DMills33139

For over 40 years I had been dreaming of playing the Blue Monster at Doral. From the time I was a young boy looking at my Golf Digest while braving the cold winter in Northeastern Ohio, and seeing the back page advertisement I wanted to play.

This past Sunday, I finally had my opportunity, and to say it was a utter disappointment would be an understatement.

When I arrived in my Taxi, no one offered to help with my golf bag, and no one offered directions to where to go. However once I found my way to the Golf Shop, the staff was friendly and helpful, as were the Player's Assistance personnel and especially the Starter.

That was where my delight ended. I was appalled at the condition of the Driving Range, dried uncut grass which was impossible to find a decent lie to practice on.

The First Tee of the Blue Monster looked promising, it seemed to be the only spot on the golf course that was in above average condition.

I can understand that the greens need sanding and plugging at times, however, even with the sand they should still be cut! I actually had balls that stopped in the middle of a large slope due to the fact that the greens had not be cut in at least two or three days. Also, the greens were in extremely poor condition overall with spike trails, ball marks and general lack of upkeep.

The majority of teeing grounds were equally as bad, and in some cases the tees were closer to a light rough than a tee box.

I have played on under-funded municipal golf courses that were in better condition.

I was scheduled to play the Golden Palm this Sunday, but just cancelled that tee-time because I can play better conditioned courses for a lot less money.

Warmest Regards