The highly acclaimed Oconee course at Reynolds Lake Oconee again has been included on the exclusive rankings in the July issue of Golf Digest magazine, as one of America’s “Top 50 Courses For Women.”
A Rees Jones design that opened in 2002, Oconee is listed No. 15 on a list of world-class golf courses that accompanied a special presentation published in the print edition of Golf Digest and on the magazine’s website. (Oconee was No. 15 in the previous rankings in 2011, as well.)
“Being included on this list is a reflection of how a golf course like Oconee has maintained its tremendous appeal throughout that past decade,” said Mark Lammi, Vice President of Golf Operations at Reynolds Lake Oconee. “We are proud of our entire collection of golf courses and enjoy seeing so many women golfers, as well as men, from around the world visit us to play them.”
As part of a diverse rankings list that includes winners from the four corners of the country – such as Bandon Dunes in Oregon, Grand Cypress in Florida, Turning Stone Resort in New York and Monarch Dunes in California – Oconee joins many of the most respected golf destinations and communities in the game.
The Oconee Course, named after the lake that serves as the centerpiece of Reynolds Lake Oconee, is a true risk/reward layout. The course often presents the option of hitting shots over inlets of Lake Oconee and over corners of tree-lined doglegs.
The defining feature of The Oconee is its set of magnificent par 3s, featuring elevated tee shots and numerous water hazards that are both eye-catching and penal. Lake Oconee comes into play on five holes, while four others offer inspiring lake views. Interior creeks and ponds, as well as extensive bunkering, ensure a tough but fair challenge for every level of player.
The par 72 offers two sets of tees that have official women’s course ratings and slopes, one which plays 5,718 yards and another that plays 5,198 yards – two important factors in the Golf Digest rankings system. “Our panel of 100-plus women pays special attention to tee options and design,” writes Susan Comolli Davis in the accompanying story.
Currently undergoing a multi-faceted renovation, the Oconee Course is scheduled to reopen for the fall season. With Rees Jones’ approval, the project includes converting the greens from Bentgrass to Champion Bermudagrass, refurbishing irrigation and drainage systems, strategic tree maintenance and expanding the practice facilities.
For more information about Reynolds Lake Oconee or to book a reservation by phone, please call (877) 809-3324 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. (Eastern).
