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GOLF RESOURCE GUIDE:
The Golfing Nomad
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 La Quinta's SilverRock Resort has become a fixture in the Bob Hope Classic rotation. Over time, that could change. The layout has raised eyebrows for its length, but after playing there, I learned it’s just as much about deft design as distance. As a 10 handicap, I decided to play from the blue tees, which at 6,658 yards are almost 1,000 yards shorter than the tips. From the start of the round, I was impressed with the variety of long and short holes. After reaching the 542-yard par-5 second in three, I was surprised to find myself hitting a 7-iron on the 158-yard par-3 third and then using 3-wood off the tee on both the fourth and fifth holes, a pair of short par 4s that reward placement off the tee as much as power. Believe it or not, there’s even a hole that plays less than 100 yards — the par-3 14th. However, the shallow, undulating green leaves no gimmes. And while holes like 6, 13 and 15 are some of the beefiest par-4s you’ll play in the Coachella Valley, the overall layout isn’t a torture test. The fairways are relatively wide and guarded by well-defined perils, and the greens, some of which feature a fair amount of slope, are often buttressed by friendly collection areas that allow for a variety of short-game shots. Not only is the course fun, but the desert scenery surrounding it is absolutely stunning and definitely worthy of a look. SilverRock Resort: By the Numbers 7,578: Yardage from the tips. There are six sets of tees, with the most forward option measuring 4,884 yards. 658: Length, in yards, from the back tees on the par-5 12th hole. The par-4 15th is 525 yards from the tips. 76.3: Course rating from the tips. The rating from the blue tees, where I played from, is a much cozier 72.0. 3: Times SilverRock has played host to the PGA Tour’s Bob Hope Classic. The course will again be part of the tournament rotation in 2011. 62: Course record, shot by Bubba Watson during the second round of the 2010 Hope. Watson’s round included nine birdies, an eagle on the par-4 fifth and one bogey. 55: Weekday green fee, in dollars, for California residents during June; the weekend rate is $65. From July 1 through September 19, rates are $35 and $40, respectively, cart included. Players must present valid California drivers license at check-in. Reservations must be made three days in advance and are based on availability. For more information on SilverRock Resort, call (760) 777-8884 or visit silverrock.org. |
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