your tee shot slightly right as the fairway slides from right to left. And, when in doubt, just keep it in play on this hole. Sagebrush lines the right side of the fairway. Trees and nothing you want lines the left. For your approach, make sure you’re at your happy distance to carry an arroyo onto a short green.

For some reason, this is the No. 2-handicapped hole at Gypsum Creek. For our money, it’s the hardest hole in Eagle County.

VAIL GOLF CLUB, NO. 14, PAR-4, 400 YARDS

GYPSUM CREEK GOLF COURSE, NO. 15, PAR-5, 568 YARDS

HOLE NO. 16

EAGLE-VAIL GOLF CLUB, NO. 16, PAR-4, 318 YARDS This hole is short, but deadly, and the second of two tricky par-4s with elevated greens, protected by Stone Creek.

You want 200 or so yards off the tee, so using a driver is out. The shortest way to the pin is a fade, but there’s water along the right. Most try the left side, but still an even lie for your approach shot is rare. Club up for the approach and note the pin position.

Eagle-Vail redid this green during its remodel a few years ago, but it’s still treacherous. Good luck if the pin is up front.

HOLE NO. 17

RED SKY FAZIO, NO. 17, PAR-3, 168 YARDS Time for a knee-knocker late in your round. This is perfectly positioned hole on the Fazio course as your bets with your friends are coming down to the wire — or you’re pursuing the goal of breaking 100, 90 or 80.

It’s an elevated tee shot over water to a two-tiered green. Pick your club and commit to it. And just for fun, there are bunkers short and long.

HOLE NO. 18

EAGLE RANCH GOLF CLUB, NO. 18, PAR-4, 478 YARDS Make sure to drive long and straight on Frost Creeks 14th hole.

HOLE NO. 14

FROST CREEK, NO. 14, PAR-5, 534 YARDS It’s tempting to go for the heavily protected green in two while on this picturesque par-5 along the banks of Brush Creek with Castle Peak as a backdrop. Drive long and straight and you’ve a chance for an eagle putt. However, a lateral hazard protects the entire left side, while out of bounds lurks far right. If you can’t go for the green in two, layup carefully.

28

MOUNTAIN GOLF | 2016

Eagle Ranch’s home hole is one of the twins — adjacent long par-4s separated by water — at the Arnold Palmer-designed course.

There is more fairway out there than it appears from the tee, but water looms right for you, especially if you’re tired and don’t compete your swing.

Your approach is even tougher as right is in the drink and left is “The Valley of Sin,” a very difficult chip onto the green.

Par is always good here.

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