Louisville Clubs To Join

[Russ347]

I posted this in the Midwest section originally oops...

 

Looking for advice on a private course to join in Louisville. I've been playing mostly public courses(Nevel Meade, the Fuzzy courses, Chariot Run, and a few metro courses mixed in), and I'm not really loving the options available so I'm considering joining a private club. I'm in my early 30's without any friends who are as serious about golf as I am so I'd be looking to get into some groups/leagues. Most important things are quality of golf, practice facilities, and ability to integrate with the other members.

 

I live and work close to Audubon CC, anyone have experience with this club? Given my location it makes the most sense but I would also be willing to drive a little farther for a better experience. Big Spring, Oxmoor, or even Persimmon Ridge(though this one is much farther out so would be inconvenient for after work rounds). Have heard many commercials for Standard Club but not sure if the heavy advertising is a good thing or not... Anyway if anyone has an opinion or advice about any of these courses(particularly Audubon) I'd really appreciate it. Thanks!

[jjthomp2]

I really enjoy Audubon, the club and it's members. I've played in several of their tournaments over the years and have always enjoyed how friendly everyone at the club is. As for the course itself i rank it ahead of all the others you have listed... Persimmon was once great but i haven't been out there in probably 4-5 years so can't say what it's like these days. From a country club perspective it's a very fun course where i'm sure they offer leagues competing against other CC's. Just one mans opinion, hope that helps

[Hilltopper413]

Louisville has a fantastic private golf scene. Great courses, with great conditioning. I would break down the privates into tiers (I'll leave Valhalla out).

 

Tier 1: impeccable courses, Top-tier clubs

Audobon CC, Hurstbourne CC, Louisville CC, Lake Forrest CC, Big Spring CC (which also includes Harmony Landing which I would put in Tier 2)

 

Tier 2: Golf courses are still fantastic with great conditions, just a little less "posh"

Hunting Creek CC, Wildwood CC, Persimmon Ridge, Oxmoor CC, U of L GC

 

Tier 3: Good courses, but not on the same level as those above or lack amenities

Midland Trail GC, Woodhaven CC, South Park CC, Polo Fields GC

 

I've never played or been to Standard CC or GlenOaks CC so I can't put them on my list. I would t hesitate to join any of the Tier 1 or 2 clubs if the location and price work for you. They are all fantastic places. Enjoy your search!

[left hand low]

The last post is pretty spot on. To add to it, Standard and GlenOaks fall into tier 3. GO is basically public. Standard had a rough stretch but I think they rebounded. Midland and Woodhaven May have the largest and most active memberships, whatever that is worth to you.

I enjoyed Audubon. I’ve played it a few times and have good conditions and tough course. I don’t know of much in the way of young members there. A lot of membership seems to have moved from there to ULGC.

If you have the funds for Big Spring that might be the play.

Something to consider, the group that owns Persimmon and Polo is about to get involved in some way at Oxmoor. Food for thought.

[xThor]

Just joined Persimmon Ridge/Polo Fields last night (and if snows today, go figure). But I’m excited to be back and playing golf again after a couple year hiatus!

[anythingfinite]

I love Oxmoor CC but play mostly the same courses you've noted. It's outside of town, but Oldham County CC is fun too. The 150yd range is a bummer, though.

How are you all getting on at Audubon? I used to live in the neighborhood and they literally laughed at me when I asked about playing an exploratory round before ponying up the insane amount of money they want.

[Hilltopper413]

I would assume most people discussing playing Audubon are either members or have played as a guest of a member. That’s how most gain access to private clubs. Once you become a member somewhere it’s pretty easy to make connections with members at other clubs. The Louisville country club scene is pretty intertwined. Lots of dual members and reciprocal agreements out there.

Audubon, like most places who are not hurting for members, does not open the doors for “exploratory” rounds to everybody that walks in. However, if they can determine that you have serious interest in joining they will certainly work something out.

If you are serious about joining Audubon reach out to Chris Wilson, the membership director. They were offering some memberships with a deferred initiation fee through the end of 2019. Not sure if they have carried over into this year or not. Would be a good way to try out the club before being hit with the initiation.