There is Always Time for 9! 9-hole courses come in many sizes, shapes, and difficulties; and can be squeezed into any agenda. The Short Course at Gibson Bay was perfect as I traveled from Charlotte, NC to Indianapolis, IN. I wanted to reach my final destination before dark…yes, it’s an old age thing. Playing from the back tees, I was able to walk (no carts) this par 27, 9-hole track in about one hour. It was the perfect respite during a long 12 hour drive. Let’s do a quick Short Course review.
Shot Value: I would not say any of the holes pose risk/reward shots, but the fourth and ninth holes are risky because water can come into play.
Design Variety: It’s difficult on such a small parcel of land to give you different looks, but the architect did a great job with length, configuration, hazard placement, green shape, and green contour. The holes range from 56 to 140 yards from the back (black) tee boxes. There are only two sets of tee boxes.
Memorability: The tee shot at Hole #9. It’s over a large pond and the narrow green hugs the shoreline.
Aesthetics: The course is wide-open, but trees scattered throughout the layout and a few elevated tee boxes are a nice touch.
Conditioning: The entire course was in excellent shape.
Ambience: The people were friendly; the practice facilities are excellent; the cost for this senior golfer was $6; and there is also an 18-hole course.
Rating – Uncategorized: Obviously this is not a destination stop, but it was on my way to Chicago and the start of my Grabbing my Sticks and Golfing Route 66 journey. Combine it with the 18-hole course, and a trip to the historic Battle of Richmond Visitor Center for a fun-filled day in Richmond, KY.
2000 Gibson Bay Drive, Richmond, KY 40475; 859-623-0225; www.gibsonbay.com
