Golf Club Atlas
GolfClubAtlas.com => Golf Course Architecture Discussion Group => Topic started by: Sean_A on October 28, 2012, 11:08:02 AM
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People usually speak to me about Detroit in terms of cars, Motown and/or crime. In recent times, the Motor City has added another resume builder - blight. So much is this the case that when many people hear the word "blight", "Detroit" follows immediately. Internationally recognized for its architecture, Detroit has allowed many of its prized buildings to fall into disrepair and so inspire photographers to chronicle the Demise of Detroit. The symbol for this decay is Michigan Central Depot, a Beaux Arts building constructed in 1913. Not more than a handful of miles from Hart Plaza to the east and the Ambassador Bridge within sight to the south (yes, Windsor is south of Detroit), this 18 storey behemoth is awe inspiring even in its current state.
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What is most remarkable about this journey to Comerica Park is my mate Craig had never laid eyes on the structure before. It was a special treat on the way to Tiger bars when the game was played at the Corner of Michigan and Trumbull. It is quite something to think 50,000 plus fans used to jam into Tiger Stadium. It doesn't seem plausible that many people could fit onto the empty lot which is all that remains of the once treasured home of the Tigers. When the city insisted on tearing down the building it effectively ripped out the heart of Corktown and left the area for dead. Yet a few Tiger bars remain and these are where I do my before and after libations when taking in a game.
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A burger and a few Blues later, we are on the shuttle to Comerica for game 4 of the American League Pennant Series (call me old fashioned) against the seemingly always favoured Yankees. At stake is a place in the World Series. The aforementioned mate - aka Nader; he's as American as any Syrian can be :)
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Play ball. The large Renaissance inspired Kahn design on the left is the Detroit Athletic Club - celebrating its 125 year anniversary this year.
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The outcome was never in doubt, but all good things must come to an end...
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but in my case, despite being a bit bleary-eyed and feeling like breakfast would do more harm than good, I was up early for a game at Birmingham Country Club. See link for Birmingham CC tour.
www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,63580.msg1513956.html#msg1513956 (http://www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,63580.msg1513956.html#msg1513956) ::)
The next day its back to Detroit to make a few critical stops whenever I am in Michigan.
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Downtown next for a visit to the Institution. I can't imagine what life would be like in Detroit without coney dogs.
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Finally, up to Midtown to drink terrible beer in a suspect, but lovable bar - The Old Miami. The Cass Corridor has been cleaned up, but the owners of this place don't know it. Before heading north I usually stop in at the Cafe.
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The last game of the trip took me about 4 miles south and west of Birmingham CC, the other side of Telegraph. Like Crystal Downs, Franklin Hills is a little known design for many Michiganders. After teething problems at an earlier site in Redford (Redford CC), it is thought the club insisted Ross invest more personal time on the Franklin Hills project. Among the Jewish community, Franklin Hills is well known because the club is a direct descendant of the Phoenix Club which was a Jewish social club established in 1872. By 1905 the club was on its third city premises and desired to have a country club to compliment its city club. A 9 hole course designed by Tom Bendelow was established and eventually the club decided that golf should be self sustaining, thus Redford CC (later a city of Detroit municipal called Rogell then privately owned as New Rogell and now closed) was born. A year later, in 1921, Donald Ross was called in to build a second nine and convert the sand greens to grass. It was quickly realized that the land hard on the Rouge River was unsuitable for ideal golf (the drainage issues were never resolved). Additionally, long closed Edgewater (amusement) Park was slated to be opened directly across the street from Redford CC, thus spoiling the country appeal of the club. Consequently, a new site in Franklin (the village is in Southfield Township, but the course is in Farmington Hills), some 20 miles northwest of Detroit, was selected as optimal land to build Franklin Hills. The course was designed by Donald Ross and was to opened in 1927. Club member, the famous architect, Albert Khan (aka Architect of Detroit), was commisioned to build the clubhouse. While vibrant, Frankiln Hills is tucked away in a secluded area and many Detroiters don't know of its existence.
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When entering the property one is immediately seduced by the practice ground to the right and the course to the left. Indeed, the first hole sets the tone early for what is a special course. A rolling par 4 of 400+ yards with deep bunkers either side of the fairway and a large green. While there is plenty of elevation change, at no time does it feel as though the course is overly hilly. The 2nd hole seems to play less than its listed yardage though with blind water down the left and bunkering, there is plenty of danger.
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A very good par 3, the third features a plateau green. #4 is a dead straight par 5. #5 is a handsome two-shotter with its shelf green built off the hill for the 6th tee. Notice the top-shot bunker- this feature is highlighted on a few holes.
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A brute of a par 4, but the 6th is still a very good hole. Now the course changes its complexion by heading into a more treed area of the property. The 7th is a long par 4 playing uphill after the tee shot - a par here is very well earned.
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Eight too is a shortish par 5 which doesn't become interesting until approaching the green. If I had to pick a weakness of Franklin Hills it would certainly be the par 5s, although I believe the back nine has two good examples of the type.
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Perhaps the best putting surface on the front nine of a surprisingly sedate set of greens, the par 3 ninth packs a powerful punch.
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The 10th offers no advance preview for the diabolical uphill 11th. The drive falls away to the right and through a fairly tight corridor of trees.
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Emerging from the trees, #12 begs the golfer to drive the upper tier of the fairway to leave a fully visible green.
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Emphasizing a volcano green which is incredibly small, the diminutive 13th is one of my favourite holes on the course and the surprise hole of the trip.
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The downhill 14, a longish par 3.
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The best par 5 was saved for last, though the hole may play better as a par 4 with some work. The hole turns left and is reachable.
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The long par 3 sixteenth is visually an odd hole. The cart path cuts in from the right and the green is not a well defined target. #17 too is aesthetically compromised, but once one sees the hole in reverse the option of driving over the water is more clear. If one is taking the left route it will likely be necessary to lay-up. If the right route is an option be careful to accurately judge the wind over open water.
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The long approach after a lay-up.
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The home hole plays between sentinel trees and the bunker down the left is reachable despite visual evidence to the contrary.
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The biggest surprise for me was the lack of movement in the greens. I thought Franklin Hills would feature rolling greens such as at Oakland Hills or Grosse Ile. That isn't to say the green aren't interesting, just not quite as entertaining as a few other Ross courses in the Detroit area. I think the star of the show, and this is usually the case for Ross, are the par 4s. There is great variety with the thirteenth being a throwback hole not easily matched in the Detroit area. The mostly open nature of the design helps to create a serene parkland feel yet with a sense of space. I enjoyed the course immensely and would cherish a return visit. 2012 1*
Birmingham CC
www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,63580.msg1514178.html#msg1514178 (http://www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,63580.msg1514178.html#msg1514178)
Orchard Lake CC
www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,61798.msg1469133.html#msg1469133 (http://www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,61798.msg1469133.html#msg1469133)
Ciao
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I've never been as scared as I was in the cheap seats on opening day at the old Tiger Stadium circa 1980. Sex, Drugs, Rock & Roll and Fight Club had nothing on those dudes....
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Sean -
Too bad your Tigers are, so far, playing like pussycats in the World Series! ;)
DT
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Sorry I missed you (again) on your recent visit to Detroit, Sean. Based on a few of the landmarks in your photos above, we'd get along great. I've been hanging out at Nemo's forever; and, The Old Miami... wow, I've seen some great bands play there over the years.
Go Tigers,
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"meow" ;)
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Sean thanks for the fun write-up. I'm guessing the line below was to see who was paying attention....or is Ross taking Mackenzie kudos for CDGC?
Like Crystal Downs, Franklin Hills is a little known Donald Ross design built near the peak of his career.
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Franklin Hills is a must in the Detroit area... and, so is Lafayette Coney Island!
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Glad you enjoyed your stay in Michigan and thanks for posting pics/reviews of these two courses.. I live within 10 miles of both but haven't seen them yet. Franklin Hills looks as good as it's supposed to be.
Next time you're in town, hit up Slows (just up the street from Nemos) for some out of this world BBQ!
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Jeff
I used to visit Nemos in the ole days, but not so much these past 20 years. Nothing much has changed.
The Old Miami is definitely not what it used to be. I remember the Vietnam Vets hangin' round wonderin' what the hell all the goofy kids were doin' there. It was one of my Detroit hang outs for music along with Paychecks in Hamtramck (and The New Dodge not far away - a few old polish bars are good as well - Hamtramck is still the best place for proper bars), Bakers Keyboard Lounge (only a mile or so north of Detroit GC) in a scuzzy part of town. Also used to go to St Andrews for bigger bands, but I never liked the vibe there. Soup Kitchen had some decent bands too, but we tended to just drive to Chicago if we wanted blues. But to be fair, there wasn't a better music bar than Joes Star Lounge in Ann Arbor. It was a sad day when that place closed. I see the fancy bloody brew pub took over the Del Rio - one of my other favourites in Ann Arbor.
Maybe one day we will connect. I would like to see Essex one day if I can brave the bridge.
Jeff
Yes, I will have to try Slows some time.
David
Three tough losses - thats life. Perhaps the Tigers used up all their luck against the Yankees - they sure didn't get any in against SF.
Ciao
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"Perhaps the Tigers used up all their luck against the Yankees"
Sean -
Perhaps they did. ;)
DT
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Sean - Did you get a chance to attend a Red Wings game ... ... ... oh never mind
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Sean - Did you get a chance to attend a Red Wings game ... ... ...
That was cruel and unusual....
Ciao
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great post thanks.
I played Franklin Hills maybe 10 years ago and could never remember the name, but know it was a course I liked.
Overall, I think Detroit (and really Michigan as a whole) is incredibly underrated as a golf location. I believe Oakland hills is the best private two course complex in the country (sorry winged foot and baltursol).
I think one of the reason Detroit is so underrated is 1) all of the top courses are private and 2) people are fleeing the town like nobodys business.
In terms of top courses per capita, I am not sure I another top metro area is close to detroit.
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great post thanks.
I played Franklin Hills maybe 10 years ago and could never remember the name, but know it was a course I liked.
Overall, I think Detroit (and really Michigan as a whole) is incredibly underrated as a golf location. I believe Oakland hills is the best private two course complex in the country (sorry winged foot and baltursol).
I think one of the reason Detroit is so underrated is 1) all of the top courses are private and 2) people are fleeing the town like nobodys business.
In terms of top courses per capita, I am not sure I another top metro area is close to detroit.
We are blessed with an abundance of quality public courses in the Metro Detroit area. Favorites of mine are:
The Majestic- Hartland-one of the better Jerry Matthews designs,
Northville Hills-Northville (Palmer)
Dunham Hills-Hartland
Leslie Park-Ann Arbor
Timber Trace-Pinckney (a good course worth the drive but not walkable)
Pine Trace-Rochester Hills
The Orchards-Washington (RTJ Jr.)
Eagle Crest-Ypsilanti (Player)
Shepherds Hollow-Clarkston.
Not to mention dozens of courses that are worth playing at very affordable rates.
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great post thanks.
I played Franklin Hills maybe 10 years ago and could never remember the name, but know it was a course I liked.
Overall, I think Detroit (and really Michigan as a whole) is incredibly underrated as a golf location. I believe Oakland hills is the best private two course complex in the country (sorry winged foot and baltursol).
I think one of the reason Detroit is so underrated is 1) all of the top courses are private and 2) people are fleeing the town like nobodys business.
In terms of top courses per capita, I am not sure I another top metro area is close to detroit.
We are blessed with an abundance of quality public courses in the Metro Detroit area. Favorites of mine are:
The Majestic- Hartland-one of the better Jerry Matthews designs,
Northville Hills-Northville (Palmer)
Dunham Hills-Hartland
Leslie Park-Ann Arbor
Timber Trace-Pinckney (a good course worth the drive but not walkable)
Pine Trace-Rochester Hills
The Orchards-Washington (RTJ Jr.)
Eagle Crest-Ypsilanti (Player)
Shepherds Hollow-Clarkston.
Not to mention dozens of courses that are worth playing at very affordable rates.
good point. I was originally just referring to the city and close suburbs. (I once had a debate about whether AA was a Detroit suburb which I have no desire to relive.)
Admittedly, I have never heard of Pine Trace in Rochester Hills. But i think your list kinda proves my point. Having to go our to AA or Clarkston for a good public course says something about the publics in Deroit and near suburbs.
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The 13th at Franklin Hills is one of the most unique holes in golf. If I make 3 or 4, I like the hole, but if I make a 5, then I don't like that hole.
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great post thanks.
I played Franklin Hills maybe 10 years ago and could never remember the name, but know it was a course I liked.
Overall, I think Detroit (and really Michigan as a whole) is incredibly underrated as a golf location. I believe Oakland hills is the best private two course complex in the country (sorry winged foot and baltursol).
I think one of the reason Detroit is so underrated is 1) all of the top courses are private and 2) people are fleeing the town like nobodys business.
In terms of top courses per capita, I am not sure I another top metro area is close to detroit.
We are blessed with an abundance of quality public courses in the Metro Detroit area. Favorites of mine are:
The Majestic- Hartland-one of the better Jerry Matthews designs,
Northville Hills-Northville (Palmer)
Dunham Hills-Hartland
Leslie Park-Ann Arbor
Timber Trace-Pinckney (a good course worth the drive but not walkable)
Pine Trace-Rochester Hills
The Orchards-Washington (RTJ Jr.)
Eagle Crest-Ypsilanti (Player)
Shepherds Hollow-Clarkston.
Not to mention dozens of courses that are worth playing at very affordable rates.
good point. I was originally just referring to the city and close suburbs. (I once had a debate about whether AA was a Detroit suburb which I have no desire to relive.)
Admittedly, I have never heard of Pine Trace in Rochester Hills. But i think your list kinda proves my point. Having to go our to AA or Clarkston for a good public course says something about the publics in Deroit and near suburbs.
Hi Mark.
I'm not quite sure of the point you are trying to make but the courses I named are some of the very best public courses in the area and there are plenty of muni's and others well worth playing within a short drive of almost anywhere in the area. I live in Farmington Hills, about 4 miles south of Franklin Hills and there are at least a dozen worthwhile public courses within a 20 minute drive. These may not be GCA quality courses but most provide a good test and are on decent land. The Detroit metro area is huge and we have well over 100 public courses in the area. The options are as good as anywhere in the country for decent affordable golf. Think of some of the larger metro areas in the country (LA, Bay Area, NYC). How far do you have to drive to find decent golf at affordable prices? You can walk a good public course in the Detroit area for $35.00!
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Lynn
Yes, FH's 13th is a very cool hole. Knowing what I do now, I would throw out my thoughts of laying-up. Hitting that green even with a full wedge would be difficult.
Mike
Half the publics you mentioned are not in Metro Detroit and none of them are in the same league as a great many privates around the city - although I like Shepherds Hollow (for a cart course) and Leslie Park a lot. You should try Leslie's little bro, Huron Hills. The front nine up the hill is very good. I used to like New Rogell (in Detroit hard on the Rouge River between 6 & 7 mile on Berg - hard to believe there is a course there) and Brae Burn (in Plymouth), but I think these would usually be very wet in the shoulder months. I am also fond of Hunters Ridge in Howell.
BTW
For some freaky reason I ended up in Livonia one night - first time ever. I stumbled across Wine Castle on 7 Mile off 96. It blew me away seeing such an ordinary (from the curb) party store with such a huge selection of beer, wine and spirits. It was a warm night so I picked up a bottle of Beaujolais to watch the Tigers. I swear on a stack of bibles that 15 years ago no party store in or near Detroit would carry one selection let alone four.
Ciao
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Hi Sean.
I've played Huron Hills before and the west side of the course has some nice terrain. That must be the front nine you reference. It's been years since I've played Brae Burn which is known for a 600 yard double dogleg par 5. And for sure, none of the public tracks in the area can compete with courses like FH, Oakland Hills, Bloomfield Hills (does that course ever get any play?), Detroit Country Club, CC of D, Meadowbrook and the like.
I haven't played New Rogell but 20 or so years ago played it when it was just Rogell. Supposedly it was originally designed by Ross. You could tell it had good bones with nice hills and valleys and the holes west of Berg were on great land. Rouge Park a bit south of there is another nice old track which has been better maintained than Rogell.
Wine Castle has been around forever. I grew up in Livonia about 3 miles down the road.
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S,
Great photos of Franklin Hills. #2, #9, and #13 are stellar imho. The course is very solid. #3, #5, #6, #14, and #18 are really good too. I think a few more hundred trees down and it would be even better but they have removed a ton in the past. I love blind shots but don't like blind shots with water (#17). If the tee was raised and the 3 or so trees cut down it would be a really good hole.
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I somehow missed this thread a couple of years ago. What a fine golf and travel piece Sean wrote!
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Cheers Ben & Dick
I wish I had a few good pix of the 1st, but alas the sun wasn't favouring me. It may be the best hole on the course, but my tip for favourite must be the 13th - what a hole. I didn't think trees were a big issue mainly because there were so many great specimens not mucked with by stupid trees and I think the club likely keeps the tree areas well cleared of harsh rough/undergrowth. Look at pix of the 2nd to the right. That is my idea of a perfect tree area.
Ben - if you get the chance, play Birmingham CC. The greens are very good and there are a lot of fine holes.
I resized the pix so they are much better framed now. Take another look.
Ciao
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13th at Franklin is one of the most unique, special holes in golf. The short par 4 by which all others should be measured.
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13th at Franklin is one of the most unique, special holes in golf. The short par 4 by which all others should be measured.
+1, I doubled it and was still in awe. Lesson learned don't hit driver.
S,
Great thread! The whole thread was really well done.
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13th at Franklin is one of the most unique, special holes in golf. The short par 4 by which all others should be measured.
Yes, I think there must generally be a great temptation for archies to use a green site like this as a par 3. It was an excellent idea to create a shortie 4 instead.
Ben - cheers.
Ciao
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Cheers Ben & Dick
I wish I had a few good pix of the 1st, but alas the sun wasn't favouring me. It may be the best hole on the course, but my tip for favourite must be the 13th - what a hole. I didn't think trees were a big issue mainly because there were so many great specimens not mucked with by stupid trees and I think the club likely keeps the tree areas well cleared of harsh rough/undergrowth. Look at pix of the 2nd to the right. That is my idea of a perfect tree area.
Ben - if you get the chance, play Birmingham CC. The greens are very good and there are a lot of fine holes.
I resized the pix so they are much better framed now. Take another look.
Ciao
S,
I had the great fortune of playing Franklin again today. The course is so good imo. If 200 trees were removed and 17 was tweaked it could possibly be a 9 Imho. I think it is as good as Inverness and would surpass it with tweaking 17 alone. #7, 10, and 11 would greatly improve with tree removal. The course should definitely be applauded for all the trees they took out in 2003ish.
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It's great to see Franklin Hills get some attention on GCA. I had the pleasure of touring it in May with Ari. In addition to having the chance to play some of the more well known courses in the area, I came away with the impression that FH is the class of the bunch in Detroit.
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It's great to see Franklin Hills get some attention on GCA. I had the pleasure of touring it in May with Ari. In addition to having the chance to play some of the more well known courses in the area, I came away with the impression that FH is the class of the bunch in Detroit.
+1, you gotta love that they don't care about rankings. The club seems to embrace being under the radar, which is great. So many world class holes.
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Disappointed I couldn't make it. Did you take any photos? Who did the renovation/restoration work?
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Disappointed I couldn't make it. Did you take any photos? Who did the renovation/restoration work?
Prichard, it was back in 03'. Wasn't in SE Mich then.
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It's great to see Franklin Hills get some attention on GCA. I had the pleasure of touring it in May with Ari. In addition to having the chance to play some of the more well known courses in the area, I came away with the impression that FH is the class of the bunch in Detroit.
So many world class holes.
Which holes do you consider world class?
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It's great to see Franklin Hills get some attention on GCA. I had the pleasure of touring it in May with Ari. In addition to having the chance to play some of the more well known courses in the area, I came away with the impression that FH is the class of the bunch in Detroit.
So many world class holes.
Which holes do you consider world class?
Niall
I think 13 is an All Michigan Candidate...perhaps the first as well. Franklin is more about a very good diet of holes of varied terrain without many real standouts. 13 for me is an obvious choice. #1 is long and tough, but what sets it apart is the huge green.
Ciao
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13 is a cool hole. Fun to play too.
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It's great to see Franklin Hills get some attention on GCA. I had the pleasure of touring it in May with Ari. In addition to having the chance to play some of the more well known courses in the area, I came away with the impression that FH is the class of the bunch in Detroit.
So many world class holes.
Which holes do you consider world class?
World class #2, #9, #13, #18.
Great holes #3, #5, #6, #12, #14
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It's great to see Franklin Hills get some attention on GCA. I had the pleasure of touring it in May with Ari. In addition to having the chance to play some of the more well known courses in the area, I came away with the impression that FH is the class of the bunch in Detroit.
So many world class holes.
Which holes do you consider world class?
World class #2, #9, #13, #18.
Great holes #3, #5, #6, #12, #14
B
You have described a course which is among the very best in the world. Franklin is very good, but not all that :D
Ciao
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It's great to see Franklin Hills get some attention on GCA. I had the pleasure of touring it in May with Ari. In addition to having the chance to play some of the more well known courses in the area, I came away with the impression that FH is the class of the bunch in Detroit.
So many world class holes.
Which holes do you consider world class?
World class #2, #9, #13, #18.
Great holes #3, #5, #6, #12, #14
B
You have described a course which is among the very best in the world. Franklin is very good, but not all that :D
Ciao
S,
I stated 4 holes that where top notch. I give FH an 8, with possibly a chance of being 9 with changes to 15 and 17 and tree removal. Please provide where i said best in the world ;) Rob also stated his admiration of FH.
B
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B
Four world class holes is something quite special, then backed up with five great holes (not sure what that means to you, but great to me is damn special as well), to me would put FH in very rarified air. You then say clear some trees and FH is a 9...which confirms you believe FH is in rarified air. You are welcome to your opinion, but I think you have over-stated your case. Just to impart some context, TOC doesn't have four all-world holes and five great backers, yet it does have an awesome back nine.
Ciao
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B
Four world class holes is something quite special, then backed up with five great holes (not sure what that means to you, but great to me is damn special as well), to me would put FH in very rarified air. You then say clear some trees and FH is a 9...which confirms you believe FH is in rarified air. You are welcome to your opinion, but I think you have over-stated your case. Just to impart some context, TOC doesn't have four all-world holes and five great backers, yet it does have an awesome back nine.
Ciao
S,
I said much more than clear some trees and FH is a 9. I said currently it is an 8. Having not played TOC, and the fact that it was just given a 10 would make me wonder how a course gets a 10 and doesn't have 4 All world holes? It's just like how you criticized #7 at Inverness, which is considered All World by many. One of a few holes to make it into ''Golf Never Failed Me Book''. So this is turning into semantics.
B
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Sounds like a great trip, originally I am from Southfield. A little disappointed you didn't go to Buddy's though :'(
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Sounds like a great trip, originally I am from Southfield. A little disappointed you didn't go to Buddy's though :'(
To tell the truth, Buddy's is not what it used to be. That or there are now other high quality choices. My local fave is Loui's in Hazel Park.
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Southfield and Hazel Park for pizza? Who knew there were such wing nuts about? :)
Next time back in Detroit I would like to see a few of Barton Hills, Indianwood Old, Orchard Lake and a few others are on the list. Is there pizza at these clubs?
Ciao
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If we're talking pizza in Detroit, Supino's has to be part of the conversation
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Does anyone know how far along the work at Birmingham is? Also, have the trees near 8 green gone?
Ciao
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http://www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,62619.msg1490730.html#msg1490730 (http://www.golfclubatlas.com/forum/index.php/topic,62619.msg1490730.html#msg1490730)
S,
Going to do a full photo tour later this summer and add to this one. Hopefully some other Metro D tracks as well.
I do enjoy re reading this thread with local recommendations with food and such.
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Cheers Ben. I forgot about that thread...very illuminating.
BTW...there is pizza at Orchard Lake :D
Ciao
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Sean,
After a round at OLCC it is customary for me to eat at thee Red Coat Tavern down the street. I'll be washing down that fine burger with a Skull Splitter Scotch Ale. :P :)
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Red Coat...yes...as I recall, very expensive burgers in a 70s Jimmy Hoffa type bar. I like the bar more than the food...though the zip sauce was interesting. If memory serves me correctly, a very handy place for Birmingham CC ;) Though, I am more inclined to head for Lafeyette for coney dogs...I can get burgers anywhere.
Ciao
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$6.95 really breaks the bank. I go to the one in West Bloom, haven't been to the original one in Royal Oak. The burger is award winning. You should give it another go ;)
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Maybe we drank a bit..I recall a $60 bill for two 8)
Ciao
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$6.95 really breaks the bank. I go to the one in West Bloom, haven't been to the original one in Royal Oak. The burger is award winning. You should give it another go ;)
That's kind of a half-truth, Ben. $6.95 gets you a pretty naked burger. Most people would add toppings, which adds cost. Probably $10 or so by the time you're done. Add in beers at $6-$7 a pop, and Sean's $60 sounds reasonable.
Plus to say you've been to RCT when you haven't been to the Royal Oak one is also a bit of a half-truth ;-) Would be like someone saying they went to tOSU, when in fact they went to tOSU Mansfield.
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$6.95 really breaks the bank. I go to the one in West Bloom, haven't been to the original one in Royal Oak. The burger is award winning. You should give it another go ;)
That's kind of a half-truth, Ben. $6.95 gets you a pretty naked burger. Most people would add toppings, which adds cost. Probably $10 or so by the time you're done. Add in beers at $6-$7 a pop, and Sean's $60 sounds reasonable.
Plus to say you've been to RCT when you haven't been to the Royal Oak one is also a bit of a half-truth ;-) Would be like someone saying they went to tOSU, when in fact they went to tOSU Mansfield.
Matt,
I have RCT on speed dial, it is $8.75 including American Cheese (internet gave me bad info). My skull splitters are like $8 a pop. I always walk out of there with a $40-50 bill. In fact I turned down an invite to RCT last night, I'm loathing myself today.
Is it not the same owner? Royal Oak is too hipster for me. That OSU analogy is great.
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Yes, I'm sure it's the same owner. But, Zingerman's and Zingerman's Road House have the same owner too. Totally different feel/ambiance at the West Bloomfield one.
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I hear what you are saying about ambiance and agree, I personally enjoy dives. Zingerman's is the most overrated tourist traps in Ann Arbor. The Roadhouse breakfast is the best in town IMO, but dinner is on par with the deli (horrible).
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I hear what you are saying about ambiance and agree, I personally enjoy dives. Zingerman's is the most overrated tourist traps in Ann Arbor. The Roadhouse breakfast is the best in town IMO, but dinner is on par with the deli (horrible).
There goes what credibility you had left. Overpriced, yes, but horrible......come on man.
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Are we talking about the RTC on Woodward? It may be in Royal Oak, but there is nothing hipster about the neighbourhood. I recall a middle class area...the sort of place where a lot of blue collar workers would have lived back when Detroit offered blue collar jobs :P
I just thought the price tag was a bit much, but remember, I haven't lived in Michigan since 1998 so my memory is stuck in the last Millenium :'( Besides, I think my bro scammed me as he said its a burger joint so I said I would pay....last of the big time spenders. Thankfully, for public golf, the prices of the last millenium are still valid ;D
Zingerman's, is a very good deli. Expensive? For sure, but I was willing to pay for proper fermented bread and good cheese. The Yanks are sorely lacking in these two areas so any counterculture in that regard is most welcome :)
Ciao
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Are we talking about the RTC on Woodward? It may be in Royal Oak, but there is nothing hipster about the neighbourhood. I recall a middle class area...the sort of place where a lot of blue collar workers would have lived back when Detroit offered blue collar jobs :P
I just thought the price tag was a bit much, but remember, I haven't lived in Michigan since 1998 so my memory is stuck in the last Millenium :'( Besides, I think my bro scammed me as he said its a burger joint so I said I would pay....last of the big time spenders. Thankfully, for public golf, the prices of the last millenium are still valid ;D
Zingerman's, is a very good deli. Expensive? For sure, but I was willing to pay for proper fermented bread and good cheese. The Yanks are sorely lacking in these two areas so any counterculture in that regard is most welcome :)
Ciao
Red Coat Tavern is on Woodward just north of 13 Mile and there is quite often a line to get in. I would call it a good value. And Sean, downtown Royal Oak is definitely very hip for those of Ben's age, populated by young professionals. The artists have moved to Ferndale or Detroit.
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Berg
I have been told the centre of Royal Oak is pretty hip. I haven't been there in years since the days when the Music Theatre was reopened for concerts...I recall seeing The Pretenders there in 1981...I was in high school...heavy sigh. But RCT is not in the centre...its in an unattractive burb location...could be bloody Lincoln Park or any number of unassuming locals on main trunk roads such as Telegraph or Fort. I think Ben's fears of being over-run by hipsters is a bit of paranoia on the loose ;)
Ciao
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I hear what you are saying about ambiance and agree, I personally enjoy dives. Zingerman's is the most overrated tourist traps in Ann Arbor. The Roadhouse breakfast is the best in town IMO, but dinner is on par with the deli (horrible).
Sometimes you really have no clue. Zingerman's deli may be overpriced but the sandwiches are outstanding. I've never had anything there that was not first class.
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Berg
I have been told the centre of Royal Oak is pretty hip. I haven't been there in years since the days when the Music Theatre was reopened for concerts...I recall seeing The Pretenders there in 1981...I was in high school...heavy sigh. But RCT is not in the centre...its in an unattractive burb location...could be bloody Lincoln Park or any number of unassuming locals on main trunk roads such as Telegraph or Fort. I think Ben's fears of being over-run by hipsters is a bit of paranoia on the loose ;)
Ciao
Ciao
Downtown Royal Oak (Main Street) can be annoyingly hipsterish but if you ignore the posers it's a great place to hang out. The area where Redcoat is, is decidedly commercial and non-descript. Nothing trendy at all until you drive a mile or so north into Birmingham. That said, the only time I tried to go to the Redcoat, the wait was far too long so my party went elsewhere.
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I hear what you are saying about ambiance and agree, I personally enjoy dives. Zingerman's is the most overrated tourist traps in Ann Arbor. The Roadhouse breakfast is the best in town IMO, but dinner is on par with the deli (horrible).
Sometimes you really have no clue. Zingerman's deli may be overpriced but the sandwiches are outstanding. I've never had anything there that was not first class.
Mike,
I could careless about the price. I think the pastrami at Zingerman's is dry and tasteless as is the bread (been there twice). I'd much rather have Barry Bagels which is average or even McDonalds before Zingerman's. Founders Brewery has the best Pastrami I've ever had and that isn't too convenient. Star Deli was just recommended to me last night by two GCAers. Zingerman's is the 3 by 5 note card of food. If you want great food in A2 you go to Fritas Batidos, the owner has actually been on the food channel instead of Oprah.
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Downtown Royal Oak (Main Street) can be annoyingly hipsterish but if you ignore the posers it's a great place to hang out. The area where Redcoat is, is decidedly commercial and non-descript. Nothing trendy at all until you drive a mile or so north into Birmingham. That said, the only time I tried to go to the Redcoat, the wait was far too long so my party went elsewhere.
A real hipster wouldn't be caught dead in downtown RO. It would be the equivalent of a gca'er dropping off a Titleist staff bag at the Kingsley Club bag drop area. In fact, Midtown is even too commercial these days. You may find them in Corktown, Hazel Park or Hamtramck. Detroit is in the new Brooklyn. It's literally changing by the day. Don't know if this is good or bad yet. Still accessing.
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Hi Ben. That's your opinion and as usual it's a strong one but hardly credible.
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Berg
I have been told the centre of Royal Oak is pretty hip. I haven't been there in years since the days when the Music Theatre was reopened for concerts...I recall seeing The Pretenders there in 1981...I was in high school...heavy sigh. But RCT is not in the centre...its in an unattractive burb location...could be bloody Lincoln Park or any number of unassuming locals on main trunk roads such as Telegraph or Fort. I think Ben's fears of being over-run by hipsters is a bit of paranoia on the loose ;)
Ciao
Sean,
I'm just giving a downriver guy a hard time. There is a good chance of being run over by hipsters, but RCT is out of the central hub. Taylor and Biewala and I will be heading to RTC in RO sometime in the near future. (bucket list)
Hi Ben. That's your opinion and as usual it's a strong one but hardly credible.
I live in Ann Arbor, I would think my opinion would be valued. I don't care that it's popular. Everyone should go to it once and see for themselves. So why is my opinion not credible?
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Berg
I have been told the centre of Royal Oak is pretty hip. I haven't been there in years since the days when the Music Theatre was reopened for concerts...I recall seeing The Pretenders there in 1981...I was in high school...heavy sigh. But RCT is not in the centre...its in an unattractive burb location...could be bloody Lincoln Park or any number of unassuming locals on main trunk roads such as Telegraph or Fort. I think Ben's fears of being over-run by hipsters is a bit of paranoia on the loose ;)
Ciao
Sean,
I'm just giving a downriver guy a hard time. There is a good chance of being run over by hipsters, but RCT is out of the central hub. Taylor and Biewala and I will be heading to RTC in RO sometime in the near future. (bucket list)
Hi Ben. That's your opinion and as usual it's a strong one but hardly credible.
I live in Ann Arbor, I would think my opinion would be valued. I don't care that it's popular. Everyone should go to it once and see for themselves. So why is my opinion not credible?
Zingerman's is nearly universally praised for having great food and discerning taste in what they sell. I've been there many times (never been to the Roadhouse) and have never had anything but positive experiences other than the price. You have strong opinions that plenty of people here disagree with so you shouldn't be surprised that some may question your credibility at times.
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Zingerman's is awesome. Pricey, but awesome. Love the Roadhouse as well.
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Mike,
You, Matt, and J are the only ones disagreeing with my Zingerman's call, so I'd hardly call that plenty. Thank God i have strong opinions, with so many weaklings running around. Questing my credibility for not liking a deli is beyond laughable. At least I don't boycott places that I don't like the owners political ideology, like someone I know. I've had numerous people make an effort to ask my opinion on Golf related matters, so I'll take those compliments over you questioning my credibility on a deli. ::) ::)
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Mike,
You, Matt, and J are the only ones disagreeing with my Zingerman's call, so I'd hardly call that plenty. Thank God i have strong opinions, with so many weaklings running around. Questing my credibility for not liking a deli is beyond laughable. At least I don't boycott places that I don't like the owners political ideology, like someone I know. I've had numerous people make an effort to ask my opinion on Golf related matters, so I'll take those compliments over you questioning my credibility on a deli. ::) ::)
Ben, you are close to crossing a line. Be careful.
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Mike,
As far as I'm concerned you crossed it.
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"You, Matt, and J are the only ones disagreeing with my Zingerman's call, so I'd hardly call that plenty."
Zagat's would disagree with your call. If I start googling, I'm guessing there would be many other reputable folks who would also disagree with you. Not to mention, can you name anyone who agreed with your call? Just because only three folks called you silly, doesn't mean you're actually right.
"At least I don't boycott places that I don't like the owners political ideology, like someone I know."
No, just if you think Hipsters might be there.
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Matt,
Zingerman's is going to be just fine whether I like it or not. I could be 1 out of 1,000,000 that doesn't like it. I really don't care, this is beyond idiotic.
2 of our SE Mich GCAers think that Crystal Downs is overrated, do all of their opinions lack all credibility because they don't follow GCA point of view on CD?
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I'm hungry for a pastrami or corned beef sandwich. Thanks guys.
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For the record, I'm not criticizing Ben for his opinion on Zingerman's. Was just putting in my .02 that I love the place. Different people have different tastes in food. I know some in Ann Arbor prefer Maize & Blue Deli to Zingerman's.
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Joel,
You didn't criticize me, it's all good. I'm going to go to the Maize and Blue today for lunch. Like Hoover, i think Pastrami sounds good ;)
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Cool to see the discussion about Red Coat Tavern, Royal Oak, etc., pop up on the board. I'm new to the area (just moved here from Chicago), and had dinner at the OG Red Coat last night. Definitely the best burger I've tried in my limited time here. Still need to get over to AA and try Zingerman's!
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Ben, I'm not trying to pick a fight with you but when you say that " Zingerman's is the most overrated tourist traps in Ann Arbor", and that you prefer McDonald's you lose credibility. I get it that you like to stir things up but that does not make you right, just controversial. And controversy for it's own sake is called trolling.
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Berg
I have been told the centre of Royal Oak is pretty hip. I haven't been there in years since the days when the Music Theatre was reopened for concerts...I recall seeing The Pretenders there in 1981...I was in high school...heavy sigh. But RCT is not in the centre...its in an unattractive burb location...could be bloody Lincoln Park or any number of unassuming locals on main trunk roads such as Telegraph or Fort. I think Ben's fears of being over-run by hipsters is a bit of paranoia on the loose ;)
Ciao
Sean,
I'm just giving a downriver guy a hard time. There is a good chance of being run over by hipsters, but RCT is out of the central hub. Taylor and Biewala and I will be heading to RTC in RO sometime in the near future. (bucket list)
To be fair, I like a good burger, but I am not ever going to too excited by one....its not the sort of food I go out of my way for....but I will go well out of my way for Lafeyette :) I know, its loopy, but there you have it.
Hipster? I wouldn't know a real hipster if I saw one. Folks is folks....I don't much worry about the labels.
Ciao
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Cool to see the discussion about Red Coat Tavern, Royal Oak, etc., pop up on the board. I'm new to the area (just moved here from Chicago), and had dinner at the OG Red Coat last night. Definitely the best burger I've tried in my limited time here. Still need to get over to AA and try Zingerman's!
Jon, Welcome to RO. I live off Lincoln. Are you a beer drinker? River Rouge Brewing on 4th has a great stout. Cheesy name but good beer. Let me know if want to grab a drink sometime. A lot of good private golf around the area. The same cannot be said about our public golf options!
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Cool to see the discussion about Red Coat Tavern, Royal Oak, etc., pop up on the board. I'm new to the area (just moved here from Chicago), and had dinner at the OG Red Coat last night. Definitely the best burger I've tried in my limited time here. Still need to get over to AA and try Zingerman's!
Jon, Welcome to RO. I live off Lincoln. Are you a beer drinker? River Rouge Brewing on 4th has a great stout. Cheesy name but good beer. Let me know if want to grab a drink sometime. A lot of good private golf around the area. The same cannot be said about our public golf options!
I guess the quality of the public golf in our area depends on your standards. Of course no muni or public course is the equal to OHCC, OLCC, Franklin Hills and the like but there is a lot of affordable good golf in the Metro Detroit area. Much better than most metro areas.
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Cool to see the discussion about Red Coat Tavern, Royal Oak, etc., pop up on the board. I'm new to the area (just moved here from Chicago), and had dinner at the OG Red Coat last night. Definitely the best burger I've tried in my limited time here. Still need to get over to AA and try Zingerman's!
Jon, Welcome to RO. I live off Lincoln. Are you a beer drinker? River Rouge Brewing on 4th has a great stout. Cheesy name but good beer. Let me know if want to grab a drink sometime. A lot of good private golf around the area. The same cannot be said about our public golf options!
I guess the quality of the public golf in our area depends on your standards. Of course no muni or public course is the equal to OHCC, OLCC, Franklin Hills and the like but there is a lot of affordable good golf in the Metro Detroit area. Much better than most metro areas.
I would add to this that there is a lot of private club golf in Metro Detroit that is very affordable, especially for juniors (and this is liberally defined as under 40 in most cases). Western G&CC, Grosse Isle CC, Detroit GC and Plum Hollow are all in less desirable neighborhoods but on great pieces of land. Three are Donald Ross designs and all are 'players' clubs. Western being my personal favorite.
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I guess the quality of the public golf in our area depends on your standards. Of course no muni or public course is the equal to OHCC, OLCC, Franklin Hills and the like but there is a lot of affordable good golf in the Metro Detroit area. Much better than most metro areas.
If you consider AA Metro Detroit, I would agree with you. If you exclude AA, I would disagree with you! (AA is very difficult to get to during the week from eastern Oakland County) Cleveland for example has much better public options.
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I guess the quality of the public golf in our area depends on your standards. Of course no muni or public course is the equal to OHCC, OLCC, Franklin Hills and the like but there is a lot of affordable good golf in the Metro Detroit area. Much better than most metro areas.
If you consider AA Metro Detroit, I would agree with you. If you exclude AA, I would disagree with you! (AA is very difficult to get to during the week from eastern Oakland County) Cleveland for example has much better public options.
What tracks in AA other than Leslie Park do you consider nice? U of M does not count. It's not public. I've played most of the Cleveland area muni's. I'm guessing you are considering courses designed by Ross like Manikiki. I haven't played it in years and it's on a great property but it and Sleepy Hollow are the class of the public courses in my memory. I can't think of others that I know of that are that good. The Detroit Metro area has many very good courses and in general far more public courses than the metro Cleveland area. By the way I live in Farmington Hills and have no problem driving 45-60 minuted to play a good course. So Ann Arbor and even Pierce Lake are included.
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UofM is now public...the pricing is prohibitive, but its public.
http://umgolfcourse.umich.edu/?page_id=19 (http://umgolfcourse.umich.edu/?page_id=19)
Ciao
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I guess the quality of the public golf in our area depends on your standards. Of course no muni or public course is the equal to OHCC, OLCC, Franklin Hills and the like but there is a lot of affordable good golf in the Metro Detroit area. Much better than most metro areas.
If you consider AA Metro Detroit, I would agree with you. If you exclude AA, I would disagree with you! (AA is very difficult to get to during the week from eastern Oakland County) Cleveland for example has much better public options.
Taylor,
You are spot on, Cleveland has Fowlers Mill. Indy, SW MI (Grand Rapids), Chicago blow SE MI public golf out of the water. Roseland Park in Windsor is excellent. Metro Detroit is better then Toledo and prob on par with Columbus. We ain't just talking about muni's, he said public courses. Washtenaw is now public so things are looking good for SE MI.
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I guess the quality of the public golf in our area depends on your standards. Of course no muni or public course is the equal to OHCC, OLCC, Franklin Hills and the like but there is a lot of affordable good golf in the Metro Detroit area. Much better than most metro areas.
If you consider AA Metro Detroit, I would agree with you. If you exclude AA, I would disagree with you! (AA is very difficult to get to during the week from eastern Oakland County) Cleveland for example has much better public options.
Taylor,
You are spot on, Cleveland has Fowlers Mill. Indy, SW MI (Grand Rapids), Chicago blow SE MI public golf out of the water. Roseland Park in Windsor is excellent. Metro Detroit is better then Toledo and prob on par with Columbus. We ain't just talking about muni's, he said public courses. Washtenaw is now public so things are looking good for SE MI.
I didn't know Washtenaw has become public. Interesting. What Metro Detroit public tracks have you played?
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Roseland Park (windsor)
Pierce Lake
Fox Hills
Leslie park
Shepards hollow
Farmington
Huron Hills
stonebridge
Rackham
northville hills
fieldstone
moose ridge
ann arbor country club
Calderstone
eagle ridge
huron meadows
Hilltop
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Roseland Park (windsor)
Pierce Lake
Fox Hills
Leslie park
Shepards hollow
Farmington
Huron Hills
stonebridge
Rackham
northville hills
fieldstone
moose ridge
ann arbor country club
Calderstone
eagle ridge
huron meadows
Hilltop
You forgot Radrick
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Howard,
Ur still using old tired lines, don't u have any new material? I guess we should be thankful that you took time away from posting Matty G reviews and news for the umpteenth time ::) ::)
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Roseland Park (windsor)
Pierce Lake
Fox Hills
Leslie park
Shepards hollow
Farmington
Huron Hills
stonebridge
Rackham
northville hills
fieldstone
moose ridge
ann arbor country club
Calderstone
eagle ridge
huron meadows
Hilltop
Thanks. There are some pretty nice courses on that list. You need to see Dunham Hills, Rouge Park and Timber Trace (Pinckney) among others. For $32.00 Farmington is a bargain.
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Mike,
I'll check those out, Dunham is high on my list. Idyl wyld is on my list due to a nice pub attached. Need to see post reno of Roseland park, drinking Canadian beer with the locals and hearing them swear with their accents is worth any greens fee. Used to drive up from toledo to play that course many times.
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UofM is now public...the pricing is prohibitive, but its public.
http://umgolfcourse.umich.edu/?page_id=19 (http://umgolfcourse.umich.edu/?page_id=19)
That's not my definition of public. That's paying for access. But if I was as avid a golfer as I once was and lived closer to AA I'd consider the investment.
Ciao
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Mike,
I'll check those out, Dunham is high on my list. Idyl wyld is on my list due to a nice pub attached. Need to see post reno of Roseland park, drinking Canadian beer with the locals and hearing them swear with their accents is worth any greens fee. Used to drive up from toledo to play that course many times.
Wear a hard hat if you play Idyl Wyld. The pub is definitely the attraction.
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I hear what you are saying about ambiance and agree, I personally enjoy dives. Zingerman's is the most overrated tourist traps in Ann Arbor. The Roadhouse breakfast is the best in town IMO, but dinner is on par with the deli (horrible).
There goes what credibility you had left. Overpriced, yes, but horrible......come on man.
I live a couple of blocks from Zingermans deli. I wouldn't go so far to say it's horrible in general, but I'm not super impressed and you gotta wonder how they came up with some of the things they serve (e.g. the cream cheese, the Montreal smoked meat - for the latter how can they ruin something that is so incredibly good ?$#*&@# - have they ever been to Schwartz's in Montreal?).
At both the Deli and the Roadhouse, the menus look great - it's just that the descriptions of the items on the menu far overwhelm how they actually taste. That said, the bread is really good when fresh (and I don't normally like bread) and I love the sweet potato fries at the Roadhouse.
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UofM is now public...the pricing is prohibitive, but its public.
http://umgolfcourse.umich.edu/?page_id=19 (http://umgolfcourse.umich.edu/?page_id=19)
That's not my definition of public. That's paying for access. But if I was as avid a golfer as I once was and lived closer to AA I'd consider the investment.
Ciao
Hmmm, so if it cost $25 for access, would that be public?
I reckon the Ann Arbor area is better quliaty for public golf than Metro Detroit. But it would seem the smaller Detroit gets, the larger Metro Detroit becomes ;D
Ciao
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UofM is now public...the pricing is prohibitive, but its public.
http://umgolfcourse.umich.edu/?page_id=19 (http://umgolfcourse.umich.edu/?page_id=19)
That's not my definition of public. That's paying for access. But if I was as avid a golfer as I once was and lived closer to AA I'd consider the investment.
Ciao
Hmmm, so if it cost $25 for access, would that be public?
I reckon the Ann Arbor area is better quliaty for public golf than Metro Detroit. But it would seem the smaller Detroit gets, the larger Metro Detroit becomes ;D
Ciao
But that's a moot point because there are no courses that ask for a yearly contribution of $25.00 for access. In the same vein if the yearly contribution was $5000.00 does that make it public?
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Mike
I don't really know what you mean. There is a fee for non-affiliated people. That fee is the same each time you play...its not a one-off payment. In other words, pay and play...that is the very definition of public.
Ciao
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Mike
I don't really know what you mean. There is a fee for non-affiliated people. That fee is the same each time you play...its not a one-off payment. In other words, pay and play...that is the very definition of public.
Ciao
My mistake. I didn't scroll far enough down the page. I only saw the $500.00 annual contribution level. You are correct. Most definitely a public course if you can afford the green fees.
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I never understood why the public (at least state residents) weren't allowed to play a state university course. The pricing model is very similar to the UK model of charging the general public far more than affiliated guests. [/font]
I guess the new Big Ten tv contract is going to pay for the new clubhouse 8) I wonder how many facilities are unnecessarily upgraded because as non profit organizations universities have to spend the money football teams rake in. With these new huge contracts cranking up, is it going to become rather obvious that universities have become for profit organizations and that eventually sport players will get paid?
[/size]Ciao
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I never understood why the public (at least state residents) weren't allowed to play a state university course. The pricing model is very similar to the UK model of charging the general public far more than affiliated guests. I guess the new Big Ten tv contract is going to pay for the new clubhouse 8) I wonder how many facilities are unnecessarily upgraded because as non profit organizations universities have to spend the money football teams rake in. With these new huge contracts cranking up, is it going to become rather obvious that universities have become for profit organizations and that eventually sport players will get paid?
Ciao
Sean,
One of the reasons they built a new clubhouse is because the basement was a swimming pool after a heavy rain. Of course they are building a large one due to the location next to the Big house. It's not any different then CC's building massive clubhouses that lose money and bigger is always better most think. I doubt it has little to do with Big 10 network, but the network contract keeps other sports funded. UofM is and always will be a cash cow. When Gov't took over college loans, enrollment went up across the country. I am glad that Ward is now the AD, I played with him the first time I played Radrick when he was i think asst AD.
We really don't need a debate on here about paying college athletes.
PS- I was really impressed with Maize and Blue deli in downtown (NY Pastrami #21) was most excellent.
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...In other news...it looks like Monroe G&CC has gone public while still offering memberships.
Ciao
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...In other news...it looks like Monroe G&CC has gone public while still offering memberships.
Ciao
That is interesting news. They have been struggling for years. Monroe is another factory town hard hit by the closing of the Ford Plant and the loss of other factory jobs to Mexico. Hard for a country club to survive in that economic climate.
Has anyone played this course? It claims to be a Ross course but I know little about it. But for $35.00 it's worth the 45 minute drive.
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Roseland Park (windsor)
Pierce Lake
Fox Hills
Leslie park
Shepards hollow
Farmington
Huron Hills
stonebridge
Rackham
northville hills
fieldstone
moose ridge
ann arbor country club
Calderstone
eagle ridge
huron meadows
Hilltop
Thanks. There are some pretty nice courses on that list. You need to see Dunham Hills, Rouge Park and Timber Trace (Pinckney) among others. For $32.00 Farmington is a bargain.
Farmington as in Farmington Hills Golf Club? I played there when it was the 9 holer known as San Marino when I was a high school punk. I only played the new 18 hole track a couple of times, need to get back as I am now a bit more architecturally enlightened.
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Roseland Park (windsor)
Pierce Lake
Fox Hills
Leslie park
Shepards hollow
Farmington
Huron Hills
stonebridge
Rackham
northville hills
fieldstone
moose ridge
ann arbor country club
Calderstone
eagle ridge
huron meadows
Hilltop
Thanks. There are some pretty nice courses on that list. You need to see Dunham Hills, Rouge Park and Timber Trace (Pinckney) among others. For $32.00 Farmington is a bargain.
Farmington as in Farmington Hills Golf Club? I played there when it was the 9 holer known as San Marino when I was a high school punk. I only played the new 18 hole track a couple of times, need to get back as I am now a bit more architecturally enlightened.
For a muni its a very good track and kept in fine condition. It's not Rosedale Park in Windsor but it's better than most muni's.
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Thought I would add some photos to this wonderful course tour from a recent play.
putting green/looking back at 14
(http://imageshack.com/a/img923/8786/jKX8av.jpg)
#1
(http://imageshack.com/a/img921/5463/lTVh4W.jpg)
(http://imageshack.com/a/img924/2452/UCx3OP.jpg)
#12
(http://imageshack.com/a/img924/91/SEKuLQ.jpg)
#13 Volcano
(http://imageshack.com/a/img923/6716/HhHEoN.jpg)
(http://imageshack.com/a/img922/8629/G2yavS.jpg)
#14
(http://imageshack.com/a/img924/3479/y9MhUd.jpg)
#17
(http://imageshack.com/a/img923/7457/Q9vnwp.jpg)
#18
(http://imageshack.com/a/img923/3962/MEQ8u1.jpg)
(http://imageshack.com/a/img921/7549/hIQyEF.jpg)
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One of my very favorite courses Ben! Never liked the trees in the dogleg on 17, but I'm just nitpicking....love that course! A course that really plays pretty friendly for the casual golfer but a good challenge from the back tees even if on the short side compared to modern championship courses.
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...In other news...it looks like Monroe G&CC has gone public while still offering memberships.
Ciao
That is interesting news. They have been struggling for years. Monroe is another factory town hard hit by the closing of the Ford Plant and the loss of other factory jobs to Mexico. Hard for a country club to survive in that economic climate.
Has anyone played this course? It claims to be a Ross course but I know little about it. But for $35.00 it's worth the 45 minute drive.
I remember it being a big disappointment (2009???) Flat, short, and only a few holes of interest. Being a big Ross fan, I had high hopes, but left underwhelmed.
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Ben
I never noticed your pix....thanks.
Ciao