Twenty-Two million dollars and two-and-one half years later, Lake Don Pedro Golf and Country Club once again opened its doors February 16, 2008. The course was dormant for seven years and was barely recognizable as a playing field until Tom Porter of Deelwood Corporation and General Manager-Course Designer Ray Claveran, took on the challenge of rebuilding the abandoned clubhouse and overgrown property. Lake Don Pedro will be the only year-round, 18-hole, championship layout in Mariposa County.

The course dates back to 1971. It has struggled financially over the years but with Porter's dreams and Claveran’s golf experience the future looks bright. For Ray Claveran, the course has been a labor of love, since he literally grew up on the fairways of the old course, which was once managed by his parents. "Mom would do the cooking in the restaurant and Dad managed the course," advised Ray. "It wasn't in real good shape in those days, but people came from Mariposa, Sonora, Merced and even Yosemite Park to play. The members were like family to me. I was able to redesign something that was near and dear to my heart. There's a lot of family history here, and a lot of good times."

Tom Porter came by his interest in Lake Don Pedro naturally because he grew up in nearby Waterford, California. "He sees an opportunity to leave a legacy and give something back to the community," said Ray. “My commitment is more than just a dollar commitment. It's to reviving the area around Lake Don Pedro and becoming part of the community. We believe the country club can be the centerpiece for Lake Don Pedro in the future," added Porter. Porter indicated plans include an addition of 100 town homes that can be used for weekend golf getaways. "We have poured our hearts and souls into this. We'll make it because of me; I'm a self-made man who doesn't like failure. I am, hands-on and can lead and sell. I budgeted $3 million for the course and clubhouse and the boys managed to spend $11 million!"

From the tips, the course measures 6,800 yards, but from the front tees it's only 5,500 yards. The par is 72. Severe elevation changes highlight the course that adds to the challenge of numerous, strategically placed bunkers and unique water hazards. Claveran said the signature hole is number nine. The long par three is all carry over water that is graced by a fountain that shoots water high into the air. Sixteen Bridges adorn the course, including one that is modeled after the Swilcan Bridge at Saint Andrew's, in Scotland. Included is Rae's Creek that is named for the famous waterway on Augusta National. The turf is Bermuda Hybrid in the spring and summer with rye to keep it beautiful and playable through the winter.

Claveran is very proud of the huge sloping greens, which average 6,000 square feet and the deep bunkers that surround them. The course can be stretched to more then 7,000 yards that results in a wonderful challenge

for the more experienced players. Those who remember the original 1970 Billy Bell design will be pleasantly surprised by the new track. Bell built dozens of courses in California and the Bells were known as “the first family of California golf" This year's U.S. Open will be played on a Bell layout called Torrey Pines in San Diego. Other than reversing the nines, the routing of Don Pedro has remained the same. Everything else has been given a face-lift, and it's tougher, longer and more challenging.

All the amenities a golfer expects are here, including the well-managed Cellar Restaurant. Executive Chef Brian Krediet creates a wide variety of foods that include light faire to classic upscale dining and envisions the restaurant becoming a destination restaurant. The bar offers many libations to quench your thirst during or after your loop.

The Murieta Room is available for retirements, weddings, tournaments and the quaint Yosemite Room is perfect for intimate groups or business meetings. During the warm summer months the large crystal clear swimming pool beckons, or you can burn off the meatloaf in the fully equipped exercise room adjacent to the pool.

The pro shop is stately and well equipped with every manner of clothing, clubs, shoes and accessories for the well-dressed player. An impressive fleet of new electric carts is available and I recommend utilizing them. The numerous elevation changes on the course make walking very difficult and only for the hardy.

The result is a beautiful 18-hole course, a first class restaurant and clubhouse and 18 majestic townhouses that border the 10th fairway. Tee times and the townhouses are open to the public and approximately 50 members have all ready joined the club. Greens fees are $35 Monday through Thursday, $45 on Fridays, and $55 on weekends. Carts are included in the green fees.

So become part of the history and future of Lake Don Pedro Country Club and tee it up at your first opportunity!

Lake Don Pedro Country Club located at 9643 Fachada Way, La Grange, CA. (209) 852-0404. www.LakeDonPedroGolf.com.