Western Cleveland Private

[rolohio]

Wanted to get everyone's thoughts on some courses on the west side of Cleveland. The east side seems to get all of the attention in the general Cleveland golf discussion (and rightfully so), but many of us are on the west side of the city and it's just not feasible to regularly make the 30-45 min journey for a home course.

 

That said, I really enjoy Elyria but that too is a bit of a hike. Red Tail is a housing development. Avon Oaks seemed flat and boring. That leaves Lakewood and Westwood but I'm having a hard time deciding between the two.

 

I've played Lakewood twice (once in the early spring, and once in the late fall). Course was in great shape both times and the greens were still pure. It's wild to think what it's like in peak form. I found the back 9 the most interesting, particularly the last 4 or so holes (starting the the dog leg par 5). The front however (and most of the course) is just a bit flat which leads to a number of boring holes. Some had small bends but still basically played like a straightaway par 4.

 

Have only played Westwood once but found the terrain and the scenery far more interesting. Aside from the first few holes of the back 9, each hole had some unique quirks, which is something I really appreciate. The greens were being transitioned from poa to bent grass so they were still a bit sandy and not in the best condition. I assume that'll get better with time. Given the lack of space, some parts of the course also felt pretty cramped--holes running up next to the pool and some of the practice areas, and some tees close to other greens.

 

Does anyone have any preferences between the two? Any other pros/cons? I don't really know anyone at either, and am primarily joining for the golf. Those I've met have been great at both places.

 

Thanks in advance.

[break80consistently]

Elyria is a fun William Flynn designed course with pure greens, laid back atmosphere and good food. The drive isn't that bad and pace of play negates the extra drive time. Plus, it's only 30 minutes from downtown which makes after work rounds very doable. Weeknight pace of play is always under 3 hours and you might have the place to yourself.

 

They are offering a membership showcase on May 5th. I'm happy to answer any questions or host a preview round on another day.

https://neohgolf.com/elyria-country-club-2019-membership-showcase/

[CMCSGolf]

I think Westwood is the better course. You correctly pointed out that there are about 6 dead flat holes on property, but the rest play through and across the creek valley. I think these holes are better than the best holes at Lakewood. Westwood is shortish and tighter than Lakewood, but it is enough course for 98% of golfers. Lakewood is the better "test" or tournament course in the area. After all, they did host the web.com event for a couple years.

 

From my experience, both courses have similar feel. A bit stuffy and definitely "country clubs" rather than "golf clubs". I never made it to Elyria sadly, so no opinion there, but I have heard it is very good and more of a casual place. During the summer, Westwood will have no open tee times from 7 - 2PM (at least that's how it was from 2003-2012), so I would check in on that too.