Saturday, May 5, 2018

Sweetbriar Legacy Course (Avon Lake, OH)

What a surprise the Legacy course turned out to be! The remodel is a wonderful addition to the west side, and is one of the better courses in the Cleveland area. 
(The 382 yard opening hole demands a perfect tee shot right from the start.) 

When I was young, this was a mom n pop type course. There was plenty of water hazards to challenge you, but it was very similar to Hilliard Lakes in Westlake. I liked playing here in the winter because the ponds would freeze over, and I would walk on the ice to pick up balls. Not exactly the smartest thing to do I must admit. 
(The 170 yard par three fourth sets up well for a draw.)  

The decision to remodel was an excellent one. Sweetbriar’s location is optimal and it is the course of choice for many living on the west side. 
(The 166 yard sixth is a good example of the detail given to making this a success.) 

The Legacy has a nice mix of holes. Several are definite birdie opportunities, and others are difficult par holes. Courses like this usually have a nice flow to them. Legacy fits that mode. There are several ponds found throughout the course, and the architect does a fine job using them to create both interesting shots or enhancing the visuals. 
(The 170 yard thirteenth is another hole where the water doesn’t come into play but enhances the beauty of the course.)  

The old course catered to the average player, and was in so so shape. Legacy still caters to that crowd, but the conditioning is much better, and greens roll very well. For regulars, it’s a new and improved hangout to play golf, albeit at an extra cost. Most of the big trouble is well away from the greens and if one is hitting the ball solid, a good score is possible. 
(The 432 yard eighteenth is a strong finishing hole. A par is a good score.) 

The Legacy was positively received by the CGA and I expect it to become an annual stop on the golf schedule. The clubhouse is excellent with both indoor and outdoor seating. I give it a solid 5 (good)(worth driving an hour). 








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