THORNAPPLE CREEK GOLF CLUB (269-344-0040)
Michigan Golf Course Review 7/19/04 - Photos updated June, 2007
Thornapple Creek Golf Club in Kalamazoo is a 3-1/2 star (Golf Digest) gem that was designed by Mike Shields
in 1979. This gorgeous golfing environment features rolling hills, a creek, ponds, lakes, hardwoods & pines plus breathtaking vistas.
Interestingly enough, there is generally ample landing areas off the tees on most holes, but from inside the 150
yard marker, a golfer will have to "have game' to score well. There are some incredible golf holes here, as
witnessed by the photos below - of a couple of the par threes at Thornapple Creek. The 136 yard third plays from
an elevated tee over a water hazard, to a plateau green complex guarded by a bunker in front and trees on either
side - a pretty demanding tee shot here. The 17th features a lush setting with an elongated tee box situated
below a forested ridge, with a pond on the left creating the need for another extremely accurate shot off the tee.
The beautifully landscaped tee areas, manicured fairways and undulating but true-rolling putting surfaces
combine to make one feel as though he/she is playing at a totally upscale golf property. The experience we had
at the clubhouse backs this up...this is an all-around upscale experience at bargain prices! The 7,000 square
foot clubhouse includes a pro shop, plus a restaurant/lounge that serves a variety of lunch and dinner items.
Together with the spacious and well appointed outdoor patio, this facility can accommodate large groups for golf
outings and special functions. A fully equipped modern kitchen supports such functions. There also is a
separate meeting area that can seat up to 60 people downstairs. Additionally, the driving range that features
grass teeing areas for over 25 golfers is located across the street. A chipping green, sand bunker, and putting green round out the practice facilities. But back to the golf course...
Water plays an important role is the course's aesthetics - and also in one's ability to score well. Hazards come
into play on 10 holes, including the initial five. Some tricky doglegs also will challenge the abilities of novices and
experienced players alike. The par five 13th requires an accurate lay up on the second shot, leaving an
approach over water to a sloped green guarded by a lone sand bunker. On 16 players will have to judge the
downhill approach well, as a lake comes into play immediately past the putting surface - anything long is gone
here. Both of these par fives are best played as three shot holes - and photos of the approaches to both are
featured above. There also are some interesting fairways, defined by mounding and ample bunkering. The short
par four 14th features an undulating fairway dotted with "land mine" bunkers situated near strategic landing zones
, and the short par four finishing hole while less endowed, also includes strategically placed sand traps on the fairway and greenside.
Our experience at Thornapple Creek left us feeling that golfers living in this area are extremely lucky...to be able
to repeatedly play a course of this nature for $35 to $45. The layout is not overly long - just 6579 yards with a 130
slope rating. Two alternate sets of tees measure 6112 yards (recommended for average golfers) with a 126
slope, and 4915 with a slope of 113. With the tees moved up - this is a very player friendly course for ladies.
Experienced players will be challenged by the variety of greens - some small, some large - some crowned and
some nearly flat, and by the frequent elevation changes from tee to green. The back nine is particularly rolling.
Great prices, wonderful conditioning, and an interesting layout - Thornapple Creek is highly recommended! For more info, visit our page for them on our web catalog of courses to play in Michigan by clicking here.
|
