In ‘500 or less,’ author Alex Hunter discusses a golf course in 500 words or less to provide a quick overview. Furthermore, the series introduces a “star rating,” which is based off an opinion on fun factor/repeatability, walkability, routing/design aspects, plus cost & conditioning. Check back in next month for the next instalment of the series!
- Copetown, Ontario
- Public
- Dick Kirkpatrick (2003)
Looking for a fun, affordable round of golf in southern Ontario? Look no further than Copetown Woods Golf Club near Hamilton. Designed by Dick Kirkpatrick and opened in 2003, this public course offers intriguing design, great walkability, and plenty of scoring opportunities.
Holes & Features of Interest
One of the defining characteristics of Copetown Woods is its creative use of contours. The gently rolling terrain creates interesting and challenging holes, with several greens featuring bold contours, undulations, and rollercoaster movements. The sixth hole, for example, has a back tier that rises several feet above the rest of the green, providing a unique and memorable experience.
There are numerous neat features throughout the property, namely the double green on the second hole, shared with the 18th, and the short Par 4, 8th with its pond/marsh area fronting the green, and it’s small green providing little room to miss on approach. And I always have loved the signature Par 3, 17th that is both beautiful and challenging.
In addition to creative contours, Copetown Woods also offers a handful of risk-reward opportunities. The short Par 5 first hole is easily reachable in two shots but requires accuracy to avoid out of bounds on the right side. There used to be a large centre line bunker which was filled in a few years ago, making this a slightly easier hole. However, the green is certainly no slouch, I have seen a fair share of 3 putts mark disaster to start the round. Additionally, The 10th hole also provides another good scoring opportunity but features a green that is canted away from the golfer that can make approach shots more difficult. A really nice feature to see.
Many of the course’s bunkers are also strategically placed to challenge golfers and protect par. The large bunker fronting the green on the 14th hole, for example, sits about 30 to 40 yards short of the green and creates a visual illusion that can trick golfers. On the Par 5, 10th, the bunkers guarding the green catch many of the incoming approach shots.
Perhaps most importantly, Copetown Woods is a highly walkable course that maintains a good pace of play, even during busy periods. This, combined with its affordable rates and friendly staff, make it a great spot for many GTA based golfers.
While Copetown Woods may not have the flash of some other courses in Southern Ontario, it is always in good condition and offers an enjoyable round of golf. And, as a bonus, the food is top-notch; be sure to try the fried chicken sandwich after your round!
Overall, Copetown Woods is a solid choice for golfers looking for an affordable, fun, and well-designed course in southern Ontario.
Rating
