jameswoj

Pace of Play (PoP):
I feel the need to review the PoP first and foremost because it was SO BAD. So bad in fact, that we only got through 10 holes before calling the pro shop and requesting a 9-hole credit/rain check so that we could come back another time (not sure if we will though). The front 9/10 took 3.5 hours to play...THREE AND A HALF HOURS! We were on pace for a 6-7 hour 18. On nearly every hole there was a three group pile up (we pulled up to the tee and there was one group on the tee and one watching). On the THIRD hole, we were backed-up FOUR groups (one on the green, one on the fairway, one on the tee, and our group watching). At this point, we called the pro shop and a marshal came out...they tried, I know they did because I talked to them and saw it, but of course, nothing changed and no one sped up. Not the staff's fault at all, just stubborn patrons. It completely ruined the day.

The Course:
The PoP was a shame because Tilden Park is a hidden gem tucked away in the hills of Berkely. It reminds me of a mountain course in Lake Tahoe...BIG elevation changes (both up and down) huge trees lining the fairways, a cool breeze blowing throughout the day, lush green grass. The course is beautiful and was in great shape when we played. For the average golfer (HC 15+) this course is rather difficult because of the elevation changes and so many shots where the ball is either above or below your feet. There are also a few narrow holes as well as a lot of holes that have blind shots. If it's your first time playing, be careful. Download an app with GPS so you can see what you should be aiming at.

Don't be fooled by the overall short length of the course. The elevation changes add/subtract a lot of "hidden" yardage that will really test your club selection. Also, don't play the blues unless you are good/long enough to do so...this was one of the main reasons why the PoP was so bad. You aren't more of a man because you hit from the blues...you just look like a dope when you can't hit the green (or get even close to it) on the VERY long par 3's on this course (all but one are over 200 yards). A good rule of thumb, if you are hitting a driver on any of those par 3's and still coming up 30 yards short, you should be playing the whites. We won't think any less of you.

The Phone Line/Pro Shop/Cafe:
You may be asking yourself, "The phone line? What does that have to do with anything?" Well, let me tell you. If you call the phone number, don't expect to get through on the first, second, third, or even fourth attempt. You get disconnected constantly and the connection once you finally reach the switchboard cuts out every other word (and this is not because of poor cell reception). Once you finally do reach someone, pray that you don't get disconnected and you have to call back. That happened to us three times.

The staff was friendly in the pro shop. They answered our questions and of course gave us a credit for 9 holes, which was very much appreciated. We would have preferred a cash refund for the loss of time but what can you do? The cafe was pretty limited. We could only order deli sandwiches at the turn because we couldn't call our order in ahead (because of the terrible phone line).

Will I go back?
Maybe. I'm still on the fence. I will recommend it to friends but with the caveat that they MUST play before 8. I'd like to see the back 9 because it looks fun and challenging. The only way I'll go back is if I tee off before 8AM. Otherwise, it's just not worth it.

By the way, the views of the ENTIRE bay that you'll see on the drive up to the course are spectacular. Stop and take a picture if you can.

I absolutely love Metro. It's a course that you can play every week that you won't get sick of. Rounds usually take 4.5 hours. I've never been frustrated by slow play at this course. You always see at least one or two marshals on the course as well, so you know they are keeping up the pace when necessary. Always appreciated.

It's challenging but not too hard/easy. There are long holes and short holes. Some holes are wide open (you can literally hit it anywhere and be ok) and there are some holes that limit where you can go. The greens are always in fantastic shape.

The driving range and short game practice areas are great as well. Friendly staff. Lots of parking.