Newly polished course, Toptracer technology, and a lively evening mark the debut of this Jacksonville-area golfing gem.
There is something special about being invited to a Grand Opening party. This past Friday, I was invited to attend the Grand Opening of Glynlea Country Club. I would be playing the course for the second time and then spending my evening with course designer and Jacksonville Sports Hall of Famer, Jim Furyk.
Just a couple of months ago, I played the course for the first time. It was open for limited play but didn’t quite have all the rough edges polished. There were some finishing touches that needed to be completed. In the weeks that have passed since that day, this jewel has been polished. It was time for another round and to enjoy an evening with all of those who put this course together from the first shovel of dirt to the last blade of grass on the 18th green being cut for play.
Glynlea’s practice and warm-up area includes a set of tees where you can use Toptracer technology while preparing to play or working on your game. Toptracer uses high-speed cameras to tell you how far your shot went, its curvature and more. I found it to be quite telling when it came to how much distance aging has taken from my game. There are even games that you can play, and the range is open well into the evening for members.
Once on the course I noticed that Glynlea now sports a suit and tie, not just the dress shirt and slacks from before. The course is finished and is quite beautiful. As before, I found the design to be a nice balance between challenge and playability. There is water to be found on 15 holes. It mostly comes into play for those who play from the back tees. For us mere mortals and recreational golfers, it takes a bad shot to find the west stuff.
One thing that is easy to find is the fairways. They are quite generous, relatively flat and framed with subtle undulations. The course is built around wetlands and what was once softly rolling farmland. If you are not a fan of bunkers, Glynlea may be just the place for you. On average, each hole has two, maybe three bunkers. Off some of the fairways and around tees you will find waste bunkers. These are well kept and shots from them are relatively easy. Best of all, they are easier to maintain and require no watering, allowing the club to keep maintenance costs down.
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