|
It's a gorgeous design, full of subtle architectural tricks that put a premium on sound course management. There are several semi-blind tee shots because of the undulating terrain that also brings some gently rising ground in the landing area. So there's little or no run on fairways that in any event are invariably lush.
Which means that the long irons are gainfully employed for approach shots to greens that are frequently off-set and surrounded by various forms of hazard. But Arnold's designs are not penal: there's always an opening, a "bail-out" or other option. Laying-up is a popular exercise for the smart set and if you have a short game worthy of the name you'll win more holes than you'll lose and have a grand time doing it.
Saucon Valley Country Club has a fascinating background. Close to the town of Bethlehem, it owes much to its association with Bethlehem Steel whose president, Eugene Grace, was a driving force in the club. No expense has been spared over the years with the consequence that Saucon Valley may be one of the finest community golf facilities in the United States.
The gracious old clubhouse has every imaginable facility for the family (the junior members have their own restaurant and swimming pool) and its 650 acres boasts three courses out of the top echelon, plus a six hole practice course.
The Old Course, founded in 1922, has staged several Tour events, among them the 2000 PGA Senior Open, and the Grace course, which opened in 1950, is considered its equal, being ranked in the leading 100 private course in the US.
Impressive, you'll say, but the Weyhill course, which opened in the 1960s, is the favourite of many members. You can only guess at the standards.
******
Page [1], [2], [3] - [Go to USA]
|
