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The Grand Bear Golf Course
Played On 04/05/2015An easy day
Called a friend up for a friendly round of golf. Since it was mid-afternoon on Easter Sunday, not many were out. Pace of play was fantastic, giving way for enough time to really focus on shots and putts. On a day where not many were out, it really gave time to really appreciate the course.
A few other "friends" were out as well: a large deer, an alligator in the creek that hugs the left side of the par-3 #14, and a large red fox squirrel. If you are looking for a course with no distractions, this one is it. There is no residential development, and it has some really scenic holes.
As far as difficulty, it certainly has that if your tee shots go awry. It penalizes a bad shot, but rewards solid shots. It is a longer course. Greens are receptive and roll fairly true, but they could be in better overall shape. Nice open practice facilities. Staff has always been extremely friendly!
There are many great course options on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, but if you are in town for a weekend, this one is a must play.
The Bridges Golf Club at Hollywood Casino
Played On 09/05/2014Shot-shaper's delight!
The course is short, but shots require some real thought, especially from the tee. Expect semi-blind tee shots. I recommend purchasing the yardage book or having a golf GPS app on your phone. Know your safe landing areas!
The greens were large, and the pins could be challenging given the course layout. No big undulations in the greens.
Missing from the tee could spell disaster to your score. There are marshy areas throughout, and give the wind full consideration since the course is adjacent to a bay.
Sneaky fairway bunkers. While the rough was not deep, the grass was "grabby". Do not expect your ball to 'sit up' in this rough.
I only whipped out my driver twice (holes No. 1 and 18 - both par 5s). The par-5 No. 11 begs for a carry of the marsh (~275 yds), but the wind will dictate whether or not you should attempt it. It is a dogleg right after this marsh. If you can make the second shot, it will call for a draw. Just do not lose it right. There is marsh covering the right of the green, and a deep bunker front left.
The course makes you think a bit. Only a handful of fairways are "wide open". Tee shots can play with your eyes a bit, so make sure your alignment is spot on.
Course was in okay shape. It certainly was not in as good of shape as one would expect given it is a resort course. From a pure "golf" standpoint, it is a fun course because you must consider 'the leave'.
If you are a shot-shaper, I think you will enjoy this course.