Blueberry Hill Golf Club (Russell, PA)

I heard about Blueberry Hills several years ago, but never made any effort to see it because I thought it had a cheesy name. The Fats Domino song always popped into my head. My view changed when I was reading GCA, and it was referenced as being a hidden gem. I took the time after a round at Conewango Valley to play the twilight special.

(The tenth is a fine par four that takes advantage of the two ponds on the property. I like how the green can accept a running approach but only if it's to middle. Missing to the sides can lead to a big number.) 

James Harrison designed the front nine in 1961, and ten years later Ferninand Garbin did the back nine. Anyone who has played Chippewa in Doylestown is familiar with this dual's work. They do simple designs that sit naturally on the terrain and environs. Blueberry Hill is an opportunity to see how each one views that philisophy. 

(The par four first has excellent grass bunkers guarding the green. The sides of the bunker are the key.  Not only does one have to worry bout the ball resting on the slope, but also having an awkward stance. Note how small the green is too.)

James Harrison's front nine has smaller greens, bold grass bunkers, and pitched putting surfaces. Like Chippewa, there's plenty of room to drive the ball, but the approach shots need to be coming in head on, otherwise the angle tightens up. It's pretty simple architecture. 

(The par three fourth has a long narrow green with deep grass bunkers guarding both sides...

...look how the mounding outlines the bunker. It's really visually striking especially since grass doesn't grow too well on the top.)

(View from behind sixth green. Note how the rear is pushed up, creating the back to front pitch.) 

Ferninand Garbin's back nine has larger greens, sloped putting surfaces, and natural terrain guarding the them. There are some sand traps, usually shallow with slight lips to get over.

(The eighteenth hole plays uphill before doglegging right.) 

Blueberry Hills fits the typical Harrison/Garbin mold. It's very playable, birdie opportunities can be found, but also several holes where par is a good score. I was really impressed with how clean the course was. It was in the middle of October, and leaves were not an issue. I feel that Harrison/Garbin's design principles allow the owner to operate efficiently, so the course is in good shape. 

(The par four ninth plays uphill to a small green. A par is a good score.) 

Is it a hidden gem? Well, on my way there, the paved road turned into a dirt road, so I guess the hidden part is covered. Jokes aside, Blueberry Hill is a solid golf course. I can see why it's popular. I give it a 4 (above average)(worth driving 30-45 min). 

(This look from short right of the par five third shows how rocky the terrain is at Blueberry Hill. Look at the mounding containing the grass bunker. It's deep too!)