Southern California's No. 1 Source for Golf
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"Although golf was originally restricted to wealthy, overweight Protestants, today it's open to anybody who owns hideous clothing" |
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 But that's just because of its location. Valley Center, with a population just over 7,000, is a small enclave nestled northeast of Escondido and south of some popular casinos. It is not high on the familiarity list for most Southland golfers. However, with new Bermuda fairways and superb playing conditions, the par-72, 6,505-yard layout should not be overlooked. Into the woods The front nine at Woods Valley is literally a valley with few elevation changes, while most of the back nine meanders through the woods. After completing the short par-5 11th hole, golfers drive across a road to the 12th tee and notice a lush backdrop of trees behind the green. The atmosphere takes a unique turn at the short par-3 13th, as the distinctive "Hang Man's tree" lurks next to the tee box. The stretch through the woods is a refreshing change of pace during the round. Your move Three par 4s at Woods Valley present golfers with risk-reward options off the tee. The seventh, which veers to the left and plays 328 yards from the tips, can be reached with a powerful drive. For shorter hitters, picking the right club off the tee is crucial - those who leave their ball too far back in the fairway risk a tougher shot to a difficult green partially blinded by rising bunkers. The 10th hole also is short (336 yards) with a dogleg left, though it is more visually intimidating because of a lake guarding the short grass. While the seventh and 10th holes shift to the left, the 325-yard 15th leans sharply to the right. This is the most reachable hole of the trio. Those who play conservative are greeted with a generous fairway, and more aggressive players must be aware of the numerous trees guarding the green. The long way home For the most part, Woods Valley does not try to challenge golfers with length. Two exceptions are the par-4 fifth and par-4 14th, both of which play over 420 yards. No. 14 is particularly difficult: two large trees jut out from the right and left as the fairway begins, creating a narrow line of sight from the tee. One of the fun parts about Woods Valley is a par 5 at the conclusion of each nine. The 550-yard ninth is straightforward with a lake in front of the green, and the 545-yard 18th moves gently to the right and is protected by a creek that runs down the right side. Beyond the tee boxes While many courses pride themselves as ideal for golfers of all skill levels because of varying tee box locations, Woods Valley fits that description because of more than just that trait. Better players will appreciate the greens because they roll true, and higher handicappers will like the fact that downhill putts that resemble rollercoaster rides at address are not as severe as they seem. Since the theme at Woods Valley is shaping shots and not a long drive contest, the rough isn't thick enough to sprain wrists. But bunkers and lakes still put a premium on accuracy. Green fees never exceed $45 on weekdays, while weekend rates are $65, with cart. Golfers currently can enjoy special rates of $40 weekdays and $55 weekends as the course welcomes back golfers after its reseeding project. For more information, visit woodsvalleygolfclub.com or call (760) 751-3007. SG |
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