Even avid golfers may not know that there are actually many different types of golf courses found throughout the world. Here are a few types of courses you should add to your golf bucket list to play in the future.
Many golf courses claim to be a links course in their name or title, as it sounds trendy, and most people have heard the term. True links courses are mostly located in Ireland, Scotland, and England, where the game of golf originated.
Genuine links courses differ from other types in that they are built on sandy soil directly along a coast. There are few trees, if any, that line the fairways, meaning that wind can play a major factor in a player's strategy.
Links courses also feature small, deep bunkers instead of the wide-open variety many are used to seeing on courses in the U.S., adding a more challenging element to bunker play.
Desert courses are most common in the Middle East as well as the American southwest. These courses are known for only having grass in the tee box, the fairway, and on the green. The remaining area is desert sand, so be sure to pack your sand wedge if your drives don't go as straight as you'd like.
Desert courses combine the beauty of naturally occurring sand dunes and lush manmade greenery for you to play on.
Championship courses are built with the specific intent of hosting large or small tournaments.
Although there aren't very stringent standards put on the term "championship course,” courses like TPC Sawgrass are often given this title because it frequently hosts PGA Tour events.
Championship courses are incredibly fun to play, especially if you have seen them on TV while watching professional golfers win tournaments there.
Parkland courses are more common in the United States, as they’re built inland and feature dense greenery and abundant foliage. They typically contain plenty of manmade streams, ponds, and lakes, as well as wider, more shallow bunkers along fairways and greens.
Parkland courses are generally wider and flatter, making them slightly more forgiving than other types of fairways.
Par 3 courses, as the name suggests, consist only of par 3s.
These courses are ideal for beginners, those looking to work on their short game, and people wanting a quick round of golf during their lunch break.
Par 3 courses are fun to play, and their shorter length and play time offer a great opportunity for people of all ages to enjoy the game together.
One of the greatest aspects to the game of golf is that no two courses are alike. As a result, getting out and exploring a wide variety of courses is a worthwhile and fulfilling endeavor that many players enjoy year after year.
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