Conference 7.286::golf

    Last time in CXO, I had the chance to play Glen Eagle CC.  Nice course
    with great views.  Also for a real treat try Arrowhead CC, A Robert
    Trent Jones course that feels like your playing golf on the moon.  BTW
    Arrowhead is north of CXO around the Castle Pines area.  The real
    expert on golfing in the springs is Joe Kline.  I'm sure you will hear
    from Joe by the end of this note.

    RE: .0

    There are a fair number of courses to play here in 'Springs,
    unfortunately not all of them are public.  Here's a list of public
    course :

    -  Patty Jewett Municipal (downtown)
         Lots of trees, very little water

    -  Valley High Municipal (south side of town)
         Nice layout but always under construction for something

    -  Cimarron Hills G.C. (east side of town, off of Powers Blvd)
         Mostly flat and wide open.

    -  Pine Creek (north of 'Springs)
         Fairly new course but a nice layout.

    - AppleTree (southeast of 'Springs)

    
    Pine Creek is the closest to CXO. I like the course, although it took
    me a while to get used to it (I still think there are a few holes that
    should be plowed under and re-designed). It's actually a better course
    from the blue tees (they have red, white, blue and gold). Take a cart
    if you're not used to the altitude, it's hard to walk for the people
    that live here. 
    
    Patty Jewett is a fine course, 2nd oldest west of the Mississippi,
    built around 1890. Unfortunately, it's always packed. They have an 18
    hole course and an extra 9 hole course. I wouldn't bother with the 9
    hole course. If you go out as a single, they should be able to get you
    off on the 18 hole course.
    
    Someone earlier mentioned Arrowhead. About a 45 minute drive but worth
    it. It's made several covers of 'places to play' from Golf Digest.
    Some holes have cliff lined fairways instead of tree-lined. Expensive,
    $50 including mandatory cart. 
    
    Another nice, expensive course is Pete Dye's Plum Creek in Castle Rock. 
    Former Senior Tour stop.
    
    If you are a member somewhere, or can have a club pro make arrangements
    for you, there are several very nice private courses here. Perry Park
    is one I would recommend, a nice mountain course with rock formations
    throughout the course.
    
                             -Joe Klein

    Just played a new course in Pueblo (Walking Stick) which gave me all
    the challenge that I wanted.  The rates were very reasonable for a guy
    from New Hampshire ($25.00) including cart on the weekend.  
    
    Chip

    Well....I've returned.  I got to play twice.  Once at Plum Creek in
    Castle Rock (the Pete Dye Course).  I never played a Pete Dye course so
    it was very interesting. Special fall rates-$30 with cart.  Lot of fun
    esp the last 3 holes.  #18 is a 440 yard dog leg right, the second shot
    is ALL carry. Good test although the greens were very bumpy (just
    aerated).
    Pine Creek was one of the nicest courses I've ever played. FANTASTIC.
    ...and only $18.  I walked and played from the blues.  Fantastic shape.
    Interesting holes and a view of Pikes Peak from everywhere.
    This course should not be missed if you are in the area.  If you are a
    20+ handicapper, this course could be frustrating as some tee shots
    need to carry 175 yards to get to the fairway although it's probably
    not as bad if you play the white markers.
    
    Thanks to all for the advice.
    
    Denis