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I chose to play at Lakewood National as one of my many possible course to join as a future resident of the area. I was paired with a friendly father/son duo, Simon and Adam who play this track regularly. This Club moved from my top 10 to my top 3. Only because I haven't played all of the courses on my list.

Reasons it makes the top 3. The practice areas are in excellent shape, staff was friendly, and the course itself. Of course this only holds true until I play the Commander and the staff repeats their willingness to be friendly.

I played the Piper Course. This track can play as long as you wish. It gives you every opportunity to utilize all your clubs. I haven't needed to hit Driver this much in years and I like to hit my Driver. The fairway and green conditions were excellent and the greens had recently been pinched/sanded. The course layout wasn't difficult but is demanding. Poor shot selection can be very tragic. I experienced a full on Shakespearean tragedy on #16 due to poor shot selection.

Bunkers and Greens. All fairway and greenside sand is very playable. However, avoid aiming at all fairway bunkers within reach, even if you think it'll add distance to your approach. Greenside bunkers are another animal all together. Land in a greenside bunker and it could be an easy up and down or an extremely challenging shot depending on pin placement. As for the Greens. Well, I believe these to be some of the most challenging I've ever played. Don't go firing at the pins or thinking the middle is just fine because you'll be surprised. The Piper greens are its main defens.

Here's the one bad thing I experienced. My GPS watch wouldn't pick up the course correctly and the cart GPS sucks. I could barely see it and I had it adjusted to full brightness. When I could see it the yardage wasn't trust worthy. Compared it with playing partners range finder several times.

I'm a 10 handicap for the Piper. So, take my review for what's worth to you. No matter you level, as long as you're not a club throwing perfectionist, you'll enjoy this track.