Getting to Know Okemo Valley

OKEMO VALLEY GOLF CLUB
Getting to Know Vermont’s First Heathland-style Course

LUDLOW, Vt. – Hillsides of golden fescue border lush, undulating fairways that lead to velvet greens.  Across the river valley, emerald ribbons of meadow grass flow through forests, reminding golfers that in winter Okemo is a skiers’ paradise with trails that caress the contours of five distinct mountain peaks. With such heart-pounding scenery all around, the greatest challenge to golfers playing Okemo Valley Golf Club is keeping their eye on the ball.

"When the sun is shining on the course, it's one of the prettiest places on earth," says Okemo Valley Golf Club Vice President and General Manager Jim Remy. "The experience will not only challenge a golfer’s game, but his idea of what a really great golf facility should be."
 
The character of the 18-hole course is unique as it encompasses classic bent grass fairways, tees and greens. Rolling hills with moderate elevation changes occur gradually, keeping the course walkable. It is the rolling fairways and strategically placed bunkers that invite golfers to out-duel the course by using a different approach to every hole.  Sweeping greens are fairly sculpted to reward short-game specialists.  Four sets of tee boxes ensure that all players can enjoy the course, while providing a challenge for the accomplished golfer.  Luxuriant green fairways, forgiving rough, well-placed hazards and manicured greens offer a challenge for golfers of all skill levels, without the blind spots that are characteristic of most mountain courses.  While truly punishing features are few, calculated risk and course knowledge can be rewarding.

The first and second holes can pose a fairly tough opening if a wayward tee shot is hit, but a shot down the center of either fairway will have golfers perfectly positioned for an approach shot onto the green.  On fairway bunkers, a drive too far to the right might get blocked out.  Some players are stymied by the large tree to the left of the second hole - it's also the number one handicap hole.

A dog leg right and strategically placed fairway hazards are characteristics of the par-5, seventh hole.  It's reachable in two shots for a possible eagle, but the second shot is played into a small, elevated green.  Golfers should be wary if positioned above the pin.

The par-3, eighth hole has a magnificent view of Okemo Mountain and can play two clubs longer when played into a prevailing wind.  If missing the green is a given, it should be missed to the right, but not long.

The par-5, 11th hole has a forgiving fairway unless golfers spray it right or left into the trees. This is one that tends to cause trouble for the average player. Fairway and greenside bunkers guard a small green that can only be glimpsed from afar.  Course knowledge can pay off on this hole.

An elevated tee sets the stage for the long par-4, 15th hole.  It's also the highest elevation on the course.  The two-tiered fairway is forgiving, but the green can offer some of the most challenging putts on the course.  

The water-wary need to brace themselves for the majestic 17th hole with its challenging natural wetland setting and well placed hazards.  The par 3 measures 213 yards from the tips and can be very challenging given the multiple contours of the green.

The par 4 finishing hole is reachable in two and can be forgiving if golfers hit an errant tee shot.  They should however, be wary of eight strategically positioned bunkers surrounding the large, undulating green.

Of course the 19th hole can be the most gratifying of all after a day on the course.  A terrace offers spectacular views of the course layout and surrounding mountains.  Soups, salads, hearty sandwiches, a wide selection of appetizers, along with apres-golf refreshments are served al fresco or inside the well appointed clubhouse.   

Okemo Valley Golf Club continues to receive acclaim for its exceptional golf course and facilities.  Golf for Women Magazine rated Okemo Valley Golf Club one of the “Top 50 Courses for Women” in 2006 based on the course playability and “female-friendly" amenities.  Golf Week Magazine voted Okemo Valley Golf Club as the top “Modern Design Course in Vermont” and Golf Digest nominated Okemo Valley as Best New Course in America.  OVGC has been home to the Vermont PGA Championship and Qualifier for the U.S. Women's Public Links Championship. Okemo is also one of the newest additions to Great Golf Resorts of the World.

More information about Okemo Valley Golf Club may be obtained by calling (802) 228-1396 or by visiting okemo.com.
 

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