Winter Play in Northern California (North Bay)

[Matt Schiffer]

I know this won't get much sympathy from those of us in the less temperate winter climates  but it's sunny and warm north of San Francisco this week. Can anybody recommend a course that won't give me plugged fairway lies?  Anything with a sandcap and decent drainage?

[David_Tepper]

I would recommend a visit to Rooster Run, a muni in Petaluma. If you want to venture to the East Bay, the Metropolitan, by the Oakland Airport, is also a good bet.

Both courses are links-like, with very few trees in play.

[Matt Schiffer]

Thank you David.  I had Metropolitan in mind but had only previously seen it in the summer.  As for Rooster, have they made improvements in the last 7-8 years?  The last time I played a winter round there it was miserable and I haven't been back since...

[David_Tepper]

Matt -

I don't play at Rooster Run nearly as much as I used to. I always considered it to be one of the best winter/rainy season options. I don't recall plugged balls ever being a problem.

With all the rain we have had lately and the several ponds & wetlands areas on the course, it is certainly likely to be muddy in spots.

You could also try Stone Tree in Novato, which is a relatively new course. But I have never played there.

DT

P.S. Do you live in the Bay Area?

[Matt Schiffer]

I'm admittedly being a little greedy, trying to find slightly better conditions than I've found at Northwood, Windsor and Peacock Gap recently. Like you said, given the amount of rain we've had, totally understandable but, still...

Yup, proud Sebastopudlian.  Where are you located?  Should we plan a local round sometime?

Matt

[David_Tepper]

Matt -

Check you message box. I would think Rooster Run is going to be drier than the courses you have named.

DT