South at Des Moines Golf & Country Club

Ever since it hosted the Solheim Cup, I've been itching to play Des Moines Golf & Country Club. I was fortunate enough to secure an invitation to play the South Course, and I wasn't disappointed.

The South Course is a fantastic journey over the hilly front 9, and then the more flat back 9. Holes 1-7, 17 and 18 make up the back 9 of the Solheim Cup Course.

While the entire course is challenging, the first 4 holes are really difficult with water coming into play on all 4. Once you get to number 5, the course plays a bit easier with no water until #9. As you start the back 9, you'll find 3 really fun par 4s, followed by a tougher stretch of longer par 4s along with 2 stout par 3s and two fun par 5s. While the course is certainly difficult, it never feels unfair. Every hole gives you a chance to make par or even a birdie, but poor shots will lead to a difficult recovery.

This summer has been very hot and dry in Iowa, but the grounds crew has done a great job keeping the conditions of the South Course really nice and playable. The course is playing firm and fast with the greens rolling true and and with nice pace.

If you are ever offered a chance to play Des Moines Golf & Country Club South, I highly recommend you take it. You'll be treated to a fun course that is challenging, yet fair.

My favorite hole is the par 4 9th. At 402 yards, it is a bit longer, but plays to a wide fairway. The approach brings in water on the left, and signature Pete Dye Bulkheads on the green edge! It's a really great hole!