Braemar vs El Cab, Tarzana North of LA Golf

Locked · July 20, 2012

Does anybody have any experience with these two clubs? I've heard the 27 holes at Braemar have been re-designed but haven't talked to anybody who has played there recently to see if its quieted any of the old complaints about the course being very difficult without being very enjoyable. I know El Caballero is a Par 71 course that most agree is a very nice track but I don't know anything of the club culture other than the golf. If anybody has any experience with either club I'd love to hear it.

http://www.clubcorp.com/Clubs/Braemar-Country-Club

http://www.elcaballerocc.com/

Thanks.

Pepperturbo · July 20, 2012

Haven't play either. But, based upon course ratings at Braemar - both are pretty easy and short (iron courses to me). I'd pass. However, El Caballero is 6815 yds - 73.6/135 - that's more to my liking. Having been on the boards of two clubs; if you haven't already, visit each club as a perspective new member and ask what steps are required to play 18 holes with 3 other members. That's how you learn about club cultures, from members and reading a clubs charter.

hef63303 · July 20, 2012

It has been said that the saddest moment of any Braemar member's day is when he drives past the entrance to El Cab and can not afford to join there. I have played both extensively, although it has been about 15 years since I played either. El Cab is an excellent course. Braemar is a lot of lay up holes pieced together. When I was there, El Cab was a MUCH more expensive club to join. At one time, El Cab had a heavily Jewish membership, but I do not know if that is still the case. Braemar is a well run club and they used to have a great Sunday game and was much more affordable than El Cab.

hef63303 · July 20, 2012

Also, Braemar was a 36 hole club in those days.

greg c · July 20, 2012

El Cab by a mile...but what about Woodland Hills just a little way down Ventura Blvd?

hef63303 · July 20, 2012

I have played Woodland Hills many times also. El Cab runs rings around it. WH is similar to Braemar, in that it winds through housing with a lot of holes where you layup off of the tee. Good club, average golf course.

Locked · July 23, 2012

Thanks all... I've got a tour of El Cab scheduled with my wife. So far my interactions have been very positive but its always interesting to get the real decision maker's opinion. If we like it I'll be headed out for a round of golf with some members to see how I like the course. I'll check out Woodland Hills too.