Country Club of Decatur: A Golfing Gem in Decatur, Illinois

The Country Club of Decatur, nestled in the heart of Decatur, Illinois, is a private 18-hole golf course that has captivated the hearts of golfers since its inception in 1912. Designed by the renowned Tom Bendelow and later refined by the expertise of Dick Nugent and Larry Packard in 1982, this course offers a challenging yet gratifying experience for players of all skill levels. With a par of 72 and a length of 6,626 yards from the blue tees, the Country Club of Decatur provides ample opportunities to test one's golfing prowess. The course boasts a slope rating of 128 and a rating of 71.5 for men's play, ensuring a fair and enjoyable challenge. Multiple tee options cater to players of varying abilities, allowing everyone to tailor their game to their comfort level. Open from April through October, the course is meticulously maintained throughout the year, ensuring pristine conditions for every round. Amenities such as driving range facilities further enhance the golfing experience, providing players with the opportunity to warm up and hone their skills before hitting the links. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just starting out, the Country Club of Decatur promises an unforgettable golfing experience.

Player Reviews: A Chorus of Praise

Golfers who have had the privilege of playing at the Country Club of Decatur have been unanimous in their praise. The course layout has been described as intriguing, featuring an abundance of lakes, creeks, gentle hills, and towering trees that add to the challenge and scenic beauty of the course. The fairways, covered in the exceptional Zoysia grass, provide a smooth and consistent playing surface that is uncommon in central Illinois. The par 5 holes have been singled out as particularly enjoyable, offering a formidable yet rewarding test of skill.

Hole 9 stands out as a highlight of the course, with its breathtaking view from the middle of the fairway that has drawn comparisons to the iconic Mauna Kea Golf Course in Hawaii. However, golfers are advised to exercise caution at the tee box on Hole 9 due to its proximity to a road.

The overall course conditions have been lauded by multiple reviewers, who have consistently rated them as excellent. The staff's friendliness and professionalism have also been highly commended, contributing to the overall positive experience. The pace of play has been consistently reported as excellent, ensuring that golfers can enjoy their rounds without unnecessary delays.

Golfer Collective's Perspective: Exceptional Value for Golfing Enthusiasts

Golfer Collective, a respected authority in the world of golf, holds the Country Club of Decatur in high regard, recognizing it as a course that offers exceptional value for golfers. Situated on a private property, this 18-hole course, designed by the legendary Tom Bendelow, presents an intriguing layout that incorporates lakes, creeks, gentle hills, and towering trees.

Reviewers have consistently praised the excellent conditions of the fairways, which are covered in the rare Zoysia grass, providing a superior playing surface. The par 5 holes have been acknowledged as challenging yet enjoyable, adding to the overall golfing experience.

Hole 9 has been singled out for its remarkable scenic beauty, offering a breathtaking view from the middle of the fairway that rivals that of the renowned Mauna Kea Golf Course in Hawaii. However, caution is advised at the tee box due to its proximity to a road.

While the staff friendliness has been rated as good and the pace of play as excellent, some reviewers have noted limited lake views on only two holes and occasional noise from a nearby national guard facility on Hole 4. The driving ranges have also been mentioned as below average.

Despite these minor drawbacks, golfers overwhelmingly agree that the Country Club of Decatur is a course worth playing, offering an interesting layout and consistently excellent course conditions. For those seeking great value in Decatur, the Country Club of Decatur stands as an exceptional choice, promising an unforgettable golfing experience.