Part three; a series by Phil Weidinger
Going through the tunnel from No. 4 green to No. 5 tee at Sunridge, you’re thinking, “Whew, survived that one.” A short, breeze-aided par 3 of 150 yards from the Blues, it’s all water, all carry, all blue. The folks in the surrounding homes must see some entertaining sights. They sure hear some primal screams! But luckily onward with the same ball to the par 5, 506-yard fifth.
Emerging from underground and it’s, “Oh lord, don’t let me fade another one.” A slice is an automatic watery grave. To the right it’s water down the entire length of the hole and it juts into the fairway at two junctures just to ensure it registers. A great hole: visually intimidating, yet very playable – if you hit three solid shots; two if you can move it. There’s plenty of room for the drive, while the second shot from a peninsula will need to carry the edge of more water. Unless, of course, you lay up with an iron far left of the next threatening section of pond.
Bunkers front the right portion of the green – and could save a wayward effort; a large bunker left is about 40 yards short of the green making that second shot a bit tighter, and three bunkers behind the green are more directional than diabolical. A large, elevated green welcomes incoming wedges and if you stay dry, birdie is a solid possibility. Then again, so’s a double. Back to back, Nos. 4 and 5 make for a strong challenge of memorable and playable golf.
