Monday, August 11, 2008

PLAY IT AS IT LIES

SPRAIN LAKE GOLF COURSE: 3 stars

By Jeff Louis


Let me ask you a question, if by Disney’s standards, you whistle while you work, what do you do while playing golf? My answer, it doesn’t matter, you’re playing golf! You’re supposed to enjoy just being out amongst nature, "fellowshipping." This game is your own personal psychotherapist. That being said, this week I move the analyst’s couch up to Sprain Lake in Westchester, NY...


This is one of the most non-pretentious and fun tracks in Westchester N. It may not carry the prestige of Winged Foot (a famous private golf course that hosted the 2006 US Open), but to the players here you wouldn’t know any different. At only 6110 yards from the back tees and with a rating under its given par 70, it seems like an easy day is waiting. Be aware there are no givens on this course. Off the tee, on most holes, you can see where you should plot your shot placement. And here’s that siren, calling you to be a hero. Don’t listen to her. There are some severe downhill angles and side hill lies that will have you asking yourself “why did I do that?”


Sprain Lake plays tighter than a drummer in James Browns’ band. There are a few holes where an errant tee shot can still be played. Still not convinced? How about some of the most quietly undulated greens designed to test your patience, especially with some select pin placement. You can easily see the break go one way; yet the ball may roll the opposite way. What Sprain Lake doesn’t have in length is definitely made up by its challenges. If you like to walk the course, be prepared to warm up rigorously. The back 9 holes will definitely challenge your calves.


Sprain Lake has a very small pro shop that gets right to the point. It has shirts, gloves, balls, hats, and equipment that can be purchased at excellent prices. Here’s a big plus, a new driving range is now open at the far end of the parking lot. In addition, the halfway house behind the 9th green has very good chili dogs and reasonable prices as far as golf courses go. Done playing? Head in to the bar/restaurant behind the clubhouse to chill out with your favorite beverage in a relaxed atmosphere. Westchester County, NY golf keeps you coming back. Until next week, play it as it lies.


Recommendation: 3 Stars
Current Price: Week $42, Weekend $56
Par 70, Slope 70, Rating 69.3, Yardage 6110
Address: 290 East Grassy Sprain Rd Yonkers, NY

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