63friar

Played this course many times but several years ago. After being away for such a long period. we were really impressed to see the cosmetic changes that have been made. Everything is better about the entire experience and people who haven't tried it out are missing a real treat. Greens have always been tricky with lots of slope from back to front and the steep drop-off at the rear of many greens. This course is now on a par with the other Mercer County tracks.

Overall appearance was somewhat lacking. Club needs some TLC. Gas cart was terrible to run...slow and felt like we might not make it up certain hills. Bunkers are very erratic in condition and there were several that had not been raked and no rake in sight. Elevation changes make some interesting shots and the ball wanted roll forever on certain holes. My wife almost drove the green on #10 which plays about 245 yds. from the green tees. She normally hits her drives about 170 yds.

This is one of our favorite layouts in NE Florida. There is such a great variety in the golf course and you really need to think your way around it. Greens are typical for a "Palmer" design in that if you think they hole might be a little on the easy side, the contours of the green will quickly change your mind. The only downside in our day was a rather long lightning warning which went off as we were completing our first hole. When we received the all clear there were people already out on the course and there was confusion about where everyone would resume play. We had a small disagreement with another group on the course. A ranger would have been helpful at this point.

Champions Course was well maintained even though our local weather conditions have not been that great recently. Greens are challenging with most having a fair amount of undulation. This places a premium on getting your approach shot near the cup or else looking at a lot of 3 putts.