Played 11/8 in the GK/Golf Moose event, managed at the course by Johnny GK. It was a special treat because my 95 year old father, a former champion at this club in the late 80’s, was able to join me ... Continue »

Played 11/8 in the GK/Golf Moose event, managed at the course by Johnny GK. It was a special treat because my 95 year old father, a former champion at this club in the late 80’s, was able to join me for 9 holes. I believe he was 4 over from half regular and half forward tees. Awesome. Our playing partners Victor and Jack were terrific and gobsmacked when they found out my Dad’s age. First time either of us have played there since the early 90’s.

But it would have been special regardless, for the course is fun and pretty and a decent challenge but fair. Ted Robinson designs “pleasant” golf courses IMHO, nothing special but consistently playable with an interesting hole here and there. Bernardo Heights has done an excellent job of maintaining the course as the trees have grown in, and they seem to be very attentive to walkers. There are multiple tees for all levels of play, and the women that played this event seemed to be happy with the course. They have replaced the non-“green” areas with bark mulch and lots of rocks and pathways and the whole place is pleasing to the eye. The course is in excellent condition throughout, greens are not complex and roll very true at medium-fast speeds. No blind shots, nothing tricked up, just a very playable course with reasonable challenges. Pleasant still fits, but I would say this is a cut above most TR designs I have played because it is so well maintained. It is a club that has matured extremely well. The superintendent must be really wise.

Nice range, good mats and grass is saved for members, lack of GPS is odd as the carts are pretty new. Club personnel on hand were excellent.

As usual, check in and shotgun start were silky smooth and easy, all thanks to Johnny, and we finished in 4.5 which is pretty good for a full course with reasonable challenge. Never really waited and did not feel pressure from behind, it was truly a great event. If you are looking for a club to join in the Escondido/Rancho Bernardo area, this is definitely worth your investigation.