Rick5438564

I believe Troon is working to improve Black Horse. The fairways and greens were in good condition. Some tees were excellent and others need some over seeding. The sand traps need to be refreshed as they were generally hard and inconsistent. The course is challenging and even the short par 4’s are not as easy as they appear from the tee. The greens have significantly undulation and can be very fast when dry. Black Horse is more wide open than Bayonet but you can still get into trouble that will cost you a stroke or two after a mis-hit.

I have been a frequent player at Bayonet for the last five years. I love the course layout and the opportunity to play one of two excellent championship courses at the same location. The staff is great, always friendly and helpful.

I lowered my overall rating because of a couple of items. One, the sand traps are very substandard for a course that aspires to be one of the best in the Monterey Bay. For the prices charged they should be in much better condition. They are very inconsistent, many hard and some with a reasonable amount of sand. Second, the tee side amenities are old and worn. Some holes have ball washers, some don’t. Spike cleaners are worn and useless. A small investment can make this small irritant go away. Finally, the length of the rough is very inconsistent. Short in some areas and US Open like in others.

These are two great courses that can be even greater with a focused investment.

Santa Teresa is nicely maintained public course in South San Jose. The front nine is relatively flat with trees providing most of the challenges. The back nine is more interesting and challenging, with more elevation. Played in four hours today even though we had to wait occasionally.

There is a fun nine hole par 3 course in addition to the regulation 18. Also a driving range (mats) and a chipping and putting green.

The pro shop, club house and lounge are nice with an outside patio by the putting green.

Overall, a good value and pleasant place to play a round.