Played Sterling Hills for the first time, on 2/20. Had our semi-final cup 16 match, starting at noon and finishing with POP in 4.75 hours. Weather was great, 60's temps, calm at noon and about 10 knot... Continue »

Played Sterling Hills for the first time, on 2/20. Had our semi-final cup 16 match, starting at noon and finishing with POP in 4.75 hours. Weather was great, 60's temps, calm at noon and about 10 knot winds starting around 1pm. Range, practice and chipping greens all open. Snack bar open.
The white tees were pretty chewed today, lots of divots, some filled and some not(there were sand bottles on the carts). I saw some were aerated, and some had some slight crowns that made you search for a better footing to tee advantage. Thier tee boxes seem smaller than most, not as wide, and not as long.

The fairways were winter thin and firm, with plenty of rollout. A little dry too, like the winds had been here for a few days prior. Still playable.

The rough was both thin and thick kikuyu. Mostly dry as well. Try to stay away from the rough under the canopy of the many eucalyptus trees...the kikuyu seems to not do well in winter there.

The traps, had real sand...and juuust deep enough, to honor how traps should be.

The areas around the greens were mostly cut enough the have the ball sit up nicely. On the par 3 15th, I missed left and this area was thicker than most and sticky for the flop I attempted.

The greens were tricky for me today. Firm and with plenty of ball marks. I thought they were med-fast. It seemed like approaches from beyond 150 lost a lot holding power. Spend extra time on the practice greens, it should pay dividends.

The drink cart came around twice, no rakes, mats on the range, 1 drink and range balls included with the green fee. Marshall on duty and good customer service. Had a good match with John, Eric & Perry...I'd play here again.