I am on a solo trip to Florida and was able to play Mid Pines (much love here on GCA) with a friend, The Cradel at Pinehurst (very fun), Furman University Golf Course with Mike Whitaker (fantastic greens), and finally The Fields Golf Club by our friend Mike Young.
I had been trying to get here for some time but with a number of 2020 related issues, it just did not happen until yesterday. Mike designed the course in the late 80's and recently took over ownership with his son Ashley doing the day to day. After coming from the corporate machine of Pinehurst, it is pretty much the exact opposite of that in terms of vibe. With 2020 issues, the food and beverage are limited today, but it seems like a great place to hang and play golf. With a Kia factory a few miles away, it seems like it will be a great investment for Team Young.
The clubhouse sits at the top of the property and yes, it has a Shinnecock feel to it:
There are some very cool bouncy shots into the greens:
It is a great rolling terrain type of property:
While the majority of the holes feature some open vistas and wide fairways, The Fields GC has a number of intimate holes and corners to the property:
Who knew that Mike Young would also create some cozy "Mayhew-like Off-course Accoutrements" too:
Two longer (not long) green to tee walks, and a forced carry into #11 green were the only nitpicks I shared with Mike on the car ride after to Florida. He is working on #11 this winter. If Donald Ross had Pinehurst #2 to tinker with for many years, this will be Mike Young's #2 to "perfect".
Loved the course, the vibe (thanks Ashley and Mike), and especially loved the fun factor of playing there.
Happy Thanksgiving.