Got out for a 1:00 Friday start as a twosome plus a twosome all riding and playing the whites. Hadn't been out to MM for a while and really enjoyed it despite my erratic play and a poor score. Teeing ... Continue »

Got out for a 1:00 Friday start as a twosome plus a twosome all riding and playing the whites. Hadn't been out to MM for a while and really enjoyed it despite my erratic play and a poor score. Teeing grounds were consistently level and in good shape throughout. Fairways had some thin patches and heavy divots scattered about but the predominant conditions were good — green hitting surface, more tight than lush. The rough was generally green, pretty consistent and not overly punitive, but enough to factor in and impact your shot. There are wilder areas to impact or lose your ball if far enough off line. I was in a few bunkers and I found them as good as any I've played in a while. They had a rough textured surface but, barring the odd footprint, actually had a nice give to them. The green surrounds set up well for the short shots and I particularly enjoyed the greens on the day. They were clean with interesting and challenging nuances, but I especially enjoyed the speed. Definitely quick and demanding some touch, they didn't go over the line to stupid/twitchy fast. Really enjoyed them as a fair challenge.

My guess on pace is under 4.5 hrs. We were mostly out of touch with the forward group, only waiting on one par three, and the group behind never caught us, so we were in a comfortable zone/pace. Set on its own high point, the elevation changes within the course make for interesting play and provide plenty of inspiring views of the San Gabriels and surrounding lowlands. It gives this public access course a special dimension and late afternoon light makes it more dramatic. The range and practice green are well maintained, the latter matching the course speed. The service is efficient and polite and the dining facilities are extensive with a large wedding going off as we finished. Definitely recommended, we both decided we need to play here a bit more often.