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Golf is a game of overcoming obstacles. The people behind the building of The Crossings at Carlsbad know that all too well. The city of Carlsbad envisioned a golf course in 1989. What they didn't foresee were the labor pains involved. Environmental issues, governmental agencies, archaeological artifacts and delay after delay resulted in a golf course that took nearly 17 years and, by most accounts, close to $60 million to realize. From the gorgeous confines of the 28,000-square-foot clubhouse adjacent to Legoland, you can see the fruits of the city's labor. Architect Greg Nash has created a park-like atmosphere similar to the back nines at Talega in San Clemente and Arrowood in Oceanside. Club selection off the tee is key because of the changes in elevation, wind and strategic hole designs. Nash provides a variety of looks from straightforward to blind tee shots using nothing more than directional devices to point the way. The GPS system will get a workout, but the greens are what will have most golfers working up a sweat. NOT GREEN WITH ENVY The greens are large and undulating, with the back nine possessing the most intimidating greens I've ever seen. It culminates with the 18th hole that can best be described as trying to putt on the 405 freeway after a major earthquake. Get your ball in the correct quadrant of the green or face the consequences. The greens are so challenging, a player could conceivably hit all 18 in regulation and play bogey golf. LAY OF THE LAND For this round, we played the blue tees at 6,467 yards. There are many environmentally sensitive areas incorporated into the layout. They're marked with blue stakes and treated as lateral hazards, so hitting your ball there will cost you a shot. The ocean breezes and routing of the holes influence strategy. The 416-yard, par-4 opening hole played with a helping wind, and the fast fairway allowed a 220-yard tee shot to travel over 260 yards. Conversely, the 380-yard, par-4 third hole plays back into the breeze and is slightly uphill. This scenario plays out several times during the round. The back nine features more elevation changes and holes that beg to be played more than once, if only to help you understand what you're experiencing. GETTING AWAY FROM IT ALL There is plenty of natural beauty on the course, and the views of the ocean are gorgeous, especially as the sun casts a shimmering glow across the water late in the day. There are numerous bridges that are impressive feats of engineering, and there are several spots on the course where you are transported deep into nature and away from the hustle of the city. The course encourages rounds to be played in less than four-and-a-half hours, and a player's assistant will help you achieve that pace should you happen to fall behind. The Crossings at Carlsbad is located off Interstate 5 at the Palomar Airport exit. It has a beautiful golf shop and a wonderful practice area. It's also home to The Canyons restaurant and bar. Green fees are $90-$110. City residents receive a substantial discount with standard fees ranging from $60-80. Tee times can be booked seven days in advance for an additional fee. For more information, call (760) 444-1800 or visit thecrossingsatcarlsbad.com. SG |
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