t is hard for me to keep a secret and over the past eleven years the conflict has continued. Should I keep Lockeford Springs Golf course all to myself or share it with my readers. Entering its second decade of outstanding service the public course has experienced tremendous changes. So I decided, since I have been playing the course since 1995, that I would share my impressions of this wonderful venue.

My first experience was the original nine-hole tract. It was in its infancy and awaiting the addition of the back nine. Since then the course has matured into one of the finest championship, links style courses in Northern California. Located in the heart of the Lodi Wine Country, it stretches 6,861 yards from the gold tees. Offering four sets of tees, the course design provides an enjoyable round of golf for the novice player, while at the same time, providing a unique challenge for the skilled player. The guest at Lockeford Springs will find a warm, friendly atmosphere, evidenced by the location of the white tees. Relocating the tees has encouraged a more relaxed golfing and social outing, by playing to a rating of 68.9 with a slope of 120. The course rating for the gold tees is 73.1 with a slope of 127, down to 74 rating with a slope of 123 for the red tees. To further your golfing pleasure Lockeford Springs boasts a feet of 76 electric golf carts which features computer assisted scoring and GPS yardage. During tournament play you can keep track of the other players and their scores. It also serves as a

friendly reminder by keeping track of your time in relation to the other groups on the course. I favor the carts for two important reasons: the GPS system automatically calculates your yardage and it is easier to carry your favorite beverage.

The GPS originates from the clubhouse, which by the way, has emerged from a country farmhouse ambiance to one with a more modern, sophisticated, sporty image. The new look features five new fat screen televisions, bringing Direct TV’s NFL Sunday Ticket, The Golf Channel, and Major League Baseball to their guests. Other changes include the complete renovation of the pro shop with new paint, décor and furniture. The pro shop provides well-recognized equipment and accessories. The practice facilities at Lockeford Springs are the most complete and finest in the area. The 12,000 square foot practice green prepares you for the challenges of “The best greens in the valley.” The 330-yard driving range fronted by the 150-yard wide grass tee insists you warm up before taking on the challenge of the course. PGA Golf Instructors are available for private and group lessons.

Entering the course through the well appointed gate gives you a glimpse of one of my favorite holes. The 514-yard par-five, eighteenth caresses the spacious entry and gives you a hint of the awaiting challenge. Bunkers guard the dogleg left, which encourages a tee shot favoring the right side of the fairway. The bunker to the left of the fairway is huge and dares the long hitter to “go big.” The green, well protected on the left by water and Bear Creek on the right, is

large and undulated. The timid take three shots, but the player with the heart of Chris DiMarco will chance taking the green in two. Whatever your choice make sure to send the ball straight and true. Birdie is outstanding, par good!

The par-five, 516 yard, ninth tops the list on the front nine. This hole demands a well placed, center cut, tee shot. A deep bunker, guards the front of the green, and discourages attempting it in two. The smart player gives himself a 100-yard approach, which still allows for birdie. Do not over club, because another bunker to the rear of the undulating green is a tough recovery. The back bunker guarantees a bogey! Do not push a long approach shot because Bear Creek is skulking on the right. Par is good; birdie is great!

Single memberships, family memberships and business memberships are available. All of the memberships include annual green fees, charging privileges, preferred tee times, and complimentary guest passes. The family memberships include children. Green fees range from $20.00 to $45.00 on weekdays and $20.00 to $60.00 on weekends. Also available are annual cart fees, annual range plan and locker rental. The Vineyard Room is available for your wedding or special event. They have included a special events tent so that your wedding day can be just as exceptional rain or shine. The patio is also

available for weddings and special events and enclosed as well. Marketing Director, Lori Satterfield, is there to give you the best service possible. The Vineyard Room carries a number of regional and famous wines in the $12.00 to $16.00 range. Did I forget to mention the guy who runs the whole shooting match is Casey Haynes, General Manager?

I guess the secret is out! For more information call (209) 333-6275 or come visit the folks at 163660 North Highway 88, Lodi, California. South of the Intersection of Highways 12 & 88. Visit the website at www.lockefordsprings.com. Shh!