Considering Joining Metro-West Course: Good under 35 deals?..Framingham CC?

kosmo886 · May 7, 2015

I am considering joining a course in the metro west area and would prefer to find a place with a good deal for those under 35, but that also isn't crazy once the rates step up. I live in Natick, so something within 30 minutes or so would be ideal. I am considering Framingham CC, but have never played there, so any thoughts would be helpful. I know this is an expensive area, but just thought I would check to see if anyone knows of a decent deal. I would look for a good range and don't need anything other than golf. Thanks

allparz · May 7, 2015

I was a member at Framingham for 15 years - a very good test and you will use all your clubs and learn to hit it straight.... decent range, grass, chipping/sand area. Always has a good group of competitive guys, bunch of ex-State AM winners included. Has a pool and bar/grille/restaurant. Not sure the rates but generally considered a good value and accessible, last I heard they were doing well and there maybe a short wait list, I do believe they have an Initiation. Anything closer to Boston of similar quality will be quite steep getting in the door.

Clubs along the Mass Pike/128 seem to be doing well, bargains can be had down RT 95 and out on 495 - but from Natick those are tougher rides...

kosmo886 · May 7, 2015

Thanks, I appreciate the information. How would you characterize the average age of the members? Are there many guys under 40? I checked with them and the under 34 rate is 4k with no initiation, which isn't bad. One other question. I much prefer to walk, are there many walkers there? I did find out that they require you to pay for a cart in the morning on weekends and holidays which I don't like.

One other course that isn't crazy expensive is Wedgewood Pines, but I have heard mixed reviews, and it is closer to 40 minutes away. Anyone had recent experiences at Wedgewood?

Thanks

[quote name='allparz' timestamp='1431025845' post='11518045']
I was a member at Framingham for 15 years - a very good test and you will use all your clubs and learn to hit it straight.... decent range, grass, chipping/sand area. Always has a good group of competitive guys, bunch of ex-State AM winners included. Has a pool and bar/grille/restaurant. Not sure the rates but generally considered a good value and accessible, last I heard they were doing well and there maybe a short wait list, I do believe they have an Initiation. Anything closer to Boston of similar quality will be quite steep getting in the door.

Clubs along the Mass Pike/128 seem to be doing well, bargains can be had down RT 95 and out on 495 - but from Natick those are tougher rides...
[/quote]

hockeyplayer19 · May 29, 2015

I've never played Wedgewood Pines but I've seen, on another thread, that the owners used a golf course architect for the front 9 but then built the back 9 on their own... and it shows. The owners are developers and decided to try their hand at golf course design as well as construction.

If you look at the layout on Google Earth, one of the nines (presumably the back 9) does seem a bit "Quirky" as others have said and quite different from the other nine.

If you really are interested, ask to play it and then you will be able to decide for yourself if you like the course.

steelythefez · June 25, 2015

Did you end up taking a look at Framingham? I live in town and have been considering it for a little while. I am afraid of loving it and then losing the wife's backing when it comes time to shell out for the initiation and bond plus the 2x rate hike when i turn 35 in a couple years.

The international (bolton) ran a special this year for under 39 y/o members of 4k plus minimums. I hear the rate was double that last year so who knows how long they will keep that running.