I lived in University Place for a time and was also a member at Fircrest when Jeff Mingay was just getting started with his work there. I loved Fircrest and thought it was extremely underrated. I equate it to sort of a Pacific Northwest version of Palmetto in some ways. That said, skipping Chambers is a massive mistake. As Tom notes, in the Puget Sound area, it’s Chambers and then everything else.
Hi Ben,
I can't believe how long it's been since we ran into each other on the 3rd green at Fircrest, while we were working on that hole.
Fircrest was a tough place to work. Very few members appreciate the course's pedigree, and weren't even willing to learn about it. As a result, we've been unable to get everything that needs to be done, done. That being said, while it's probably not worth a special trip, Fircrest is still a fun course to play and an interesting one to see if you're heading to play Chambers and have time for another round.
Jeff,
It’s been a minute that’s for sure!
I’ll agree that Fircrest was an interesting place. The land movement was pretty good in my opinion, and the siting of the greens were, for the most part, well done. As a golfer first, the mentality at the club was a bit of a bummer for me. It was a nice hang and the folks were nice. But for the most part I’m not so sure they (members and staff) had any clue what they were sitting on.
Not that you require it, but I’ll say that what you were allowed to do there drastically improved a number of holes. Holes like 2, 9, 13, 16, and 17 were massively better.
For the purposes of this thread, like a number of the best courses in the Puget Sound, it’s worth a visit if you’re there and have the time. But a Chambers is the main event. Hope you’re well Jeff.