Roll Call: Massachusetts

Played Shaker a few weeks ago and I agree with this in its entirety. I’d also add that it’s got outrageous elevation changes in spots, and is one of the very very few courses where I could never envision myself walking. Just an unwalkable piece of property, not from a tee-green distance perspective but a hill perspective. I LOVE elevation changes, but this place had too many even for my taste. Red Tail is basically unwalkable just because it’s so spread out, but it’s also a much better course.

Also, another call for our Hooper event in NH on August 1. We’ve got 21 of 36 spots filled, including @jlbeer8, @AHBerg, and @GreenlodgeSocialClub. It’s gonna be too much fun.

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Played Shaker for the first and last time on Sunday. Front 9 pace was decent for a public spot on a weekend afternoon. Made the turn and the wheels came off. Finished #10 - two groups ahead of us had not tee’d off yet. Had to wait at least 30 mins on 11 tee, and jammed the rest of the way.

They have no ranger moving slow groups along. It was about 95 out and they closed the halfway house 5pm, and no bev cart either. For $80 dollars its not worth the money, imo.

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I saw a ranger on 13 and 14 timing us when I was there a few weeks back, but it didn’t make a difference as he said nothing and did nothing.

Number 11 is the split fairway hole up the hill and I think this is a case of layout causing delays. That hole is tough with trouble on both sides.

I agree that it isn’t worth the money,

Anyone here a member at Whitinsville golf club? Just played there Wednesday for the first time and loved it. Requested membership info but just reaching out here as well to get some more info from any current or previous members.

Hi all - recently moved back into the area and have been enjoying exploring the munis around. The recommendations earlier in the thread have been great, thank you!

My swing could probably use a tune up - been awhile since I put honest work into my game. If anyone recommends a local swing coach or fitter I’d appreciate hearing from you.

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Not a member, but grew up a few towns away and always wished I could play it. The place looks amazing in pictures.

Conditions were tough today in Chatham

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Welcome back! Where in MA are you?

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Decided to work a summer job at Essex doing grounds and let me tell you it is a really cool experience. Only bummer is I have not been able to play it yet due to COVID.

Is the place dialed for the Fourball?

As of Monday it was. Starts tomorrow and I have not been there since. Will report back tomorrow

Playing Butter Brook for the first time on Friday morning. It is highly regarded here. Does anyone want to share some scoring insights or things to look out for?

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Don’t over read the greens, they rarely break outside the cup from 10-15 feet.

The course is pretty straightforward and I think a lot the course is right in front of you as long as you execute. I dont think there are a lot of surprises. There are a few blind-ish shots (tee-shot on 13), but otherwise its right there for you.

I like the course because i feel like there is variety in approach shots.

ENJOY!

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Great course. Greens are the biggest issue. The front 9 greens played exceptionally slow last I played. Also I noticed that the course was playing kind of short. If you have a range finder, bring it. It will save you some shots.

Do not be left on your tee shot of the second hole. If your driver is feeling hot, grip it and rip it. If not, an easy 4 iron is my go to from the back. The third and fifth are short par 3’s and when the pins are on the front of the green, go for it.

Back 9 is wide open. Don’t be intimidated by the tee shot on 10. Go over the right side of the bunker and you have a wedge in. 17 is a tight tee shot. Again, do not go left.

Cart girl is always wicked busy so bring whatever refreshments you need with you.

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Waltham - been playing around a few short courses like Pine Meadow, Patriot, Quail Ridge, and Newton Commonwealth to get my work in, hopefully get my swing going for some full length courses in the fall.

Leo J Martin could be similar to that size course too.

I used to play a lot a Leo J Martin when I worked in Newton. It isn’t very well maintained, but I do like the layout and it is plenty long to fully test your bag.

I particularly like the 11th hole as it is probably the best designed green on the course.

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Welcome to my hood, in waltham as well! Some decent courses west on route 20 too. Lot of golf to be had around here.

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Yep, have played Leo as well (many times when I previously lived in the area). Back nine much more interesting than the front nine. Played there a few weeks ago and might as well be putting on shag carpet.

Thanks! I admit most of the courses I know west are on Rt. 2. Sounds like you’re suggesting Sandy Burr and Wayland?