Pros:
(0.885 Rating) This young course is missing just about everything. I hope that the current situation is just temporary due to its age. I'll be back to update my rating within a year to see if things happen to the course.
- FORGIVENESS - The odds of losing a disc due to an errant shot is low. There are some huge oak trees, I guess one could lose one up there.
- MAINTENANCE - The grounds had been well mowed prior to my round. The course appears to be constantly trimmed and manicured. There was very little trash spotted despite a lack of garbage cans.
- CHAINS - All the baskets are brand spanking new.
- QUICK PLAY - A single could easily complete a full 9 in under 30 minutes. Groups of 4 probably would finish in under an hour. Probably perfect for between classes.
- GROW THE SPORT - no doubt will this course aid in growing the sport by offering easy access to learn the game at a beginner friendly course.
- NIGHT GOLF - This is an ideal night golf course. spacious fairways. only moderate overgrowth in one spot. No water hazards in play.
- ELEVATION - "Good for a Florida course that is" above average compared to the 36 Florida courses I've hit. Probably 40 foot of change throughout the course layout. Hole 5 is 25 to 30 foot up, and the par 4 is probably that much down.
Cons:
Course needs a bunch of love.
- SECURITY - You have to check in with security entering campus - no biggie for students and guests. But for non-guests?????? It's possible to roll the dice and not check in. But it's not worth it for this course. I'll also add that there are parking signs everywhere that say tow zone for those without parking pass.
- TEES AREA - The biggest issue with a new course is generally the tees. All 9 of them are dirt which obviously comes with territory of being a new course. But to make matters worse, the tees appear to be all marked by spray-paint. I was only able to find two of the tee markings and both of them where very faded and just barely discernible. The rest of the holes I played were according to an internet map.
- NAVIGATION - Hole directions were non-existence. I spent a good 10 minutes looking for hole 1 tee, and I ended up starting on 2. There is a DGCR map in the file/link section. which gives a general idea. You may still not find the line. I'll add there is no hole numbering system out at the course. Not even on the baskets. For this reason I cannot be certain if the current layout is the same as the map provided on DGCR.
- CHARACTER - The course is really just baskets and is void of all course character items. No tee shading, no seating, no map, no community board, no trash cans, no tee signs, no tables, no practice basket. no everything.
- UNIQUENESS - The holes themselves in terms variety are below average. Most shots are open with a spattering of trees. I will add however, some may find playing in a more urban setting with buildings in the backdrop, as unique. For instance, Hole 6 is a blind bender around a building.
- SPACING - Slightly below average. If the course was full "highly unlikely" there would be a few unprotected tees in close proximity of other baskets. There are also a few fairways that feel partially shared.
- TIME WAITING - This course plays threw a part of the campus. You will have shots that bring the pedestrian paths around campus into play. You will be forced to wait some times.
- DIFFICULTY - Not much of a challenge to advanced/pro level players as they should have no problem breaking par. Intermediate and Recreational players may be delighted however as it can be a feel good round. It's a great opportunity for those players to finish a couple above par.
- WIND - Due to the lack of trees wind will likely be an issue.
Other Thoughts:
An unfinished canvas of a course for those attending St. Leo. I don't recommend going here unless you're a student, employee or guest. I'm not sure if security lets in uninvited guests, just to play.