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Back to Nature

With its park-like feel and scenic terrain, Green River's Orange course is worth the walk.

By GREG FLORESPublished: November, 2007

One of golf's appeals is the ability to escape the rat race and get lost in the natural surroundings of the course. Despite the congestion of the 91 Freeway on one side and the busy railway along the back of the property, the Orange Course at Green River Golf Club offers a pleasant, park-like feel for players.

Changes for the better
Appearances can be deceiving. The course plays a mere 6,241 yards and to a par of 71 from the blue tees, but the prevailing breezes can deliver as much as a three-club wind in the afternoon.

In 2004, rain caused the Santa Ana River to overflow its banks, necessitating a minor redesign of some holes. Where a small lake once fronted the opening par 5, the same pond now comes into play on the reconfigured 396-yard, par-4 first hole and the 145-yard, par-3 second hole.

All greens, with the exception of No. 2, are soft, so players can fire at flags without fear of shots caroming off the back of the green. Think of it as lawn darts with golf balls.

The 318-yard, par-4 third hole was always narrow, but erosion caused by the river has taken it to U.S. Open-type extremes. Large trees protect the right side of the fairway, while the river runs along the left. The fairway is only a few paces across in some areas, with hazards coming into play.

A good walk
There are many beautiful spots on the course. The large trees that frame most of the fairways create an atmosphere you don't find at many Southern California courses. The lush grass, the sound of the wind rustling through the trees and the relatively flat terrain make walking the course an option to consider.

One of the prettier spots is the 214-yard, par-3 fifth hole. Playing downwind and over a pond, the hole is a good club shorter than the scorecard suggests. Large reeds block the green with only the top of the flag visible. In my opinion, removal of the overgrown water plants would elevate this hole to the status of one of the best par 3s in the area.

The new road home
For those who haven't played the course recently, the finishing holes have changed as well. The 15th is a 395-yard par 4 with a shallow, undulating green. The 16th hole is a 160-yard par 3 that plays over a pond.

The round finishes with a pair of par 5s. The 480-yard 17th hole heads back into the stiff afternoon breeze, while the 500-yard finishing hole turns around and allows players a shot at getting home in two.

Under these conditions
The course is a relative deal at $32 weekdays and $42 on weekends and holidays. Add $12 for a cart, or go for a walk instead.

The fairways are predominantly kikuyu grass, which can make pitch shots tricky. A little course knowledge can go a long way around the greens. The putting surfaces are challenging at times, but for the most part, they are smooth and roll well.
There are also yellow flags on the fairway of every hole. This is what the course refers to as the "Fast Track," which is designed for quick rounds and less-accomplished players. SG

Green River Golf Club is also home to the 6,469-yard, par-72 Riverside Course. Reservations can be made at (714) 970-8411 or (951) 737-7393. Visit playgreenriver.com for more information.

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